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Extra Credit Assignment Ideas that Support Student Learning

Classroom Management , Project-Based Learning , Writing

Close to the end of the semester, you likely get requests from students to complete extra credit assignments. You might be looking for extra credit assignment ideas , or maybe you’re wondering if extra credit should be allowed in the first place. Maybe you find last-minute requests annoying – grading extra credit projects can be frustrating and confusing! In this blog post, I’ll share some reasons to consider extra credit in your classroom. It can be an enriching learning opportunity for your students. You’ll also receive some examples of extra credit assignments , along with some strategies to stay organized with extra credit assignments.

Is Extra Credit a Good Thing?

Not everyone agrees that students deserve extra credit. Many teachers believe in only assigning “regular” credit. Sometimes the top performers in our class request the opportunity to boost their grades. Oftentimes, students who have unfinished assignments or lower grades request extra credit too. Teachers who do not assign extra credit often decline these requests to emphasize the importance of turning in regular assignments on time .

Meanwhile, some teachers do not assign extra credit because their schools do not allow it. School-wide policies may not permit extra credit in order to promote equitable grading practices. Before you decide whether or not you will offer extra credit, be sure to check your school’s policy.

Equitable Extra Credit Policies

Another place to consult before assigning extra credit is with any staff that teaches the same course as you. If either one of you approaches extra credit differently, your students may interpret this as inequitable . One of the main reasons that teachers believe students do not deserve extra credit is that it is unethical. There are ways to ensure that extra credit is equitable, but you will need to ensure that your colleagues are in agreement .

Students deserve extra credit when it is an opportunity offered to everyone . To ensure that your policies are ethical and equitable, do not assign extra credit on a case-by-case basis. This does not mean that everyone needs to complete an extra credit assignment. This also does not mean that every extra credit assignment needs to be the same. Equity is about access . Case-by-case simply implies that you should not approve extra credit for one student and deny it for another – unless there is a valid reason to do so.

Whether you believe students deserve extra credit or not, be sure to include your policy in your syllabus . If you allow extra credit, you may also wish to note your requirements. These can include when and how to request extra credit opportunities. Mondays Made Easy includes an Extra Credit Application with our Editable Full Course Syllabus Template .

Why Should Teachers Give Extra Credit?

Teachers should give extra credit if they support differentiation for students. When implemented properly, extra credit assignments can be a fantastic way to differentiate for different learner profiles. Many teachers hold the belief that a student’s grade in a course should reflect their understanding of the curriculum. In an equitable setting, there should be several opportunities to demonstrate that understanding.

There are multiple reasons why a student may perform poorly on an assessment. There are also multiple factors that may prevent students from being present in class or turning in work on time. Extra credit assignments, when assigned to correlate with your curriculum requirements and course expectations, provide students with another opportunity to meet course standards .

This is especially true if the extra credit is able to assess learning goals while catering to different learning styles . I saw a great example the other day of a student who baked a literal cake of symbolic elements from The Great Gatsby. Their write-up described the literary elements in the novel in relation to the cake: from rum-flavored icing to pearl necklace piping, this culinary creation fused course requirements with the student’s passion!

Tips for Assigning Extra Credit

One reason why teachers hate extra credit is that it can be a real headache! Keeping track of extra credit assignments and due dates requires additional effort on our part. On top of that, grading additional assignments around report card time is stressful. Thankfully, these hardships are minimized with a simple system in place.

Mondays Made Easy’s FREE Extra Credit Application is a great tool to help you keep track of extra credit assignments and requests. Students typically ask for extra credit in person; an application provides a paper trail for these conversations. Additionally, an application provides space to note assignment instructions and due dates – if your students are anything like mine, they might need a reminder about these details.

Extra credit applications can also double as a metacognitive reflection tool . I often have students explain why they need the extra credit in the first place. This provides them the opportunity to reflect on their performance and participation in the course. If the same student repeatedly asks for extra credit in your class, it can also be useful to have a record of each request . This can provide you both with documentation to discuss the student’s habits and performance.

A final reason why I love using extra credit applications is that they encourage students to be proactive . I introduce my extra credit application with my syllabus at the start of the course. I notify students that I require extra credit applications to be submitted three weeks before report cards. This sets the expectation that extra credit requests should not be made last minute. I also schedule assignments to be turned in before grades are finalized. This eliminates any last-minute grading .

Extra Credit Assignment Ideas for English Class

To simplify extra credit assignment ideas, you can adopt the popular approach of offering an assignment re-do to students. This is the easiest way to avoid additional grading while accommodating extra credit requests.

Another approach to extra credit that requires very little assessment is to implement a pass system . At the start of the semester, you can provide each student with a number of passes. For example, each student might receive three hallway passes and one late pass. In order to receive extra credit, students must have all of their passes remaining at the end of the semester. If your school policy allows, you can give students bonus points for simply showing up to class on time and avoiding hallway distractions.

For novel studies , you can offer students the opportunity to create a movie trailer. This example for an extra credit assignment idea requires a bit of effort, but it is a great alternative assessment for older students . A movie trailer will prompt students to avoid simple plot summaries and establish characterization and theme. To facilitate this assignment, Mondays Made Easy offers a Movie Trailer Project Outline and Rubric .

If your students have written research essays , you can offer them the opportunity to turn their work into a “ real-world resource .” A “real-world resource” is any type of media or document that delivers students’ research to the general public. This example of an extra credit assignment is a great opportunity for differentiation because it allows students to be creative and select any medium they like. Mondays Made Easy also offers a Real-World Resource Assignment Outline and Rubric .

Aligning Extra Credit Assignment Ideas with Your Curriculum

When it comes to selecting an extra credit assignment idea, the most important consideration should be how the assignment aligns with your curriculum. If you’re not sure what to assign for extra credit, one option could be to review the student’s performance . If they scored low on a particular assessment, it would make sense to opt for an assignment that covers similar curriculum strands .

For example, the Common Core State Standards require students to “write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence” ( English Language Arts Standards – Writing – Grade 9-10 ). If your student requesting extra credit scored lowest on an assessment for this strand, it would not be best practice to assess an argumentative writing assignment.

Mondays Made Easy’s Extra Credit Application prompts students to reflect on their performance in your course. It also offers them the opportunity to suggest extra credit assignment ideas . Oftentimes, students are able to recommend an assignment idea that evaluates similar skills to those that were evaluated poorly on a previous assessment. If their recommendation doesn’t align, you can facilitate a conversation to guide them in the right direction. This is a great way to implement differentiation and student choice . It also enables you to incorporate your students’ examples of extra credit assignments into your curriculum. Students have great ideas, and I’ve benefitted from reusing their suggestions with future classes!

Extra Credit Assignment Ideas: Important Takeaways

Assigning extra credit remains a matter of personal preference. You know what works best for your students, and your professional discretion will best determine whether or not extra credit is an opportunity that they need. As mentioned, it is best to check if your approach aligns with your school policy and your colleagues’ practices. If you do decide to offer your students extra credit assignments , I hope that the suggestions and ideas in this blog post support you in your efforts!

• Spotlight on Extra Credit

Exploring Extra Credit

• By Kara Coleman
• October 5, 2020

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5 Extra Credit Activities That Promote Engaged Learning

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The end of the semester is approaching quickly. Only two more weeks of coursework before finals week arrives. At this point of the semester, it’s not uncommon to receive requests for extra credit opportunities. I’ve never received an extra credit request from a student, though, because I build in multiple opportunities into the semester. There’s a lot of debate over whether extra credit should be an option in the classroom. Personally, I believe that if students are willing to put in extra effort to complete additional work, then they should have that opportunity. I’m more than willing to allow students to increase their project grades by a few points by completing additional activities that require students to deepen their understanding and abilities to apply what they’ve learned. Here are five forms of extra credit activities I offer in my various courses. [ A video version of this information is included at the end of this post, too!]

Responses to Classmates’ Work

In my literature courses , my students are required to complete 3-5 literary analysis discussion posts throughout the semester. They post them using our LMS forums tool. The forums are set to not allow students to read earlier posts in a specific forum until they themselves have submitted a post. At that point, the rest of the posts are revealed and they are free to reply to them. Once the deadline for a post passes, I change the setting so that all students can see the posts even if they did not complete one. Students have at least double the number of possible forums to post to than required of them, so they can pick which required texts they are most interested in analyzing before they are discussed in class.

As this is a digital assignment that all students easily have access to via our course website, I always include an extra credit opportunity at the end of the assignment sheet. Students were required to complete 3 posts in this semester’s ENG170 . The assignment equates to 15% of the student’s course grade. With this grade dynamic in mind, my students could receive up to 10 points extra credit on individual posts by completing the activity below. The language that follows is copied directly from my assignment sheet:

Extra Credit: Up to 10 points total

• Additional quote(s) and analysis that support their points
• Additional analysis of the quote(s) they used that further support their points
• Quote(s) and analysis that can counter their points
• Additional analysis of the quote(s) they used that counter their points
• A discussion of why their points/arguments are significant
• There is no word requirement for these comments. The detail you put into them and/or the points you make in them will equate to the amount of points you receive for each comment. Once you receive 10 points total, you will not be able to receive more of this extra credit, though additional comments can help with your participation grade in a manner similar to the Discussion Addition forums.

Very few students tend to take advantage of this extra credit opportunity, but I offer it every time I use this assignment. The students aren’t required to reply to classmates who submitted a post to the same forums they did. So, while a student might not have written a post about El Deafo , this extra credit activity gives them the chance to earn points by thinking further on a text that they originally passed on analyzing in written form. If they do respond to a post from a forum they chose earlier in the semester, then they’ve chosen to approach a text they’ve analyzed from an angle they might not have thought about on their own. In either case, students gain more literary analysis writing skills and work on rhetorically responding to someone else’s analysis rather than just always writing their own without any concern to the complications of collaborative writing.

Creative Project

This extra credit activity is posted during Week 1, but it’s not due until the last day of class. In contrast to the activity above, this project is not attached to any one assignment. For my children’s literature courses, this activity takes on the form of creating a picture book or first chapter of a graphic novel. In my YA literature course , they have the option of writing a piece of fanfiction based on one of our required texts. Here’s the assignment from my ENG170 course:

Step 1: Create a picture book or graphic novel chapter

You can work with one partner or by yourself. The picture book should be at least 14 pages long; the graphic novel at least 8 pages in length. The picture book can be a narrative or concept book. Your intended audience should be children, though you can pick any age group. It should be designed to look like a picture book or graphic novel (front cover to back cover, not just the story). 

Step 2: Write a Reflection

Write a short reflection (400 words or more). In it, discuss topics like how you came up with the idea for your book, why you decided to create this idea, why you designed the book the way you did (colors, shape, materials, etc.), what message(s) you want (or don’t want) your reader to get from the book, etc. Submit this reflection into the “Extra Credit Project” assignment link. If you work with a partner, each of you must write a reflection.

This project is much more popular with my students. Most complete the project without a partner, but I’ve seen some amazing writer and illustrator pairs. Most tend to create a narrative picture book. Graphic novel chapters are very rare. Students can earn up to 5 points extra credit on an exam by completing this activity, depending on the detail of their reflection and effort in creating their children’s text. We spend so much time analyzing the content and design of visual texts. This activity allows students to learn first hand just how hard creating these texts can be. Putting in the effort to experience this creative process and reflect on it is worth adding a few points to an exam that they might have struggled with because of how much information is included in this prerequisite course.

