Information to Include

Tips and Where to Find It

Detailed attendance policy

Devise an attendance policy that is clear and as specific as possible. Be sure that the policy you implement is one that you will be able to stick to throughout the semester. Indicate your level of flexibility with regard to various situations.

Refer to the TCC Policy Manual for more information.

Makeup policy for missed exams, quizzes, and assignments.

Devise a makeup policy that is clear and as specific as possible. Be sure the policy you implement is one that you will be able to stick to throughout the semester. Indicate if and when makeups will be allowed and your level of flexibility with regard to various situations.

Classroom policies and expectations.

Refer to the Student Code of Conduct; it sets the expectations for behavior on campus. The Student Code of Conduct is located in the Student Handbook .

Example of Wording: Classroom Expectations & Policies

ADA statement.

Each year we ask Disability Support Services (DSS) to verify and update a statement that can be used in syllabi.

Wording: DSS Statement

Feel free to download and copy this statement into your syllabus.

Grading:

• How the final course grade is calculated.
• Factors considered in evaluating and grading students, such as tests, projects, writing assignments, etc.
• Information about a final exam (especially if one is not required for the course).
• Any departmental policies regarding a grading scale in determining final grades.

A clear and concise grading scale and system is helpful for the instructor and the students. Letting students know how you will assess them at the beginning of the course will give them the opportunity to know what you will expect of them and plan ahead. This will also help to avoid disputes over grades towards the end of the semester.

Including an "Assignment Information" section is also helpful.

Technology Use

Explain to students to what extent and how technology will be used in the course, both in and out of meeting times. State whether or not you will allow laptops/tablets in class.

All courses now have a Blackboard shell; let students know how it will be used.

Administrative Withdrawal Policy

Refer to the Policy Manual for Withdrawal information.

Academic Freedom Policy

Information about this policy can be found here .

Example of Wording: Academic Freedom

Academic Dishonesty

Example of Wording: Academic Dishonesty