You can create assignment groups and assign weights (%) for each assignment group to calculate the final grade out of a total of 100%.
Note: Canvas treats all graded items as Assignments, e.g., Discussions, Quizzes, etc.
The weights for all assignment groups must add up to a total of 100% (unless you are offering extra credit opportunities, in which case your weights may total 200%. Please see our managing extra credit in Canvas resource for more information).
The following is an example of weights for three assignment groups:
- Assignments: 50%
- Discussions: 10%
- Exams: 40%
How to create assignment group weights
If you do not have any assignment groups in your course, you will need to create assignment groups and then come back to these directions.
- Select Assignments in your course navigation menu.
- Select the assignments setting (three vertically stacked dots) button and select Assignment Group Weights from the menu that appears.
- In the window that appears, check the box for Weight final grade based on assignment groups.
- Make edits to the group weight as necessary and select the Save button
How to create assignment groups
- Select Assignments in your course navigation menu.
- Selecting the + Group button in the upper right.
(Click image below to enlarge it)
- In the window that appears, type in the group name (e.g., Assignments) and select the Save button. If you have already enabled assignment group weights in your course, then you will need to enter in the weight (%) that you wish to assign this grouping. If you have not enabled assignment group weights yet, then you will not need to enter in the percentage weighting.
- You have successfully created the assignment group "Assignments".
- Repeat Steps 2-4 to create more assignment groups.
How to create graded item shells within your assignment groups
You can also create all assignment/graded item shells (e.g., Discussions, Quizzes, Assignments) for each group here on the Assignments page. Follow the steps below.
- Select the + Button in an assignment group
- From the drop-down menu, select the type of assignment to be created, enter Points for the assignment, and select the Save button.
Note: Only Publish content that is ready to be accessed by students.
See the screenshot below for a complete example of Assignments and Assignment Groups with Weights in a course.