Digital Project

A new extra credit activity I offered this semester is the “class blog” project. Our LMS has a blog tool that allows students to construct a collaborative blog on our class website (so there is no need to grapple with creating their own blog or posting to the online public). So far, no student has posted to the blog. But, they have three more weeks to post. Here’s the assignment description I created for my students:

You can blog about anything related to children’s literature/media and culture. There is no word requirement for these blog posts. You can post as many as you want and include as much detail as you want. The more detail/depth you include in the posts, the more points you will earn. Just make sure it’s your own writing, and if you cite someone else in your posts, make sure to credit them. Once you receive the 5 points available for this extra credit, additional posts can function similarly to the discussion addition forum posts in regard to improving your participation grade. Here are some ideas for what you can blog about, though you might come up with other ideas:

• Children’s literature book reviews
• Children’s movie reviews
• Children’s app reviews
• Your thoughts/opinions about something going on in the media that connects to children’s texts or children in general
• Your experiences reading to children at a library or at home
• Your childhood memories of reading/watching one of the texts we’re reading for class
• Your ideas for how you’d teach a children’s text in your future classrooms

You can also reply to others’ blog posts. It’ll likely be harder to earn the same amount of points in comparison to creating your own, but replying is an option for anyone who doesn’t feel comfortable creating their own posts. If your post inspires a lot of comments, this community response can also increase the amount of points you earn for that post.

Like the creative project, students can earn up to five points extra credit on an exam by completing this activity. In adding this activity, my hope was to inspire students to connect our class to the world outside the classroom. I consider what I teach to be incredibly relevant to my students’ lives outside the classroom. Getting students to have that same belief can be difficult, so I created this extra credit opportunity so that students would have reason to put in extra effort to make these connections. I’m curious to see if any student will do so in the coming weeks.

Event Attendance and “Takeaways” Response

ISU’s English department hosts the Lois Lenski Lecture every spring semester. We invite a children’s and/or young adult literature scholar to speak at our campus and host a Q&A session after their talk. I’ve learned so much from these presentations, and always mention them to my children’s and ya literature students. I also offer extra credit if they attend the event and write up a “takeaways response” to it that night. They submit them digitally by midnight, or just turn it in physically at the lecture.

This semester, my students have the option of exploring a children’s literature display at our university library. A special collections display was created by students in a graduate course. If my students explore it and write up a response to it, they can receive a few extra credit points were they most need it (up to 3, depending on the detail in their response). They had two weeks to complete this activity. Fewer than a handful did so. This activity and other events are great for helping students see how others outside the classroom study and use children’s and YA literature. Note: The takeaways can’t just be regurgitated facts. Students have to reflect and metacognitively respond to what they’ve heard/seen during the event.

Aesthetic Additions

I include this option when students complete a highly visual project. For the picture book festival activity I’ve used in past ENG170 sections, students could increase their poster grade by up to five points depending on the effort they put into designing their posters. All students were automatically eligible for earning these points. Students could earn a high grade as long as they included all the required material on their poster. But, if their posters’ design aesthetic was well thought out, extra credit points could be earned. Some students focused on emphasizing the content of their text (crafting a tree on a The Giving Tree poster), while others focused on the medium (designing their poster as a TV screen when analyzing Gilmore Girls ). Most students tend to receive only a point or two for this extra credit opportunity, but I’ve been amazed by the thought and effort put into a few poster designs over the years. It livens up my grading experience at the end of the semester too, which is always welcome.

Final Thoughts

Of the five activities listed above, four were options in this semester’s ENG 170 course. Giving my students the chance to earn up to 23 extra credit points likely seems excessive to some of you reading this post. Here are a few points I’d like for you to keep in mind, especially if you’re considering what extra credit activities you might want to offer next semester: 1. In a 30 student course, usually less than half the students will attempt even one of the extra credit options. 2. Less than a third will attempt more than one option, and they are often the ones that don’t even need extra credit. 3. It’s rare for a student to earn the max number of points for any of the activities because of how much extra effort and work I expect from them in order to gain these points. 4. The only activity that creates the opportunity to gain 10 points is the forum posts extra credit. These points are added to individual posts rather than to the activity grade as a whole. In this specific case, one post equates to just 5% of their overall course grade. 5. If students are willing to put in the extra time and effort, and the activities actually require them to learn something, why not offer them the opportunity for engaging in additional ways with the course material?

I’ve never regretted including extra credit options in my courses. Few students take me up on my offers, and a bump up in their overall grade definitely isn’t guaranteed. But, by having these activities in my course design, I’m making clear to my students that hard work will be rewarded and that doing poorly on one assignment doesn’t mean they’ve done irrevocable damage to their course grade > GPA > financial aid/grad applications. Even one offer of extra credit can demonstrate to students that we as instructors understand that sometimes they need an extra chance to show their willingness to put in the effort to learn and grow. Why not give them that chance?

>>If you’d like to download a PDF that lists the various extra credit activities described above (and a few other activity ideas!), just subscribe to my blog. You’ll receive access to all my blog-related PDFs and will receive an email every time a new blog post goes up!<<

Do you include extra credit opportunities in your courses? If so, share what activities you offer in the comments section below!

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College Courses Course Design extra credit Pedagogy Teach

February 18, 2020 at 4:15 PM

Awesome suggestions!

February 20, 2020 at 2:20 PM

I’m glad you like them!

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How Does Extra Credit Work? Understanding Types, Benefits, and Calculations

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Did you know that over 80% of students are unsure about how extra credit works? If you’re one of them, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Understanding how extra credit functions can be a game-changer when it comes to boosting your grades and overall academic performance. From quizzes and the gradebook to college articles, we’ll equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the world of bonus points.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding how extra credit works can help students make the most of this opportunity to improve their grades.
• Different types of extra credit, such as assignments or participation points, provide various ways for students to earn additional points.
• When adding extra credit, it is important for teachers to clearly communicate the requirements and expectations to ensure fairness.
• Teachers should carefully manage extra credit to maintain a balanced grading system and prevent it from overshadowing regular assignments.
• Calculating extra credit involves determining the weightage and impact it will have on the overall grade.
• Extra credit can benefit students by boosting their grades, providing second chances, and fostering a growth mindset.
• However, it is important to be aware of the potential drawbacks of extra credit, such as creating an unfair advantage or diminishing the value of regular assignments.
• Real-world examples and anecdotes can illustrate how extra credit has been implemented effectively in different educational settings.

Understanding Extra Credit

Basic principles.

Extra credit is a concept commonly used in academic settings to provide students with additional opportunities to improve their grades. It is a way for teachers to offer incentives for going above and beyond the regular coursework. The purpose of offering extra credit is to encourage students to further engage with the material, demonstrate a deeper understanding, and take initiative in their learning, which can positively impact their course grade and cumulative grade.

When it comes to implementing extra credit in the gradebook, there are general guidelines that teachers follow to affect the course grade, assignment type grade, and cumulative grade. They may provide optional assignments or projects that allow students to explore topics of interest or showcase their creativity. These assignments are usually designed to be challenging but attainable, providing an opportunity for students to push themselves academically.

Academic Settings

In academic settings, extra credit is often used as a means of rewarding exceptional effort or performance. Professors in a class have the discretion to decide on the types of extra credit opportunities available to their students, including the sum and items. This can include activities such as participating in class discussions, attending educational events, conducting independent research, or completing additional assignments.

The availability and nature of extra credit opportunities may vary from course to course and even between different teachers within the same institution. Some teachers may offer extra credit throughout the semester, while others may limit it to specific times or circumstances. Ultimately, it is up to the teacher to determine how much weight extra credit carries in relation to other graded assignments in the class.

Grading Impact

The incorporation of extra credit into grading systems can have both benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, it allows students who excel in certain areas or have a particular interest in a subject to showcase their abilities and potentially improve their overall grade. It also provides an opportunity for students who may have struggled with previous assignments to sum up for any shortcomings.

However, it is important for teachers to maintain fairness when applying extra credit to any assignment type. While it can be a valuable tool for motivating students and recognizing exceptional effort, it should not disproportionately impact final grades or create an unfair advantage for some students over others. Teachers must carefully consider the weight and impact of extra credit assignments to ensure that grading remains consistent and equitable for all students.

Types of Extra Credit

Assignment points.

Extra credit points are a valuable tool that teachers use to encourage students to go above and beyond in their assignments. These additional points can make a difference in a student’s overall grade, providing them with an opportunity to boost their academic standing.

When it comes to assigning extra credit points, teachers typically have specific criteria in mind. They may choose to assign extra credit for completing optional assignments or for achieving exceptional performance on regular assignments. For example, a teacher might offer extra credit for participating in a class discussion or completing an additional research project.

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The value of these extra credit assignments can vary depending on the teacher’s discretion. Some teachers may assign a fixed number of points for each extra credit assignment, while others may base the value on the difficulty or complexity of the task. For instance, a teacher might award five points for a short essay assignment and ten points for a more comprehensive research paper.

Percentage Points

Understanding how extra credit points translate into percentage points is essential for students who want to gauge their progress and determine how it impacts their final grades. In most cases, the total number of percentage points available is predetermined by the teacher based on the overall grading system.

Percentage points play a crucial role in determining final grades because they contribute directly to a student’s overall score. The more extra credit points earned, the higher the percentage will be and thus positively impact the final grade. To calculate percentage points based on extra credit, students can use a simple formula: divide the total number of extra credit points earned by the total possible extra credit points and multiply by 100.

Adding Extra Credit

To assignments.

When it comes to adding extra credit points, instructors typically integrate them into regular assignments. This allows students to earn additional points while completing their standard coursework. Extra credit items are usually optional and provide an opportunity for students to challenge themselves or delve deeper into a topic.

To effectively complete extra credit assignments, students should pay attention to the instructions provided by their instructors. These instructions may include specific requirements, deadlines, or guidelines for submission. It is important for students to carefully read and understand these instructions to ensure that they meet all the necessary criteria.

Integrating extra credit work with standard assignments can vary depending on the instructor’s preferences. Some instructors may assign separate extra credit tasks alongside regular assignments, while others may offer additional credit opportunities within existing assignments. For example, an instructor might add a bonus question at the end of a quiz or include an optional research component in a project.

By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can not only boost their grades but also deepen their understanding of the subject matter. However, it is essential for students to manage their time effectively and prioritize their regular assignments before tackling any extra credit work.

In Gradebook

Once extra credit points are earned, they are recorded in the gradebook system. The visibility of these points can vary depending on how the instructor has set up the grading system. In some cases, instructors may choose to display extra credit points separately from regular assignment scores. This allows students to see their progress in both categories and understand how much additional credit they have earned.

Organizing extra credit points within the gradebook system helps both students and instructors keep track of their academic progress accurately. By having a clear record of earned extra credit points, students can better understand how these points contribute to their overall grade.

Instructors may also use different symbols or indicators to distinguish between regular assignment scores and extra credit points in the gradebook. This helps avoid confusion and ensures that students can easily identify their extra credit achievements.

Managing Extra Credit

Setting details.

To effectively manage extra credit options in grading systems, it is important to understand the technical aspects of setting them up. Most learning management systems provide customization features that allow instructors to tailor extra credit parameters to their specific needs. These parameters may include the maximum number of extra credit points available, the types of assignments or activities that qualify for extra credit, and how those points will be weighted in the overall grading scheme.

Configuring extra credit settings typically involves accessing the gradebook or grading settings within the learning management system. Instructors can create separate categories for extra credit assignments, assign point values to those assignments, and determine how those points will be factored into students’ final grades. It is also possible to set prerequisites or conditions that must be met before students can earn extra credit.

To set up extra credit options, instructors can follow these step-by-step instructions:

• Access the gradebook or grading settings in your learning management system.
• Create a new category specifically for extra credit assignments.
• Assign point values to each extra credit assignment.
• Determine how those points will be weighted in the overall grading scheme.
• Set any prerequisites or conditions for earning extra credit.
• Communicate the availability and requirements of extra credit opportunities to your students.

By customizing these settings, instructors can effectively manage and track additional opportunities for students to earn extra credit throughout the academic term.

Adjusting Settings

Flexibility is a key aspect of managing extra credit options. Instructors may need to adjust the settings during the academic term based on various factors such as student performance, curriculum changes, or unforeseen circumstances.

