ASL University | Bookstore | Catalog | Dictionary | Lessons | Resources | Syllabi | Library

Syllabus Design:

 

The ideal syllabus will function as a contract, a guide, and a tool. It will spell out expectations and clarify to the student exactly how to get the grade they want out of the course.  It will provide a convenient, handy reference to the student regarding the official title of the course, the course description, any prerequisites, how many units or what type of credit the course carries, the dates, the start and end time, any holidays, the instructor and his or her full contact information, any required texts, materials, or resources, a list of assignments including instructions, the grading system, the grading scale, any provisions for makeup work or extra credit, accommodations for individuals with disabilities, course rules, expected classroom conduct, penalties for misconduct such as cheating or plagiarism, and suggestions for further study.   

 

Course information:  [ Include:  Course Title  /  Course Number  / Section / Meeting days and times / Room and Building ]

Instructor:  [title, position] 
Office:  [Building, room number, campus] 
Office hours: 
Phone: 
Email: 
Webpage: 
Teacher's Assistant info:  [name, contact info, availability] 

Course Prerequisites:  [What classes must a student have completed or qualifications must a student possess in order to take this course?]

Course Description:  [Use the description from the course catalog or brochure.]

Course Goals: 

Required Materials:  [If a textbook, include enough information to enable independent ordering through a supplier of the student's choice. Complete title, author, publisher, publication date, and ISBN number.]

Optional Materials:  [List any materials that are not required in order for a student to get an "A" in your class but that you feel may be helpful for those students who need additional support.]

Course Assignments:  [Describe course assignments in sufficient detail that the student can complete the assignment without having to contact you for further information.  If the assignment is complex, then describe the assignment using a separate "instruction sheet" handout and list that handout here. If you are not including the handout with this syllabus, then indicate when you will be providing it.]

Course Testing:  [Describe quizzes and exams in sufficient detail that the student can prepare for them without having to ask you, "What will be covered on the test."]

Grading:  [Describe your grading criteria.  Make it absolutely clear how students can get an "A" in your class and by what standards you are judging their performance.  Make it possible for your students to be able to determine their standing in class at any time.]
*  Make ups:
*  Attendance:
*  Tardiness:
*  Late submission of assignments:
*  Extra credit: 

Class Environment:
*  Communication policy:
*  Laptop usage:
*  Cell phone usage:
*  Text messaging:
*  Music devices:
*  Photographing:
*  Recording: 

Disability Accommodations: [Individuals with documented disabilities who require accommodations are welcome to discuss their needs with me at the beginning of the semester during my office hours or by appointment.]

Course Ethics:  [Describe how you will handle plagiarism and cheating.]

Course Schedule:  [Chronologically list dates of topics that you will cover.  Also list due dates for assignments and exams including the point values.]