Structure- 1. Introduction and question (~400 words)
Introduce your topic, specifically the context and the issue. Clearly identity why the issue is important.
Next, very clearly outline the research question you will explore in the context.
2. Literature review (~900 words)
Use your literature map to engage with some key and the recent literature around this question and the methodologies employed in the literature.
3. Methods (300-400 words)
Outline the methods you will use, such as personal interviews, secondary data analysis – statistical or econometric analysis (specify what econometric models you will use), building a micro-economic model, etc. Also include the data bases you draw upon (in case of quantitative analysis), the sample that you will study, its representativeness, etc.
4. Analysis (~2000 words)
This will be the analysis that you will use to explore your research question. You will use this analysis to build your argument in this section.
(Tables and figures not included in word count)
5. Conclusion (300-400 words)
6. Bibliography [not included in word count]
Marking Criteria:
70-79 (First Class)
A mark in the range 70-79 will fulfil the following criteria:
• engages closely with the question
• shows some evidence of wide and relevant reading and an engagement with the conceptual
issues
• shows some sophistication of argument
• shows an intelligent use and a good understanding of relevant source materials
60-69 (Upper Second Class)
A mark in the range 60-69 will fulfil the following criteria:
• offers critical insights and shows evidence of critical thinking
• shows a good understanding of the major factual and/or theoretical issues, and addresses
the relevant literature on the topic
• develops a focused and clear argument and articulates a sustained train of logical thought
• gives a clear exposition of models/diagrams, with derivation, where appropriate
• shows clear evidence of planning in the formulation of the written answer and includes a
judicious choice of sources and methodology