This document provides guidance on analyzing essay questions. It explains that essay questions aim to test a student's knowledge of a subject and their thinking and communication skills. It advises students to deconstruct the question by identifying the content, task, and limits. The document also discusses different types of academic tasks like explanation, interpretation, evaluation, and argumentation. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on answering the specific question, conducting wide and critical reading, and developing a logical argument supported by evidence. Analyzing the subject, angle, and process can help students develop a strong plan to answer the question effectively.
there are many types but here we discuss descriptive,narrative,argumentative and discursive writing and basic difference between descriptive and narrative ,difference between argumentative and discursive writing.
there are many types but here we discuss descriptive,narrative,argumentative and discursive writing and basic difference between descriptive and narrative ,difference between argumentative and discursive writing.
Presentation I made at the Language Center of the Faculty of Arts from San Marcos University on the topic of Critical Reading. This workshop was given together with Yony Cardenas, who was in charge of the part of Critical Thinking.
This is part of the follow up ELT Upgrade workshop Series which was organized by RELO Andes with the Support of U.S. Embassy, U.S. Department of State.
1. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RESUME AND CV
Maddali Laxmi Swetha, MBA (HR)
- http://maddaliswetha.blogspot.com
2. Resume Introduction:
A resume is a French word which means “summary” i.e. summary of a person’s work life.
3. What is resume?
Resume is the most common document that required from job applicants or the student who face Interview.
4. Resume Definition:
1. According to Wikipedia - A resume is a document used and created by a person to present their background, skills, and accomplishments.
2. It can be used for variety of reasons, but most often they are used to secure new employment.
5. What is CV?
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) defines as it is a long application document and may be contains 5 or 6 pages long.
2. It covers in-depth all information including Academic Background, Research Experience, Awards, Honors, Publications, Teaching, Volunteering Experience and Other Specific Accomplishments.
6. Types of resumes:
Chronological Resume: It is the most commonly used resume format among job seekers. This can be called as a reverse-chronological resume.
Functional Resume: It is a resume format where skills and achievements are the focal points.
Combination Resume: It looks like the skills-based functional resume format; a combination resume focuses on the applicant’s skills and abilities.
7. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Exact Meaning:
A document containing information related to individual's past qualification, experience, skills, competencies and achievements is known as a CV or Curriculum Vitae and a Resume is a document having details of an individual's education, work experience, competencies and previous job achievements.
8. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Type of Document: Curriculum Vitae are a Comprehensive. A Resume is concise.
9. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Length of the pages: Curriculum Vitae - 2 to 20 or more pages. A resume contain only 1 to 2 pages.
10. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Modification: Curriculum Vitae has no modification needed, it is same for all jobs. And a resume, it can be modified according to job description of a company.
11. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Education: It is mentioned at the top of the (Curriculum Vitae) CV. And a resume it is mentioned after experience.
12. Paper presentation made by Maddali Laxmi Swetha.
Maddali Swetha Blog -http://maddaliswetha.blogspot.com/
https://in.linkedin.com/in/maddali-swetha-a0a424a6
https://twitter.com/maddali_swetha
E-Mail ID: maddali_swetha@yahoo.com
13. THANK YOU
Web 2.0 and Medicine
http://web2097.blogspot.com
interesting presentation a found on the web about some helpful tips to make a personal statement
http://www.vanderbilt.edu/hpao/documents/Essay.ppt.
Major areas covered :
Communication Skills
Common Mistakes in English
Common Grammatical Errors in Writing
Punctuation
Review of Literature – How to Correct Errors in it.
Presentation I made at the Language Center of the Faculty of Arts from San Marcos University on the topic of Critical Reading. This workshop was given together with Yony Cardenas, who was in charge of the part of Critical Thinking.
This is part of the follow up ELT Upgrade workshop Series which was organized by RELO Andes with the Support of U.S. Embassy, U.S. Department of State.
1. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RESUME AND CV
Maddali Laxmi Swetha, MBA (HR)
- http://maddaliswetha.blogspot.com
2. Resume Introduction:
A resume is a French word which means “summary” i.e. summary of a person’s work life.
