Attendance Policy

Due to previous rampant absenteeism and the resulting failing grades, we have a firm attendance policy:

Here's the policy with regard to the number of unexcused absences.

  • 0 to 6: You have a ration of 6. Use them as you wish.
  • 7: One full grade point penalty at end of term.
  • 8: Two full grade point penalty at end of term
  • 9: Three grade point penalty at end of term.
  • 10: Final grade = F (if not F already).

For an absence for medical reasons (these happen, see the SMU web page on medical absences. See the course page on various absences.



Classroom Environment

We are going to try to maintain a proper academic learning environment in the classroom. Toward that end, here are some rules.
  • ALL cell phones are to be turned OFF and put away. We don't want to hear any phones going off and interrupting the class.
  • Do not use a cell phone for frivolous web-surfing or instant messaging during the class period.
  • Do not read newspapers or other stuff during class. This is quite rude to everyone else.
  • Do not work on any other class assignments during the class.
  • Don't yak with your neighbors. This bothers everybody else. Save the chatter for after class. If you have something to contribute to lecture, please raise your hand until you are acknowledged.
  • Do not eat during the class. This particularly means crunchy snacks or other noisy food.