Attendance: Attendance is required.  This course produces positive learning experiences between you, your material, your colleagues and the instructor, but you have to be here in order for this to happen.   In the event of illness or other mitigating circumstances, you are allowed to miss 3 class periods without penalty.  Each subsequent absence after 3 will result in a one-full letter grade reduction of your final grade.  For instance, a final grade of A would be reduced to a B with four absences; C with five absences; etc.  I do not attempt to distinguish between 'excused' and 'unexcused' absences - it is assumed that when you miss class, you have a good reason for doing so.  Your three absences are to be used for the inevitable doctor's visits, illnesses, sports events, court appointments, and funerals that might come up during the semester.  Extraordinary circumstances will be dealt with on a one-to-one basis as needed.  Leaving class early or taking hour breaks from the class will also be counted as absences.  The course only works for you if you are willing to commit the time needed to master the material.  Handbuilt Ceramics Homepage