Course Requirements and Assignments

Any assignment-related handouts will also be posted here when the due date is nigh.

• Tests - 20% each
  • Each of these THREE tests will examine a signifiant percentage of the course material. I will be testing for knowledge, comprehension, and ability to discuss central course themes. You will be allowed one page (8.5x11) of notes for each test.
  • Studyguide #1
• Final Paper - 25%
  • This will be a research paper of approximately 10 pages. You will need to develop a topic related to any aspect of the Vikings or the regions in which they interacted, read both primary and seconary material, and write a well-organized research paper on that topic. We will meet individually to discuss the paper, and I will be available to read drafts and help as best I can.
• Participation and Attendance - 15%
  • Participation is more than just showing up, but it starts with just showing up. You cannot participate if you are not here. I will take attendance every day. Unexcused absences will weigh heavily against your participation grade.
    • Excused absences - severe illness with doctor's note, death in the family, acts of God, or legitimate Macalester activities (i.e. official sporting or musical events) will obviously not incur any direct penalty. You need to let me know ahead of time (for events) and you are responsible for catching up on material missed by consulting both me and your peers.
  • But participation is about more than just showing up. It's about doing the reading, being prepared to talk about it, volunteering your input, being involved in group work, preparing for discussions, and generally being an asset to the class as a whole. We will have a variety of ways in which you can participate, but none matter more than being an active member in our small-group and full-class discussions.
  • Part of the participation grade will be drawn from many informal activities assigned throughout the semester. These will be graded pass/fail, if at all, but will be taken as a sign of your preparedness and out-of-class effort.
  • If I suspect that the class is not doing the reading, I may assign additional writing assignments, pop-quizzes, or other modes of examination as necessary. Let's all hope it isn't!
  • Your participation is a large percent of your grade. You will need to earn it. Take initiative. Do not expect to speak only when directly called upon and ace this section of the class.
  • Finally, being late consistently may be counted as being absent. It will certainly lower your participation grade.