Over the last two weeks or so, I’ve been returning my students’ coursework. One of the good things about having the same class [cohort] for two course units is that we get to know each other well rather quickly. I’ve been returning their coursework for Psalms and Wisdom literature as I mark their group presentations.
However, for Biblical Interpretation, the coursework is all individual. For the first assignment, I gave them a handful of exercises out of the book to reinforce the concepts that we discuss in class. The second assignment is an exegesis of a passage of Scripture of their choice (5-10 verses).
All semester I have been telling my class that I am tough but fair, and that I have no tolerance for plagiarism. This is important, because the day they received their first marks, it was like I had used their own blood on the coursework rather than red ink.
They launched a revolt. They asked me to top up (add marks). I replied that marks are earned, not given. They begged and pleaded. They asked me to give marks for attendance. I replied that attending lectures is like breathing; why should I reward them for breathing?
The class was sufficiently apoplectic that I showed the point spread to the dean to get her opinion. No one was failing. She had a brilliant suggestion that I’m surprised none of us thought of: if someone is unhappy with their marks, they can resubmit the work.
Smashing. And how many do you think resubmitted? Probably five out of the 33.
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