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Extra Credit Suggestions

Though there are multiple options available to create extra credit assignments using Canvas, there are different ways in which Canvas processes this without affecting other students enrolled in the class. Below we will explain how Canvas grades extra credit assignments when these are created in a weighted course or non-weighted course.

In a Weighted Course

When creating an extra credit assignment in a weighted course, the assignment needs to be placed in an existing assignment group containing at least one assignment worth more than zero points. When this occurs, the Gradebook will be able to recognize that this is an extra credit assignment. 

Make sure to be aware of the placement of the extra credit assignment. If the assignment is placed in a weighted group that is worth 50% of the overall grade, this extra credit assignment will impact the student's grade more compared to it being placed in an assignment group worth 10% of the overall grade.

In a Total Points Course

When adding points to assignments in courses that are not weighted, the grades for an existing assignment worth more than zero points increases the total points for the course grade directly.

Creating Grading Columns for Extra Credit

1. Create a new Canvas Assignment. 
2. Set the point value to "zero" points in the "Points" box.

3. Select the appropriate submission type. 

4. Click on the "Save and Publish" button or "Save" to save the assignment as a draft.

Add Extra Credit to a Specific Assignment

Extra credit points can also be added to an existing assignment, especially when assignments are not weighted and an extra column in the Gradebook is not needed.

To add extra points to an existing assignment:

1. Go to your Gradebook. If you are unfamiliar with that menu, view Grading in Canvas.
2. Locate the Assignment and appropriate grade column.
3. Type in a grade number that is higher than the points possible for that assignment in the respective column for the specific student.
   
   

Add Extra Credit to a Grading Rubric

Adding extra credit points to a rubric may be most helpful when students have the chance to gain extra credit for a in-class presentation or something similar in which a rubric is used.

To do so:

1. Add a Rubric (Or choose to edit a rubric)
   1. To add a rubric, go to bottom of the assignment page and click on the button "+ Rubric", located on the bottom left of the screen. 
   2. To edit a rubric, click on the pencil icon, located on the top right corner of the rubric box.
      
2. If you are adding a rubric or simply editing one, you need to add a criterion so that the rubric is worth more points than the actual assignment points. 
3. Click on Update rubric.

Additional Resources