TAs teaching English 150 and 250 for the first time are given a standard syllabus/class policy sheet, assignment sheets, and a Canvas course template. (Other instructors interested in these materials may request copies.)
Syllabus and Class Policy Sheet
Just as in other courses in the English Department, you are expected to give students the course syllabus and class policy sheet at the beginning of the semester. The syllabus must be in a day-by-day format. The class policy sheet should include office hours, course objectives, attendance policy, grading criteria, a statement on accommodating disabilities (view sample disability statements to help you write your own), and a statement affirming diversity. In designing these documents, remember that the visual layout of the syllabus will be the first impression you convey, so highlight important points and create an aesthetically appealing format. Instructors find that asking students to sign a Course Policy Awareness Form is extremely helpful. Ask students to sign this form during the first week of class, collect them, and keep them on file until midterm of the following semester. Please send an electronic copy of the syllabus and class policy sheet to englsyllabi@iastate.edu, by the second week of class, so these can be kept on file. Provide your students with a hard copy of the course policy sheet on the first day of class.
You can find sample syllabuses and class policy sheets on the CyBox Downloads page. Also, see the semester checklist for more important dates.
Assignments
Assignments in English 150 and 250 are standardized to allow for consistency across sections. You can find the assignment sheets for both courses on the CyBox Downloads page.
Canvas Template
Before beginning the semester, you will be provided with a Canvas template that includes many course materials already preloaded into it, such as course forms and directions for instructors. You will need to spend time customizing the template with items specific to your own course, so be sure to look over all the information carefully before the semester begins.