Conclusions should be obvious to the reader; clear, plainly expressed and consistent
Conclusions should result from coherent, logically sequenced reasoning that is easily followed
Reasoned: providing plausible and supported arguments and/or explanations .
Supported: conclusions should substantiated by reasoning and/or corroborated by facts. Conclusions should not be based on assumption
When necessary, conclusions should acknowledge the tentative nature of findings
Plagiarism is stealing . It is OK to use the ideas of others but their work needs to be acknowledged.
The reader needs to be able to check where this work is coming from.
In a prepared document direct quotations and paraphrased material should be cited in-text. A reference list is included at the end.
Be consistent and follow one referencing convention.
There are different conventions for referencing. The referencing guide suggested by the school is appropriate but be open to other conventions too.
In an exam or test, quotations committed to memory or paraphrased, can be very effective when used to substantiate a point. In these situations a simplified in-text referencing system is sufficient - cite the author or the title of the publication.
Integrate: to combine parts into a consistent whole.
Appropriate: the quality of evidence depends to some degree on how it is used - quotations or paraphrased material should fit the context of the argument, eg.
Religion is a major part of society and it therefore should be studied in many ways. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to studying religion from a sociological perspective.
One advantage to studying religion as part of society is that it can highlight the benefits of religion to society. This can help society and religion cooperate in mutually beneficial ways.
Source A argues that society needs religion for survival to engender cooperation in a community and to give it a reason for existence. Source B supports this view 6y arguing that religion, as a 6e{ief system, is an institution that supports society. Durkheim (Source B) sees religion as a too, to unify society as it creates cohesion and a sense of belonging. Max We66er (Source C) supports this view. He sees religion asa support to other social institutions and even a benefit to the economy. If religion is vital to society then freedom of religion is a necessary condition.
An essay requires:
Introduction: an introduction is not an overview of all that you know. An effective introduction:
Paragraphs: an essay consists of a series of connected paragraphs that logically develop the thesis. Paragraphs
Conclusion: a conclusion:
In the case of short answer questions, space should not be wasted on an extended introduction - get to the point!
Outline: If a question asks for an outline, the response gives an overview or 'sketch' in general terms.
Explain: If a question asks for an explanation, the response sets out, in a logical form, cause and effect.
Discuss: If a question asks for a discussion, the response starts with a statement and presents the points that need to be made about the statement. This can be done in a paragraph or a full essay.