GC Discussions Criteria, Grading, and Policies

 

GC Discussions Overview

Global Cultures discussions are worth a total of 18 points and must address the following discussion criteria. For details see Grading for Discussions and other 18 Point Assignments.

Each discussion will contain a Canvas Rubric including these criteria and associated ratings for different levels of response. You will be able to view the rubric at the top right using the three vertical dots. Links to an external site.  For each discussion, I recommend referring to the rubric before posting your reply.

Keep in mind that which side of an issue you take (when there are sides to take) is not relevant to grades. Most important is the quality with which you present and support your opinion(s).

Discussion Criteria (18 total points)

Quality of Initial Discussion and Analysis (0-5 points)

Post thoroughly addresses each prompt providing analysis using appropriate specific examples, including class materials and personal experience, and presents and identifies personal opinion, such as:

      • Answer responds directly to the discussion question prompts
      • Addresses journalist questions: Who, what, when, where, how, why?
      • Provides analysis through: how and why analytical questions, and (when appropriate) formal comparative/contrast analysis
      • Discussions includes specific examples from class text readings, slide decks, and video materials
      • Discussion has been carefully proofread

Sources and Evidence (0-5 points)

Post includes appropriate sources and substantial relevant evidence to support claims and opinions.

      • Precis/summary/synopsis contains evidence in the form of specific facts, and relevant data
      • References are provided
        • For the Discussions these may be informal (included as part of the text materials, following a journalism style), or formal (provided as an addendum at the bottom in a format similar to a term paper "References" or "Works Cited" section)
      • Personal life examples are included
      • Opinions are clearly identified as your own opinion(s)/conclusion(s) and distinguished from fact-based and data-driven evidence
      • Quoted materials are discussed (and not simply included without meaningful comment)

Organization and Structure (0-4 points)

Structure of the posting is consistently clear and easy to follow. The postings are enhanced by the organization and structure. Academic tone used, including appropriate terms and vocabulary.

  • Consistently clean and easy to follow; e.g. each answer has a beginning, middle, and end (or other appropriate outline structure)
  • Number of paragraphs reflects the number of question prompts
      • As a rule of thumb, if there are two parts to the question there should be two parts (paragraphs) minimum for the answer. If a question has three parts, then most often the answer should also have three parts (paragraphs).
  • Academic tone/register used
  • For all Canvas Discussion items your AUDIENCE is your fellow classmates unless otherwise specified

Grammar (0-4 points)

  • Rules of grammar, usage, and punctuation are followed; spelling is correct. Appropriate formal or informal register used.
    • Rules of grammar, punctuation, and usage are followed, spelling is correct

Discussion Rubric and Response Quality

Remember, always read and understand the discussion question. If you do not understand the question, contact me [Tim Roufs]. Then: 

  1. Refer to the Canvas rubric before you post your discussion reply. (Tip:  View the rubric at the top right of each discussion). Links to an external site.
  2. Refer to the GC Discussion Writing Samples for different quality discussion response samples. Make the most of interacting with your classmates and sharing your ideas in the course discussions with these tips and suggestions