Discussion Guidelines

Sample AGREE Starters

When you support or agree with what someone is saying, you may want to use these response starters:

• I agree with _____. I think his/her strongest point was ____ because …
• I agree with _____. I would also like to add …
• _____ makes an excellent point. I also believe …

Sample DISAGREE Starters

When you disagree with what someone is saying, it is very important that you remember online etiquette. You can disagree in a polite way, without hurting others’ feelings. Consider using one of these response starters:

• ____ makes an excellent point when he/she stated _____. However, I disagree with _______ because …
• I agree with part of your posting. I support you on ____, but I feel differently about _____. Let me explain why …

Example Post and Replies:

• Discussion Prompt:
• Describe your service project plan.

Sample Student Response:

• My name is Ashleigh. I have a chronic disease and stay home most of the time. Many kids like me benefit from online courses. I want to help us by starting an online discussion group. We can talk about how to be successful in classes. We can support each other in the day-to-day stresses of being ill.

Sample Agree Student Reply:

• I agree that the group is a good idea, Ashleigh. I would like to add that perhaps your group could create a website for the public. It would let people know about your struggles, as well as how online learning helps you. I don’t think many kids know much about chronic illnesses.

Sample Disagree Student Reply:

• I agree with part of your idea, Ashleigh. I like that you want to support other students like yourself. However, you might want to see if another organization has a support section for students. There might be one for your specific illness. Maybe they will start a discussion group for you with your input. This way you can lead it but without the responsibility of moderating it every day.

Please contact your instructor if you have any questions concerning your Discussion assignment.