You are required to review three articles in your research essay review. You need to synthesise the articles and show areas of commonality and distinction. This will include showing how the articles build on one another. You will also show how this topic fits into the broader area (for example, how impulsivity fits into the broader topic of violence). You will need to come to a conclusion or recommendation based on the articles (for example, that impulsivity is a treatment focus or that more research is required). Marks for this assignment are allocated in the following way: articles are synthesised with commonalities and distinctions noted (10 marks) Integration of the articles – showing how the articles build on one another (5 marks) Demonstration of how the articles fit into the broader context including at least an additional four references (5 marks) Conclusions/recommendations – sound arguments based on the articles coming to clear conclusions or recommendations (5 marks) Presentation including correct referencing, good structure and correct grammar and spelling (5 marks) Structure your paper. Use informative headings and sub-headings to guide the reader through your paper. Use one heading per theory and sub-headings if necessary. Create a table of contents from these headings and subheadings at the beginning of your paper. There is a function for this in WORD and if you are not familiar with it, now is the time to learn to use it. The table of contents does not comprise the 1,500 word limit.
• In order to write this paper you will need to do research, i.e. find empirical and theoretical research from peer reviewed journals. Analyse this research and demonstrate how it is relevant to the topic.
• You are expected to employ your critical and analytical skills in this essay. Avoid mere description or regurgitation and do not block-quote excessively. Both your observations and your use of other people’s writing should reflect this critical/analytical dimension. In sum, your intellectual input should be clearly discernible in the paper.
• You are not marked for your political or social views or opinions, but rather for your ability to present coherent, rational and logical arguments, properly supported by authority.
• You are also marked on your ability to express yourself clearly, logically and succinctly. Poor expression, grammar, punctuation and spelling will detract from your overall mark.
• Remember to include a reference list at the end of your assignment. Use the APA referencing style. The reference list should be a separate page at the end of the essay and is not included in the 1,500 word limit.
• Please note that your research effort, demonstrated by your engagement with the material you have found, analysed and implemented into your own writing (and properly referenced) will be the central pillar for the mark you will receive.
