Discussion topic: The life of the Poggle is fair.

Background:  Recall from our readings that the Poggle has a symbiotic relationship with the Silver Spiders.  The spiders provide seeds for the Poggle, the Poggle eats the seeds and gets nice and fat, the spiders bring him to the queen to be killed and used to incubate her eggs. 

Exemplar sample discussion:

Sara: THAT POOR LITTLE GUY, HE IS SO CUTE AND THIS IS SO UNFAIR.  

This post shows no knowledge acquired from the reading, is not setting up any further discussion and she uses all caps which is an online no no.  The post lacks substance and contributes next to nothing to the conversation.

Morgan: As the readings explained on page 18 paragraph three, the Poggle is under no restraints to stay.  His life among the spiders if voluntary.  Besides the Poggle gains a food source without having to do anything for it.  Sara-Do you think that if the Poggle wasn't a furry little mammal that it would be more fair, does cuteness always play a role? (and don't forget to use caps sparingly)

 I am wondering if the Spiders are getting a fair deal because they have to do all the work to supply the lazy Poggle with food.  What do you guys think?

This second post demonstrates an understanding of the readings, adheres to online protocol as well as reminds others about it.  She responds to her classmate and poses a further question for the group that advances the conversation.  Morgan took time to respond thoroughly and thoughtfully.

CATEGORY	Exceeds Expectations 10	Meets Expectations 9   8   7	Developing to Expectations 6    5    4	Well Below Expectations   3     2     1	score
Knowledge and understanding	very clear that readings were understood and incorporated well into responses	readings were understood and incorporated into responses	postings have questionable relationship to reading material	not evident that readings were understood and/or not incorporated into discussion
Contributions	Shared helpful ideas that lead the discussion and makes a strong effort to contribute.	Shared helpful ideas. Clearly strives to participate.	Sometimes shares helpful ideas. Makes the required effort to participate but no more..	Shared very few helpful ideas. Participates minimally or not at all.
Timely discussion contributions	5-6 postings well distributed throughout the week	4-6 postings distributed throughout the week	3-6 postings somewhat distributed	2-6 not distributed throughout the week
Adherence to on-line protocols	all online protocols followed as well as reminded others	All online protocol was adhered to	Some online protocols not adhered to	Many online protocols not adhered to
Total Rubric score