The grading scale for the class is as follows:

The following are guidelines for how your essay exams are graded:

A = The student shows that she or he has thought about the course concepts by presenting them in her or his own words. The student uses lots of examples and many of them are not just taken from lecture, indicating that the student has read all the texts and paid close attention to them. The student is able to supply fresh perspectives on the issues and texts of the course.

AB = A few questions attain the level of "A," but other questions are weaker.

B = Answers are basically correct and presented in essentially the same language as the one used in lecture. Supporting examples are given, but they are mostly taken from lecture. The range of examples leads me to believe that the student has read the texts.

BC = A few questions attain the level of "B," but there are some errors and inconsistencies.  Neglecting to mention some important texts where appropriate leads me to believe that the student did not read everything.

C = Although the test may possess some redeeming qualities, there are some major omissions and errors. It is clear that the student has taken shortcuts, like not reading the texts in the course.

D = Lack of evidence from the story, no analytical points from the class.

F = No exam turned in, or not a single sensible answer given.

Exam Taking Tips:

1. Do not simply make unsupported statements like: "Andersen is really Romantic." You should follow up with concrete reasons why he is a Romantic Author (interest in the past, folklore, purity of nature, corruption of culture..) and give supporting examples from the texts whenever possible.
2. An exam is not always the best place to express your personal likes and dislikes: "I hated this story!" On an exam, you should remain analytical and avoid emotional statements.
3. Originality is admired and encouraged. If you are going to present an analysis that disagrees with the interpretation in lecture, use this formula: "In lecture, it was argued that the text was this. I, however, feel that the text was that for the following reasons..." I would like to know that you heard and understood what I said, before you present your own, differing, interpretation.