Summary
This article provides steps and guidance for enabling and using Graded Discussion Checkpoints.
Graded Discussion Checkpoints allow instructors to assign separate due dates and point values within a graded discussion. This feature is commonly used to separate the initial discussion post from peer replies, helping students better understand participation expectations and deadlines.
Things to Know
Graded Checkpoints work best when expectations are clearly outlined in the discussion instructions.
- Graded Checkpoints work with whole-class and group discussions.
- Each checkpoint can have its own point value.
- The total discussion grade is automatically calculated from both checkpoints.
- You can create separate due dates for the Initial Discussion Post and Peer Replies.
- Students will see the separate due dates in Modules, the To-Do List and Calendar
How to Enable Graded Discussion Checkpoints
Step 1: Discussion Options
Graded Checkpoints are enabled in Options of a Discussion.
- Create a new or edit an existing Discussion.
- In the Options section, enable Graded and Assign graded checkpoints.
Note: Discussions must be graded in order to enable Graded Checkpoints.
Step 2: Checkpoint Settings
Checkpoint Settings allow you to set points and the number of replies required.
- Points Possible: Reply to Topic - Enter the points possible for an initial reply.
- Additional Replies Required - Enter the number of required peer replies.
- Points Possible: Additional Replies - Enter the points possible for additional replies.
- Total Points Possible - Auto calculates total points possible.
Step 3: Assignment Settings
Due Dates for initial and required replies are managed in the Assignment Settings of a Discussion.
- Reply to Topic Due Date - Set a due date for the initial discussion post.
- Required Replies Due Date - Set a due date for all required replies.
Step 4: Save or Save and Publish the Discussion
