Last minute advice for research essays

Hi everyone,

Just to clarify a few points for your essays (based on some frequently asked questions over the last week or so)

You should have a clear thesis statement in a few sentences/paragraph. That should explain what you will argue in your paper. It's not enough to say that you will be examining such and such or looking at this or that. You have to let the reader know what you think about that topic. You must give the reader a clear sense of what your argument is and how you will proceed to make your case (a brief 'road map' for the essay is a good idea and will help to orient the reader as to what will follow).

This thesis statement should also indicate the kind of research materials you've looked at (books, articles, music, DVDs, films, videos, websites, whatever etc.).

The research question was there to help you formulate a thesis. You don't have to put the question in the essay if you don't want to. The thesis statement is what's important. The reader wants to know what you have to say about the topic. The reader wants a sense of your voice and perspective.

Remember to cite all sources including websites, recordings, DVDs etc. I prefer APA or MLA citation style. You can find information on referencing out at this website.

Don't forget to submit to turnitin.com as well as submit a hard copy by Tuesday 1 May, 5 pm.

Before you finish and submit the assignment, check the guidelines and criteria for assessment on page 6 of your course outline (available on CECIL if you've lost it). The turnitin ID and password are listed there.

Don't worry too much if you can't find much academic writing about your topic. Some issues haven't been written about that much. As long as you make a carefully reasoned case with supporting evidence it is likely to be a good essay.

Try to write as clearly and directly as possible. Don't use jargon if it's just there to make your essay sound academic. Only use it if it's helpful. Proof read everything. Format and style are important.

We're looking forward to reading the essays.