For example, if a particular assignment proves to be more challenging than anticipated and many students struggle with it, an instructor may decide to offer additional opportunities for extra credit to help boost their grades. On the other hand, if students excel in a certain area of the curriculum, the instructor may choose to adjust the weightage of extra credit points for that specific category.

Instructors can also modify extra credit parameters based on individual student needs. For instance, if a student is facing personal challenges that affect their academic performance, the instructor may provide them with additional opportunities for extra credit to help improve their overall grade.

Calculating Extra Credit

Points addition.

When it comes to calculating extra credit, the process involves adding additional points to students’ overall scores. These extra points can have a significant impact on their grades. By earning extra credit, students have the opportunity to improve their standing in a class and potentially raise their final grade.

To ensure accurate calculation when adding extra credit points, it is important for teachers to establish clear guidelines. They should clearly communicate how many points each extra credit assignment is worth and how those points will be added to the overall grade. This transparency helps students understand how their efforts will be rewarded and motivates them to actively pursue these opportunities.

It’s worth noting that not all teachers offer the same amount of extra credit points or use the same method for calculating them. Some may assign a fixed number of points for completing specific tasks, while others may opt for a percentage-based approach. Regardless of the method used, it is crucial for teachers to communicate these details clearly so that students can track their progress accurately.

Categories Application

Extra credit points can be applied across different categories of assignments, such as homework, quizzes, or projects. Categorizing extra credit work allows for better tracking and organization. For example, a teacher might allocate a certain number of bonus points specifically for completing additional reading assignments or participating in class discussions.

Categorization not only helps teachers keep track of which assignments are eligible for extra credit but also allows students to focus on areas where they need improvement or have a particular interest. By offering different categories of extra credit opportunities, teachers can cater to diverse learning styles and encourage engagement across various topics.

For instance, if a student excels in writing but struggles with math, they may choose to pursue extra credit opportunities in the writing category rather than math-related tasks. This flexibility enables students to play to their strengths while still benefiting from the additional points available.

Benefits of Extra Credit

Grade improvement.

Extra credit can be a valuable tool for improving students’ grades. By providing additional opportunities to earn points, extra credit allows students to make up for any missed assignments or low scores. This can be particularly beneficial for students who may have struggled with certain topics or concepts throughout the course.

To maximize the benefits of extra credit for grade improvement, students should first ensure that they have a clear understanding of the requirements and expectations set by their instructor. They should carefully review the guidelines provided and identify areas where they can focus their efforts to earn additional points. This might involve completing optional assignments, participating in class discussions, or conducting additional research on relevant topics.

Engaging in extra credit activities can also have a positive impact on overall student engagement and participation in the course. When students are motivated to earn extra credit, they are more likely to actively participate in class discussions, complete assignments on time, and seek help when needed. By doing so, they not only improve their chances of earning extra points but also enhance their understanding of the subject matter.

Drawbacks of Extra Credit

Grading inequality.

Grading inequality can be a significant concern when it comes to extra credit opportunities. While some students may excel at taking advantage of these additional assignments or projects, others may struggle to access or complete them. This can result in disparities in grading and create an unfair advantage for certain students.

To minimize grading inequality, it is crucial for educators to implement strategies that promote equity and fairness. One approach is to offer alternative options for earning extra credit, such as providing different types of assignments that cater to diverse learning styles. By doing so, teachers can ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to improve their grades through extra credit.

Clear guidelines and expectations should be established for completing extra credit assignments. This helps prevent any confusion or misunderstandings among students and ensures that everyone has a fair chance to earn additional points. Teachers should also consider setting limits on the number of extra credit opportunities available to avoid excessive advantages for certain individuals.

Overreliance Issues

While extra credit can be a valuable tool for grade improvement, overreliance on these opportunities can lead to negative consequences. Students who heavily depend on extra credit may neglect their regular coursework or fail to develop essential study habits. This overreliance can create a false sense of security and hinder long-term academic growth.

To prevent overreliance issues from affecting grading integrity, it is important for educators to strike a balance between regular coursework and extra credit assignments. Teachers should emphasize the importance of consistent effort throughout the semester rather than relying solely on last-minute attempts to boost grades.

Furthermore, educators can encourage students to view extra credit as an opportunity for enrichment rather than a means of salvaging their grades. By promoting this mindset, students are more likely to engage with the material and take advantage of the learning experience rather than simply aiming for higher marks.

Real-World Examples

Academic scenarios.

In the realm of academia, extra credit can play a significant role in motivating students and enhancing their learning experience. Let’s explore some scenarios where extra credit can be beneficial.

One common scenario is when students are given the opportunity to complete additional assignments or projects that delve deeper into a particular topic. This allows them to explore their interests and expand their knowledge beyond the regular coursework. For example, in a history class, students may have the chance to research and present on a historical event that aligns with their personal interests. This not only encourages independent thinking but also fosters a sense of ownership over their education.

Another academic scenario where extra credit can be valuable is when it is used as an incentive for participation and engagement. For instance, instructors may offer bonus points for active participation in class discussions or attending extracurricular events related to the subject matter. This encourages students to actively contribute to the learning environment and broadens their understanding through real-life experiences.

Furthermore, extra credit opportunities can be tailored to specific academic challenges or goals. In math or science courses, for instance, students might be given the chance to solve advanced problems or conduct additional experiments. These tasks provide an avenue for students to apply their knowledge in practical ways and deepen their understanding of complex concepts.

By adapting extra credit strategies to different academic scenarios, instructors can create an inclusive learning environment that caters to diverse student needs and interests.

Student Experiences

To gain further insights into the impact of extra credit on students’ academic journey, let’s explore some common experiences and feedback from students themselves.

Many students appreciate the flexibility that extra credit offers. It allows them to improve their grades or compensate for any shortcomings they may have encountered during the semester. Students often find it reassuring knowing that they have an opportunity to make up for missed assignments or lower test scores.

Moreover, extra credit provides motivation for some students who may not be naturally inclined towards a particular subject. By offering additional incentives, such as bonus points or alternative assignments, students are encouraged to invest more time and effort into areas they might otherwise overlook. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the subject matter and increased confidence in their abilities.

It is important to note that student voices should be considered when shaping extra credit policies. By seeking feedback and incorporating student perspectives, instructors can ensure that the opportunities provided align with students’ needs and enhance their learning experience.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, understanding how extra credit works can greatly benefit you in your academic journey. By exploring the different types of extra credit and learning how to add and manage it effectively, you can enhance your overall grades and improve your learning experience. Calculating the impact of extra credit and considering its benefits and drawbacks will help you make informed decisions about whether or not to pursue these opportunities.

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of extra credit, it’s time to put this knowledge into action. Take advantage of the opportunities available to you and consider discussing extra credit options with your professors. Remember to approach extra credit strategically, focusing on areas where you can truly benefit and grow. By doing so, you’ll not only boost your grades but also deepen your understanding of the subject matter. Good luck on your academic journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

How does extra credit work.

Extra credit is a way for students to earn additional points or grades beyond their regular assignments. It is typically offered as an opportunity to boost overall grades or make up for missed assignments. Extra credit policies vary among teachers and schools, so it’s important to check with your instructor for specific details.

What are the types of extra credit?

There are various types of extra credit opportunities, such as bonus questions on exams, additional assignments or projects, participation in class discussions, volunteering for classroom activities, or attending relevant events outside of class. The specific types of extra credit available will depend on your teacher’s preferences and subject matter.

How can I add extra credit?

To add extra credit to your academic record, you should first review the guidelines provided by your teacher or institution. Typically, you need to complete the assigned tasks or meet the requirements outlined by your instructor. It’s essential to submit the extra credit work within the specified deadline and follow any specific instructions given.

How do I manage extra credit effectively?

Managing extra credit effectively involves planning and prioritizing your workload. Start by understanding the requirements and deadlines associated with each opportunity. Create a schedule that allows you to allocate time for both regular coursework and extra credit tasks. Stay organized, communicate with your teacher if needed, and track your progress to ensure timely completion.

What are the benefits of pursuing extra credit?

Engaging in extra credit can provide several benefits. It offers an opportunity to improve your grades, demonstrate commitment and dedication to learning, enhance subject knowledge through additional assignments or projects, and develop time management skills. Successfully completing extra credit can showcase your initiative and potentially impress college admissions officers or future employers.

Are there any drawbacks to consider with extra credit?

While extra credit can be advantageous, it’s crucial to consider potential drawbacks. Sometimes focusing too much on earning extra points may distract from mastering core course content. Extra credit might not be available for all courses or may have limited impact on overall grades. It’s important to strike a balance between regular coursework and extra credit activities to ensure a well-rounded academic experience.

Can you provide real-world examples of extra credit?

Real-world examples of extra credit can vary depending on the subject matter and teacher’s discretion. For instance, in a history class, attending a relevant museum exhibit or writing an additional research paper could earn extra points. In a science course, conducting independent experiments or presenting findings at a conference might be considered for extra credit. Check with your instructor for specific examples in your field of study.

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• Effective Classroom Management

Extra Credit in College Courses: Blessing or Curse? Weighing the Pros and Cons

• November 1, 2023
• Dunja Trunk, PhD

Picture it: Fall semester on a suburban college campus in a dimly lit classroom. I’m handing back graded papers to my students and as I make my way to the back of the room, I can’t help but notice a dejected student, Ben*, who has just received a failing grade on his latest assignment.  

Ben: ( sighing loudly ) “Professor Trunk, can I talk to you for a minute?” 

Me: ( looking concerned ) “Of course, Ben. What’s on your mind?” 

Ben: ( nervously ) “Well, Professor, I’ve been struggling in your class, and I was wondering if there’s any way I could do some extra credit to boost my grade.” 

Me: ( raising my eyebrow ) “Extra credit, Ben? You’re barely hanging on as it is. Are you sure you can handle more?” 

Ben: ( desperate ) “I promise, Professor, I’ll put my heart and soul into it. I’ll do whatever it takes! Just give me a chance!” 

Does this scenario sound familiar? For me, it is a common occurrence – one that I’ve dreaded for most of my teaching career. What is the best way to handle Ben’s request? Is extra credit a blessing or curse for students? What about for the instructor? After 16 years in the classroom, you might think I have the answer to this question. Spoiler alert: I do not; however, I do have thoughts about the pros and cons of extra credit assignments. Allow me to share. 

If Ben caught me in a generous mood, I would likely acquiesce to his request for an extra credit assignment. Indeed, there are benefits to assigning extra credit. If Ben is struggling with his grades in my course, the opportunity to complete an extra credit assignment may be enough to motivate him to stay engaged. Knowing that he will have an opportunity to boost his grade might encourage Ben to participate more in class discussions and, fingers crossed, to earn better grades on future assignments in the class.   

If I tap into my own memories of being an undergraduate student, I might also be more likely to accept Ben’s request for extra credit work. I always appreciated it when my professors had empathy for (read: took pity on) their students who were desperate to make up for that horrible grade on the last exam. We all have challenging times and if a small act of kindness from his professor could make the difference between Ben failing the class or getting back on track and making up for his previous mistakes, why not bet on kindness? 

What if Ben is doing poorly in the class because he just has not been able to relate to the material? Sure, that sounds like a Ben problem, but as a psychology professor, my goal is to inspire students to be excited about learning in general and about psychology specifically. Could an extra credit opportunity that is tailored to Ben’s interests and academic strengths possibly spark his interest in psychology? If so, my answer to his request is a solid yes. After all, as an educator, it is my job to help students connect with the subject matter and hopefully take ownership of their own learning in the process.  

If you’re someone who regularly gives in to requests for extra credit, but you’re ambivalent about the merits of these assignments, rest assured that the advantages can be significant. However, we must also recognize that extra credit work can become a crutch for some students and that assignments without rigor can ultimately compromise the integrity of a course. Let’s look at some of the drawbacks of complying with Ben’s request.  

