Example Course Syllabus (also known as a Course Map)
Week
Week 1
Outcomes or Topic
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Describe the process of communication
Explain the importance of strong
communication skills in a work
environment
Identify strengths and weaknesses in your
own communication
Demonstrate correct memo format
Resources (optional)
Guffey text, chapters 1 and 2
Web Resources
Assignments
Value
Due
1.1 Communication
Assignment
2%
Week 1
1.2 Personal
Introduction and
Communication
Skills Analysis
4%
Week 1
OR


Process of Communication
Your Communication Strengths and
Weaknesses
Correct Memo Format

Week 2





Week 3 to 4





Week 5




Analyze the purpose of a document
Demonstrate audience analysis
techniques
Brainstorm and research to generate
information.
Organize data into an outline
Write an organized memo using effective
sentences and meaningful paragraphs
Guffey text, Chapter 4
2.1 Prewriting and
Writing Activities
/ Memo
3%
Week 2
Demonstrate effective revision skills
Write a clear, concise, readable memo
Write direct openings for memos and email messages
Demonstrate graphic highlighting skills
Write and revise information and
procedure memos and e-mails
Guffey text, Chapter 5
3.1 Revised Memo
3%
Week 3
4.1 Revised
Procedure or
Request memo
3%
Week 4
Write direct openings for routine letters
Demonstrate correct letter format.
Write letters requesting information and
action
Write letters making claims
Guffey text, Chapter 6
5.1 Claim Letter
3%
Week 4-5
Notes:
 Some instructors like to include outcomes for each week / module; however, including
topics only for each week would also be sufficient.

The resources column is also optional but in some courses that use a variety of
resources, it may be useful for the students.

Some instructors also like to include specific dates instead of weeks. This does
provide more specific information for the students, but it means that you have to update it
each semester.