Grades - Progress Report

Hello Class,

Starting next week you can come see me to check your progress. This is especially important if you are a scholarship student and need to maintain a certain grade. As you know, it is possible for 80% of the class to receive As. That doesn't mean 80% of the class will receive As. It is only possible. Now is the time to see where you stand because the end of the semester will be too late to improve.

Even though there is a curve, you are still graded on the work you do, which is detailed on the syllabus. The requirements have been repeated in class a few times. People who do not complete the reading homework regularly can not expect to receive the same high grade as someone who has already read more than 80,000 words and who completes all assignments on time.

Another situation that is unfortunate is that only 80% of the class can receive an A if they earn an A. So, if 100% of you earned an A, only 80% could get an A.

The exams and the paragraphs you wrote will not be returned in class. You must come see me in my office to get your results and discuss your progress. Until now, you have not really been graded on your writing. Feedback has been given to help you improve. You have been graded on your effort/participation and the content of your writing (not the grammar). All the reading and writing you have done so far has been practice. It has been preparing you for the second half of the semester.

The second half of the semester will have more focus on your writing ability. When you meet with me, we will discuss ways you can improve before the final writing exam.

Have a great weekend!