Announcements
1) The Last Drop: Is the World's Water Running Out?
Thursday, Nov. 27 = 15:00-17:00 hours * (please note change from usual)
Monday, Dec. 1 = 13:00-15:00 hours
Wednesday, Dec. 3 = 15:00-17:00 hours
Friday, Dec. 5 = 11:00-13:00 hours
Monday, Dec. 8 = 13:00-15:00 hours
Wednesday, Dec. 10 = 10:00-12:00 hours
Thursday, Dec. 11 = 13:00- 15:00 hours
Monday, Dec. 15 = 13:00-15:00 hours
Wednesday, Dec. 17 = 10:00-12:00 hours
1) PLEASE read this carefully. Understanding and following the format for enquiries and appeals will make everything much easier for you as well as me.
2) You MUST re-read your entire essay/log – NOT just the comments made by the marker. Specific references will be made throughout your work so it is critically important you have read these before coming to see me.
3) If you have questions or concerns, or wish to contend the grade, you MUST come prepared. This is best done by carefully considering all the comments given on your assignment and then writing out in brief why you disagree. Specific references to your work would be useful. Please keep in mind that your work is evaluated on a number of important issues/factors, including the quality of research; the level, precision, and logic of your argumentation; citations and referencing; and of course grammar, spelling, and syntax. There is no “formula” for marking on these grounds, but rather everything is considered as a whole. Consequently, as brilliant as your research or analysis may be, weak grammar and spelling will adversely affect your overall grade.
4) You may bring your brief statement or summary to me during office hours to discuss matters. If you wish to pursue an appeal, the assignment goes first to the marker (i.e. a TA if not me). If he or she is persuaded by your case, they can change the grade as they see fit. If he or she is not persuaded by your appeal they will inform me that the grade stands.
5) In either case, you can then request that I review it. I am happy to do so, but keep in mind one essential condition: the grade can go up, stay the same, OR GO DOWN if I mark it. This is designed to prevent those tempted to “grade shop” while simultaneously ensuring that those with legitimate questions or concerns can pursue an appeal. You are strongly encouraged to appeal if, after reasoned and calm review of your assignment, you remain convinced that it has been unfairly judged. You should take responsibility for your work right to the end, and also hold us accountable to review it fairly and thoroughly. We are all adults, and it is my intention to make sure the entire process is civil, respectful, and as objective and scholarly as possible.
6) Please take careful note of my office hours (above) and of the fact that all grades must be submitted by 12: 00 on December 17.
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