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This repository contains templates useful for creating accessible syllabus or other course files in Microsoft Word. Each folder contains. Templates can also be used for non-course materials including reports, journal articles or memos.

Zip File Archives

Individual Files

These are the individual Word files for each of the templates included in the Public Templates.

View Template Files
  1. Sans Serif Large Headings – The headings are black and larger, and the font is sans-serif.
    1. Sans Serif Instructions Template
    2. Schedule Samples Template
    3. Syllabus Preview PDF
  2. Serif Large Headings – The headings are black and larger and the font is a serif.
    1. Serif Large Instructions Template
    2. Schedule Samples Template
    3. Syllabus Preview PDF
  3. Times New Roman – The text and headings are Times New Roman, and the headings are bold, but the same size as the body text.
    1. Times New Roman Instructions Template
    2. Schedule Samples Template
    3. Syllabus Preview PDF
  4. Blue Bars – The headings are enclosed in colored bars.
    1. Blue Bars Instructions Template
    2. Schedule Samples Template
    3. Syllabus Preview PDF

Features and Instructions

About Template Files

Templates consist of Word files which include Word styles which are needed for accessibility but replicate formatting commonly used in course syllabi and other assignment files.

Template Features

Each template has been customized so that:

  • The Heading 1 to Heading 6 styles needed for screen reader headings are available in different fonts and formatting options.
  • The Penn State shield image (if included) has image Alt text.
  • The different table header options have sufficient color contrast between the cell background and the text.
  • Styles which replicate textbox effects have been included.

Download Instructions

The files and extended instructions are all included in a .zip file.

  1. Download and select a template that appeals to you. The template is a Word file with embedded Word styles which can be seen in the top ribbon or by opening the Styles pane.
  2. To open the Styles pane.
    1. Windows – Click the right arrow icon at the lower right corner of the list of styles in the ribbon.
    2. Mac – Click the Styles Pane icon to the right ofthe list of styles in the ribbon.
  3. Save a copy of the Word file. The available styles will transfer to the new document.
    Note: You can also save the file as a .dot template as needed.
  4. You can remove all content and add your content. Use styles as directed in the "Instructions" document/template.
Word file ribbon with styles to the right of the formatting tools.
Microsoft Word ribbon showing available styles in the Times New Roman syllabus template.

 

Syllabus file in Word with text in Times New Roman.

Example syllabus in the Times New Roman template. The Headings are listed on the left, and the Styles pane is open on the right.

Demos and Training

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Last Update: August 4, 2023