This year I am experimenting with a points-based grading system. The whole course is based on 1000 points.

Thus, if a particular exercise is worth 40 points, and you get 30 on it, you got 75%, or a B.

• Papers (400 pts) -- Three revised formal papers, of a minimum 4, 6, and 10 pages.
• Exercises (200 pts) -- Homework assignments, often divided into parts (Ex 1-1a, Ex 1-1b, etc.). These prepare you for the major papers..
• Participation Portfolios (250 pts) -- Online and in-class informal writing assignments based on the assigned readings.
• Final Exam (150pts)