What do tutors look for in written assignments? Effective Learning Service

Four Main Expectations of Tutors 1.Logical approach and clear structure 2.Effective use of sources 3.Sound reasoning, argument and analysis 4.Good presentation

1.Logical Approach and Clear Structure The tutor will look for evidence of planning and organisation of material in the assignment A good indicator of this is in the way the assignment is structured The tutor will look for a cascade of ideas: each paragraph or section focuses on a particular topic area, with a logical flow of ideas from one paragraph or section to the next.

2.Effective Use of Sources Tutors look for evidence of selective, relevant and independent reading on the topic - this may mean going outside the recommended reading list Accurate referencing of sources used as evidence is important

3.Sound Reasoning, Argument and Analysis This usually involves two levels of engagement with the subject: descriptive and analytical Descriptive: clear understanding of main theories, ideas, models or practices Analytical: going deeper into the topic, by, for example, looking for flaws in arguments, exceptions to the rule, and awareness of counter-arguments. It also about explaining and justifying any position you have taken in an assignment

4.Good Presentation The assignment looks good It is free of typographical, spelling and grammatical errors. The authentic voice of the writer emerges (style of writing); it is impossible for this to happen if students ‘copy & paste’ their way through their assignments

…and most important of all: Has the student engaged with the set topic or question? The most common fault in assignment writing is not focusing on, and engaging with, the set topic.