1. Guidelines for an Effective Handout

2. Define: The purpose for the handout  To give all the information  To summarise information  To provide a framework for note- taking  When to give the handout within the session

3. Consider: The paper colour of the handout  Students with learning difficulties find black text on white paper difficult to read  Most students prefer coloured paper  This helps with selection and organisation  Use pastel shades; these do not detract from the text and images

4. Format and Organise:  Define main headings/points – bold; underlined; italic  Use a sans serif font such as Arial or Lucida Sans  Font size at least 12 or larger  Space the information  Vary the alignment but do not fully justify the text  Use bullet points or numbering

5. Ensure:  Vocabulary is suitable for audience  Differentiate for students with varying abilities  Grammar, spelling and punctuation are correct – proof read  Write in third person  Put in logical order  Try to fit onto one page

7. Rarely:  Use web pages as Handouts unless as a back up to give URL addresses and links; they are too complicated to use usefully  Check copyright

8. Conclude with:  Learning outcomes  Add footer with date and author's initials and typist’s if relevant  Insert relevant logos  Follow up with quiz or verbal questioning