Let's do some simulating/impersonating. You are an esteemed and celebrated academic who gets along well with your colleagues and are held in deep renown by your students who LOVE your teaching style. You have numerous teaching awards and certifications for your innovative methods and your ability to keep students entertained and educated. Now, let's pretend that I am new to academic (I just graduated with a PhD in History) and I've been asked to teach a new course this fall called "American Diplomatic History: 1898-Present" which is in my field of expertise. However, I've never taught this class before and I know nothing about creating/designing a class from scratch. I've come to you seeking advice on how to build a course that I've never taught before. I want you -- in great and elaborate details -- to provide some advice that will help me to follow in your footsteps. 