Discussion Posts Overview

Discussion Posts allow students to pursue ideas in readings, ask questions, follow lines of inquiry, etc. Students should read others' posts and—if possible—respond to them. The goal is to display genuine interaction with course readings, topics, questions, and other students.

Word count is irrelevant in Discuss Posts. Instead of focusing on quantity, please follow these guidelines:

• Be brief: Keep posts concise while explaining your ideas.
• Forward a clear point: Start with a clear statement of your post’s main idea (like a mini thesis statement).
• Engage with material: Include specifics and cite page numbers from assigned readings (as is applicable—quotes, summary, paraphrase, etc.).
• Use visual cues: Utilize headings, indents, and lists to make posts easy to read (avoid huge blocks of text).
• Reply: Replies are encouraged although not required. They help make discussions more active and engaging.

Discussion Posts are worth two points each.