Phil 304
Fall 2004
Metaphysics
Richard E. Grandy
Rice University

 

Course Requirements and Grading Policies

 Everyone will be required to write short answers to questions on the daily readings in advance of the class meetings. This will count 40%. I require daily writing because I find it raises the level of class discussion about 250%. Answers are due at 12:30 pm (one half hour before class) by email (rgrandy). Answers turned in after 12:30 but by the beginning of class will be given half credit.

Class participation will count 10%.

304 Paper requirements

You will be required to write 3 short papers, each of which will count 10% of the grade, and rewrite one of them on the basis of my comments for another 20%.

I require rewriting of papers because in many classes students get away with sketching a clever idea that isn’t very well-worked out and don’t develop the skill sof rewriting to meet objections, clarify points, elaborate ideas, etcetera. Becoming a good philosopher requires developing ideas as well as having them..

I will meet with each student to discuss paper topics.

Time Line

Due Date Papers
Oct 5 5 pm Paper 1
late Oct or early Nov Paper 2
last day of class 5 pm Paper 3
End of exam period Revised Paper
   
Summary of Grading  
Daily questions 40%
Participation 10%
Papers 3x10%
Revised paper 20%