One of my most significant concerns with extra credit is the potential for introducing grade inflation into my courses. I am wary of artificially boosting students’ grades and have therefore become stingier with extra credit assignments over the years. An assignment that accurately assesses a student’s true understanding of the material takes time to plan and grade – time that we educators do not often have enough of. Simply assigning busy work just for the sake of boosting students’ grades undermines the integrity of our standards and our grading system. 

While Ben may have been the only student to ask for extra credit work that day in class, it would arguably be unfair to give him the opportunity to boost his grade without also allowing his classmates the chance to do the same. Extra credit, if offered, should be equally accessible to all students, otherwise, it can lead to disparities in final grades. Whether students complete the work is often a matter of time and motivation – indeed of necessity. Some students simply do not need extra credit to do well in a course.  

Extra credit assignments should be just that – extra . Students’ focus should be on the primary course material and scheduled exams and assignments. Any bonus assignment that diverts their attention away from regular coursework is probably doing more harm than good. The promise of extra credit might also encourage students to procrastinate or even ignore primary course material in favor of completing extra credit assignments later. When students ask for extra credit work, I worry that their motivation is less to master the foundational concepts of the course and more to simply accumulate extra points toward a final grade. In the latter case, the extra credit assignment could easily serve as merely a distraction from core material.  

While opportunities for extra credit certainly have their virtues, to this day, I dread the inevitable requests that most frequently rear their heads around midterms and finals when students are reckoning with their grades. To minimize my own discomfort with these requests, I carefully design extra credit opportunities (while secretly hoping that I won’t have to implement them), and I always keep in mind that extra credit assignments must complement student learning objectives, or they become glorified busy work.  

In the case of Ben, he readily accepted the opportunity to do a reverse psychology experiment, and I am pleased to report that in his pursuit of extra credit, Ben completed the assignment with humor and creativity and went on to pass the class as well. 

*Name changed to protect privacy. 

Dr. Dunja “Dee” Trunk, a professor of psychology at Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, has a passion for teaching and a genuine belief in the transformative power of education.  

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Extra Credit Ideas to Save Your Grade and Score High

Extra Credit Opportunities

Opportunities for extra credit are a crucial lifeline for students hoping to improve their scores and succeed academically.

This tutorial will discuss the importance of extra credit and how it may be a potent weapon for raising grades.

We will explore many extra credit possibilities that significantly impact your academic journey, ranging from classroom-based options to individual study and collaborative initiatives.

More so, to succeed in your studies, learn to take advantage of these possibilities and use them strategically.

Types of Extra Credit Opportunities

1. classroom-based.

Engaging in class discussions enhances your understanding of the material and demonstrates your commitment to the subject.

Instructors often reward participation with extra credit points. Sharing thoughtful insights and asking questions can set you on the path to academic success.

Some instructors offer bonus assignments that allow you to earn extra credit. These assignments may delve deeper into the course content or explore related topics.

Completing them showcases your dedication to going above and beyond standard coursework.

Review sessions provide a valuable opportunity to reinforce knowledge and clarify doubts before exams.

Instructors may grant extra credit to students who attend these sessions, as it reflects a proactive approach to learning and exam preparation.

Additionally, engaging with peers during review sessions can enhance your understanding through collaborative learning.

2. Independent Study

Engaging in independent research or projects related to your coursework can be a rewarding way to earn extra credit.

Also, this may involve delving deeper into a particular subject, conducting experiments, or exploring real-world applications of what you’ve learned in class.

Independent projects demonstrate your initiative and contribute to a deeper understanding of the material.

Some instructors offer extra credit for self-assessment and reflection assignments. These tasks require you to critically evaluate your course progress, identify improvement areas, and set academic growth goals.

Self-assessment encourages metacognition and fosters a sense of accountability, making it a valuable tool for personal and academic development.

3. Collaborative Efforts

Collaborative group projects or presentations can be an excellent way to earn extra credit.

Working closely with peers enhances teamwork and communication skills and fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter—instructors often reward groups that excel in their projects or presentations, incentivizing active and effective collaboration.

Consider offering peer tutoring or teaching assistance if you excel in a particular subject. Many instructors appreciate students who help their peers grasp challenging concepts.

In return, you can earn extra credit for your mentoring efforts.

Peer tutoring benefits your classmates and reinforces your understanding of the material, making it a win-win opportunity.

4. Online and Technology-Based

Some courses incorporate online quizzes or participation in discussion forums as avenues for earning extra credit.

Engaging in these virtual platforms can enhance your understanding of the material through interactive learning.

Active participation in online discussions by sharing insights, asking questions, or helping classmates can contribute extra credit points.

It is an effective way to stay connected with the course material, especially in virtual learning environments.

Embracing educational apps or software related to your course can offer extra credit potential. Some instructors encourage students to explore supplementary resources that align with the curriculum.

Demonstrating your proactive use of educational technology and reporting how it has enriched your learning experience may earn you extra credit points while sharpening your digital literacy skills.

How to Approach Extra Credit

Begin by evaluating your current standing in the course. Identify areas where you need improvement and consider how extra credit can address those needs.

Analyze your strengths and weaknesses in the subject matter to determine which additional credit opportunities align best with your academic goals.

Effective communication with your instructor is vital. Seek clarity on available extra credit options, their requirements, and deadlines.

Inquire about your performance in the course and whether extra credit is recommended. Establishing open lines of communication ensures you make informed decisions.

Time management is crucial when pursuing extra credit. Ensure you allocate sufficient time to complete the tasks without neglecting your regular coursework and commitments. A well-structured schedule helps you balance your academic responsibilities effectively.

While extra credit can be beneficial, it should complement, not overwhelm, your regular coursework. Maintain a balance to prevent burnout and ensure you continue to excel in your core assignments and assessments.

Prioritize your coursework while strategically integrating extra credit opportunities to enhance your academic experience. Remember, if extra credit doesn’t work for you, you may be retaking a class .

Benefits of Pursuing Extra Credit

Pursuing extra credit can improve grades, allowing you to raise your overall GPA. Higher grades can open doors to scholarships, honors programs, or graduate school admissions, enhancing your academic credentials.

Extra credit activities often involve a more profound exploration of the course material.

This deeper understanding goes beyond earning points; it enriches your comprehension and mastery of the subject, ensuring a solid foundation for future coursework.

Active participation in extra credit can foster a positive rapport with instructors. Your dedication and enthusiasm for learning are likely to be noticed, potentially leading to more vital letters of recommendation or opportunities for mentorship.

Pursuing extra credit reflects a commitment to personal and academic growth. It encourages resilience, curiosity, and initiative, which are invaluable in academia and your future career and life endeavors.

Potential Challenges and Precautions

One challenge of pursuing extra credit is the risk of overcommitting and experiencing burnout. To avoid this, carefully assess your existing workload and commitments.

Prioritize your well-being and ensure a balanced approach to prevent academic fatigue.

While pursuing extra credit, maintain the same high standards you apply to regular coursework. Ensure that the quality of your work meets or exceeds the instructor’s expectations. Seek feedback to refine your extra credit assignments.

Meeting deadlines and fulfilling extra credit requirements is essential. Stay organized and plan your time effectively to ensure timely completion. Please meet these criteria to avoid missed opportunities and disappointment.

Be vigilant about avoiding academic dishonesty when pursuing extra credit. Always cite sources appropriately, adhere to the instructions, and create original work.

Maintaining academic integrity is crucial to reaping the benefits of extra credit while upholding ethical standards.

Real-Life Examples of Successful Extra Credit Endeavors

Student A initially struggled in a history course but decided to actively participate in class discussions and complete bonus assignments for extra credit.

As a result, their understanding of historical events deepened, leading to a notable improvement in grades.

Through pursuing extra credit strategically, Student A transformed their academic journey and gained a newfound appreciation for history.

Student B, passionate about science, approached their instructor for extra credit opportunities. They embarked on a research project related to the course material, investigating a scientific phenomenon. This initiative earned them extra credit and ignited a lifelong interest in research and scientific exploration.

Student C thrived in a group presentation for extra credit. Their collaborative efforts, dedication, and effective communication within the group impressed both peers and instructors.

Mostly, this experience boosted their grade and honed valuable teamwork and presentation skills, setting the stage for future academic and professional success.

In summary, the value of extra credit in academia must be balanced. It is a dynamic tool for academic enhancement, allowing students to bolster their grades, deepen their subject knowledge, and foster positive relationships with instructors.

Extra credit also cultivates personal and academic growth, nurturing qualities like determination and curiosity that are vital for future success.

Students are encouraged to proactively explore and engage with extra credit opportunities as they navigate their academic journey.

Embracing these avenues contributes to a more enriching educational experience and paves the way for a brighter academic future.

Josh Jasen or JJ as we fondly call him, is a senior academic editor at Grade Bees in charge of the writing department. When not managing complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In his spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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Extra Credit

This Q&A was adapted with permission from the book  Chalk Talk: E-advice from Jonas Chalk, Legendary College Teacher , edited by Donna M. Qualters and Miriam Rosalyn Diamond –

Dear Jonas,

I just returned the midterm exam to my class. Most students did well and were happy, but a couple of first-year students had significantly lower scores than the bulk of the class. These students asked me if they could do some sort of extra credit work to make up for the low exam scores.

I’m not sure what to do. I think that students were accustomed to extra credit assignments in high school, but I don’t know if it has a place in a college course. I don’t have any mechanism for extra credit on my syllabus, so to introduce something now would effectively be changing the grading scheme in the middle of the term. If I make some sort of extra credit assignment, I think I need to make it available to the whole class, and not just to the students who did poorly on the exams.

I am also uncomfortable with a scheme where the students could do poorly on the exams, but still receive a high grade. I have given a lot of weight to the exams in the grade because I feel that these are the best indicator of the students’ mastery of the subject, and I am reluctant to effectively lower the weight of the exams Any advice?

Signed: Credit Risk

Dear Credit Risk,

There are many issues involved in the question of extra credit. One of the first that you mention is the transition for students from high school to college, and the fact that with first-year students, it is important for faculty to guide the students in understanding the responsibilities involved in being a college student. Students are learning the consequences of action vs. inaction, and understanding the expectations around the quality and amount of work required of them in their still new environment. Another issue you also mention is the fact that a mechanism for earning extra credit is not on your syllabus. Generally, I recommend not making changes in grading policy that are not on the syllabus (see Jonas on Changing the Syllabus Midstream, 5/7/03), but your concern is always on the learning, and this sometimes means that necessary, changes may be required. Therefore, in the future, if there is a chance you will want to use extra credit, or you are planning to allow extra credit, it should be described in the syllabus. This way it is also available to all students, an important point you raise. Lastly, there is always that occasional situation where a single student may require consideration for an extra assignment due to graduation deadlines, illness, or other special circumstances.

Some issues to consider when planning for extra credit are: what type of student is the extra credit designed for? How much will it affect his or her grade? What type of extra credit will be planned; extra exams, for example, or extra homework? How will this assignment contribute to the student’s learning? Some examples of extra credit used in various courses are described below, though variations on these can be designed for your course needs.

One method is to allow students to resubmit a question from an exam that was answered incorrectly. But in this resubmitted work, students must not only provide the correct answer, but also explain why the original answer was wrong, how an errant thought process led them to this incorrect conclusion and then explain the thinking behind the correct response. The notion is to focus students on the learning process. This type of assignment works best for exam types involving higher levels of learning, not just knowledge or comprehension of material. Often, when exam questions are resubmitted, full credit is not issued, but rather some partial credit towards an improved grade.

Another method is to make the final exam cumulative, and then review all exam grades, where the final can replace any lower grades received on previous exams. This method requires a very carefully written final exam, to ensure that it is complete and representative of the material on all previous exams. The mechanics of this method also must be carefully described in the syllabus for the students. Another method used in some courses, involves giving students several exams or quizzes, and only counting the top n-1, allowing for one poor performance exam or quiz. Again, this should be clearly stated in your syllabus.

