Canvas Grading Considerations

A quick-reference guide for faculty to ensure accurate, transparent, and complete gradebook setup before submitting final grades.

1. Missing Work and Zeros

• Enter zeros for missing work so final grades are accurate.

• Remove any blank cells (–) that may artificially inflate grades.

• Use LMS tools to automatically assign zeros for missing assignments when appropriate.

2. Grade Calculation Method

• Confirm your course is using the grading model you prefer:

  • Weighted assignment groups

  • Points-based system

• Make sure group weights match the syllabus.

• Verify the Total column reflects the correct calculation.

3. Hidden or Unposted Grades

• Check for hidden/posting icons (e.g., eye symbols). 

• Ensure all assignment grades are fully posted to students.

• Confirm no assignment remains unintentionally hidden. 

4. Assignment Visibility

• Ensure all graded assignments are published.

• Verify that no items are restricted by modules or release conditions.

• Confirm that students can see assignment group totals if required.

5. Total Column Visibility

• Confirm whether the Total column is visible or hidden according to course policy.

• Check for any hidden icons or indicators in the Total column. 

• Ensure a grading scheme (letter grade scale) is enabled if your institution requires it.

6. Extra Credit Review

• Verify extra credit assignments are set up correctly.

  • Reminder: Assignments do NOT cap in Canavs. You will need to adjust accordingly.  

• Ensure they do not distort assignment group weighting.

7. Late Policies

• Confirm late submission penalties are applied correctly.

• Verify any exceptions or manual adjustments were saved.

8. Dropped Assignment Rules

• Review automatic drop rules.

• Ensure the correct number of low scores are dropped.

• Check that essential assignments are not accidentally marked as droppable.

9. Final Grade Overrides

• Review any manually overridden grades.

• Confirm that overrides were intentional and accurate.

10. Student View Check

• Use Student View to confirm:

  • Students see the correct grades and totals.

  • No items appear hidden unexpectedly.

  • The gradebook view is clear and complete.

11. Backup

• Export the gradebook as a CSV backup before final submission for your records. 

  • Note: No grade passback is available yet so faculty will still need to manually enter grades into Banner.