csis1/content/early-alerts.md

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Early Alert Message Templates — CSIS 1 Summer 2026

After Week 1: Missing Quiz or Discussion

Subject: Checking in — CSIS 1

Hi [Name] -

I noticed you haven't submitted [the Week 1 quiz / your Week 1 discussion post] yet. I just want to make sure everything is okay and you're able to access the course.

Summer classes move fast — we cover a full week of material every 6 days, so falling behind even a little can snowball quickly.

If you're having trouble with Canvas, the readings, or anything else, let me know. I'm here to help. You can also drop into my Zoom office hours — times are posted in the Start Here module.

-peter h


After Week 2: Low Quiz Scores (<60%)

Subject: Quick note about your quizzes — CSIS 1

Hi [Name] -

I'm looking at quiz scores from the first two weeks and wanted to reach out. Your scores are a bit lower than I'd like to see, and I want to make sure you have what you need to do well in this class.

A couple of things that might help:

  • The Practice Quizzes have unlimited attempts — use them to test yourself before the graded quiz
  • Re-read the specific OpenStax sections the questions come from (they're linked in each module)
  • Come to the Monday demo — seeing the material demonstrated live makes a big difference
  • Message me with specific questions — I'll get back to you within 24 hours

You're not behind yet. A few adjustments now can make the rest of the course much smoother.

-peter h


After Week 3 (Midpoint): Missing 2+ Assignments

Subject: Midpoint check-in — CSIS 1

Hi [Name] -

We're at the halfway point of the semester, and I see you're missing [specific items: Quiz 2, Discussion 3, etc.]. I want to be straight with you — in a 6-week class, missing two or more assignments puts you in a tough spot for passing.

Here's where things stand:

  • Your current grade: approximately %
  • To pass with a C, you'll need to [complete all remaining work / score at least X on remaining items]

I'd rather help you catch up than see you withdraw. If something came up — life happens, especially in summer — let's talk about it. I have some flexibility on late work if you communicate with me.

Can you message me back or come to office hours this week? Even a quick "I'm still here" helps.

-peter h


Whole-Class Midpoint Announcement

Subject: Week 3 — Halfway there 🎉

Hey everyone -

We're at the midpoint. Three weeks done, three to go.

Quick status check — if you're current on everything, you're in great shape. If you're behind on an assignment or two, NOW is the time to catch up. The second half of the course (security, AI, and the final) builds on everything we've covered so far.

A few things:

  • If you're struggling, message me. I can help.
  • If life happened and you need a day or two extra on something, message me. I'm reasonable.
  • If you're thinking about dropping — message me first. Let's see if there's a path forward.

Office hours are [day/time]. The Monday demos are [time]. Both are there for you.

-peter h


Week 5: At-Risk Students (Failing or Close to It)

Subject: Important — your grade in CSIS 1

Hi [Name] -

I want to give you an honest update on where you stand. With two weeks left, your current grade in CSIS 1 is approximately [X]%, which [is below passing / puts you at risk of not passing].

Here's what's missing: [list specific items]

To pass with a C (70%), you would need to [specific requirements — e.g., "score 80%+ on the remaining quiz, discussion, task, and the final exam"].

I'm not saying this to discourage you — I'm saying it because I'd rather you know now than be surprised at the end. If you want to push through, I'll help you. If you need to consider your options (late withdrawal deadline is [date]), I understand that too.

Either way, let me know what you're thinking.

-peter h