SELCS

Assessment


Assessment criteria for MA essays

0-39% Outright Fail

Structure, argument and knowledge
The essay displays a very limited understanding of the research question. The text is descriptive, very repetitive and there is no reasoned conclusion. The text displays a poor acquaintance of the topic.

Presentation and scholarly apparatus
Displays only basic mastery of formal written language. Text and scholarly apparatus are carelessly presented and littered with typographical errors. Referencing disregards conventions and the bibliography is almost non-existent.

40-49% Fail

Structure, argument and knowledge
The essay displays little knowledge and understanding of the research question. The essay has an undeveloped structure and is more descriptive than analytical. The conclusion may be unconvincing in light of what preceded it. The knowledge displayed is frequently irrelevant to the question.

Presentation and scholarly apparatus
The language is competent but problems of expression may impede the development of a coherent argument. Referencing and bibliography are of a poor quality.

50-59% Pass

Structure, argument and knowledge
The essay displays an adequate knowledge and understanding of the research question. The structure is clear though some sections may impede the development of a coherent argument. The essay is overall analytical though it may be descriptive in parts. The knowledge of the subject matter is adequate to the task as set.

Presentation and scholarly apparatus
The language is adequate though it may contain some stylistic lapses. The referencing and bibliography are adequate overall though there may be some gaps.

60-69% Pass with Merit

Structure, argument and knowledge
The essay engages with the research question and demonstrates an understanding of its broader implications. The structure of the essay is clear and logical and allows for the development of a coherent argument. Appropriate evidence is deployed and a reasoned conclusion is reached. The essay demonstrates a very good knowledge of the subject matter and displays independent reading, thinking and research.

Presentation and scholarly apparatus
The essay is grammatically correct. The referencing is generally accurate and follows appropriate conventions (e.g. MHRA). The bibliography is broad and adheres to appropriate scholarly conventions.

70-79% Pass with Distinction

Structure, argument and knowledge
The essay engages intelligently with the research question and demonstrates an in-depth understanding of its broader implications. The structure of the essay is elegant, and allows for the development of a convincing argument. Relevant evidence is marshalled intelligently and a sophisticated articulation of methodology is evident. The essay demonstrates an excellent knowledge of the subject matter and displays a high level of original insight, thinking and research.

Presentation and scholarly apparatus
The essay is grammatically correct and written in a mature style appropriate to academic writing. The referencing is accurate, thorough and consistent and follows an appropriate convention (e.g. MHRA). The bibliography is extensive and adheres meticulously to appropriate scholarly conventions.

80-100% Pass with “Starred” Distinction

Structure, argument and knowledge
The essay engages in a highly original manner with the research question and demonstrates an outstanding understanding of its broader implications. The structure of the essay, and the methodology used to articulate the argument, are sophisticated. The essay develops an exceptionally original argument and is of publishable quality.

Presentation and scholarly apparatus
The essay is grammatically correct and written in a sophisticated academic register. The referencing and bibliography are flawless.