141071 SE Language and Politics in Africa (2024S)

Assessments:
15% Attendance and active participation
60% presentation and discussion
25% A final term paper of between 10-12 pages.

Note that a student’s work is evaluated in terms of factual accuracy, ability to apply concepts and tools to new situations and to make your own connections, and ability to present materials with clarity, simplicity, and following professional and scholarly standards. This is not a highly difficult course to pass, but to get a high grade (e.g., 2 or 1), you need to demonstrate strong creative ability in linguistics, not just remember and understand the information presented in class.

The table below provides the grade breakdown for the final grade according to the University grading policy.
Grade Grade points Interpretation
1 89-100 Very good
2 76-88 Good
3 63-75 Satisfactory
4 51-62 Sufficient
5 0-50 Fail

Course Expectations and Code of Conduct:
 You are expected to attend all classes and actively participate. Your involvement is what brings meaning and makes this class a place of active and engaging learning for you and others.
 You are expected to have read all assigned readings BEFORE class and do the assignments by their due date.
 Disruptive behavior in the classroom such as talking or chatting while the instructor or another student is contributing to the class will not be tolerated. Maintain and demonstrate appropriate etiquette at all times. That is, avoid swearing, offensive language, nicknames, and heated arguments involving personal attacks.
 We all come from different backgrounds, and we might have different opinions and views. It is therefore very important that we foster an environment that is inclusive and respectful of all participants in the course, no matter what their background, beliefs, ethnicities, gender identities, religious affiliations, abilities, or any other visible or non-visible differences. These should be expressed with respect and kindness.
 As an instructor, I will do my best to provide high-quality content delivery. Please alert me to any issues in my delivery — if I talk too fast or quietly, go overtime, or if something in my explanations is unclear.