3. What is resume?
Resume is the most common document that required from job applicants or the student who face Interview.
4. Resume Definition:
1. According to Wikipedia - A resume is a document used and created by a person to present their background, skills, and accomplishments.
2. It can be used for variety of reasons, but most often they are used to secure new employment.
5. What is CV?
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) defines as it is a long application document and may be contains 5 or 6 pages long.
2. It covers in-depth all information including Academic Background, Research Experience, Awards, Honors, Publications, Teaching, Volunteering Experience and Other Specific Accomplishments.
6. Types of resumes:
Chronological Resume: It is the most commonly used resume format among job seekers. This can be called as a reverse-chronological resume.
Functional Resume: It is a resume format where skills and achievements are the focal points.
Combination Resume: It looks like the skills-based functional resume format; a combination resume focuses on the applicant’s skills and abilities.
7. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Exact Meaning:
A document containing information related to individual's past qualification, experience, skills, competencies and achievements is known as a CV or Curriculum Vitae and a Resume is a document having details of an individual's education, work experience, competencies and previous job achievements.
8. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Type of Document: Curriculum Vitae are a Comprehensive. A Resume is concise.
9. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Length of the pages: Curriculum Vitae - 2 to 20 or more pages. A resume contain only 1 to 2 pages.
10. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Modification: Curriculum Vitae has no modification needed, it is same for all jobs. And a resume, it can be modified according to job description of a company.
11. Difference between Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Resume:
Education: It is mentioned at the top of the (Curriculum Vitae) CV. And a resume it is mentioned after experience.
12. Paper presentation made by Maddali Laxmi Swetha.
Maddali Swetha Blog -http://maddaliswetha.blogspot.com/
https://in.linkedin.com/in/maddali-swetha-a0a424a6
https://twitter.com/maddali_swetha
E-Mail ID: maddali_swetha@yahoo.com
13. THANK YOU
Web 2.0 and Medicine
http://web2097.blogspot.com
interesting presentation a found on the web about some helpful tips to make a personal statement
http://www.vanderbilt.edu/hpao/documents/Essay.ppt.
Major areas covered :
Communication Skills
Common Mistakes in English
Common Grammatical Errors in Writing
Punctuation
Review of Literature – How to Correct Errors in it.
WRITING AN ANALYTIC ESSAY The analytic essay goes beyond .docxericbrooks84875
WRITING AN ANALYTIC ESSAY
The analytic essay goes beyond simple summary and description. Rather than telling the reader the
facts of the situation, the analytic essay demands that you examine information and evaluate it. Put
another way, the analytic essay does not simply ask what, where and when; it asks why and how.
High School Essays University-level Essays
�Topic often broad or general �In-depth analysis of focused topic
�Thesis must be stated in one sentence �Thesis indicates that the essay will explain and give
evidence for its claims, but no specific length
�Five-paragraph essay with three main points �No fixed format; the number of paragraphs depends
on the argument
�Introduction (with thesis statement), body, and
conclusion
�Introduction (with thesis statement), body, and
conclusion
Getting Started
The first step in writing an analytic essay is ensuring that you have read through the material critically
and carefully. It is important to know exactly what the author is saying and why. The second step is
ensuring that you understand the assignment and what you need to complete it.
1. Read the assignment prompt very carefully. Be aware of the differences between “consider,”
“explain,” and “evaluate.”
2. Select a topic and brainstorm around it. Try to come up with as many ideas as possible that
relate to the assignment.
3. Highlight the best ideas from opposing perspectives.
4. Decide which perspective you want to defend.
5. Develop a working thesis.
6. Identify the areas you will discuss in order to defend or explain your thesis, and what your point
will be with regard to each area.
Developing the Analysis
Once you have developed a working thesis and a list of points that need to be discussed, it is
important to assess whether your thesis is defensible and which points support it and which detract
from it.
1. Focus on quality, not quantity. There may be dozens of reasons that support your view. Pick
only the best.
2. Consider opposing viewpoints and possible reasons for defending them. Are any of these
reasons compelling? If so, why? If not, why not?
3. Revise and rethink your thesis as various arguments or interpretations emerge. You may have
to try different—even opposite—conclusions before you can be sure that your position is the
best one.
