--detail from a Winslow Homer print in Harper's Weekly, 1863.

Oral Exhibitions

Oral exhibitions are high-level discussions between three students and the professor (in this case, me) that last for an hour. Each 20 minutes will be "lead" by one speaker, although both professor and classmates can and may interrupt to ask for further elaboration, to challenge or to question a statement, or to offer further evidence or clarification. Conversation in each case will begin with the consideration of a list of 8 or more questions I will give the class at least a week in advance.

Students will bring a list of (at least) 5 of their own typed questions for their classmates, to be turned in to me afterwards. These questions should be broad, without being too broad, and specific, without being too specific. They should not answer the question in advance by leading, nor should they be hostile. In general avoid focusing on one text in your question, since the point is to connect the course over time.

The drill is this: Tell me, in advance, which 3 of the prepared questions you like the most (or hate the least). I will ask you one of those to begin your part of the discussion.

Once you have finished with that question, one of your classmates will ask you a question from a list of 5 that they have prepared (without consulting anyone). When you have answered that, if there is time remaining in "your" 20 minutes, I will ask you another question from the list of prepared questions.

There will be food.

Please be FIVE MINUTES EARLY.

In my assessment of the oral exhibitions, I will consider: the depth and subtlety of your answer, the use and range of the evidence you offer (i.e. don't just focus on one book), the quality and thoughtfulness of your questions, and, crucially, your ability to sustain and enhance the work of your classmates.