All written assignments must be typed and double-spaced. Use an acceptable font and print size, such as Times New Roman, 12 pt. In this and in other details, your written assignments must fully comply with Modern Language Association standards. If you do not already possess or have ready access to the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers or other style guide that includes MLA standards, you should consider purchasing one. Failure to follow MLA guidelines may result in a lower grade and in having your essay returned to you for revision. A persistent failure to adopt the standard academic practice of citing and documenting sources may prevent you from receiving a passing grade in this course.

The Writing Center offers UMCP students free tutorial assistance on written assignments. I encourage you to take advantage of their services. Please visit their web site.

We all have, at some time or another, computer difficulties. Such difficulties are not, however, a legitimate excuse for turning in late work. Don't wait until the last minute to do your work! If you do not have a working computer or printer, of if you lack needed software, the Office of Institutional Technology can help you to find a computer or the software that you need.

Exams & Quizzes

This course requires that you take two exams:

• Mid-Term: The first exam will cover the readings in Homer and Quintus of Smyrna and information provided in the context of class lectures or discussions. The Mid-Term will consist of true/false and mulitple-choice questions, as well as questions that require you to fill in blanks or provide short answers.
• Final Exam: The final exam is comprehensive, covering the readings and related information provided in the context of lectures or discussions. A crossword puzzle and two brief essays comprise the final exam.

A study guide will be provided no later than one week before the Final Exam. Do not, however, expect this guide to be of use to you if you have not already prepared yourself by keeping up with the readings and attending the class discussions.

Frequently, throughout the semester, unannounced quizzes will be given at the beginning of the class period. Each will consist of multiple-choice or true/false questions in regard to the text currently under discussion. They are designed merely to test your comprehension of the text and should not be considered as representative of or preparatory to the mid-term and final exams. You may accumulate credit for no more than fifteen quizzes (1 point each), although more than fifteen may be given. If you take more than fifteen quizzes, your total quiz points will be based upon the sum of your highest fifteen scores. If you come to class late, do not ask for quiz questions to be repeated for your benefit.

Participation

Discussion of literature requires deliberate preparation. If you do not prepare yourself in advance of the class period by thoughtfully reading the literature required for discussion, you will not be able to make a significant contribution to the learning experience in the classroom. Your course participation will, therefore, be measured in part by your willingness and readiness to contribute to the class discussions.

For various reasons, it is sometimes difficult to participate in classroom discussions. A Discussion Board is provided to facilitate the asking of questions and discussion of texts outside of the classroom. Although this Discussion Board is set up for student use outside of the classroom, postings will be considered class participation.

You may bring drinks into the classroom, as long as you take responsibility for spills and trash. Eating in the classroom is more apt to cause distractions and is, therefore, not permitted during class time.

The use of personal computers in class will not be allowed. Cell-phones and other electronic accessories should be turned off or muted during the class period.

Attendance

If you have an excusable absence—such as an absence that can be verified as resulting from an illness or injury or from judicial or military involvement—then you may be able to turn in an otherwise late assignment without penalty. Electronically submitted work (in pdf only) will not be graded, although it may be accepted as evidence that the work has been completed on time. In this circumstance, any alteration to the work after it has been transmitted will automatically invalidate the electronic submission. It is your responsibility to make certain that I receive sufficient information to excuse your absence or inability to turn in work on time. If you have an excused absence, I will be glad to meet with you during my office hour or some other scheduled time to answer any questions that you might have regarding the class lecture that you missed.

Once attendance has been taken, no changes will be made in the attendance record until after the class period. You must approach me after class, if you wish me to make a change in the record. If you enter the classroom late, please do so quietly, without causing any interruption.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a requirement of this course, as it is a requirement of every course in the University of Maryland. Please see the UMCP Code of Academic Integrity provided on the website of The Student Honor Council. I maintain a policy of zero tolerance for any form of academic dishonesty.