Structuring the Essay
There are many different ways to structure an analytic essay. Which structure is best depends on the
type of essay, the main goals of the essay and the discipline for which it is written. Here are some
examples of alternative structures:
Introduction (Including thesis
statement)
Main Position
Alternative Perspectives
A
B
C
Defense of Main Position
A
B
C
Conclusion
Introduction (Including thesis statement)
Alternative Perspectives
A
B
C
Reasons why Alternative Perspectives are
Wrong
A
.
Writing Assignment Illustration Essay You are required to s.docxbillylewis37150
Writing Assignment: Illustration Essay
You are required to submit the FINAL copy of this assignment, but you may first submit an optional
DRAFT. This will allow you to receive qualitative feedback that can inform your revision. You should
always avoid focusing solely on the grader’s DRAFT feedback; use the feedback as a supplement to the
course lessons and your own revision ideas. Always expect to revise beyond what the DRAFT grader
specifically notes.
In short, an illustration essay will use clear, interesting examples to show, explain, and
support a thesis statement (remember, your thesis is your main argument, or the main
point you’re trying to make). One key to an effective illustration essay is to use enough
details and specific examples to make your point effectively. In other words, descriptive
writing is key.
You have several options for this assignment, so you will need to choose one:
Illustrate the ideal work environment. If everything was perfect at work, what would
it be like? Describe everything in this environment—perhaps from the dispositions of
your coworkers and supervisors to what clothes you wear to work.
Illustrate what it means to be a “true friend.” What does being a “true friend” mean
to you? What “true friends” have you had, and how do their actions coincide with
being your definition of a “true friend?”
Illustrate how your favorite team or player received their current standing or
ranking. How did the team or player do in the most recent season? What qualities did
this team or player demonstrate to earn this ranking?
Look at your favorite poem or short story, and use illustration to explain what
makes it your favorite. Do you enjoy the author’s language? Do you enjoy the
storyline? What else do you enjoy that makes it your favorite?
Illustrate the purpose of props on the set of your favorite media production. What
props are there? Why are they important?
Illustrate how to create your favorite dish. What steps are required to create this
dish? Be sure that you take your audience through this process step by step!
Illustrate how to play your favorite game. What steps and/or actions are necessary
to play this game? Take your readers through the motions, step by step.
The questions above are designed to help you begin brainstorming ideas; however, you are
free to develop your own brainstorming questions and use them to develop your essay.
Since the purpose of this essay is to illustrate, you should have enough specific details and
examples for your essay to be considered an illustration essay.
Many illustrations may come from your personal experiences. However, even personal
experiences should be supported by research in college essays. Thus, you must cite at least
one credible1 source to earn maximum credit for this essay. This resource from the course
1 Please note: Basic dictionary s.
Communications: Writing a critical reflectionRoy Hanney
A presentation given on a communications theory course for journalism students at Zhejiang University of Media and Communications. A generic slide deck that aims to introduce a reflective writing assignment and give the students an experience of reflective writing. It really needs an exampe of reflective writing but alas I dont have one. Adapted from a slide deck by: Linda Macdonald PhD, The Dalhousie Writing Centre. http://www.slideshare.net/dalwritingcentre/critical-reflective-writing
How to use this template To use this template, replace the inst.docxwellesleyterresa
How to use this template:
To use this template, replace the instructions written in italic font with your own discussion text. Be sure to proofread your work and check it for completeness and accuracy. Delete any extra text/instructions/references that do not apply to your post. Then, copy your work and paste it into the discussion window in class.Week 1, Discussion 1: Initial Post
My personal communication style is…(Here, you should talk about the “reflect” part of the prompt. You can share your personal verbal style, writing style, and any concerns you have about your ability to develop a truly academic argument in this class.)
I have learned that an academic argument is…(Here, you should describe an academic argument in your own words, based upon the items you read in preparation for this discussion. Remember to describe the four basic elements of an argument.)
A recent argument that I experienced was…(Or, if you do not wish to outline an argument from your personal experience, describe the argument presented in the sample paper. Be sure to identify the four basic elements of the argument, whether analyzing one from your experience or the student paper.)
