Guidelines for Writing Essay and Structure

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Introduction

This states the purpose and structure of the essay, and identifies the main theme or proposition(s) that you are trying to prove. It tells the reader what to expect.

Body

  • In the body of the essay, you are trying to build a logical argument that supports the main theme or proposition. The body needs to be consistent with what you have said you are going to do in the introduction.
  • Each paragraph should have a topic sentence, and the points you are making should reflect that topic sentence
  • You need to refer to theory to analyse the topic you are discussing.
  • Each paragraph should have a topic sentence, and the points you are making should reflect that topic sentence.
  • Use theory and examples to explain your argument.
  • Remember that you are trying to present a logical, cohesive and clear analysis of the key issues that you have identified, and to use these to support your proposition or theme in a systematic way.
  • DO NOT TRY TO WRITE EVERYTHING THAT YOU KNOW ABOUT THE TOPIC IN THE HOPE THAT SOMETHING WILL BE GOOD.

Conclusion

  • A conclusion is not just a list of the key points you have made. You need to draw together your key points to demonstrate that you have supported your theme or proven your proposition(s).
  • The conclusion needs to be consistent with both the introduction and the body of the essay

General Points about essays

  • You can use headings, but use them sparingly. Headings only add value if they assist the reader in following the logical argument
  • BODY should not be used as a heading
  • Poor spelling and grammar detracts from your ability to build an argument. CHECK BOTH GRAMMAR AND SPELLING THOUROUGHLY

BUSN9239 International Business in the Asia Pacific Assignment 2 Group Contemporary Issue Report and Presentation

Criteria – Essay (20%)

Criteria Marks

Critical approach to the topic

  • The body of the essay is consistent with the introduction and critically analyses the topic.
  • Analysis shows knowledge of relevant theory.
  • There is a balance between descriptive and analytical content, with a strong emphasis of critical analysis.
  • The topic is discussed using international business theoretical frames, and these are supported by the use of at least eight primary sources (e.g. refereed journal articles) that are directly relevant to the topic chosen.
 10 marks

Line of argument

  • The introduction outlines the main proposition of the essay and body develops a clear line of argument. The argument is incisive and includes a concise, relevant treatment of the issues.
  • The conclusion draws together the main points of the essay and demonstrates a plausible, insightful, and rationally persuasive point at which to end the argument.
 5 marks

Use of academic literature/overall presentation

  • Judicious and appropriate use of at least eight academic journal articles or research book chapters.
  • Makes limited use of textbook (or other text books), relying on primary sources to support their argument.
  • Sources are referenced consistently and comprehensively using the Harvard referencing system.
  • Use of language appropriate to an academic essay; Presentation is professional (e.g. spell and grammar checked, judicious use of headings, etc).
 5 marks
Total 20

Notes:

#Failure to adequately reference is plagiarism. Plagiarism will be dealt with in line with university policy.

##Up to 20% of overall marks may be subtracted for poorly presented essays.

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