phil 210

Numerical Grade (%)

Grading Criteria

80

A first-class paper (A+/A/A–) exhibits excellence in style, makes full use of the course content, shows striking originality and perceptiveness, and is written in clear, fluent, and technically correct prose.

70–79

A second-class paper (B+/B/B–) represents solid, above-average competence and achievement. In an essay of this quality, the ideas are sound, convincingly substantiated, and show some originality; in an otherwise strong discussion, expression might be inconsistent, incomplete in the use of evidence, or display minor weaknesses in style.

60-69

A paper at this level (C+/C/C–) is of average competence and demonstrates satisfactory but incomplete grasp of course material; ideas might not be fully developed or might tend toward vagueness, or the argument might exhibit problems in expression, organization, style, or mechanics.

50-59

A paper at this level (D range) indicates a weak or barely adequate understanding and use of the course material; organization and substantiation of argument might be deficient, or the discussion might be flawed by basic writing errors or problems in expression. A grade at this level warns that more energy and effort are needed—particularly to prepare for the final exam.

Below 50

A grade at this level is a fail and indicates that the assignment is unsatisfactory either in content or expression (or both) and that it does not demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of the course material. However, a student who fails a first assignment should not abandon the course. The tutor’s comments should be read carefully. Please feel free to contact your assigned OL faculty if you have any questions. At this point, the student may wish to continue, or may choose to switch to a course more appropriate to his or her present level.