After reading the course materials, I have questions about…(Be sure to clearly state any questions or confusion you have regarding rhetoric, argument, or styles of argument. Your classmates can help you find the answers throughout the week.)
References
(If you reference the textbook, instructor guidance, or handout – which you should – be sure to cite them in-text and add the references to the end of your post. We are learning to master APA style in this class and this is a perfect opportunity to begin your practice. Remember: only items cited in-text should be listed as a reference. For more information: https://awc.ashford.edu/cd-in-text-citation-guide.html & https://awc.ashford.edu/cd-apa-reference-models.html)
Drown, E., & Sole, K. (2013). Writing college research papers (2nd ed.). San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc.
Flag Burning. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://cdmsmedia.bridgepointeducation.com/MediaService/MediaService.svc/constellation/book/AUWC.12.4/%7Bhandouts%7Da.8_sample_argument_paper.pdf
Garten, A. (n.d.). ENG122 week 1 Instructor guidance [Course materials].
Garten, A., & Wilson, J. (2014). An Introduction to Argument [PDF]. College of Liberal Arts, Ashford University, San Diego, CA.
ENG122: Composition II
An Introduction to Argument
P a g e | 1
English 122: Composition II
An Introduction to Argument
Argument and Rhetoric
An argument can take many forms. An academic argument, at its root, a method for
communicating a singular position with evidence, logic, and persuasion. There are essential
elements to all valid arguments, though they may take different forms.
1. Claim
2. Evidence
3. Counterargument
4. Rebuttal
A successful argument depends upon the delicate balance
between these elements. Imagine a teeter-totter at the
playground. The ...
2024.06.01 Introducing a competency framework for languag learning materials ...Sandy Millin
http://sandymillin.wordpress.com/iateflwebinar2024
Published classroom materials form the basis of syllabuses, drive teacher professional development, and have a potentially huge influence on learners, teachers and education systems. All teachers also create their own materials, whether a few sentences on a blackboard, a highly-structured fully-realised online course, or anything in between. Despite this, the knowledge and skills needed to create effective language learning materials are rarely part of teacher training, and are mostly learnt by trial and error.
Knowledge and skills frameworks, generally called competency frameworks, for ELT teachers, trainers and managers have existed for a few years now. However, until I created one for my MA dissertation, there wasn’t one drawing together what we need to know and do to be able to effectively produce language learning materials.
This webinar will introduce you to my framework, highlighting the key competencies I identified from my research. It will also show how anybody involved in language teaching (any language, not just English!), teacher training, managing schools or developing language learning materials can benefit from using the framework.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
Welcome to TechSoup New Member Orientation and Q&A (May 2024).pdfTechSoup
In this webinar you will learn how your organization can access TechSoup's wide variety of product discount and donation programs. From hardware to software, we'll give you a tour of the tools available to help your nonprofit with productivity, collaboration, financial management, donor tracking, security, and more.
A Strategic Approach: GenAI in EducationPeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
How to Make a Field invisible in Odoo 17Celine George
It is possible to hide or invisible some fields in odoo. Commonly using “invisible” attribute in the field definition to invisible the fields. This slide will show how to make a field invisible in odoo 17.
Introduction to AI for Nonprofits with Tapp NetworkTechSoup
Dive into the world of AI! Experts Jon Hill and Tareq Monaur will guide you through AI's role in enhancing nonprofit websites and basic marketing strategies, making it easy to understand and apply.
Unit 8 - Information and Communication Technology (Paper I).pdfThiyagu K
This slides describes the basic concepts of ICT, basics of Email, Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives in Education. This presentations aligns with the UGC Paper I syllabus.
Embracing GenAI - A Strategic ImperativePeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
2. What do markers want when setting essays?
No matter what course you are doing, it's
designed with two specific goals in mind:
to show knowledge of a particular subject
to show your skills in thinking and
communication.
3. Introduction
Common criteria of undergraduate essay writing focus on the
following requirements:
students need to be analytical and critical in their response
students need to structure their writing logically
students need to be persuasive writers
students need to answer the question
4. Essay Questions
Set questions are usually written in order to judge
your ability to understand a topic or theme, and
to relate general ideas to specific applications (or
vice versa).
