Module 7: Discussion: The Characteristics of Humanism

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Purpose

To identify and evaluate the characteristics of humanism.

Theme

The theme of this module's discussion is class and culture.

Readings

Please read the following before answering the questions below:

• Petrarch to Posterity download
• Machiavelli Excerpts download
• Erasmus, In Praise of Folly download

Directions

After completing this module's readings, please complete the following:

• Identify at least three characteristics of humanism, either Classical or Christian humanism, as described in the textbook, in at least one of the three primary sources that you are required to read for this module.

When you have completed your response, please respond to at least one other classmate's post. You can engage in friendly debate or add additional analysis and points to your classmate's post.

Note: You will not be able to view your classmates' posts until you make your first post.

Your initial post should be at least 250 words in length, but not exceed 500 words. Your response to your classmate’s post should be at least 2-3 substantive sentences.

Grading

• This discussion board assignment is worth 100 points.
• Students are only required to complete FOUR of the Discussion Boards for their grade. Students may choose to complete ANY four of the seven Discussion Boards to complete this requirement. Additionally, students may choose to complete a fifth Discussion Board for extra credit. See the Rubric below for a detailed explanation of how this discussion will be graded.
• Discussions are worth 25% of the overall grade. 

Rubric

OutstandingVery GoodAveragePoor

Writing

40 Points

Demonstrates outstanding critical thinking and analytical skills in written responses.Demonstrates  critical thinking and analytical skills in written responses.Demonstrates  decent critical thinking and analytical skills in written responses, but lacks a thorough interpretation.Does not demonstrate  critical thinking and analytical skills in written responses. The effort is lacking. There appears to be little  understanding of the purpose of the assignment.

Analysis

40 Points

Displays outstanding knowledge and understanding of historical subject matter.Displays knowledge and understanding of historical subject matter.Displays fair knowledge and understanding of historical subject matter, but lacks a deep understanding.

Does not display consistent knowledge and understanding of historical subject matter.

The effort is lacking. There appears to be insufficient understanding of the meaning of the assigned reading(s).

Participation

20 Points

Writes thoughtful and analytical comments on other classmates’ posts. Is polite and encouraging in comments, even when questioning the classmate’s opinions and/or findings.Writes comments on other classmates’ posts that shows very good analysis and thoughtfulness. Is mostly polite and encouraging in comments, even when questioning the classmate’s opinions and/or findings.Writes comments on other classmates’ posts that shows fair good analysis and thoughtfulness, but does not always display a deep understanding of the original post. Is not always polite and encouraging in comments. The questions and comments are sometimes rude, though likely not on purpose. 

Writes comments on other classmates’ posts that fail to display any meaningful analysis or thoughtfulness. It is not clear if the student understands the meaning or purpose of the original post. 

The student is rude and not helpful at all in their comments.