Construction of argument - Introduction

Information

Organisation

This section is divided into two modules, to represent two stages of the process you will need to go through when constructing your argument

  • Construction of argument 1 takes you from your notes to an initial plan
  • Construction of argument 2 covers structure and argumentation

The editing process is covered in the next Module, where the focus is on 'Relevance'.

While you work through these pages, please remember that we do not expect you to go from stage 1 to stage 2 and then you are done! This is relatively easy to accomplish with a shorter, more straightforward essay, but the more you think about and engage with the material, the more likely you are to go back and revise your plan and redraft sections of your essay. This is normal! And your essay will end up all the better for it.


Construction of argument - Grade boundaries

Grade Boundaries

First (70-79)

2:1 (60-69) 2:2 (50-59) Third (40-49)

Very sound skills. Room for disagreement on strength of evidence or conclusions

Argues in an assured and orderly way, with clear development.  Shows some understanding of methodology

 

Presents the general outline of an appropriate argument

 

Presents some elements of an appropriate argument.

 

 

Points for reflection

  • From the table above, we can see the key points to consider when assessing your own work
  • What do you understand from these descriptions about the development from a Third, through Second class, to a First class essay?
  • What do you need to do to up your game?