Western Civilization I takes an in depth look at the history, culture, religion and contributions of the Ancient Greeks and Romans and the development and influence of the Christian religion. A separate unit examines informal logic (specifically logical fallacies) in the Western tradition and how it relates to logical and effective argumentation.
The Death of Socrates
Grading Policy
Grades will be weighted as follows:
Assessments (80%): All tests, quizzes, and projects.
Homework (20%).
Percentages and letter grades are as follows:
|
87-89% - B+ |
77-79% - C+ |
67-69% - D+ |
|
93-100% - A |
83-86% - B |
73-76% - C |
63-66% - D |
|
90-92% - A- |
80-82% - B- |
70-72% - C- |
60-62% - D- |
< 59% - F |
Testing for Mr. Downs’ Classes
All students will take the first part of the test consisting of first level (knowledge) questions – usually multiple-choice, matching, and true/false type questions. You cannot get an “A” on the test just by taking this test.
Those students who score at least a “B-” (80%) or higher on the first part of the test will have the opportunity to take the second part of the test the next day. The second part of the test consists of short answer and essay type questions which require critical thinking and can be on material not specifically covered by the instructor in lecture or on an assignment (e.g., from the text or assigned readings).
If you take the second part of the test and do poorly you still cannot get a test grade lower than a B-.
Retest Policy
Students can retake one test a quarter if they fail the first part of the test. The student has to request a retest and give a good reason why it should be allowed (i.e., why did you fail the first time?) The student then has to make a plan and show it to the instructor on how they will improve their test score (make study cards, outline notes, time spent studying verified by a parent or guardian etc.) and then they can retake the test in a different format. The highest grade one can receive on a retake is a “C”.
|