Roane State Community College

English classes are more than just turning in essays and leaving. Much learning takes place through general class discussion and lectures; therefore, class participation and quiz grades are often required components for a passing grade in English courses. Missing classes, therefore, equates to missing learning opportunities, so good attendance is imperative to your success in any English course. To emphasize the need for attendance, the English faculty has adopted the following department-wide attendance policy.

If you are taking a class that meets twice per week:

6 absences: your grade drops a letter
7 absences: your grade drops another letter
8 absences: automatic failure in the course

If you are taking a class that meets once per week:

3 absences: your grade drops a letter
4 absences: your grade drops another letter
5 absences: automatic failure in the course

If you are taking a summer class:

10 hours: your grade drops a letter
12 hours: your grade drops another letter
14 hours: automatic failure in the course

If you are taking a Fast Track class:

6 hours: your grade drops a letter
7 hours: your grade drops another letter
8 hours: automatic failure in the course

If you are taking a seven-week class:

3 absences: your grade drops a letter
4 absences: your grade drops another letter
5 absences: automatic failure in the course

If you are taking a ten-week class:

4 absences: your grade drops a letter
5 absences: your grade drops another letter
6 absences: automatic failure in the course

Important Reminders

Absences accrue from the first scheduled class meeting, and late arrivals and early departures are considered as half absences. Additionally, written excuses, such as those from a doctor, are unnecessary, as all students have the same number of absences they can use for such purposes. If students must exceed the allotted number of absences, they will not fulfill the course obligations or adequately learn the material.

When students must miss an excessive number of classes, they are advised to withdraw from the class. (For more information, see the “Withdrawals and Honorable Dismissals” section of the RSCC Catalog.) Before withdrawing from the course, however, students who receive financial aid should first check with the Financial Aid Office to ensure that such action does not jeopardize their aid or necessitate early repayment.

Any students wishing to appeal this attendance policy should follow the instructions under “Grade Appeal Procedure,” which is located in the RSCC Catalog.

Revised January 2013