In order to demonstrate that you can do these
things you must be able to:
correctly identify the focus of the question
deal with it consistently and within the terms of
the essay and discipline
That is, you must answer the set question.
5. Exercise 1
First year students were asked to write an essay on the
following question:
“The science of ergonomics is central to good
modern design.” Discuss this statement.
About half of the group wrote essays that answered this question
appropriately. The other half wrote essays which really answered other
questions. Read the essay extracts below and match each essay extract
with the question it appears to be answering. Write the letters a) - d) in
the boxes.
6. Essay extracts:
a)Ergonomics is important in design as it can cut down workloads and
the energy needed to perform a task.
b)During the industrial revolution, the word "ergonomics" had a rather
negative implication about it. .... However, the word has taken on a
different meaning through time.
c)Whilst the statement seems straight forward enough I take issue with
the words "modern" and "good".
d)If we were to design a chair we should have an understanding of the
purpose of the chair - will it be used for work or just to sit on and eat.
Essay questions:
[ ] Discuss the wording of this question.
[ ] Why is ergonomics important?
[ ] Describe an ergonomically designed object.
[ ] What is ergonomics?
7. Extracts Questions
Ergonomics is important in design as it Why is ergonomics important?
can cut down workloads and the energy (i.e. some students gave reasons why
needed to perform a task. ergonomics is important.)
During the industrial revolution, the word What is ergonomics?
"ergonomics" had a rather negative (i.e. some students defined the
implication about it. .... However, the term.)
word has taken on a different meaning
through time.
Whilst the statement seems straight Discuss the wording of this
forward enough I take issue with the question.
words "modern" and "good". (i.e. some students criticised the
wording of the question.)
If we were to design a chair we should Describe an ergonomically designed
have an understanding of the purpose of object.
the chair - will it be used for work or just (i.e. some students described an
to sit on and eat. ergonomic object - usually a chair.)
8. There may also be some sections of your essay where you
will write descriptively. However, most disciplines,
especially in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, will
set essay questions that involve the process of analysis.
Analysis is the process of
•breaking down a topic/concept/group of facts into components or
categories
•looking for relationships between them
•understanding how each component contributes to the whole picture
•drawing conclusions about their significance
9. For example, an essay question such as
“How does play contribute to the development of the primary school-aged child? ”
(Education)
requires you to:
•understand what is meant by the two key concepts of play and development
•identify different types of play, for example, board games, group games, solitary play,
imaginative play, ...
•organise these different types of play into logical groupings or categories for your discussion,
for example, inside versus outside play, group versus solitary play, organised versus
spontaneous play and so on
•identify different areas of development, for example, social, cognitive, emotional, physical,
language and psychological development and so on
•then by referring to the research literature show how (= in what ways) the different
categories of play contribute to different areas of development.
10. Essay questions requiring analysis may also involve some (or
all) of the following processes.
PROCESS/TYPE PURPOSE
EXPLANATION to offer explanation on why things happen
INTERPRETATION to look at assumptions/ information in terms of
key/ model/ framework
EVALUATION to present and justify a value judgement about
certain information
ARGUMENTATION to take and justify a position on some issue/
debate
Adapted from Martin, J. R. & Peters, P. [1985] "On the analysis of exposition" in Hasan, R. (Ed) Discourse on Discourse, ALAA Occasional
Papers, No. 7, p. 88.)
11. Explanation
Why was the early 19th century so important for the development of
archaeology?(Archaeology)
This essay question assumes that the 19th century was very
important in the development of archaeology and is asking you
to explain why it was so important, and to give your reasons for
each of the points made or issues raised.
12. Interpretation
'Jemma (aged 14 years) fights a lot with her parents but not with
her friends. She used to be a keen student but now seems to have
lost interest in both her school studies (she wants to leave school
next year) and outside school activities. She does however take a
passionate interest in the environment and in boys.‘
Interpret these behaviours in the light of Erikson's stage theory on
adolesence. (Education)
This essay question is asking you to interpret particular behaviours
in a brief case study of an adolescent in terms of Erikson's theory
on adolescence.
