Learning outcomes: the essay questions for both assignments assess all the learning outcomes of the module. Each question therefore assesses your understanding of key concepts and debates, your ability to use what you have read critically, to develop a substantiated argument, and to critically analyse news and news journalism.
Wordcount: your essay can be above or below the wordcount by 10%
Marking criteria: Three sets of criteria are assessed in both essays: reading and research, argument and analysis, and writing and structure. This means we are looking for the following:
Reading and research: evidence of critical engagement with core and recommended reading materials; evidence of independent reading of a range of appropriate academic material (including books and academic journal articles) beyond the core readings.
Argument and analysis: well-articulated and well-supported argument; evidence of critical thinking (through taking a position in relation to key ideas from the module and supporting this position with evidence from readings); evidence of relational thinking (through making connections between key ideas from the module and wider literature and supporting these connections with references to readings); evidence of independent critical ability.
Writing and structure: clear writing; clear and coherent (easy to follow) structure; accuracy in referencing.