This annotated bibliography can be thought of as a component of the research essay. The first thing this task requires you to do is select a question to focus on for both this task and the research essay. Make sure that you have a look at both tasks before selecting an option.

Annotated bibliographies are important research tools that provide us with a record of the sources that we have examined over the course of a research project. So, what is an annotated bibliography? An annotated bibliography is an organised list of sources, each of which is followed by a brief note or ‘annotation’ of about 250 words (in this case).

These annotations should seek to do two or more of the following:

• briefly describe the content and focus of the source (this is crucial, but please do not just do this)
• comment on the position it takes on the policy
• comment on the methods used in the source
• evaluate the source’s methods and conclusions
• record your reactions to the source.

An annotated bibliography summarises to a large extent the core argument of several sources. The first step is to describe the work and its topic. In this part, you will repeat the author's ideas, not your own. Please avoid providing an overview of the source's layout - make sure that you are focused on outlining and explaining the main ideas.

Previous sources can themselves provide us with access to other relevant sources. So, you should also identify up to 3 cross-references from each source, which requires you to search the reference list for other sources of interest and to write down their citations. Choose the most relevant sources. If you have any queries about this, ask the unit convenor. 

For this annotated bibliography, you need to collect 10 references that are relevant to the essay question that you have selected. You should provide an annotation for three references. When choosing the other sources, keep in mind that academic sources are preferred and that you will need a range of sources.

N.B. You do not have to write an annotation for each source in the reference list.

You need to select one of the required readings from Week 3, 4, 5 or 6. Provide an overview of the reading: what are the key points made and what is the overall argument? How does the author support their arguments? Then provide a short critique of the piece drawing on other readings from that or other weeks.

Keep in mind that 'being critical' does not mean you need to dismiss the original argument, just that you should consider key criticisms that have been made or how the argument fits with other issues raised by other authors. You should end with a brief conclusion identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the article.

Remember this is not a research essay. The aim is to look at one argument in detail. You do not need many references (3 or 4 from the list is adequate, including the reading itself). You might choose to cite a reference that is not from the list of readings. The list is simply a guide, but you are not expected to undertake wide-reaching independent research for this task.

This individual research task tests your ability to apply concepts taught in the unit to the essay question, your ability to find and use good evidence, and your skills and efforts as a writer. You are required to provide a critical response to ONE of the essay questions that will be made available on iLearn from week 7 (watch this space). These questions will relate to the broad themes of social inequality and social policy that are central to this course.

This assignment should be written in the format of an academic essay, with a clearly defined introduction, body and conclusion. It should be written in paragraphs and double-spaced. You also need to write clearly and use formal language. Take care to use jargon appropriately. 

This is a research assignment. Course materials should be your starting point. But, you are expected to draw on readings and material beyond course readings. This should include some of the material listed as 'additional readings' and also include other material you identify yourself. All material should be properly referenced, preferably using the Harvard style of referencing. Please do not draw directly on lecture notes (rather consult the sources that they draw on).

More information will be provided on the course iLearn page over the semester.

The weekly workshops are compulsory. To meet the requirements of this course, you are required to attend at least 80 per cent of workshops. In addition to attending, you are also expected to actively participate. As an incentive, 10 percent of your final mark will be awarded for your attendance and your participation. We will look for evidence that you have done the readings and your ability to engage respectfully with other students.