13. Evaluation
Evaluate the role of J.S.Mills in the transition from Classical,
Political Economy to Modern Economics, with particular reference
to value and distribution. (Economics)
This essay question is asking you to make a judgement
on the contribution made by J.S.Mills giving the reasons
for your judgement. By making a judgement you are also
taking a position - that he played a major role or a minor
one.
14. Argumentation
Nursing practice has been crucial in preventing the spread of
disease. Do you agree?(Nursing)
This essay question is asking you to discuss the relationship
between nursing practice and the prevention of the spread of
disease. You would select and show how different examples of
nursing practices have prevented the spread of disease/s and you
would take a position on this relationship, i.e. that nursing
practice has been crucial or has not been crucial in preventing the
spread of disease.
15. Look closely at what you are being asked to
do in your
assignment
(Deconstructing the Question):
There are:
������ ‘content’ words
������ ‘task’ words
������ ‘limit’ words and
������ The Assignment Structure
16. Definitions:
The content words tell you the subject matter of the essay
question;
The task words set out the academic action you must
undertake;
The limit words are those that tell you the boundaries of
the essay;
The Assignment structure tells you what type of writing you
should produce (Academic Action): essay; report; critical
review; literature review; reflective journal; portfolio and case
Study.
18. Analysis in Action
For example, look closely at the following question:
Discuss the effects of the 2000 Olympic Games on
Australia’s international reputation (2500 word essay)
In this question:
������ The assignment structure is ‘essay’ – the format of the
writing
������ The content words are ‘the effects of the 2000 Olympic
Games’ and
‘Australia’s international reputation’— the subject matter
������ The limit words are - ‘2000 Olympic Games’ and
‘2500’words;
������ ‘discuss’ is the task (direction)
19. Your Turn
������ Try out your analysis skills with a partner:
Present a written argument or case on the following
statement.
The internet will bring about a new freedom of information
and so narrow the technology gap between developed and
developing countries.
Using the above essay topic, divide it into its various parts:
������ Decide what the assignment structure is likely to be.
������ Highlight the content words.
������ Circle the direction word.
������ Put square brackets around the limits of the topic.
20. Summary
Deconstructing the question guides your writing in terms of what the
assignment is asking of you (as well as setting limits to what you do):
You should:
������ Identify the key points and note them down
Ask yourself:
������ What specific material needs to be addressed?
������ What specific issues need to be explored?
������ What commentators and theories are particularly relevant?
������ What questions need to be considered?
21. Consider this question from a first year International
Relations course:
What is the “world food crisis”? What are the
political causes of it and what might be the political
responses to it? (2,000 words)
While you are reading the following section on
subject, angle and process,
think about how they apply to the question above.
22. Subject/angle/process
Analysing the question in terms of subject/angle/process helps you
identify the task in preparation to developing a plan.
• The subject of your essay is the broad field or topic - it is the “what”
your topic is about: ask yourself, “What do I have to demonstrate
knowledge about?”
• The angle of your essay is the controversy or debate that is at the
heart of the subject - “why” you should examine this topic: ask yourself,
“What questions do I have to answer?”
• The process is the “how” your essay is going to proceed in answering
the “what” and the “why”: ask yourself, “How should I answer?”
The process is the way in which you demonstrate your academic point
of view, using evidence to develop your answer to the question.
23. If you look at the handout "What do markers want in an essay?" you'll
notice that -
the "subject" above corresponds to the “focus,"
the "angle" corresponds to the “wide and critical reading,” and
the "process" corresponds to the “argument.“
In the essay question above, the subject is the “world food crisis.” In this
question, the angle for International Relations is to identify what the
“world food crisis” is, the political causes of it and the possible political
responses to it.
The process involves explaining the politics of trade and the inequalities
of wealth, and some suggestion of how these might be overcome.
Now you are in a position (though this will adapt and evolve) to develop
an argument: ask yourself, “What do I want to persuade (with evidence)
the reader to think?”
24. The first point is about the subject matter: if you are studying commerce, you will learn the
significance of a debt to equity ratio and how to read a company’s financial statements.
