University of South Carolina
School of Music
COURSE SYLLABI SUGGESTIONS

Students of today are more likely to challenge course grades than were students of the past. These challenges could be avoided (or put to rest more quickly) if course syllabi to includes more specific information in certain areas: 

1.  Method used to determine final grade

Include a grading scale (i.e. 90 - 100 = A, 80 - 89.9 = B, etc.) and the formula by which grades will be derived (i.e. mid-term exam = 25%, final exam = 25%, homework assignments = 25%, research paper = 25%).

2.  Attendance requirements

The University policy is published on p. 19 of the Bulletin and states that "Absence from more than 10% of the scheduled class sessions, whether excused or unexcused, is excessive and the instructor may choose to exact a grade penalty for such absences."

The SOM Undergraduate Handbook includes information about absences from applied music classes and ensemble rehearsals.

If attendance requirements for the class differ from published policies, requirements should be clearly stated in the class syllabus.

Students sometimes complain that they "don't know how they are doing" in some classes.
Item #3 from The Faculty Manual "Statement of Policy" found on the reverse side states that "It is expected that graded examinations and papers will be provided to the student for inspection and discussion. . . .  It is expected that examinations will be graded within a sufficiently appropriate time to make the examination a part of the student's learning experience."  It is, therefore, reasonable for us to apprise our students of their progress and, if appropriate, grade average at intervals throughout the semester.

It may be advantageous for applied teachers to keep records of the weekly lesson of each student.  Some teachers routinely give each lesson a letter grade, which helps to answer grade challenges and also aids in the process of determining the final grade at the end of the semester.

Read the "Statement of Policy" from The Faculty Manual to determine if any revisions in course content or classroom procedures are appropriate.