I have found that there is always at least one or two students who claim they weren't informed of their responsibilities as far as practical assignments, and/or the content and scope of the exams. As a result, on day one I give an additional hand-out in addition to the syllabus and any other hand-outs. This additional hand-out outlines these requirements VERY specifically, and I require that they sign an acceptance sheet acknowledging the receipt and understanding of the hand-out. When I get the inevitable blank stare, I can pull out the sheet, and prove that they were instructed of their responsibilities.