This year I am experimenting with a points-based grading system. The whole course is based on 1200 points.

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

• Exercises (400 pts) -- Homework assignments, often broken up into segments for peer review and revision.
• Quizzes (200 pts) -- Three scheduled quizzes (150 pts total), as well as informal pop quizzes (50 pts).
• Participation (200 pts) -- Your active contributions to a positive learning environment.
• Term Paper (250 pts) -- Completed in several stages, including a bibliography, a first draft, an oral presentation, and a final draft.
• Final Exam (150 pts) -- Thursday, May 11, 08:00 -- 10:00.