An important case is one where an additional test might be given because a large portion of the class missed some key concepts which you know the students must have for courses following yours. Knowing that students who have failed to learn this concept will be at a disadvantage in future courses you may choose to emphasize the importance by allowing a retest. However, you will want to state clearly why you are doing this to foster learning (not giving them a break), and that it will not be occurring in the future; this was a one-time learning experience for the students.

Most of these suggestions have focused on giving extra credit for an exam. Because you feel that exams are the best indicator of the students’ mastery of the material, extra credit that is not of the exam type seems inappropriate to substitute for poor performance on an exam. However, do remember that some students do not test well in traditional timed models of exams. Due to this, many instructors allow for extra credit on homework assignments, such as additional points for extra work, or advanced work. Or they offer an additional assignment for extra credit on the homework grade. This technique allows students to demonstrate to you their mastery of material in ways that are more conducive to their learning differences (See Jonas on Learning Disabilities, 5/17/03). An improved homework grade will improve an overall average, and may be another way to help the students recover partially from a poor exam.

Extra credit can have a place in a college course, if administered and planned for carefully. I hope there are enough suggestions for you to see one that will suit your course needs and improve the students’ learning.

An extra-credit homework assignment can be offered after a midterm exam which covers the same material as the midterm itself. This helps to accomplish two objectives – it gives the students a chance to partially recover from a poor exam score, and it encourages learning by addressing exactly those areas where the students showed deficiencies.

This content was adapted with permission from the book  Chalk Talk: E-advice from Jonas Chalk, Legendary College Teacher , edited by Donna M. Qualters and Miriam Rosalyn Diamond.

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15.3: Should teachers allow extra credit?

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• Page ID 87660

• Jennfer Kidd, Jamie Kaufman, Peter Baker, Patrick O'Shea, Dwight Allen, & Old Dominion U students
• Old Dominion University

By: Lindsey Layne

"I cannot teach anybody anything, I can only make them think.-Socrates

Learning Objectives

• The reader should be able to understand reasons why teachers allow extra credit -The reader should be able to understand different types of extra credit

Introduction

In today’s schools teachers are skeptic about whether or not to provide extra credit opportunities to their students. It is at the teachers discretion to implement this practice in their classroom. Some teachers oppose giving their students the chance to increase their grade with this option while others believe it is necessary.

What is extra Credit and how is it used?

Extra credit is an optional assignment of some sort that a student can do to boost his/her grade. Teachers can present an extra credit assignment in many ways. It could be a presentation, a paper, a book report, a visual aid and so much more. It serves more than one purpose when also used as a review for a test or lesson. Sometimes the points earned will only be added to a test or other assignment and other times teachers choose to put it towards a final grade. Usually these assignments are worth no more than 20 points, except for in rare cases. An example of an extra credit assignment could be related to a test. The teacher may not take up homework for an entire lesson on Rational equations. Completing the homework will be at the students discretion and on the day of test they can turn it in for 5 extra credit points on the test.

Optimistic view of Extra Credit

Teachers choose the route of extra credit assignments for many different reasons. Everyone has unpredictable things happen within their lives and sometimes it can impact sleep, time to study, or even being able to attend school. Extra credit can ease this stress and fill the gap.Usually teachers who believe this option is a positive thing, do it because they believe it allows for less stress on the students. If a student was just having a bad day and did not get the grade they hoped for on a test, they know that they can complete the extra credit assignment to boost their grade a little. Another reason may be for the simple experience of what the assignment entails. For example, if the option is to create a video or a power point presentation on the civil war, it would give the students some personal interaction with the subject matter. This knowledge could be beneficial when completing other assignments that involve the civil war. Lastly, a teacher may implement extra credit opportunity to benefit themselves. Some teachers believe that the grades the students receive is a direct reflection of how the teacher is doing their job. If most of a class bombs a test, the extra credit will hopefully relieve some of the worries that their teacher may have.

Pessimistic view of extra credit

On the opposing side of the extra credit issue, teachers can view this educational option as a negative thing. “Some teachers have a policy of no extra credit work. They feel that every student has the opportunity to do what's necessary and if they don't, they should experience the consequences.” (The English Teacher) They may think it gives the students an excuse not to do their best on a test or assignment. "The existence, or the hope of extra credit may induce students to prepare less carefully for exams and papers with the expectation that additional points can be earned on future assignments," (Wilson 2002.) If not all of the students choose to take advantage of the extra credit, the grade outcome can contain too much of a gap. The grading of additional assignments that only few students completed can also get very confusing and cause issues for the teacher. The “no extra credit” route can teach students the responsibility of planning for their test without hesitation. (The English Teacher.)

Closing the gap

When a teacher feels skeptic not to allow extra credit but still wanting their students to do well, they may try to result to something different to make it seem fair. Teachers may not like to allow extra credit to boost any grades but they could have a rule where if more than 70 percent of a class fails or receives below a 65 on an test, the teacher will implement a curve. This could be only for tests so that way students will not count on extra credit points and still do their best. The curve could be added in any way to try to make the class average within the passing zone.

Exercise \(\PageIndex{1}\)

1. What is the term for an optional assignment that can boost a student’s grade?

b. Extra credit

c. Homework

2. If a teacher wants to implement a different route other than extra credit to boost their students grades on a test, that has stipulations and the students would be unaware until after they took the test, what would the teacher do?

a. Allow a presentation to earn 5 points

b. Throw out the test and put a 100 in grade book

c. Implement a curve to put class average above passing

d. Allow for a retake to only few students

3. According to the article which example best describes a situation that could cause a student stress

a. Parents divorce

b. at the hospital all night

c. not enough sleep

d. all of the above

4. According to article which option best describes a reason for a teacher opposing extra credit?

a. teacher doesnt feel like grading extra assignments

b. students should learn that planning ahead and studying is very important without hope of extra credit

c. the test was easy enough without offering extra credit

• (Danielson, L The English Teacher. Retrieved March 19, 2009, from Teaching Strategies Web site: http://teacher2b.com/strategies/excredit.htm
• Wilson, Mark (2002). Evidence that Extra Credit Assignments Induce Moral Hazard, Atlantic Economic Journal, Retrieved March 19, 2009, from

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb6413/is_1_30/ai_n28912014

Foundations of Education and Instructional Assessment/Grading/Extra Credit

• 1 Learning Targets
• 2 Introduction
• 3 What is extra Credit and how is it used?
• 4 Optimistic view of Extra Credit
• 5 Pessimistic view of extra credit
• 6 Closing the gap
• 7 Review Questions
• 8 References

Learning Targets [ edit | edit source ]

-The reader should be able to understand reasons why teachers allow extra credit -The reader should be able to understand different types of extra credit

Introduction [ edit | edit source ]

What is extra credit and how is it used [ edit | edit source ], optimistic view of extra credit [ edit | edit source ], pessimistic view of extra credit [ edit | edit source ], closing the gap [ edit | edit source ], review questions [ edit | edit source ].

Answers 1.b 2.c 3.d 4.b

References [ edit | edit source ]

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb6413/is_1_30/ai_n28912014

• Book:Foundations of Education and Instructional Assessment

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Extra Credit Ideas for Middle School Teachers

“What can I do for extra credit?!”  ​I’m pretty sure there isn’t a middle or high school teacher that hasn’t heard these exact words coming from a student’s mouth. Students are HUGE fans of the concept, and honestly, who can blame them? Another way to boost their grades? Most students will leap at the opportunity (especially if their grades are suffering.) But what do teachers think about the use of extra credit? Truthfully, it’s mixed. In this article, I’m going to take a (brief) stab at explaining the pro’s and con’s of offering additional points to your middle school science students, as well as offer a few extra credit ideas for middle school teachers. 

Let’s dive in, shall we?  

Reasons to offer extra credit:.

Offering extra credit isn’t just about boosting bad grades or humoring your students’ last-minute requests for a better grade. Fans of extra credit assignments typically view extra credit opportunities as a way to provide students with extra enrichment in addition to their regular assignments. Here are a few reasons you should consider offering extra credit in your classroom: 

• Extra assignments (even those given for extra credit) are a great way to give greater exposure to the course material. 
• These opportunities give struggling students the chance to keep trying. 
• Extra credit work can be a fun way to explore different concepts related to your curriculum that you might not otherwise cover. (Ex: Current events) 
• Extra credit assignments are a great way to boost student engagement. 

EXTRA CREDIT PITFALLS TO AVOID:

Not every teacher is a fan of extra credit (and with good reason.) Personally, I believe that extra credit assignments can be a helpful tool within the classroom, but like all things, it can be misused and abused. Here are a few extra credit pitfalls to avoid: 

• Offering bonus points for attendance. In my opinion, just “showing up” is not enough to earn extra points. Students should earn extra credit when they go the extra mile. 
• Giving too many extra points. Extra credit can be nice to boost the grade of an individual assignment, but it shouldn’t radically change a student’s overall course grade. In this case, their class grade is no longer a true refection of their learning, content understanding, and effort.  (Ex: A student earning a D receives a B after factoring in extra credit points.) 
• ​Offering extra credit for every assignment or assessment. This may decrease students’ motivation to give a good effort the first time they complete an assignment. After all, why try if you know you’ll essentially be given a “do-over.” Instead, I recommend offering extra credit sporadically and for different types of assignments. 

​EXTRA CREDIT IDEAS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHERS 

​Alright, so you’ve decided you DO want to offer extra credit opportunities in your classroom, but you need some extra credit assignment ideas to get you started. Well, my friend, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few of my favorite extra credit ideas for middle school teachers: 

COMPLETING STUDY GUIDES

Periodically, you may consider offering bonus points to students who complete their study guides. Not only will this encourage students to finish this important classwork, it’s also a great way to ensure that your students have everything they need to prepare for tests and quizzes. The following items are a few of the study guides I’ve used with my science classes. You might offer bonus points for the entire study guide or just for a specific section. 

TEST CORRECTIONS  

Test (and other assignment) corrections can be a powerful exercise for students. It teaches the valuable life skill of being able to reflect on mistakes and learn from them. When having students make test corrections, I HIGHLY recommend that you ask for more than a list of correct answers. (Let’s face it…any middle schooler can look up or copy down the correct answers without learning a darn thing.) Instead, I’d recommend having your middle school students give a written explanation for why their original answer was incorrect and what the correct answer should have been. Yes, it’s extra work…but this process helps facilitate true learning. 

It might look something like this:

#1. I answered ____________________. This is incorrect because _______________. The correct answer is _______________ because ____________________. 

INFOGRAPHICS <sh>  Science is a discipline that lends itself well to the creation of infographics! Have your students create an infographic, chart, or diagram that illustrates an important concept within your unit. Having to synthesize the information in their notes and create a visual representation of this information is a great way for students to deepen their understanding of important concepts (and in my opinion, is well worth a few bonus points.) 

For example… <SH4> 

If you are teaching the  states of matter,  you may ask your students to create their own visual diagram or infographic representing how one substance might move between the different states of matter.

​FAMOUS SCIENTIST SUMMARIES

Who doesn’t love a good biographical assignment? I like to offer famous scientist summaries as an extra credit assignment students can tackle for homework or free time assignments. Personally, I think it’s a good idea to let students choose their own famous scientist to research. This encourages creativity and ownership over the project. 

QUESTION OF THE DAY

If you’re looking for an easy way to offer bonus points, having students complete a science “question of the day” can be a great way to do just that! These extra credit questions could be used a bell ringers or a simple addition to a homework assignment. 

NEWS ARTICLE SUMMARIES

​Incorporating current events and news articles into our class discussion is one of my favorite extra credit ideas for middle school teachers. Having students read and summarize news articles is an interesting way for them to see the “real world connection” of our science curriculum. 

What are YOUR favorite ways to use extra credit in your classroom? 

Let’s Stay Connected!

Continue the discussion in my Facebook Group for Middle School Science Teachers or my Classroom Management Facebook Group .

Or get free science resources delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for my newsletter! I promise to never be spammy. I’m just a regular teacher who likes helping teachers teach and students learn.

