Some lecturers indicate their attendance and make-up policies in this section of the syllabus. You can greatly alleviate this concern by specifically describing how you test and how you assign grades. This should include the number of tests, their point value, the proportion each test counts toward the final grade, the course grading scale, and how the final grade is determined. Clear course objectives and standards of evaluation are essential for both types. You need to reassure the anxious students that your expectations are reasonable, fair, and above all, attainable, and you need to protect yourself from undue pressure from the over-achievers.
Problems concerning grades unfortunately tend to prompt most student letters of complaint.
A carefully thought-out grading policy, documented in your syllabus and consistently and fairly applied, will alleviate some of the student anxiety about final grades and protect you from one of the worst hassles in the teaching profession. Thus, it is important to spell out exactly how you will determine final grades. Tests should be a part of the learning process, constantly reinforcing your objectives, assignments, and classroom activities. A statement about your make-up policy is also of critical importance. You may wish to spell out in your syllabus the procedures for make up exams followed by the Academic Support Center.