PAR 115 Introduction to Ethics

Course Requirements

1.  Attendance at all classes is expected.  Numerous absences will definitely affect your ability to satisfactorily meet the goals of this course.

2. No electronic devices are permitted in the classroom. This includes cell phones, PDA's, Blackberries, etc., as well as MP3 players and computers.

3.  Reading the articles and cases assigned for each class is essential.  The assigned readings form the basis for your understanding and participation in class discussions as well as for Opinion Papers, and exams.  Please bring the assigned text to class every day.

 4. Participation in class discussions is strongly encouraged.  Active engagement with others in the consideration of ethical issues is central to the development of critical analysis skills and a well-supported personal position.

5. You will write five short Opinion Papers (one-to-two typed pages) during the semester.  The Opinion Paper on assisted suicide will also include interviews on this topic.  Each Opinion Paper will be worth a maximum of 8 points for a total of 40 possible points. Late Opinion Papers will lose one point for each day late. Papers may not be submitted by e-mail.

6. There will be three exams during the semester.  The first exam is on Monday, February 1 .  The second exam is on Monday, March 22.  The final exams are on Wednesday, April 28 at 11:30  AM (11 AM class) and Monday, May 3 at 8 AM (10 AM class).  Each exam is worth 20 points.

6. The papers (40 points) and the exams (60 points) will combine to make up your final grade.  The total possible points for the class will be 100.  Total points of 92 will be an "A," total points of 82 will be a "B," and total points of 72 will be a "C."

7. Make-up exams will not be available, except in extraordinary circumstances.  The exams for this course include terms, concepts, arguments, and essay questions based on the assigned readings, handouts, and class discussions.  Final grades will include “plus” modifiers, when appropriate.