Susan, Through syllabus you give them the big picture and then you break down the requirements in smaller segments. Always give them the objectives for the class for that meeting, and then outline the expectations for a project that is upcoming. This may be several class meetings or weeks depending on big the project is. For example I have a major project that is assigned six weeks in advance. At each class session (we meet twice a week) I go over the assignment and ask if there are any questions. I remind the students where they need to be in relation to finishing the project on time so by the time the project is due most everyone is ready to hand in their project. Then I move onto the next assignment. If I give them two many assignments at a time they become overwhelmed and start to get a glazed look in their eyes. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.