Ball is an overall amazing person and professor however this class proved to be really confusing and difficult. I would say that I went into it with the impression that it would be easy and know previous knowledge would be required but that's not the case. It seemed that many of the students in the class had background on the subject even though this was a lower div. The readings are challenging and the tests are even more challenging. You really have to pay attention and just reading the text is not enough, a deeper analysis is required especially because the English is an older style from Old Norse. Participation is required and is a part of the grade as well. 1 midterm, 1 final and 1 final paper.

So glad that I took scan 40w as my writing II. If you are someone interested in Scandinavian culture and the story of Odin, Thor, giants and dragons, this is a perfect class for you. A lot of readings but all writing II have readings and trust me, this is probably the most interesting reading you've ever read for classes. She really cares about students and loves what she is teaching. Papers were fairly graded and be sure to always talk to your TA. There were required iclicker questions each time at the beginning of the class about the assigned reading, so be sure to read ahead of time and not late to class. She only counts 15/20 of these questions.
Please take it. It's such a great experience.

I absolutely loved this class and the professor. Professor Ball was excellent at explaining the material, and her class was always enjoyable. All the books and stories we read were interesting, and most were available online for free. For the class, attendance is required and checked with clicker quizzes that are very simple, but tied to the reading. I very much enjoyed how the participation was divvied up, allowing students to post on the discussion forum or speak in class. This was one of my absolute favorite classes, and Professor Ball remains one of my favorite professors.