Grading Standards
A   An essay graded A is excellent in style and content. it is carefully organize around a clear central thesis, which is consistently supported.  The   supporting topics are clearly listed in the introduction, using parallel structure. It contains interesting and original ideas. Its paragraphs are unified, coherent, and well-developed, and transitions are graceful and easily followed. Its sentences are varied in structure and consistently correct. Its vocabulary is mature and well-suited to the topic. The A paper is perfect or nearly perfect in grammar, spelling and punctuation. (A- 90-93 points; A 94-100 points)

B    An essay graded B displays many of the characteristics of the A paper, but to a lesser degree. It satisfies the requirements of the assignment, but not in an exemplary way. It is competent but not quite as original and insightful. Its writing, though correct and clear, may be somewhat less graceful and vivid. Some paragraphs may be lacking in proper development. It contains very few errors in the mechanics of writing. Highly original and clever essays, marred by a few careless errors, may receive a B. There may be slight errors in documentation. (B- 80-82; B 830-86; B+ 87-89)

C    The C essay is generally organized according to a recognizable plan, but transitions from point to point are less graceful than those found in A or B papers. The thesis may not be forcefully expressed. The introduction and conclusion lack the vitality of an A or B essay. Paragraphs are lacking in development. Grammatical errors may hinder the communication of ideas. The paper might not conform to directions given. (C- 70-71; C 73-76; C+ 77-79)

D     The D essay may be lacking in organization, communication of ideas, or sentence structure. Paragraphs may need a clearer topic sentence, stronger development, and unity. Poor organization, development, or grammar seriously hampers the communication of ideas. The paper may be incomplete in terms of meeting specified requirements. (D 63-66; D+ 67-69)

F     An essay graded F  may indicate serious grammatical problems and/or problems with the English language. It fails to meet even minimally the requirements of the assignment. It may be unclear, undeveloped and hard to follow. It may lack a plan or central idea. paragraphs are undeveloped and lack in organization. The paper may contain fragments and run-together sentences. The paper may not have been written according to the required format and directions. Numerous errors seriously hamper the communication of ideas.

PLAGIARISM
According to the Standard College Dictionary, plagiarism means " to appropriate and pass off as one's own (the writings, ideas, etc. of another)." This is not allowed.
Throughout the semester, you will be required to read others' ideas and to incorporate these ideas in your papers. However, you will also be taught how to properly document the sources you decide to utilize for your papers.