Well Prepared syllabus
Alone with my syllabus, I include a spreadsheet that shows the exact breakdown of their grades. I also send it via email to each student so they can see how their grades are calculated. Every day in class I request that the student list on their spread sheet their daily grades including if they were late and if they were absent. At the end of the Mod, I speak to each student individually and compare my notes with their notes. Students know what their grades are and their attendances at all times. So when they check their portal and it is a double check that everything has been posted correctly.
My Syllabus actually lays out course activities at a glance for the entire term. Along with this I include an attachment that I have personally created which breaks down individual areas on what determines their grades. This includes attendance, assignments, tests, projects, final exams. I start this with a personal "welcome" , and end with a challenge for them to achieve their professional goals. Including how and where they can reach me if at any time they are struggling with the material. There will always be wrinkles to iron out, but a well prepared syllabus helps set the stage for what they can expect.
This whole thread is useful.
I also like to go over my syllabus at the first meeting of the class.
I have a prospectus that is organized on a class meeting by class meeting basis outlining what topic is covered, which sections of the text (and/or supplemental materials) will be covered, what assignemnts are due by that class meeting, what quizes they will have that class meeting, if any, and what the quizes will cover.
Thus, even if a student misses a class, they know what is expected of them for the next meeting and the work due (based on the make up work/quiz policy specified in the prospectus).
Hi Grace,
What a great way to start off your course. The quiz over the syllabus makes sure they have spent some time looking it over. This gives them both insight on the course and knowledge of the course requirements both of which helps to get the course off to a smooth start.
Gary
Great idea, will see if I can implement this in my classes.
I make sure the student understand my policies on make-up assignments, weighted grades pertaining to assignments and tests,knowing when assignments are due and what's required of them in a step by step form. They understand the objectives of the course and each chapter. This is all information via the syllabus. Additionally, my first quiz is on understanding your syllabus.
Hi Hazel,
I really like this approach. It is clear and straight forward for the students to review at all times. A grading rubric like this reduces many questions and concerns. The information is there for them to see so when a questions arises it is easy to discuss it. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Gary
