Is the overall grade setup for your course in Ultra complete and correct? A properly configured Gradebook ensures your students see an accurate course grade and minimizes confusion or grade disputes.
Why Set Up the Overall Grade?
The Overall Grade column in Ultra calculates a running tally of a student’s performance using either points, weighted percentages, or a custom formula. It appears next to each student’s name in your Gradebook—and it’s what students see as their official grade if enabled.
If it’s not set up, students don’t see their current course standing.
Step-by-Step: Set Up the Overall Grade
Step 1: Get Started
- In your Gradebook, click the gear icon (Grade Settings).
- Look for the Overall Grade section.
- If not already configured, click Set it up.
Step 2: Choose Your Calculation Type
You’ll be prompted to choose a calculation method:
- Points: Grades are based on total points earned versus total points possible. Items carry weight based on point value.
- Weighted: You assign weights (percentages) to categories (e.g., Assignments 30%, Quizzes 20%, Projects 50%).
- Advanced: Use a custom formula (not recommended unless you’re experienced with calculations).
👉 You can change this later in the setup screen.
Step 3: Categorize Everything (Critical Step!)
Once you’re in the Overall Grade setup screen, Blackboard will display a list of Grade Categories like Assignments, Discussions, Tests, etc.
Why this matters: If an item isn’t assigned to a category, it might not be included in the final grade—especially when using Weighted grading.
To review or update categories:
- Expand each category with the down arrow.
- Check that each item is correctly categorized.
- Some items may already be auto-categorized (e.g., Tests created via Ultra tools).
- If an assignment is miscategorized or shouldn’t be counted:
- Click the link icon (🔗) next to the item to remove it from that category.
- This does not delete the item—it just detaches it from the grade calculation.
📘 More on categories and overall grade setup
Step 4: Set Category Weighting (Weighted Only)
If using Weighted grading, now’s the time to assign percentages.
- In the Overall Grade setup, next to each category, enter the desired percentage (e.g., Assignments = 30%).
- Use the lock icon to freeze weights once finalized.
Equally vs. Proportionally within a Category:
- Select Equally to weigh all items the same, regardless of point value.
- Select Proportionally to weigh items based on their point value (more points = more weight).
- You’ll find this toggle at the top of each category section.
Step 5: Exclude Unused Items
To hide or exclude items from the calculation (e.g., canceled quizzes, drafts):
- Click the circle with a line through it (🚫).
- When it turns purple, the item is no longer counted toward the final grade.
Step 6: Save Your Work!
Scroll to the bottom and click Save. This finalizes your settings and updates the student view.
Final Tips Before Submitting Grades:
- Confirm every graded item is categorized.
- Review each category’s percentage (if weighted).
- Check your exclusions (purple icons).
- Be sure to Save when done.
Need Help?
The Instructional Design Team is here to support you! Reach out for a walkthrough, troubleshooting, or to schedule a 1:1 consultation.
Have a topic you’d like us to explore in a future ID Tip? Let us know!