Graded Discussion

INSTRUCTIONS FOR GROUP DISCUSSION AND GRADING CRITERIA :

There will be two graded discussion topics. You should contribute to each discussion topic within the dates for that particular discussion. The graded discussions will be posted in the Discussion Forum of our online classroom. To access discussion topics, click on Discussions. Points will be awarded based on the quality of your discussion, the results of your research on the topic, and your effectiveness in interacting with other students. You should also “reply” to the posting of OTHER STUDENTS so you can discuss their views on the topic. The simple phrase “I agree” or any derivative of that is NOT an acceptable response or reply. The earlier that you post on a topic, the more opportunity there will be for others to read and respond to your posts. This helps you earn a higher score. Your posting may be on the same issue or subject as another student’s, but it must not be from the same source. Please COMMENT on the article. DO NOT RETYPE OR CUT/PASTE THE ARTICLE. Your posting should be a minimum of 250 words and your thoughtful response to someone else’s posting should be a minimum of 150 words.

Discussions that earn 90 - 100 points will address the discussion topic thoroughly and include documented outside research. You will also respond thoughtfully to at least TWO other students and add new ideas or suggestions to each student’s post. The posts will be presented clearly and demonstrate both professional vocabulary and writing style. They will stimulate discussion, add value to the discussion and enhance the critical thinking process for the group. Each posting must include supporting evidence, details, examples, and citations (live links if they involve online research). You will need at least 3 quality posts to score in this point range.

Discussions that earn 70 - 89 points will address the discussion topic thoroughly and include documented outside research. You will also respond thoughtfully to at least ONE other student and add new ideas or suggestions to each student’s post. The posts will be presented clearly and demonstrate both professional vocabulary and writing style. They will stimulate discussion, add value to the discussion and enhance the critical thinking process for the group. Some postings (but not all postings) include several supporting evidence, details, examples, and citations (live links if they involve online research). You will need at least 2 quality posts to score in this point range.

Discussions that earn less than 70 points will not meet one or more of the above criteria.

You are required to read ALL POSTS from other students. If you do not, you may receive a penalty of 5 points. This means you must be online frequently during the graded group discussions. Please do not wait until the last few days to read posts. The purpose of a group discussion is to build upon posts with more information and learn from other students.

There is no makeup work for this assignment.