Moodle: Assignment Basics

Overview

Use Moodle assignments for student submissions via file uploads or by typing text directly in Moodle. This article includes key options and configurations to consider, as well as a guide to creating Google and Hypothes.is assignments.

Creating a Moodle Assignment

1. Enable Edit mode in the bar of the course page.
2. Click on the plus (+) icon or the Add an activity or resource button on the desired section of the page.
3. Find and select the Assignment option.
   ℹ️ Note: You can star activities for easier access in the future!
4. Add a title in the Assignment name text box.
5. Configure the settings as needed (see the ‘Important settings’ section below).
6. Click the Save and display button.

Important settings

Moodle activities, including assignments, have a wide range of settings. Below are just highlights to get started.

Description vs Activity Instructions

• Description: The description you enter for the assignment will appear when one opens the assignment. You can choose to display the description on the course page. 
• Activity Instructions: The instructions for the assignment will appear when the student attempts it. The activity instructions should contain what you want the student to do for the assignment. 

Availability

• Allow submissions from: Set an opening date/time for the assignment.
• Due date: Set a date/time after which submissions will be marked late.
• Cut-off date: Set a date/time after which submissions will no longer be accepted.
• Time Limit: Set the time limit for the student to work on the assignment. A countdown timer will start when the assignment is opened. 

Submission types

• File submissions: Students upload and submit files from their computers.
• Audio/Video Recording: When enabled, this feature allows students to record audio or video, take pictures, or use a digital whiteboard to complete their assignment, depending on the specific Poodll submission settings.
• Online text: Students submit text typed directly into Moodle.

Feedback types

• Feedback comments: Write feedback comments in a text box.
• Feedback files: Upload a feedback file (often professors will upload a marked-up PDF of student submissions).

Grade

• Grade: Choose between None, Point, and Scale.
• Grading method:  Choose between Simple direct grading, Marking guide, and a Rubric.
• Grade category: If grade categories are created beforehand, the assignment can be designated to that category.
• Use marking workflow: When enabled, grades can be entered at any pace then released to students all at the same time. Learn more about Grading with a Marking Workflow.

Learn more about Moodle grading in the Knowledgebase category: All about Grading.

Questions?

If you need further assistance or have specific questions that aren't covered in this article, please don't hesitate to reach out for personalized support by submitting a Moodle Support ticket. 

Acknowledgements

Contributions from Em Palencia, Wiebke Kuhn, Aleksander Prasolov '24, Paul Claudel Izabayo ‘25, and Fiona Ibrahim ‘25.