+ Schedule, Grading, Contents of The Harvard Sampler

 Schedule
    1. Choose a topic to write about. 
    2. Research the topic.
    3. Learn the classical argument.
    4. Write a first draft.
    5. Do a self assessment.
   6. Continue researching.
    7. Write a second draft.
    8. Get feedback from peers.
    9. Continue researching.
    10. Write final draft.  



 Grading

  5 points maximum for research

5 points

The student shows creativity and perseverance in her research. The research was clearly a process of exploration and reveals a pattern of thought, inquiry and revelation.

4 points

The research displays a clear, reasoned evolution from beginning to end. The student is committed to finding useful sources.

3 points

The research is adequate for completing the persuasive essay.

2 points

The research is inadequate.

0 points

There is no meaningful research.

5 points maximum for drafting

First draft (~October 26)

2 points - The first draft is thoughtful and a good start to an effective persuasive essay. It demonstrates an understanding of the classical argument.

1 point - The student completes a first draft that demonstrates an understanding of the classical argument

0 points - The first draft is inadequate

Second draft (~November 16)

3 points - The second draft builds on the ideas of the first draft in a meaningful and thoughtful way. A reasonable evolution of ideas is visible. 

2 points - The second draft is a reasonable development of the 1st draft. There is meaningful improvement in the essay.

1 point - The second draft is only improved technically. 

0 points - The second draft is not an improvement on the first draft. 

5 points maximum for final draft (~December 14)

5 points

• Technically perfect
• Follows the classical argument
• Displays an interesting and unique perspective on a highly specialized topic
• Thought provoking and captivating
• Clearly the product of extensive drafting and research

4 points

• Technically perfect
• Follows the classical argument
• Displays a unique perspective on a highly specialized topic
• Clearly the product of thorough drafting and research

3 points

• Follows the classical argument
• Displays a unique perspective on a highly specialized topic
• Some evidence of drafting and research

2 points

• Displays a unique perspective on a highly specialized topic

0 points

• Incomplete or inadequate

 Contents of The Harvard Sampler

    1. The Human Mind

    2. The Internet and Hieronymus Bosch: Fear, Protection, and Liberty in cyberspace

    3. Medical detectives

    4. Nothing in Biology Makes Sense Except in the Light of Evolution: Pattern, Process, and the Evidence