If I was ignoring your point, it was unintentional because I was thinking about it through a systems level perspective and not at an individual lecturer's perspective. I didn't realize that was a concern of yours.

One thing I would try is to give students a scary speech on day 1. "This isn't going to be an easy class, I expect you to read the material, I will not be sharing my lecture notes, I'm a tough grader" etc etc.

I think an entrance exam is acceptable.