RELATED POSTS

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Create an extra credit assignment.

Extra credit is currently not a default option in Canvas. However, you can give students extra credit using a variety of options. Below we will discuss how to create an Extra Credit assignment by giving them a point value of 0. We will also discuss how to create extra credit assignments through Assignment Groups. There will be an additional list of resources at the bottom of this page that will explain more methods on how to award your students extra credit.

Each method has its limitations, so it's important that you determine which method works best according to your needs.

On This Page

Zero Point Value

Assignment groups, additional resources.

This method involves creating an assignment that has a point value of 0. Then, once the assignment has been completed by your students, going in and manually changing the grade accordingly. If you have weighted assignment groups, this will give extra credit to whichever group the assignment is located.

Create an assignment

Give the assignment a Point Value of 0

Complete the rest of the necessary information

This method doesn't have any restrictions on which submission type you choose. If you have weighted assignment groups, select which group you would like to place your assignment in.

Have your students complete the assignment

Manually give your students points in the gradebook

You do this by simply going to the gradebook, locating the column that contains your extra credit assignment and adjusting their scores accordingly.

You can award your students extra credit by creating an assignment group and assigning it a designated weight. You do this by making your extra credit assignment group exceed the 100% total sum and placing your assignments within that group. 

If you place multiple assignments within an extra credit group, it's important to note that the grades of all of those assignments will get aggregated together. To avoid this, you can create multiple assignment groups with one assignment placed in each. 

When using this method, it is recommended that you make each of the extra credit assignments worth 0 points until the end of the semester. This Instructure forum page best explains why.

Below is how Canvas calculates the weights in assignment groups.

Standard Grading Approach: (Points Earned / Total Points Possible) = Total Score (as percentage) Weighted Grading Approach: Where En = Points earned in assignment group n, Pn  = Total points possible in assignment group n, Wn ­= Weighting for assignment group n, as decimal (e.g. wn = 25% = .25) (( E1 / P1 ) * 100)W1 + ((E2 / P2 ) * 100)W2 + … + ((En / Pn) * 100)Wn = Total Percentage 

Grading With Assignment Groups

Create an assignment group

Enter a Group Name and a desired % of the total grade , then click  Save

Create a new assignment

If you already have the extra credit assignment created, move it into the new group.

Give the assignment a Point Value of 0 until you near the end of the semester

You may want to notify your students that they won't be able to see the effects of the extra credit until the end of the semester. Again, this Instructure forum page explains why (under the Note: ).

Edit the Point Values accordingly at the end of the semester

• 5 Keys to Grading
• Extra Credit for Individual Quiz Questions
• Instructure Community - How do I give extra credit in a course?

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Home > Finance > How Does Extra Credit Work

How Does Extra Credit Work

Published: January 11, 2024

Learn how extra credit works in finance and how it can impact your financial situation. Gain a deeper understanding of the benefits and potential risks.

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for LiveWell, at no extra cost. Learn more )

Table of Contents

Introduction, what is extra credit, how is extra credit earned, different types of extra credit, pros and cons of extra credit, how does extra credit affect grades, strategies for maximizing extra credit opportunities, instances where extra credit may not be possible.

Extra credit is a common term in the academic world that refers to additional points or opportunities given to students to improve their grades beyond the standard coursework requirements. It provides students with a chance to boost their overall grade by going above and beyond the basic expectations of the course. Extra credit can be a valuable tool for both students and teachers, offering benefits and challenges for both parties involved.

Typically, extra credit is offered as a way to reward students who demonstrate exceptional effort, performance, or commitment in their studies. It can take the form of extra assignments, projects, or activities that go beyond the scope of the regular curriculum. While extra credit is often seen as an opportunity to improve grades, it can also serve as a means to explore additional content or delve deeper into a subject area of interest.

Extra credit can be found in various educational settings, from elementary school to college. While the specific guidelines and policies may vary from one institution to another, the underlying concept remains the same. It offers students a chance to demonstrate their dedication and curiosity, while also encouraging them to take on additional academic challenges.

However, it’s important to note that extra credit should not be seen as a replacement for regular classwork or as a shortcut to achieving a higher grade. It is meant to be an optional opportunity for students to go above and beyond expectations and be rewarded accordingly.

In this article, we will explore how extra credit works, how it can be earned, the different types of extra credit, the pros and cons of extra credit, and its impact on grades. We will also discuss strategies for maximizing extra credit opportunities and instances where extra credit may not be possible.

Extra credit refers to additional points or opportunities offered to students to improve their grades beyond the standard requirements of a course. It is a way for students to demonstrate their knowledge, effort, or commitment to their studies and can provide an extra boost to their overall grade.

Extra credit can be seen as a form of incentive or reward for students who go above and beyond the basic expectations of the course. It allows them to explore topics in greater depth, engage in additional assignments or projects, or participate in supplementary activities outside the regular curriculum. By taking on these extra challenges, students can showcase their dedication to learning and potentially raise their grades.

The specific ways in which extra credit is earned can vary depending on the course and the instructor’s policies. Some common methods of earning extra credit include:

• Completing additional assignments or projects
• Participating in class discussions or presentations
• Attending workshops, seminars, or guest lectures related to the course material
• Participating in extracurricular activities that are relevant to the subject matter
• Contributing to class-related discussions or forums outside of regular class hours

It’s important to note that not all courses or instructors offer extra credit opportunities. Some may have strict policies that do not allow for any additional points beyond the assigned coursework. It is essential for students to thoroughly review the syllabus and communicate with their instructors to understand if extra credit is an option for a particular course.

Extra credit can be particularly beneficial for students who are motivated, engaged, and seeking to challenge themselves academically. It offers an opportunity to excel beyond the standard expectations of the course and can be a source of personal satisfaction and accomplishment. However, it is essential to approach extra credit with a balanced mindset. It should not replace or overshadow the regular coursework, but rather serve as an optional avenue for students to further enhance their learning experience.

Earning extra credit requires proactive engagement and a willingness to go the extra mile in your studies. While specific methods of earning extra credit may vary depending on the course and instructor, there are some common approaches that students can take to maximize their opportunities:

• Seeking clarification: Understand the instructor’s policies and guidelines regarding extra credit. Review the syllabus and ask questions if any details are unclear. This will help you determine the specific criteria for earning extra credit and the deadlines associated with it.
• Attending office hours: Utilize the opportunity to meet with your instructor during office hours. Seek guidance on how you can earn extra credit and discuss potential ideas or strategies. Demonstrating your interest and proactive approach can make a positive impression.
• Participating actively: Engage actively in classroom discussions, ask meaningful questions, and contribute insightful comments. Active participation can demonstrate your commitment to the course and may increase your chances of being considered for extra credit opportunities.
• Completing additional assignments: Inquire if there are any additional assignments or projects that you can take on to earn extra credit. This could involve completing supplemental readings, conducting research on related topics, or writing an extra paper. Ensure that you understand the requirements and deadlines associated with these assignments.
• Volunteering for extra activities: Stay informed about any extracurricular activities or events related to the course. This could include attending guest lectures, participating in workshops, or joining study groups. Volunteering for these activities can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the subject matter and potentially earn you extra credit.

Keep in mind that each instructor may have their own approach to awarding extra credit. Some instructors may offer a set number of extra credit points for specific tasks, while others may assign a grade boost based on overall exceptional performance. It is crucial to understand the expectations and requirements for earning extra credit in each course you are enrolled in.

However, it’s important to remember that earning extra credit should not overshadow your focus on the regular coursework. Extra credit opportunities should be seen as ways to enhance your learning experience and demonstrate your commitment, rather than as a substitute for completing the assigned course requirements.

By actively seeking out opportunities, understanding the requirements, and putting in the effort, you can increase your chances of earning extra credit and further enriching your academic experience.

Extra credit can come in various forms, depending on the course, instructor, and subject matter. Here are some common types of extra credit that students may encounter:

• Additional assignments: One common type of extra credit is the completion of additional assignments or tasks beyond the regular course requirements. These assignments may include research papers, presentations, or problem-solving exercises that delve deeper into the subject matter or explore related topics.
• Participation opportunities: In some cases, instructors may offer extra credit for active classroom participation. This can involve contributing to discussions, asking thoughtful questions, or leading class activities. By actively engaging in the learning process, students can earn extra credit while enhancing their understanding of the material.
• Extracurricular activities: Some courses may provide opportunities for students to earn extra credit through participation in extracurricular activities related to the subject matter. This could involve attending relevant events, such as lectures, conferences, or field trips. By immersing themselves in the subject outside the classroom, students can broaden their knowledge and earn extra credit in the process.
• Class enhancement projects: Certain courses may offer extra credit for projects or initiatives that enhance the learning experience for all students in the class. This could involve developing educational resources, creating study guides, or organizing study groups. By contributing to the class as a whole, students can earn extra credit while fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
• Team-based projects: In courses that involve group work, some instructors may offer extra credit for exceptional teamwork and collaboration. By actively participating in group projects, demonstrating effective communication, and contributing to the overall success of the team, students can earn extra credit while developing valuable interpersonal skills.

While these are common types of extra credit, it’s important to remember that the options can vary significantly between courses and instructors. It’s crucial to review the syllabus and communicate with the instructor to understand the specific types of extra credit opportunities available in a particular course.

It’s worth noting that some instructors may not offer extra credit at all, as they believe it could potentially create an unfair advantage or encourage students to focus on earning extra points rather than fully engaging with the course material. However, when used thoughtfully, extra credit can provide additional motivation and opportunities for students to deepen their understanding and showcase their abilities.

Ultimately, the variety of extra credit options allows students to explore their interests, demonstrate their knowledge and commitment, and enhance their overall learning experience.

Extra credit can offer both advantages and drawbacks for students and instructors alike. Understanding the pros and cons can help students make informed decisions about whether to pursue extra credit opportunities. Below are some of the key benefits and considerations:

• Grade improvement: One of the primary benefits of extra credit is the potential to improve a student’s overall grade. By earning additional points through extra assignments or participation, students can offset any lower scores they may have received during the regular coursework.
• Opportunity for mastery: Extra credit assignments or projects often allow students to delve deeper into the subject matter, providing an opportunity for further learning and mastery of the material. This can enhance the student’s understanding and appreciation of the course content.
• Increased motivation: Extra credit can serve as a powerful motivator for students. Knowing that there is an opportunity to earn additional points can inspire students to go above and beyond the minimum requirements, fostering a sense of enthusiasm and engagement in their studies.
• Flexibility and choice: Extra credit generally offers students the flexibility to choose assignments or activities that align with their interests. This allows for a more personalized learning experience and encourages students to take ownership of their education.
• Demonstration of dedication: Earning extra credit showcases a student’s commitment to their studies. It sends a message to instructors and future employers that the student is proactive, motivated, and willing to put in extra effort to achieve their goals.
• Potential distraction: Despite the advantages, extra credit can sometimes become a distraction if students become too focused on earning extra points rather than fully engaging with the course material. It is essential to strike a balance between regular coursework and the pursuit of extra credit.
• Time constraints: Taking on extra assignments or projects can be time-consuming, especially when students have multiple courses or commitments. It’s important to consider whether the time investment required for extra credit is feasible without neglecting other academic responsibilities.
• Unequal opportunities: Some students may have more access to extra credit options than others due to various factors such as scheduling conflicts or personal circumstances. This can create disparities in grading and potentially lead to an unfair advantage for certain students.
• Reduced focus on regular coursework: In some cases, students may prioritize earning extra credit over completing the standard coursework. This can result in a lack of foundational knowledge or a neglect of key concepts, which can ultimately hinder academic development.
• Flawed grading system: Extra credit can sometimes mask gaps or deficiencies in the regular grading system. It may provide an opportunity for students to inflate their grades without necessarily demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

When considering whether to pursue extra credit opportunities, students should weigh these pros and cons and evaluate whether the potential benefits align with their academic goals and priorities. It’s crucial to approach extra credit with a balanced mindset and prioritize a holistic learning experience.

