Attendance in class and recitation is essential to your success. The book and/or other people's notes are good supplements, but not sufficient replacements.

Students in the past who have missed class (even just once) have commented how behind they felt because of it. Attendance is not recorded (this is college - you are paying for this service), but keep in mind that lectures are the centerpiece of the course: assignments, exams, and recitation all revolve around what we discuss in class.  The instructor may contact you in cases of sustained, repeated absences from class and/or recitation.

In a nutshell, you are responsible for what is covered in class and recitation. I understand that things come up and occasionally one must miss class, but you should always check with me, the TA, or a classmate if this occurs to you.  We will work with you to help you keep up.