This is not a very tough course, and the professor is very friendly and easy-going. The grading mainly distributes on the research paper, attendance, participation, and quizzes. It is important to attend lectures because that is where you get your attendance and participation points. Lectures and reading materials will help you in preparing quizzes. The professor is very inclusive in terms of the research paper topics, as long as it is related to Chinese politics and the environment. You can always discuss with the professor about the research paper, she is very responsive, and she gives very useful feedback to help you boost your grade.