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UNDERSTANDING GRADES (Modified after J. H. Williams, 1993): Grading performance in any class, and especially in a writing-intensive class, is complex and difficult. Although humans cannot be pigeonholed, they can and are judged on the basis of their achievements. As such (and much to the dismay of many students) grades reflect both effort and achievement, not effort alone. The following profiles attempt to explain why different students obtain different results. They should give you an idea of what is expected of you in this and other courses.

The "A" Student -- An Outstanding Student

Attendence: "A" students have virtually perfect attendance. Their commitment to the class resembles that of the instructor.

Preparation: "A" students are prepared for class. They always do the reading and they do not miss deadlines. Their attention to detail is such that they occasionally catch the instructor in a mistake.

Curiosity: "A" students show interest in the class and in the subject. They look up or dig out what they don't understand. They often ask interesting questions or make thoughtful comments. They participate in all class discussions.

Retention: "A" students have retentive minds. They are able to connect past learning with the present and do so frequently. They bring a background with them to class.

Attitude: "A" students have a winning attitude. They have both the determination and the self discipline necessary for success. They show initiative. They do things they have not been told to do. They both value and enjoy learning -- it is a priority in their lives.

Talent: "A" students have something special. It may be exceptional intelligence and insight. It may be unusual creativity. It may outstanding commitment and organizational skills. Typically, it is some combination of these talents. The students' special talents are evident to the instructor and usually to the other students as well.

Results: "A" students make high grades on exams and papers -- usually the highest in the class. They are a pleasure to have in the classroom and their work is a pleasure to grade.

THE "C" Student -- An Average Undergraduate Student; An Unsatisfactory Graduate Student

Attendence: "C" students miss class. They put other priorities ahead of their academic work. In some cases, their health of constant fatigue (because of poor use of "leisure" time) renders them physically unable to keep up with the demands of high-level performance.

Preparation: "C" students prepare their assignments consistently, but in a perfunctory manner. Their work may be sloppy or careless. Their papers typically read like unproofed drafts. Their editorial comments lack substance. At times, their work is incomplete or late. They often seek extensions of deadlines.

Attitude: "C" students are not visibly committed to the class or to their education. They participate without enthusiasm. Their body language often expresses borebom.

Talent: "C" students vary enormously in talent. Some have exceptional ability, but shoe undeniable signs of poor self-management of bad attitudes. Others are diligent, but simply average in academic ability.

Results: "C" students obtain mediocre or inconsistent grades on exams and papers. They have some concept of what is going on, but clearly have not mastered the material.