FAQs

For this course, most of the “work” you’ll be doing—reading and preparing for discussion—is ungraded; however, rigorous engagement with the texts is the goal of this class and will enable you to succeed in the graded written assignments (and the RAQs). If you are not prepared for class, you will not be able to practice the analytical skills that this course aims to teach (and which will be assessed in the graded assignments). Please see the “Reading Tips,” posted on our ASULearn page, for how to read in preparation for our course meetings. In practical terms, students should expect to spend two to three hours of studying for every hour of class time; therefore, you should expect to spend on average 4-6 hours a week preparing for this class. You can find more information about this at the App State Syllabi Policy page, linked here.

• A = 100-94%

• A- = 93-90%

• B+ = 89-87%

• B = 86-84%

• B- = 83-80%

• C+ = 79-77%

• C = 76-74%

• C- = 73-70%

• D+ = 69-67%

• D = 66-64%

• D- = 63-60%

• F = 59-0%

Our class structure is such that we'll engage in "information transfer" outside of class, and focus on interactive learning when we're in class together. To this end, I aim to foster as much interaction between students and between myself and students, as possible. You are free to use computers or other devices in order to take notes, but please keep in mind that computers can be distracting, and it is easy to lose focus by checking email or responding to texts. I recommend turning off notifications for the duration of the class, putting away your phone, and being mindful of where you put your focus during class. If it becomes clear that computers are inhibiting our ability to have an open discussion, I may ask students to put away their devices for the remainder of class time.

Most readings are from the Norton Anthology of World Literature Volumes A, B, and C, which are available FOR FREE as a rental from the bookstore. You can find more information about obtaining free rental textbooks from the bookstore by clicking this link. There will be a few readings (and videos or podcasts) that are not in the Norton; these will be made available through the course website.

Toward the end of the semester, we'll be watching a film. The film should be available to stream on demand, but I'm not yet sure of the cost. Please make sure to earmark some funds (no more than $20) to watch the film.

Every Thursday I will send a reminder email with tasks and assignments for the following week through our ASULearn page. The ASULearn page is the best place to look for up-to-date information about class activities, readings (which are subject to change), special events, and announcements. I will send out important updates via the announcements feature, so you should have your settings set up so that announcements will go directly to your App State email account. You should consider the information and dates on the course site to be the definitive version of class activities and expectations.

The last year and a half have presented stressful and unforeseen challenges and this semester will likely continue to present difficult situations. I am committed to extending as much compassion as possible during this time (as I hope you will as well). If you test positive for COVID, under no circumstances should you come to class. Email me as soon as possible--there will be no attendance penalty for not attending class if you have positive COVID test. Staying in touch is the best way to ensure that we are all on the same page regarding expectations for the successful completion of the course.

As you can see at this link, masks are now mandated for students and faculty while indoors. I expect you to be masked during our class at all times. In accordance with App State's policy, if you are not masked, I will ask you to leave the classroom.

• The texts in this class are complex. You should set aside a considerable amount of time to read each text not just once, but twice. Careful re-reading will help you move beyond comprehension of the text’s content toward a meaningful understanding of how and what each text is doing. The more work you have put into your reading, the more you will be able to make meaningful and substantial contributions to discussion.

• Read with a pen in your hand – be an active reader. Mark points in the text (or in a notebook) that confuse you or intrigue you; make note of keywords; make notes if you think of an idea or if you make connections between this text and other aspects of our course material.

• Always bring the texts currently under discussion to class and be prepared to use them. We are striving toward making arguments with evidence.