Your final grade will be based on a mid-term project (40%) and a final paper (60%) [details on the topics and requirements for the papers will be given in class]. Attendance in class via Zoom is required but, in view of the extraordinary circumstances in which we are meeting, I will be highly understanding about conflicts. Nevertheless, more than five unexcused absences from class will result in a lowering of your final grade by one half grade (e.g., A- to B+). Requests for excused absences (for illness or family circumstances and/or up to two work-related reasons) must be e-mailed before class to me (tapias@seattleu.edu).

I also reserve the right to adjust your final grade in the case of truly exceptional once-in-a-lifetime constructive or destructive class participation. I consider good class participation to be anything that helps your fellow students learn, and poor participation to be anything that obstructs their learning.