Philosophy essay

How to approach writing responses PHIL 3240 Global Ethics Winter 2017-18 Mr. Borowsky You will have nine homework assignments during the ten-week term. Follow these guidelines to streamline the process and get a better grade:

I. Formatting:

1. Type your response.

2. Make sure to use MLA formatting. If you don’t know whether you are using MLA format, consult the Purdue OWL website, at https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/24/

3. Proofread the response before turning it in.

II. Content:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the prompt, and if needed, an understanding of the relevant facts of the case.

2. Demonstrate that you understand the concept that you are being called on to use in your analysis (e.g., utilitarianism, Kantian Ethics, etc). At first, you may find it helpful simply to quote the word-for-word definition in your notes.

3. Apply the concepts to the facts of the case in a relevant, coherent way.

4. Make an argument that is logical, coherent and supported by relevant evidence.

III. Grading scale:

5 = 95/100

Demonstrates a complete and detailed understanding of the facts of the case; recognizes and uses the most relevant evidence with precision; applies a concept to the case or prompt in a way that demonstrates both its explanatory power and limits; makes a logical, keenly observant argument that skillfully integrates both concept and facts of the case. (5+ is equal to a 100 grade).

4 = 85/100

Demonstrates a sufficiently detailed understanding of the facts of the case, aware of which evidence is the most relevant; applies a concept to the case or prompt in a way that generally demonstrates both its explanatory power and limits; makes a logical argument that is supported by relevant evidence and sufficiently integrates both concept and facts of the case.

3 = 75/100

Demonstrates a general understanding of the facts of the case, with some recognition of relevant evidence; applies a concept to the case or prompt that partially demonstrates explanatory power and limits; makes an argument that is largely supported by valid logic and relevant evidence.

2 = 65/100

Demonstrates a partial understanding of the facts of the case, with minimal recognition of relevant evidence; applies a concept to the case or prompt, but without recognizing its explanatory power and limits; makes an argument that is poorly or haphazardly supported by logic and evidence.

1 = 55/100

Demonstrates little understanding of the facts of the case; does not identify relevant evidence; does not apply a concept to the case or prompt, or does not demonstrate an awareness of its explanatory power and limits; makes an unsupported or illogical argument.

0 = 0/100

No work submitted or a negligible effort.

NOTE: Proofreading counts against the grade inasmuch as errors of grammar, spelling and mechanics keep me from understanding your response.