To clarify - I would still count off for the grade or lack of class participation or absences. I don't weigh excuses from students - if the paper is due on X day or if you have missed more classes than I allow - then that is the deadline/ etc. unless contacted before the due date or documented hospitalization/death in family etc = that is why I suggest going to the administration person for your school. If the administration/dean of students is involved -then there is documentation and I don't have to use my time to figure out who is telling the truth/making stuff up because they screwed around etc.