| | Hard Fail (0-34) | Fail (35-39) | Soft Fail (40-49) | Pass (50-64) | Credit (64-74) | Distinction (75-84) | High Distinction (85-100) |
| Knowledge (20%) | Shows inadequate knowledge of the topic to meet learning outcomes | Signs of emerging but insufficient knowledge of the topic | Shows basic but limited knowledge of the topic | Shows relevant knowledge of the topic | Shows evidence of relevant and sound knowledge and understanding of the topic | Shows thorough knowledge and understanding of the topic, with evidence of reading beyond the key texts | As for distinction, plus demonstrates exceptional comprehension of topic |
| Analysis (20%) | Descriptive and uncritical. Some discussion irrelevant to the title | Essay is generally descriptive and uncritical. Some inaccuracy in the material | The essay is limited to description and includes frequent unsupported facts and opinions | The essay is largely descriptive with some discussion using ideas and principles introduced in the module | Shows evidence of analysis using ideas and principles introduced in the module | Essay shows a resourceful and imaginative analysis using ideas and principles beyond those introduced in the module | As for distinction, plus sophisticated analysis using ideas and principles beyond those introduced in the module |
| Reflection (20%) | Shows no reflection on decisions taken and resulting outcomes | Inadequate reflection on decisions taken and resulting outcomes | Basic but still insufficient reflection on decisions taken and resulting outcomes | Relevant reflection on decisions taken and resulting outcomes | Good reflection on decisions taken and resulting outcomes | Thorough reflection on decisions taken and resulting outcomes | Outstanding reflection on decisions taken and resulting outcomes |
| Sources (10%) | Poor use of sources. Poor or incorrect referencing | Some use of very limited sources, although fairly superficial. Inaccurate referencing | Use made of a limited range of sources. Largely accurate referencing | Effective use of key sources. Accurate referencing | Essay well informed by sources that go beyond key texts. Accurate referencing | Clear evidence of wide and relevant sources. Accurate referencing | Essay fully supported by references of up-to-date sources. Accurate referencing |
| Structure (20%) | Little evidence of planning the essay | Some structure although key elements may be omitted. Some repetition | Evidence of some structure relevant to the title | Structure supports the discussion and argument | Structure is clear and supports coherent discussion and argument | Clear structure which enhances the discussion and argument | As for distinction, plus demonstrates published material standard |
| Language (10%) | Poor standard of written English | More care needs to be taken with elements of grammar, spelling and sentence construction | The work is written to an almost acceptable standard of English. There may be some grammatical errors and the work may need more careful editing. | Essay displays a good standard of written English with few, if any, grammatical or spelling errors. Written in an appropriately academic style. | Essay displays a very good standard written English with all statements clearly expressed | Essay displays an excellent use of standard written English | As for distinction, plus demonstrates published material standard |