Introduction
Discussion Checkpoints allow you to structure graded discussions using two distinct due dates: one for the initial post and another for required replies. This feature breaks the assignment into phases, encouraging your students to contribute early and engage thoughtfully with peers over time.
The Initial Post Due Date sets the deadline for students to respond to the discussion prompt, while the Reply Due Date sets the deadline for completing peer responses. Each phase can be assigned its own point value, making grading more transparent and participation more consistent. By pacing contributions, discussion checkpoints help prevent last-minute posting and foster deeper, more meaningful dialogue.
1. Access
From the left Course Navigation menu, choose Discussions.
2. Create
Once on the Discussions page, click on the red + Add Discussion button.
The create/edit page for your new Discussion will open.
Enter the title of the Discussion in the Topic Title [1] text box, then enter the instructions in the RCE (Rich Content Editor) [2].
3. Discussion Settings
Scroll down and select both the Graded [1] checkbox, will will prompt an Assign graded checkpoints [2] checkbox to appear below for you to check.
Scroll down to Checkpoint Settings section and enter the following: The number of points possible for reply to topic [1], the number of additional replies required up to ten [2], and the number of points possible for additional replies [3].
Students will not receive partial credit for completing fewer than the required number of replies.
Scroll to the bottom of the page and enter both a Reply to Topic Due Date [1] and a Required Replies Due Date and Time [2].
4. Complete
Select Save and Publish [1] to make the assignment available to students or click the Save [2] button to put the assignment in draft mode if you are not ready for students to view or start the assignment. You can publish at a later time.
