Hiking Class (16 weeks)
Earning a Grade:
A = perfect attendance, 5 minute presentation
B = Up to 4 absences
C or CR (Credit) = 5 to 8 absences
NC (No Credit) = 9 or more absences
Special notes:
Up to 3 classes can be made-up during the semester. This requires a 2 1/2 hour hike outside of class with a one page typed description of the hike turned in to the instructor. In the event of injury, extended illness, or other extenuating circumstances see the instructor. Taking the class for “Credit/No Credit” must have approval of the instructor before the end of the third week of the semester. It is the student’s responsibility for adding and dropping a course with the necessary paperwork being submitted to the Admissions Office; failure to do so may result in an “F” or “No Credit” grade. A “W” (Withdraw) grade cannot be given after 75% of the semester is completed.
Presentations are to be no more than 5 minutes in length and will be given
while the group is resting during a hike. Presentations should not be read
from notes
but rather discussed informally with the group. Signups for a presentation
must be scheduled with the instructor by the third week of the semester.
If you miss
your presentation date there is no guarantee that it will be rescheduled.
Topics can be anything related to hiking. Some previous topics: book reports,
ticks,
poison oak, mountain lions, local reptiles and amphibians, redwood trees,
herbal remedies, identifying wild flowers, special hikes, history of state
parks,
wildlife,
emergency first aid, foot wear, foot problems, reading a map, understanding
a compass, Ohlone Indians, getting lost, trail markers, backpacking essentials,
banana slugs, environmental and habitat destruction, lime kilns, etc.
If you just cannot face giving a presentation, a 500-word typed essay with appropriate research footnotes can be substituted. You will need to discuss the project with me ahead of time and it must be turned-in before the last week of the semester.
See my web site for hiking resources, frequently asked questions, class pictures and all course information.
Special Note: Be sure to read all course materials to avoid misunderstandings