| name | canvas-feedback-template |
| description | Generate learning science-backed feedback templates for Canvas assignments. Use when educators need feedback templates for grading, want to create rubric comments, need encouraging feedback language aligned with Pillar 3 principles (targeted, encouraging, immediate), or want to set up SpeedGrader comment libraries. Works with canvas-mcp for bulk grading. |
Canvas Feedback Template Generator
Generate feedback templates applying Pillar 3: Continuous Practice & Feedback.
Workflow
Step 1: Gather Context
Ask the user for:
- Assignment type (essay, project, quiz, discussion, peer review)
- Learning objectives being assessed
- Common issues seen in submissions (optional)
- Rubric criteria if available
Step 2: Generate Templates
Organize by performance level. Each template must include these components (per Principle 3.2.1):
- Strength acknowledgment (3.2.2 - Encouraging)
- Specific observation with evidence from submission
- Actionable improvement with concrete next step
- Forward-looking connection to future learning
Exceeds Expectations
Celebrate mastery, suggest stretch goals.
Meets Expectations
Acknowledge success, highlight one improvement area.
Approaching Expectations
Specific improvements with encouragement.
Needs Improvement
Clear next steps with support resources.
Step 3: Apply Principles
| Principle | Application in Feedback |
|---|
| 3.2.1 Targeted | Focus on specific, goal-oriented actions |
| 3.2.2 Encouraging | Start with positives, maintain supportive tone |
| 3.2.3 Immediate | Design for quick delivery via SpeedGrader |
| 3.3.2 Generating explanations | Ask questions that prompt reflection |
| 3.3.3 Reflection | Include prompts for self-assessment |
Step 4: Canvas Integration
If canvas-mcp is available:
- Rubric Comments: Generate comment options for each rubric criterion at each level
- Comment Library: Format for Canvas SpeedGrader comment library
- Bulk Feedback: Create templates for
bulk_grade_submissions
Template Examples
Essay — Meets Expectations
**What's Working Well:**
Your thesis in paragraph 1 clearly establishes your argument about [topic].
**One Area to Strengthen:**
Your conclusion summarizes but could be more impactful. Try connecting
back to your opening hook or suggesting implications.
**Next Step:**
For your next essay, experiment with a "so what?" statement in your
conclusion that explains why your argument matters.
Peer Review — Approaching Expectations
**Strengths in Your Review:**
You identified key strengths and provided specific examples.
**Area for Growth:**
Your suggestions are general ("make it clearer"). Effective peer feedback
includes specific, actionable recommendations.
**How to Improve:**
Instead of "the introduction needs work," try: "Consider opening with a
specific example of [topic] to immediately engage readers."
**Reflection Question:**
What specific change would have the biggest impact on your peer's draft?
Feedback Quality Checklist
Before finalizing:
