Syllabus - Sociological Theory - Davidson College

Final Review:
• sequence ideas in a paragraph,
• transition ideas from paragraph to paragraph,
• write a good intro and conclusion.
There will be no final review. I reserve the right to schedule a final review, however, if you class does
not demonstrate adequate depth or analytic engagement with theorists throughout the semester.
Attendance:
I have learned over the years to be clear on this point. So let me be clear: I expect you to show
up for this class, that is to say, show up on time, stay the entire class period, and participate fully in each
class the whole time you are here. Students often ask me how many times they are allowed to cut my
class. You are allowed one unexcused absence; but, please note that every absence will have a negative
effect on your grade.
Also: 2 weeks-equivalent of class (2 M/W, 4 TTH or 6 MWF) unexcused absences are sufficient
grounds for failing the course.
Regarding tardiness: Do all you can to be on time. I understand if you are late, but continual,
persistent lateness will not be ignored. Roll will be taken at the beginning of class. If you come late, be
sure to check with me so that your presence, although late, will indeed be noted. One lateness will not
you’re your grade; 5 late arrivals most certainly will.
As a member of a classroom community, your behavior has a profound effect on the other
members of this community. I hope to create the best atmosphere in which all of my students can do
their very best work. Having people wander in and out is distraction and disturbing and downright
rude, and no one works well under those circumstances. Second, you want me to give you credit for
attending this class. I can’t do that with a clear conscience if you have not –truly- taken this class. That
means showing up AND participating. To me, this just makes sense. Third, there is the matter of mutual
respect. You are important to me (really!). I’ll do everything I know to respect you as an individual,
present material in an interesting, enthusiastic, challenging, honest way. I expect the same kind of effort
from you.
What about excused absences? For an absence to be excused, there must be three components:
First, you must tell me ahead of time when and why you will miss this class; Second, you must have a
legitimate excuse; Third, you must meet with another student about making up the work.
Bottom line: I want you here. I want you here on time. I expect you to be attentive and
participate actively the whole class period. I expect you to stay until the end of class.
About the Grading Scale
Your final grade for the class will be based on two sets of analytical papers (40%), two papers
focused on theorists’ work (40%), attendance, participation, and discussion (10%) and selection/
uploading of a course reserve reading (10%). I will use the following guidelines to grade your written
assignments:
A Outstanding Work (90-100%) Goes above and beyond the requirements of the assignment, above
and beyond merely competent work. Outstanding effort, significant achievement, and mastery of the
material of the course are clearly evident in comparison with other students in the course who have the
same assignment, same resources, and same time constraints. Exceptional critical skills, creativity or
originality is also evident. Consistently developed sociological perspective.
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