Goal/purpose
Grading criteria specific to this discussion
Designer's note: Include possible points, grading rubric, etc.
Statement of Part 1 of the assignment
Designer's note: This part usually consists of an individual activity such as research, observation, interview, activity completion, reading, survey etc.
Specific assignment criteria (length, writing style guidelines, formatting)
Designer's note: Include writing style, formatting, required attachments, etc.
Statement of Part 2 of the assignment
Designer's note: Include exactly what the student is expected to discuss.
Length of comment (original)
Statement of Part 3 of the assignment
Guidance for responses/suggestions
Designer's note: Include what student is to consider, synthesize, or analyze when responding
Length of comment (response)
Designer's note: The length of comments in the initial comment and response is usually defined as a maximum number of words or paragraphs. However, these guidelines f do not need to be strict. Even if you add, "Write until you feel you have fully answered the question," you have still given the students a better idea of what you expect of them.