Teaching Theory

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Introductory Course Exam Structure

This exam has two components, each worth 50 points. The out-of-class portion, assigned a week prior to the in-class exam, involves writing thesis statements and abstracts for three chosen readings from the course. The thesis statements should clearly state the main argument, while the abstracts should concisely summarize the reading's thesis, arguments, and significance. The in-class portion requires analyzing AI-generated scenarios using theories from class, answering in short answer or essay format.

Format:

The exam consists of two parts:

1. In-Class Component (50 points):
• On the day of the exam, you will be presented with AI-generated scenarios that require analysis based on the theories covered in class. There will be five scenarios available, of which you will select three. You will adopt the stated theory and assess the scenario according to that theory.
• You will be expected to identify relevant concepts, apply them to the specific context, and provide well-reasoned arguments that a proponent of the stated theory would accept. We will have a review day where we use AI to generate scenarios similar to the ones you will see on the day of the exam and, as a class, do the relevant assessment.
• If you require testing center accommodations, you must first get approval from them. Once approved, they will provide me with the documentation and you will take the exam there.
2. Out-of-Class Component (50 points):
• You are to select three of the readings from class. Then, you will write your own version of a thesis statement for each reading, along with an abstract.
• The thesis statements should clearly articulate the main argument of the selected reading.
• The abstracts should provide concise summaries of the reading, including the thesis, argument(s), and significance.

Detailed instructions on the out-of-class component are below.

Timeline:

• The in-class component will be administered during the scheduled exam period (Date TBD).
• The out-of-class component will be assigned one week before the in-class exam and due on the day of the in-class exam (via Canvas).

• Plagiarism: Any instance of plagiarism in the out-of-class component will result in a zero for at least that portion of the exam.
• Preparation: Thoroughly review the assigned readings and lecture notes to prepare for both components of the exam.
• Questions: If you have any questions or concerns about the exam format or expectations, please don't hesitate to ask your instructor.

You got this!

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Thesis Statement and Abstract Writing Instructions:

Format:

• Thesis Statement:
• One to two sentences that clearly articulate the main argument of the selected reading.
• Must begin with the phrase: "In this paper/chapter, I will argue that..." followed by one to two sentences that clearly articulate the main argument of the paper/chapter. Other formulations will receive zero points.
• Should reflect the author's perspective.
• Abstract:
• A concise summary of the reading (150-200 words).
• Should include the following elements:
• Thesis: Include you thesis in the abstract.
• Argument: What is the argument(s) in support of the thesis?
• Significance: What is the conclusion of the argument (i.e. the thesis) philosophical important?
• Should be written in clear, concise language.

Example:

Author: John Stuart Mill

• Thesis Statement: In this chapter, I will argue that happiness, defined as pleasure and the absence of pain, is the sole intrinsic good and the ultimate aim of human action.
• Abstract: In this chapter, I will argue that happiness, defined as pleasure and the absence of pain, is the sole intrinsic good and the ultimate aim of human action. I will observe that the desire for happiness is a universal human trait, and this widespread desire serves as evidence for its desirability. I will contend that all other seemingly desirable things, such as virtue or knowledge, are ultimately sought because of their association with pleasure or their ability to prevent pain.

Submission:

Submit your thesis statements and abstracts on Canvas as a single Word document or PDF file on the day of the in-class exam.

Grading:

Each thesis statement and abstract pair will be worth approximately 16.67 points. Your work will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Clarity and conciseness of the thesis statement.
• Adherence to the required thesis statement structure ("In this paper/chapter, I will argue that...").
• Accuracy and relevance of the abstract to the thesis statement.
• Appropriateness of the language and style to the author's theoretical framework.
• Overall quality of writing, including grammar, punctuation, and organization.

Important Note:

The work that you submit must be your own. Any instance of plagiarism will result in a zero for the out-of-class component of the exam.