How do you convert the traditional syllabus that tends to be dry, formal, blend, boring, and unattractive to a new style syllabus that is informal, fun, simple,attractive, and easy to understand? Pillar Hernandez has a format that I would like to use it when I design my syllabus. Her format is direct and straight forward and it helps students to be accountable/responsible for their learning.
Initially, I would use a short video to explain general aspects of the syllabus: objectives/goals, grading, and plagiarisms (cheating). Students could also have access to a hard copy of the syllabus. Like in the Pilar's video, I would create a weekly video to preview what the student is going to learn. Then a list of weekly activities would be available with the use of hyperlinks. Colors is used to remind the due dates, including time zones. All the activities would be linked to a calendar. At the end, I would attach a check list which students could print so they can keep track of their assignments.
For course assignments, I would allow students to retake quizzes until they mastered the topic and/or skills. Finally, students would take a test (the due date must be within the limits of the quarter). If the student falls behind an alternative assessment method would be implemented such as mandatory one on one office time to help the student get back on track.
Below is a video about the syllabus of a blended course for eighth grade for Algebra 1.
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