Extra credit can have a significant impact on a student’s overall grade. When students successfully earn extra credit points, it can help improve their grade by increasing their point total. However, it’s important to understand how extra credit is factored into the grading system and how it may vary depending on course policies and instructor preferences.

In courses where extra credit is offered, instructors typically establish guidelines on how extra credit points are incorporated into the grading scheme. Here are a few common ways in which extra credit can affect grades:

• Boost to overall grade: Earning extra credit can directly boost a student’s overall grade. The extra points can be added to the total points earned throughout the course, thereby increasing the percentage or letter grade received. The impact of extra credit on the overall grade will depend on the number of extra credit points available and the student’s performance in the regular coursework.
• Grade percentage adjustment: In some cases, instructors may use extra credit as a percentage adjustment mechanism. For example, if an exam is worth 40% of the final grade and a student earns extra credit worth 5%, the extra credit can be added to the exam percentage. This adjustment can positively affect the student’s grade by potentially offsetting any lower scores or improving the overall grade distribution.
• Grade point calculation: Extra credit can also affect the calculation of grade points. In institutions where grade points are assigned to specific grade ranges, earning extra credit may push a student’s final grade into a higher grade point category. This can have implications for GPA calculations, especially for students who are trying to maintain a certain GPA level or meet specific academic requirements.
• Grade buffer: In some cases, extra credit can act as a buffer to protect against a low score or poor performance in the regular coursework. If a student struggles with certain assignments or exams, earning extra credit can help mitigate the negative impact by increasing the overall grade and providing some cushioning effect.

It’s important to note that the specific impact of extra credit on grades will vary depending on the weight assigned to it by the instructor and the student’s overall performance in the course. In some instances, extra credit may only have a nominal effect on the final grade, while in other cases, it can make a substantial difference.

It’s also worth mentioning that not all instructors or courses offer extra credit opportunities. Some instructors may choose to rely solely on the assigned coursework to determine grades, while others may incorporate alternative methods for students to improve their grades, such as grade remediation or participation in enrichment activities.

In any case, students should consider extra credit as an additional opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, dedication, and willingness to go beyond the minimum requirements of the course. It can be a valuable tool for students seeking to improve their grades and showcase their commitment to their studies.

Maximizing extra credit opportunities requires careful planning and active engagement. Here are some strategies that can help you make the most of these opportunities:

• Read the syllabus: Review the course syllabus and familiarize yourself with the instructor’s policies regarding extra credit. Understand the criteria, deadlines, and any specific guidelines for earning extra credit in the course.
• Ask questions: Seek clarification from your instructor regarding the extra credit options available. Discuss with them any concerns or ideas you may have for earning extra credit, and ask for suggestions or guidance to ensure you are on the right track.
• Plan your workload: Assess your workload and commitments for the semester. Determine how much time and effort you can dedicate to extra credit assignments or activities without neglecting your regular coursework or other responsibilities.
• Stay organized: Keep track of extra credit opportunities and deadlines using a planner or digital calendar. Prioritize your tasks and allocate time for extra credit assignments alongside your regular coursework to ensure everything is completed on time.
• Participate actively: Engage actively in classroom discussions, ask questions, and contribute insights to demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the subject matter. This can create a positive impression and potentially increase your chances of being considered for extra credit opportunities.
• Build relationships: Develop a positive relationship with your instructor. Attend office hours, ask for feedback on your work, and seek suggestions on how you can earn extra credit. Showing your enthusiasm and dedication can make a positive impression and potentially lead to additional opportunities.
• Seek out additional assignments: Inquire with your instructor if there are any additional assignments or projects you can undertake to earn extra credit. Express your interest in going beyond the regular coursework and showcase your willingness to put in extra effort to enhance your learning experience.
• Explore extracurricular activities: Keep an eye out for extracurricular activities, workshops, or events that are related to the subject matter of your course. Participating in these activities can help you gain additional knowledge and potentially earn extra credit.
• Collaborate with classmates: Form study groups or collaborate with classmates on assignments or projects that offer extra credit. Working together can foster a collaborative learning environment and provide opportunities for shared knowledge and brainstorming.
• Reflect on your progress: Periodically evaluate your progress in the course and assess whether pursuing extra credit opportunities aligns with your academic goals and priorities. Be mindful of your overall performance and ensure that you are maintaining a balance between regular coursework and extra credit assignments.

Remember, the goal of pursuing extra credit is to enhance your learning experience and showcase your dedication to your studies. By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your chances of earning extra credit and further enrich your academic journey.

While extra credit can be a valuable opportunity for students to improve their grades and deepen their understanding of the course material, there are instances where extra credit may not be possible or offered. It’s important to be aware of these circumstances to manage your expectations and plan your approach to the course accordingly:

• Course policies: Some courses may have strict policies that do not allow for extra credit. This could be due to the instructor’s teaching philosophy, the nature of the subject matter, or the specific learning outcomes and assessment methods employed in the course. It’s crucial to carefully review the course syllabus and communicate with your instructor to determine if extra credit is an option.
• Time constraints: In certain cases, the nature of the course or the instructor’s workload may make it difficult to incorporate extra credit opportunities. Instructors may not have the additional time or resources to create and grade extra assignments or projects. Time constraints can limit the availability of extra credit, even if the instructor is willing to offer it.
• Course structure: Courses that have a highly structured curriculum or tightly defined learning objectives may not lend themselves to extra credit. Instructors may prefer to focus on specific core concepts or skills and may not have room within the course structure to offer additional assignments or opportunities.
• Subject matter: Certain subjects, such as math or sciences, may have less flexibility for incorporating extra credit because of the need for objective assessment methods and a standardized curriculum. In these subjects, extra credit opportunities that align with the learning goals and assessment practices may be limited.
• Equity and fairness: Instructors may choose not to offer extra credit to maintain fairness and equity among students. Some instructors believe that extra credit can create disparities or unfair advantages, especially when students have different access to opportunities outside of class or when it may overshadow the assessment of core course content.
• Course workload: Some courses may have a heavy workload already, leaving little room for extra credit assignments. Instructors may prioritize covering the necessary curriculum within the given timeframe, making it challenging to include additional assignments or activities.
• Performance-based assessment: In courses that rely primarily on performance-based assessments, such as lab work or practical exams, extra credit may not be feasible. These types of assessments focus on specific skills and may not lend themselves to the flexibility of offering additional points.

It is crucial to respect and understand the limitations and decisions of your instructor when it comes to offering extra credit. While extra credit can be beneficial, it is not always feasible or appropriate in every course. It’s important to focus on performing well in the assigned coursework and seek other avenues for academic growth and engagement if extra credit is not an option.

Extra credit offers students a unique opportunity to enhance their academic experience and potentially improve their grades beyond the standard coursework requirements. It allows for additional assignments, participation, or activities that go beyond the scope of the regular curriculum, providing students with a chance to demonstrate their dedication, curiosity, and commitment to their studies. However, extra credit may not be offered in every course or under every circumstance.

It is important for students to familiarize themselves with the specific policies and guidelines regarding extra credit in each course they take. By understanding the expectations, requirements, and potential benefits of extra credit, students can make informed decisions about whether to pursue these opportunities based on their academic goals and priorities.

Maximizing extra credit opportunities requires careful planning, active engagement, and a balanced approach. It is crucial to prioritize the regular coursework and ensure that pursuing extra credit does not overshadow the core learning objectives of the course.

Overall, extra credit can provide a means for students to go beyond the minimum requirements, explore their interests, and deepen their understanding of the subject matter. It can serve as a source of motivation, recognition, and personal growth for students who choose to take on the additional challenges offered through extra credit assignments or activities.

While extra credit is not a guarantee in every course, students can also find alternative ways to enhance their learning experience. This could include participating in extracurricular activities, seeking academic enrichment opportunities, or engaging in independent research to expand their knowledge and skills.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue extra credit should align with individual academic goals, time commitments, and personal interests. By approaching extra credit opportunities thoughtfully and responsibly, students can make the most of their educational journey and maximize their opportunities for success.

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Extra Credit: To Give or Not to Give – That is the Question

By Michelle Read, Ph.D.; Katherine Fugate, Ph.D.

Snapshot: This article discusses the pros and cons of utilizing extra credit with your students. Both authors have utilized extra credit in the courses they teach. Moreover, the article presents various ways to add extra credit points in the Canvas LMS.

There are a variety of reasons why one might want to assign extra credit for students. However, the use of extra credit in higher education has been a topic of debate for decades.

InsideHigherEd.com ran two articles on this topic, each expressing opposing views on the matter.

Interestingly, the sociology professor used to feel the same way as the English professor until she designed an extra credit assignment that not only complemented the course goals, but, as she said, “enriched” student learning with very current, relevant events which required not only attendance but also reflection in order to earn the optional extra points. These types of extra credit options do not serve to replace an assignment or assignments, instead they allow for additional learning opportunities. While the English professor acknowledges the reality of students’ lives, he does not, however, allow these realities to impact his instructional practices. It is important to recognize and address that in this past year of COVID, educators have hopefully learned how valuable and necessary flexibility in due dates can be. Opportunities for students to maintain their typical average-to-above-average grades via extra credit assignments can be vital to student success and overall morale during turbulent times, such as a pandemic or personal tragedy in the individual’s life. Often times, flexibility in due dates also provide benefit to instructors. Just because one is an instructor, this title does not preclude them from contending with these same realities of life. Sometimes the need for extra credit is not to pass the course due to missed assignments, but augment low scores on the assignments. It is also important to note, that students may simply be trying to boost their totals to the next grade level to improve their GPA or to meet their major’s program requirements. The option to take advantage of extra credit opportunities is the student’s; the job of the instructor is to make any extra credit opportunities relevant, meaningful, and aligned to course goals and objectives.

In 1993, Norcross et al., conducted a study interviewing instructors to determine why they would or would not offer extra credit. Reasons for offering extra credit included the following:

• Reduces student anxiety and builds confidence.
• Extra credit can be a second opportunity to learn the content.
• Some need a second time to learn and engage with the content in order to master the material.
• Capitalize on the student’s current degree of motivation. In doing the extra credit, they will learn.

There were also valid reasons noted for not providing opportunities to earn extra credit:

• Reinforces tendencies to not work hard if students know extra credit is an option.
• Time spent on extra credit means less time spent on regular assignments.
• If too easy to complete, extra credit reduces course academic standards and rigor.
• It’s unfair to those who did the assignments and did well.
• More work on the instructors’ part to create and/or grade extra credit assignments.

It is easy to see that the arguments from each of these professors correlate with what faculty have been debating for years. The sociology professor expands on these benefits by making her extra credit possibilities available for everyone and designs them to be specifically relevant to the content as an optional extension of, as opposed to a substitute to, what is already provided to students for understanding the content.

What constitutes a “good” extra credit assignment?

