Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Course Requirements

1. Readings – Each class session will have required and recommended readings associated with the topics to be covered in that session.  You should be prepared to discuss the contents of the required readings in class, including analyzing and critiquing the author’s position and being able to apply a particular reading to the larger context of the subject matter.  Some sessions will also have FYI readings, which are not required but which might be helpful to you in understanding and thinking about the subject matter.

2.  Short Papers – You will be required to write three short (3-5 pages) papers, one for each area of law we discuss.  Papers will be submitted via Blackboard email.  Each paper will be worth 10% of your grade.

3.  Case Briefs – You will be required to brief three cases, one for each area of law we will study.  Briefs will be submitted via Blackboard email.  Each brief will be worth 5% of your grade.

4.  Long Paper – You will also write a final paper (roughly 10-12  pages) on a topic of your choosing.  Papers will be submitted via Blackboard email.  You will present your paper to the class for discussion during the final class periods.  This paper will constitute 35% of your grade.

5.  Discussions and Class Participation – You will be expected to participate in both F2F class discussions and online discussions.  Your level of participation will be a consideration in grading.  Each will be worth 10% of your grade.  The focus on both is quality over quantity!


Grading System

Short papers (3):  10 pts. each (30 total)
Case briefs (3): 5 pts. each (15 total)
Final paper: 35 pts.
Online discussion/analysis:  10 pts.
Participation in F2F classes:  10 pts.

You will not receive credit for late assignments.  If you have a true emergency and must miss a deadline, you must speak to me before the deadline, either live or via Blackboard email.