Plagiarism:
Unfortunately, I've discovered I have to address this concern right at the beginning of the class.  People plagiarize for many reasons – they're in a hurry, they're not feeling confident, they don't think I'll notice, they've gotten away with it before, they're lazy, etc. etc. etc.  Whatever the reason, I have a strict no-tolerance policy.  I will emphasize over and over how serious this offense is.  I have had to flunk students in all my classes because they insist upon turning in an essay, or part of one, that they haven't written.  The consequences could be even direr than just an F in the class.  Don't risk it.  In addition to having the potential to ruin your college record, deliberate plagiarism is the greatest of all insults to a teacher – not only does it tell us that the class isn't worth the time and energy it takes to do the job right, but it also tells us that you think we're either too slack to notice that it's not your work, or we're too indifferent to confront you with it.  I'll say up front that I'm very vigilant about plagiarism, and I will confront you if I see it, and I won't care what your excuse is.  This is one rule on which I am totally inflexible.

I hold students completely responsible for any acts of plagiarism, whether intended or not.  If you aren't sure exactly what plagiarism is, or how to avoid it, you can look it up in your Hacker book, or check out the following websites for more information:

Indiana University Bloomington, School of Education: How to Recognize Plagiarism
Northwestern University, The Writing Place: Avoiding Plagiarism

University of North Carolina: Plagiarism

We will also be discussing this issue in more depth during the research portion of the class.

• Students requiring special services of arrangements because of hearing, visual, or other disabilities should contact their instructor, counselor, or the Disabled Student Services Office. 
• Occupational/Vocational students – Limited English language skills will not be a barrier to admittance to and participation in Vocational Education Programs.
• Students are expected to exercise academic honesty and integrity.  Violations such as cheating and plagiarism will result in disciplinary action, which may include recommendation for dismissal.
• Learning occurs most productively in a safe, respectful environment.  Differences of viewpoints, orientation, and experience are expected and welcomed in class discussions.  If you don't feel safe or respected, please talk to me or to Dean Fran Lozano at (408) 848-4702 or at flozano@gavilan.edu.

One Final Note:

I love teaching English 1A.  Each semester students offer insights that challenge my most closely held beliefs.  At times this is very challenging, but I welcome the chance to examine my own assumptions critically.  Every semester, I emerge a different person for having listened to and considered your ideas.  The course changes as a result of your participation, and I adapt it each time after considering your contributions.  I hope you are as eager as I am to confront and express your own opinions, and to listen with an open mind to the ideas of others.  Have fun.  Express yourself!