As with whether or not to  allow extra credit is considered good practice, the opinions on what types of extra credit are valuable is also debatable. The following list are some suggestions gathered from various resources, my own experiences, and from my work with faculty in designing their online/hybrid courses:

• Add opportunities to earn “professional” points when replying to peers’ initial discussion responses. Often, we do not give students any direction in how to do that. Guidance is helpful and will get you more than “Atta boy” from peers. You can ask repliers to make connections that require higher order thinking skills by asking questions or analyzing the content and critiquing it, while also making it necessary to provide additional resources that support or refute their claims, etc. As an instructor, I provide professional points for extra replies, extra resources, going back and answering questions posed to the original posters by their peers, etc. I try to promote ongoing discussions, furthering the goal of having enriching and meaningful learning opportunities.
• Adding extensions to assignments may come across as more work, and it is, but it is meaningful, relevant work and provides the opportunities to make up for points lost from their original submission.
• Provide additional, optional creative assignments. For example, I offer my students an extra credit assignment in which they create a video that offers advice to students who come after them. My students are often in their graduating semester, so the advice is for the next group of graduating seniors and advises them on various aspects of life after graduation.
• Optional blog assignments. Have students reflect and write about topics from your class.
• Suggest students attend events related to the course content. For example, when I was an undergrad (here at Texas State), my music theory professor had us attend a symphony to earn extra credit. I don’t recall him having us write a reflection, as the sociology teacher above did, but it would’ve been a good idea. “Did you like the symphony, why or why not?” would be a great starting point. You can add specific questions to prompt their reflection that tie into your course objectives.
• Extra creativity points. Allow for extra credit points on any creative assignment. Often students will do the bare minimum to make their project look good, but they’ll likely do more if they know you’re looking to provide points for extra appeal, wow factor, etc.
• Revise and explain. When a student does poorly on an assignment or exam, give them the opportunity to revise or correct and then explain their change in answers. If they were provided answers on the test, have them prepare a presentation and/or video that teaches the concept to earn back points.
• Video-record a science experiment. If you teach science or other subjects with demonstrations and don’t normally have students record themselves doing an experiment or demonstrating an activity, consider having them record themselves doing one for extra credit. They could do this by screen-recording if it is an activity completed on the computer or use their phones or use other recording devices.
• Book reports. An oldy, but a goody, often used in K-12, can work in higher education as well. You could also give the students options such as doing one as a paper, as a presentation/video, etc.
• Service work. Allow students to volunteer. The volunteer work should be something that would apply concepts learned in class or at least the opportunity to observe the concept’s application.
• To ensure rigor particularly for upper division or graduate courses, have students take the concepts and topics and explain/teach them for a layperson, someone who has not studied the discipline. This could be done via presentations, and/or videos. You could even tie in the points to how well received the project was by recipients via a satisfaction poll or have them create quiz questions. The latter of course, would require that someone volunteer to be the audience.
• In addition, for upper division or graduate students, have students do a case study analyzing a provided case that is relevant to their profession. For example, have an education student in a class management course analyze a video-based case study looking for specific events, such as poor behavior, not noticed by the teacher.

You may have noticed that any one of these examples, would actually serve as really great assignments too. Does it require extra work on your part as well? Probably. Grading is always going to take your time. Only you as the instructor can decide if doing so is worth your time and is providing meaningful learning experiences for your student(s) who need that extra support.

Ways to add extra credit using the Canvas LMS system

For specific instructions on how to add extra credit points in Canvas, please see the instructions here , which can also be downloaded.

Cohan, D. (2018). Extra, extra, read all about it: To offer extra credit or not to offer extra credit?. Inside Higher Ed . Retrieved from: https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2018/01/16/professor-explains-why-she-offers-extra-credit-her-classes-opinion

Norcross, J.C. , Dooley, H.S. and Stevenson, J.F. (1993). Faculty use and justification of extra credit: No middle ground? Teaching of Psychology , Vol. 20, No. 4: 240-242.

Stauffer, W. (2019). Extra credit is not really extra. Inside Higher Ed . Retrieved from: https://www.insidehighered.com/views/2019/01/16/professor-explains-why-he-doesnt-offer-extra-credit-his-students-opinion

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University Center for Teaching and Learning

How to assign extra credit in canvas, extra credit overview, create a new assignment, add extra points to an existing assignment, fudge points, adding extra credit to the rubric.

Assigning extra credit may take some getting use to because there is no place within the assignments settings that you check to make the assignment worth extra credit. Yet, because of this, Canvas gives a lot of flexibility in how extra credit can be given to students.

Ways to Add Extra Credit

• Create A New Assignment Using Assignment with No Submission
• Using a Rubric

For specific information on how to add extra credit using the above methods, see the following Canvas Instructor Guide: How do I give my students extra credit?

*Note – You can add extra credit manually by downloading/exporting your Gradebook to Excel. This will be down in the Grade Override Column and to be completed at the end of the course, when entering final grades.

Keeping that in mind, the biggest determinant of how you set up your extra credit in Canvas is whether you are using a points-based gradebook or a weighted gradebook. A Points-Based Gradebook allows for the most flexibility in offering extra credit. The tabs above include ways to add extra credit for Point-Based Gradebooks.

Note: Adding extra credit to a Percentage-Based Gradebook does not work that well in Canvas. In general the best way to add extra credit to a percentage based gradebook is to NOT ADD EXTRA CREDIT UNTIL AFTER ALL OTHER COURSE GRADES ARE ENTERED INTO THE GRADEBOOK (including the final exam). Extra credit WILL NOT calculate correctly until ALL OTHER COURSE GRADES ARE ENTERED. This is because by adding the extra credit the gradebook is going over the normal 100%. You can add extra credit by adding an Assignment Group (category) for “extra credit” and make it worth the percent you would like the overall course grade to be raised if students get the full amount of extra credit.

Navigate to your course Assignments Page, and add a new assignment worth zero points. Make sure that the submission type is either “no submission” or “paper submission,” and click Save & Publish to create a column for this extra credit “assignment” in your Gradebook. If you are using a point structure and do not have weighted assignment groups, follow these steps.

• Click Assignments in the course navigation
• Click +Assignment
• Type the Assignment Name (for example, Extra Credit)
• Type 0 for Points
• Choose No Submission for the Submission Type
• Click Update Assignment
• Click Publish

After students complete the work, manually add points in the Gradebook.

• Click Grades in the course navigation
• Navigate to the new assignment (Extra Credit)
• Type the points for those students receiving extra credit

Adding extra points to an Assignment you’ve already created you will need to manually enter the extra points in the Gradebook.

In this example, the assignment is worth 40 points. Adding 5 extra points will bring the assignment total for this student to 45 points. The added points will increase total points calculated in the Gradebook’s final grade.

You can use Fudge Points to add extra points to a quiz. Fudge points allow you to manually add or remove points from a student’s overall quiz score.

• Click Quizzes in Course Navigation
• Click on the quiz you want to add extra points to
• Click SpeedGrader
• In the Student drop-down menu, select the name of the student that you want to give extra points to
• Enter the number of points you want to add to the overall quiz score in the Fudge Points field at the bottom. The Final Score shows the final score this student will receive.
• Click Update Scores to save the change to the student’s quiz score.

*Note – Fudge Points can only be added to Quizzes.

If you use a rubric to grade an assignment, you could make an additional criterion to the rubric for extra credit. Make sure the rubric is worth more points than the assignment so when you give students extra points it doesn’t affect the actual assignment points. For additional information on creating a rubric, please check out the Canvas Guides

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How do i assign extra credit as a teacher print.

Modified on: Wed, Jun 5, 2019 at 10:51 AM

1 . How do I assign extra credit as a teacher?

2. I need to assign extra credit to a student.

3. Can I give only 1 student extra credit? 

Teachers can assign Extra Credit in two ways:

• First, by manually entering extra credit while grading an assignment.
• Second, by creating an extra credit assignment type .

Method 1 - Manually entering extra credit

When assignments are created, Teachers are required to choose one of three grading styles: Percentage, Letter, and Points.

For assignments that use the Percentage grading style, Teachers can manually enter extra credit worth up to 200% of the maximum grade.  

For assignments that use the Points grading style, Teachers can manually enter extra credit worth up to 250% of the maximum grade.

In the example shown above, an assignment is worth 10 points but a particular student has a grade of 25. This is the first way Teachers can enter extra credit.

Method 2 - Creating an extra credit assignment type

Assignment Types apportion a certain percentage, also referred to as 'Weight', of the overall class grade to certain types of assignments. Normally, the weight of all assignment types needs to add up to exactly 100% .

However, Teachers have the ability to create a specific assignment type called 'Extra Credit' that allows them to assign more than 100% of a class grade.

In the example shown above, the four different assignment types actually add up to 104% (50+25+25+4). This is possible because the 'Extra Credit' assignment type has the setting Make this type Extra Credit enabled.

To learn more about setting up assignment types, please click here .

Note:  Extra Credit cannot be applied to Sub-grades or Custom Classes.

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Extra credit in Brightspace

Teachers can define grade items that allow for earning extra credit in Brightspace . Of course, extra credit is completely discretionary and each teacher can make the decision on an assignment-by-assignment basis.

Types of extra credit

There are two types of bonus points (extra credit) in Brightspace:

• Allowing assignments to exceed their maximum points. Grade items are often associated with assignments, quizzes, and discussion topics. In general, these grade items are given a maximum number of points the student can earn. For example, a 25-point quiz or a 100-point essay. Brightspace supports the ability to allow students to earn extra points within a grade item if the student goes above and beyond. Like maybe 102 out of 100.
• Creating bonus items. Sometimes optional assignments are given as a means to collect extra-credit points. For these types of work, grade items can be designated as bonus items. Bonus grade items are not figured into the final point total for the course and are only added to the final grade after the final grade is calculated. Students can only view the point value of a bonus item in the grade book, the letter-grading scale does not apply as all the points are extra credit.

Allowing a grade item to exceed its maximum points

If you are creating a new grade item and wish to allow for extra credit, select Grades under Assessments in the navbar, then click New and select Item . If you are modifying an existing grade item, select Grades under Assessments in the navbar, then click the arrow after the name of the grade item and select Edit.

Grade items that allow students to collect extra-credit points are created in the same manner as every other numeric item in the grade book, with one exception. To allow for extra credit within an assignment, select the Can Exceed checkbox under the Grading heading on the Properties tab for the grade item. This allows the student to collect more points than the Maximum Points defined in the grade item. See the example figure to the right.

For additional information on creating a numeric grade item, refer to Create a numeric grade item .

Note: If the grade item is part of a grade category, the category must also be configured to exceed its maximum points. Like within the grade item, select the Can Exceed checkbox in the Grading section of the Properties tab for the grade category.

Creating an extra-credit assignment

If you are creating a new grade item specifically for a bonus assignment, select Grades under Assessments in the navbar, then click New and select Item . If you are modifying an existing grade item to make it a bonus assignment, select Grades under Assessments in the navbar, then click the arrow after the name of the grade item and select Edit.

Grade items that allow students to collect bonus points are created in the same manner as every other numeric item in the grade book, with one exception. To allow for a bonus assignment, select the Bonus checkbox under the Grading heading on the Properties tab for the grade item. See the example figure to the right.

Note: Grade items for bonus assignments appear as a numeric grade only in the grade book. Because they are treated as extra points and are added in after the final grade is calculated, no letter grade can be assigned to them.

More information

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How do I assign Extra Credit as a Teacher?

Oct 29, 2022 • knowledge, article detail.

1 . How do I assign extra credit as a teacher?

2. I need to assign extra credit to a student.

3. Can I give only 1 student extra credit? 

Teachers can assign Extra Credit in two ways:

• First, by  manually entering extra credit  while grading an assignment.
• Second, by  creating an   extra credit assignment type .

Method 1 - Manually entering extra credit

When assignments are created, Teachers are required to choose one of three grading styles: Percentage, Letter, and Points.

For assignments that use the  Percentage  grading style, Teachers can manually enter extra credit worth  up to 200% of the maximum grade.  

For assignments that use the Points grading style, Teachers can manually enter extra credit worth  up to 250% of the maximum grade.

In the example shown above, an assignment is worth 10 points but a particular student has a grade of 25. This is the first way Teachers can enter extra credit.

Method 2 - Creating an extra credit assignment type

Assignment Types apportion a certain percentage, also referred to as 'Weight', of the overall class grade to certain types of assignments. Normally, the weight of all assignment types needs to add up to  exactly 100% .

However, Teachers have the ability to create a specific assignment type called 'Extra Credit' that allows them to assign more than 100% of a class grade.

In the example shown above, the four different assignment types actually add up to  104%  (50+25+25+4). This is possible because the 'Extra Credit' assignment type has the setting  Make this type Extra Credit  enabled.

To learn more about setting up assignment types,  please click here .

Note:  Extra Credit cannot be applied to Sub-grades or Custom Classes.

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Extra Credit Assignment - MKTG 352(1)