The second point is more complicated: these skills in thinking and communication are often not
acknowledged explicitly in your courses, but improving these skills is fundamental to successful
university study.
In developing your knowledge about the subject - whatever subject it is - you will need to:
develop reading skills to order, test and evaluate ideas and evidence,
assess the relationships of these ideas to other ideas and evidence, and
formulate questions about these ideas and evidence
become an increasingly independent learner
develop a nuanced, coherent position which can be substantiated with evidence
develop a questioning and academically critical mind
learn writing and communication skills in order to express your position with clarity
and precision.
With this list in mind, markers assess your ability as it is demonstrated in your assignment. This
assessment can be considered as four areas of competence: focus, wide and critical reading,
argument, and presentation.
25. Focus
In order to demonstrate your questioning and critical mind, it is
expected that your essay focuses clearly on the issues of the
question you have been given.
This involves several tasks:
•understanding the question(s) or task(s) you have been
given: what knowledge or skill are you being required to
demonstrate?
•identifying relationships between ideas: are these ideas in
opposition with each other, in support of each other, or
somewhere in between?
•what, in a nutshell, are the most significant elements that
you explore to answer the question?
26. Wide and critical reading
Of all the skills developed at university, reading is perhaps the most important.
Reading widely - from a variety of sources, authors and points of view - enables you to
understand the spectrum of points of view relevant to the topic.
Whatever the topic, it's likely that there is a range of views which take different positions,
contradict each other, support each other, use alternative evidence, refute the positions of
others and so on. As you read widely, your ideas will be tested, your assumptions may be
made clearer to you, and this will help you to develop a coherent argument for your essay.
Reading “critically” means reading for strengths and weaknesses to gain a deeper
understanding of a point of view rather than necessarily accepting the writer’s position. Ask
yourself:
•what is the writer’s argument?
•what evidence is used to substantiate the argument?
•what are the limitations to the argument?
•what are the assumptions used by the writer?
•what evidence might refute or question the writer’s argument?
•how does this writer’s argument relate to other arguments?
27. Argument
The “argument” in this sense is not a dispute.
Your argument is a combination of
reason,
analysis and
evidence
constructed coherently and logically,
intended to persuade the reader to this position.
The argument of your essay is your answer to the
question and is a demonstration of your academic point
of view.
28. A reasoned argument requires:
•coherence: its parts fit logically together; the argument
announced in your introduction develops through your
paragraphs and is confirmed in your conclusion.
•explanation: background, theories, specialist terminology,
evidence and conclusions are clearly identified and framed
so that the reader gains a better understanding of the topic.
•evidence: examples, source documents, the arguments of
others and results of experiments from your wide and critical
reading are explored so that they explain, support and
develop your point of view, or refute the point of view of
others.
•reason: logical connections are made between actions or
phenomena and results or implications, so that the reader
better comprehends your argument.
29. Argument is the key to a successful essay, but it is important to
realise that your argument relies on the focus of your essay, the
wide and critical reading you demonstrate, and the presentation
of your essay.
30. PROBLEMS/SOLUTIONS
Living in a foreign country can be fun and
exciting, but it can also be problematic. One
of the most serious problems that people
living in a foreign country face is culture
shock. What ways can you think of to help
people deal with this problem?
31. Culture Shock
Frustration, anxiety and stress occur whenever people can’t do all the things they are
accustomed to doing in their everyday lives.
Problem Communication – language – friendship ; Environment
– bigger/smaller; weather; ways of dressing ;
Transport ; Shopping ; Food ; Money problems
Accommodation ; Values – religion, moral behaviour,
Solution
justice
Learn the way your hosts do things from as simple as shaking hands to
what is taboo ; Be more flexible in your thinking ; Join as many
different groups that will allow you to mix and form friendships ; be
prepared to open up to new experience at least once to broaden your
outlook ; be prepared but if not learn quickly ; become familiar with
your surroundings ; expect and learn to cope with teasing and ridicule ;
talk with people who have “been there, done that” ; meet someone
local who can guide you through the problems that may arise ; try
talking to counsellors and teachers.
32. Understanding the Question Example 2
Present a written argument or case to an educated reader
with no specialist knowledge of the following topic:
We live in a technological age. However, technology
cannnot solve all the world’s problems. Therefore some
people argue that we need to place less emphasis on
technological solutions and more on other values.
