Introduction to psychology/Psy102/Assessment/Essay
Psychology 102 Essay Writing GuideIn theory, everything you need to know (including the marking criteria) about writing the Psychology 102 essay can be found in this guide! In practice, of course, that may or may not be true. So, if you can't find what you want, post to the Essay discussion forum. Also see the essay section on Moodle. Download: APA style template and cover sheet Ready to submit? Use the essay drop-box |
Overview
Word count
Submission
Marking and feedback
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List of essay topics
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Marking criteria (100%)Your essay will be marked according to the following weightings and marking criteria: Abstract & title (10%)
Argument (20%)
Theory (20%)
Research (20%)
Referencing (10%)
Presentation (20%)
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Extensions
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FAQSee also: Essay discussion forum Can I focus on an example?Use some examples - but be selective - the examples should be chosen so as to illustrate the essay's main points. If done well, this can be an interesting and effective way of addressing the essay question. However, be warned - do not overly indulge in examples to the detriment of addressing the broader aspects of the essay. The #1 mistake in undergraduate essays is not addressing the question - and overly focusing on examples is one way the essay question is sometimes avoided. If the question doesn't ask you to focus specifically on one example, then a more general answer is probably expected (with some illustrative examples along the way). 1,500 words isn't enoughBe (carefully) selective - aim to focus only on the key points and main features of the related research and theory literature. Writing a 1,500 word essay is, in many ways, harder than writing a 3,000 word essay. Choosing what to focus on (and what not to focus on) is really important. Whose my audience?Imagine the target audience is 1st year psychology students - e.g., aim your essay as a new section in an introductory psychology textbook. What would you want to read? I would like a concise overview of the issue/topic, an explanation of the main theory and research in the area and the conclusions that can be drawn, with referencing along the way to the key primary sources and perhaps some examples where they help to explain key points. I can't access some articlesIf you identify possible references that you can't access through the university library, send the details to the convener who will arrange to get the article or chapter added to e-Reserve. How to get help proofreadingThe unit convener and tutors are not available for proofreading draft essays. You may be able to discuss and get general advice from the convener and tutors about your approach to the essay and/or you may wish to ask more specific questions. If you would like to get your essay proofread, then several possible options exist, including but not limited to:
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