I have always been wary of giving extra credit of any form. I generally prefer for the students' grades to be a reflection of their knowledge of the material. However, I had a discussion with a colleague this week in which I asked her to clarify her rationale for offering extra credit. She made the case that she offered the extra credit opportunities so that the students would work extra hard to learn the material that they otherwise would not have learned. That makes sense to me. In this case, I am a bit wary of cramming the material down their throats the day of the test. I question whether they actually learn the material rather than just memorizing it. I would feel better about it if she offered the extra credit to complete a task that would help to learn the material.

I think that it is fine because its another reward for the students to make a better grade. They will also get to clear up any questions they have over the material. I have a colleague that offers 5 points for completing the study guide to test. The students that do the guide usually score better than the ones that don't complete the guide, even without the extra points.

I feel that it is inappropriate to offer extra credit for an early study session. Unless a teacher can offer a study session that is open to all student, guaranteeing that all students have access to transportation for said study session and have equitable access to the available extra credit points, then I feel it is an unfair offering. Many students ride the bus and are unable to arrive at school early. Additionally, parents do not have available transportation to facilitate this opportunity for their child.

I believe that any type of extra credit should be earned and just showing up a little early or staying a little late after school does not mean that you've earned the luxury of extra credit. Extra credit should come at a price of doing extra work that hones the skills and concept knowledge of students. If a teacher wants to reward students with extra credit based on the effort that they put into their study materials, I am fine with that.

I think the extra credit should be applied to something else other than the test. Maybe a daily assignment that they didn't do as well on or a homework grade. Offering extra credit is a good motivator to get students to attend the study session, but it shouldn't be tacked onto the test as I'm sure many students are unable to get there early because of transportation.

I think if the students is motivated to come in after school or early to review then that should be rewarded. I am always surprised by how many of my students do not take advantage of extra credit.

Offering extra credit in this way isn't negative, it gives students who are dedicated to their grades and/or to understanding the subject the chance to deepen their comprehension and be compensated for their time.