Details of a 20 page research paper, warnings of frequent pop quizzes, and threats about excessive absences can be frightening. Effective word choice can get your message across with a touch of humanity, besides setting a positive example of jargon- free prose. During your first class, you should discuss the syllabus. Even though your policies are carefully stated, they will often need clarification, and students appreciate your openness in discussing the rationale behind them. Sometimes their questions will lead to a profitable exchange of teaching and learning philosophies.
Some instructors feel an oral explanation of course policies and expectations is sufficient.
There are two drawbacks to this approach. First, some students will miss the first class session. Secondly, oral presentations are sometimes open to misinterpretation. Obviously, written words are also misunderstood, but at least their existence can be verified. Probably the key thing to remember about a syllabus is that it is a reflection of your educational philosophy.