Student
/ Faculty Expectations
Classes
in the Writing Instruction Program involve frequent interaction between
students and instructors. This document offers guidelines for those
interactions.
This document is available in .pdf format
(click here).
Students
in writing classes may expect that instructors will
1. Provide a syllabus that includes instructor contact information and
office hours, a description of the course, major course objectives,
required materials, course policies regarding attendance and late assignments,
and explanation of how the course grade is computed.
2. Create assignments that are challenging, directly related to course
objectives, and progressively designed to guide the student toward achieving
course goals.
3. Give clear instructions for major assignments, including requirements,
grading criteria, and due dates.
4. Establish opportunities for students to receive feedback on their
work-in-progress, along with opportunities to revise drafts before receiving
a grade.
5. Respond to assignments with suggestions for improvement.
6. Return most graded assignments approximately one week after they
are submitted.
7. Attend class regularly and punctually.
8. Respect the students and maintain confidentiality of each student’s
performance.
9. Apply course requirements and policies fairly to all students in
the class.
10. Give midterm grades to freshmen.
Faculty in writing classes may expect that students will
1. Read the syllabus carefully and completely, remain in the class only
if in agreement with the syllabus, and act in accordance with syllabus
policies.
2. Do all assigned work with real effort and thought, and collaborate
productively with other students in class discussion, writing workshops,
and other group activities.
3. Seek the assistance of the Writing Center when necessary.
4. Assume full responsibility for drafts and revisions, understanding
that an instructor cannot—and should not—respond to every
detail of a draft.
5. Carefully read instructors’ comments on graded assignments and,
if any question or disagreement about the grade arises, wait at least
one day to reflect on the assignment before speaking with the instructor.
6. Submit assignments on time.
7. Attend class regularly and punctually, and assume responsibility
for any material missed due to absence.
8. Contribute to a classroom environment that is positive, respectful,
and productive.
9. Understand that the instructor cannot make special exceptions regarding
course requirements or policies.
10. Check their midterm grades (first year students only).
