High Distinction

(85-100)

Distinction

(75-84)

Credit

(65-74)

Pass

(50-64)

Fail

(0-49)

Conceptual

Demonstrates a clear understanding of the topic and links this ides to related or contrasting concepts. Examples used clearly and effectively link to this central idea, and may address wider debates. Examples may be linked together to develop secondary arguments.

Demonstrates a clear understanding of the topic, and may link this idea to related or contrasting concepts or arguments.

Demonstrates a clear understanding of the topic. Most examples chosen illustrate this idea effectively, although there may be some points where links could be clearer.

Shows a fair understanding of the topic but includes some errors or vagueness. Case studies or examples may generally link to the idea, but not illustrate it effectively or may lead to confusion.

May include major misunderstandings of the topic. There may be no examples or the examples chosen may not relate to key ideas.

Sources

Identifies and effectively uses appropriate sources, including some found independently of convenor’s help. May use a number of sources. Shows an understanding of the differences and similarities between the sources used.

Identifies and effectively uses appropriate sources. Demonstrates effort to move beyond texts set for class.

Identifies and uses appropriate sources. These may be restricted to those suggested by convenor.

Identifies and uses at least some appropriate sources. These may be restricted to those suggested by convenor. The assignment may draw on only one main source.

Shows little evidence of reading or research. The assignment may rely primarily on lectures.

Communication

Strategy for communicating ideas reveals imagination, flair, ambition or possibly perspectives drawn from other units or outside interests. Case studies or examples are innovative and original.

Clear evidence of having thought carefully about a strategy for communicating ideas. Case studies or examples are innovative and/or effectively developed.

Evidence of a considered strategy for communicating ideas, although this strategy may not be entirely effective. Case studies or examples are thoughtfully selected.

There may be evidence of having thought about a strategy for communicating ideas but this strategy may not be particularly effective. At the lower end of the pass range, case studies or examples may be primarily drawn from materials provided by the tutor or lecturer.

Little evidence of thought about the appropriate communication strategies. The work may be rushed with little evidence of planning. Case studies may be topical but are not connected to issues or debates within the discipline.

Style and Referencing

Dynamically written, well proofread and fluently written – a pleasure to read. Full and accurate referencing.

Fluently written and well proofread. Full and accurate referencing.

Clearly written with complete referencing but may have some minor errors.

Generally clearly written but may include some unclear passages or hyperbole. Fairly complete referencing but may have some errors in ordering of information or some minor pieces of missing information.

Poorly written, incoherent, showing little evidence of proofreading. Little or no referencing.