• To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
opinion?
• You should use your own ideas, knowledge and
experience to support your arguments with examples
and relevant evidence.
33. Understanding the Question Example 2
The first part of the instruction makes it clear that
a) you need to present a serious argument in a formal style (for an 'educated
reader')
b) you are not being tested on your deep knowledge or understanding of the
subject ('with no specialist knowledge').
The last part of the instruction offers a suggestion about what to include.
('You
should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience to support your
arguments
with examples and relevant evidence.')
Now let us look at the question itself.
This also has two components:
a) the description of the topic, which is usually expressed as a point
of view on a current situation and
b) a question asking you what your opinion is.
34. Understanding the Question Example 2
Part a) is generally expressed in 1 to 3 sentences. One or
two sentences may present a statement or a question
about a situation: (’We live in a technological age, but
technology cannot solve all our problems').
The second part will probably present a conclusion that
some people draw from this situation ('therefore we
should place less emphasis on technology and more on
other values'). This is designed to help you to think about
the contents.
Part b) asks the question. This may be phrased as to what
extent do you agree? or
what is your opinion? or do you agree with this? or
words to that effect.
35. Understanding the Question Example 2
Now what is your task?
a) to present both sides of the argument?
b) to either strongly support or strongly oppose the argument, depending on
your own personal opinion?
c) to partly support or partly oppose the argument, depending on your
own personal opinion?
The correct answer is either b) or c).
The words to what extent mean the same as how much. That is, your
answer will express one of these attitudes:
a) I agree completely
b) I agree partly and disagree partly
c) I disagree completely.
We live in a technological age. However, technology cannnot solve all the world’s
problems. Therefore some people argue that we need to place less emphasis on
technological solutions and more on other values.
36. Finding the Focus
a) Many people believe that the Internet is the most revolutionary
new invention of the last century. Do you agree?
b) The Internet has revolutionized the modern world, but many
people argue that it has also created new problems and inequalities.
What is your opinion?
c) The Internet could revolutionize the world in future, if everyone
could have easy access to all the information that is available on
the World Wide Web. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
37. Finding the Focus
Each question has a topic of the internet and its role in the
world.However each must be answered differently. How?
a) Many people believe that the Internet is the most revolutionary
new invention of the last century. Do you agree?
b) The Internet has revolutionized the modern world, but many
people argue that it has also created new problems and inequalities.
What is your opinion?
c) The Internet could revolutionize the world in future, if everyone
could have easy access to all the information that is available on
the World Wide Web. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
38. You can see that
a) involves comparing the Internet with other
inventions, and arguing that it is, or is not, the
most revolutionary.
On the other hand
b) expects you to accept that it is revolutionary,
and to consider both its benefits and the
problems it has created.
Finally
c) wants you to speculate about the future, and
to consider how much you believe the future
benefits will change the world.
39. Which of the following basically ask the same question. (In each case the statement would be followed by
a question asking for your opinion.)
a)Tertiary education is of greater benefit to the individual receiving it than to the society as a
whole. It is therefore not desirable for governments to spend the taxpayers' money on
supporting students just so that they can earn more money in future.
b) Parents have a greater influence on their children’s future success than schools do.
Governments should therefore provide ‘parent training courses’ rather than 'teacher training
courses'.
c) Free tertiary education is essential for every country since tertiary graduates are the only
qualified and educated people that can help countries to progress in the modern world.
d) Education is the most important source of children’s development, no matter what their
background, if children have good schools and teachers they can progress. Governments should
therefore put their major resources into school education.
e) Modern science and technology can solve environmental problems, such as pollution and
global warming, if we apply enough resources to research.
f) People throughout the world are ignoring the dangers of environmental pollution and of
global warming in the hope that science and technology can find solutions. This is not true. We
all need to take responsibility for the damage we are causing and must change our life-styles.
40. TASK ANSWERS:
a)and c) ask the same question, but from
opposing ends;
b ) and d) both compare the role of the home
and the school in education;
e ) and f) deal with the same question from
opposing ends