Essay Grade

Discussion

Criteria

Outstanding or higher level of performance

Very good or high level of performance

Competent or satisfactory level of performance

Poor or failing or unsatisfactory level of performance

Initial Post Content

Addresses all aspects of the initial discussion question(s), applying experiences, knowledge, and understanding regarding all weeklyconcepts.

Addresses most aspects of the initial discussion question(s), applying experiences, knowledge, and understanding of most of the weekly concepts

Addresses some aspects of the initial discussion question(s), applying experiences, knowledge, and understanding of some of the weekly concepts.

Minimally addresses the initial discussion question(s) or does not address the initial question(s).

Initial Post

Evidence & Sources

Integrates evidence to support discussion from assigned readings** ORonline lessons, AND at least one outside scholarly source.*** Sources are credited.*

Integrates evidence to support discussion from assigned readings** ORonline lessons. Sources are credited.*

Integrates evidence to support discussion only from an outside source with no mention of assigned reading** or lesson. Sources are credited.*

Does not integrate any evidence.

Follow-Up Post 1

Response furthers the dialogue by providing more information and clarification, thereby adding much depth to the discussion.

Response furthers the dialogue by adding some depth to the discussion.

Response does not further the dialogue significantly; adds littledepth to the discussion.

Does not respond to another student or instructor.

Follow-Up Post 2

Response furthers the dialogue by providing more information and clarification, thereby adding much depth to the discussion.

Response furthers the dialogue by adding some depth to the discussion.

Response does not further the dialogue significantly; adds littledepth to the discussion.

Does not respond to another student or instructor.

Professional Communication

Presents information using clear and concise language in an organized manner (minimal errorsin English grammar, spelling, syntax, and punctuation).

Presents information in an organized manner (few errors in English grammar, spelling, syntax, and punctuation).

Presents information using understandable language but is somewhat disorganized (some errors in English grammar, spelling, syntax, and punctuation).

Presents information that is not clear, logical, professional or organized to the point that the reader has difficulty understanding the message (numerous errors in English grammar, spelling, syntax, and/or punctuation).

Timeliness of Responses

Student posts an answer to the initial discussion question(s) by Wednesday, 11:59 p.m. M.T.

Student does not post an answer to the initial discussion question(s) by Wednesday, 11:59 p.m. M.T.

Frequency of Responses

Posts in the discussion on two different days.

Posts fewer than two different days OR does not participate at all.