Expectations and Evaluation Criteria for Class Presentations

The purpose of your presentation is to communicate, illustrate, and stimulate discussion on your topic for the benefit of the class as a whole.  

On the date assigned you will make your presentation and organize and lead discussion for 20-25 minutes. It is expected that your presentation will consist of 15-20 minutes of content that you present to the class, followed by 5-10 minutes of questions and discussion.

I will evaluate presentations and discussion-leading using the following criteria:

Substance (40%)
 - Demonstrates breadth of reading and depth of understanding of the topic
 - Critiques and analyzes, not just summarizes, ideas and arguments
 - Integrates course material into discussion
 - Presents more than one view of disputed topics
 - Explains difficult terms
 - Presents background information for ideas

Organization and Presentation (30%)
 - Relates material to previous course readings
 - Provides internal summaries and transitions
 - Summarizes and distills main points at end of presentation/discussion
 - Paces presentation appropriately
 - Appears well-prepared
 - Speaks audibly and clearly
 
Discussion (30%)
 - Encourages and involves class members’ thought and participation
 - Solicits and responds constructively to class members opinions
 - Encourages class members to respond to one another
 - Treats members equitably
 - Acknowledges different approaches
 - Recognizes when others are confused or lost