Given the nature of the course, we need to become aware of ourselves in a contact zone of languages, cultures, traditions, and social classes. Although we read the same texts, they mean different things. Unless we say in our own words what the text means, no understanding really takes place. Let’s perform our individual identity in the following four areas as we speak to those still speaking to us:
- Class attendance constitutes, 42 times, 21% of the course grade; you can make up your absence by an office visit to ask questions and be questioned about assignments.
- In-class and online tests in Moodle, 12 times in total, 24%; these tests are ways to find out how well you are comprehending the assigned readings. The formats of the tests include: multiple choices, true or false choices, filling the blanks, and translation.
- Answering essay questions on reading and/or viewing assignments, 11 times in total, 33%. Your answers should be no longer than 500 words about issues being raised in the texts. In these mini expository essays, you are expected to interpret and analyze the works as a intercultural or even interlingual critic.
- Term paper or special project, no fewer than 10 pages in length, on a topic of your own choosing, 22%. Choose something that interests you and is elaborated in the works you read.