Assignment 3 – Essay Formatting and Structure
Length: 1500 words (± 10%) excluding in-text citations and reference list
Format
The essay must be in essay format (not report format) – this means complete sentences and paragraphs and NO dot points, headings or subheadings.
You must reference all your sources within the text and ensure they all appear at the end of your essay in the reference list. You may choose Harvard or APA referencing style for your in-text citations and the reference list. Follow one of these conventions consistently. Check out the referencing requirements for these referencing styles on Learning@Griffith.
Your essay should also be formatted as follows:
• 12 point font
• Double spaced
• Please type below your assignment heading on the first page the word count with your tutor’s name.
References
You are required to use at least 10 (post 2000) academic references of your choice from peer reviewed academic journal articles and /or the prescribed textbook, to support your answer. A number of peer reviewed articles have been provided for you to reference if you wish (see Assessments – Essay Plan – Additional Readings). In addition to the 10 academic sources you may also cite additional references from other reputable sources, including business magazines and Web sites.
If you are in doubt as to whether a particular journal is academic and peer reviewed you can find out by contacting the Library. If you require advice on how to identify suitable journal articles you should contact your assigned tutor.
It is recommended that you use the library catalogue search to access journal articles. You may also find Google and other search tools useful.
Essay structure:
You should follow the structure and approximate word count as indicated below (see also Assessments, Assignment 2, Essay Plan- Advice on Constructing your Essay Plan and Essay ):
Introduction
An introduction in papers of this length is usually only one or two short paragraphs – approximately 15-20% of the word count.
Body
In the body of the essay allocate one paragraph of around 5-6 sentences for each key point you wish to make, and support the point with one or more academic references.
The body of the essay should constitute approximately 60-70% of the word count.
Conclusion
The conclusion should comprise one paragraph of 5-6 sentences – around 10-15% of the word count
Note: You may paraphrase ideas from referenced sources but you should not use direct quotations from referenced sources in your essay.
