Participation Grading Rubric

In this course, 40 percent of a participant's final grade is based on participation in class discussions.

A-Level Participation (40 points)

• The participant consistently posted insightful comments and questions that prompted on-topic discussion.
• The participant consistently helped clarify or synthesize other group members' ideas.
• If disagreeing with another group members' ideas, the participant stated his or her disagreement or objections clearly, yet politely.

B-Level Participation (36 points)

Same as A-level participation, except that:

• The participant was notably lacking in one or two of the items listed for A-level participation.
• The participant consistently had to be prompted or coaxed to participate.
• The participant usually, but not always, expressed herself or himself clearly.

C-Level Participation (32 points)

Same as B-level participation, except that:

• The participant was consistently lacking in two or more of the items listed for A-level participation.
• The participant was extremely reluctant to participate, even when prompted.
• The participant rarely expressed himself or herself clearly.

D-Level Participation (28 points)

Any of the following can cause a participant to receive a D-level class participation grade, even if the participant's participation otherwise conforms to a higher level on the rubric:

• The participant frequently attempted (success is irrelevant) to draw the discussion off-topic.

F-Level Participation (24 points)

Any of the following can cause a participant to receive an F-level class participation grade, even if the participant's participation otherwise conforms to a higher level on the rubric:

• The participant was rude or abusive to other course participants.
• The participant consistently failed or refused to participate at all, even when specifically prompted or questioned.