How to Create a Tap Class Syllabus

It might sound like an afterthought, but in fact, as universities diversify their liberal arts course catalogs, tap is enjoying its own niche within the department of dance. Lots of universities offer dance courses like ballroom and modern, with tap often included. And professors in this department have to create a syllabus for their students like everyone else.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Keep it serious. Dance may be one of the school's more informal departments, but keep all of the applicable policies in mind when creating a syllabus. Don't skimp on details or decide you don't need to look at syllabus guidelines. Pay attention to the structures laid out by the administration, including syllabus templates.

2. Get all of the important stuff in right up front. Class times and venues should be front and center. Add your own policies so that students can be clued in on how you run your dance ship. Telling students about policies clearly on the syllabus can help you avoid misunderstandings later.

3. Add as much timeline information as possible. For tap, this means outlining how much time will be spent lecturing on steps, in practice, in drills, etc.

4. Refer to any books needed for the class or videos that will be shown to demonstrate tap moves. Putting books and movies into the syllabus is something generally done by professional instructors.

5. Leave room for last-minute changes. Think about holiday schedules when composing your course timeline. You may want to include a disclaimer about specific dates being subject to change.

Resources

• Sample tap class syllabus
• Syllabus writing tips for all departments

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