Proposal

Level 7 An exceptional answer that reflects outstanding knowledge of material and critical ability ~ Distinction > 70 Understanding Selection & coverage Structure General

Authoritative, full understanding of all the issues with originality in analysis

Full range of sources used selectively to support argument

Coherent and compelling argument well presented

A++ (90-100) Striking insightful displaying for example: publishable quality, outstanding research potential, originality and independent thought, ability to make informed judgements. Highest professional standards of presentation

A+ (80-89) Insightful, displays for example excellent research potential, flexibility of thought, possibly of publishable quality, professional standards of presentation A (70-79) Excellent; displays for example high levels of accuracy, evidence of the potential to undertake research the ability to analyse primary sources critically, very good standards of presentation

A coherent answer that demonstrates critical evaluation ~ Merit 60-69 Understanding Selection & coverage Structure General

Independent, critical evaluation of full range of theories with some evidence of originality

Complex work and concepts presented, key texts used effectively

Argument concise and explicit

B+ (65-69) Approaching excellence in some areas, evidence of the potential to undertake research B (60-64) Well developed relevant argument, good degree of accuracy and technical competence

A coherent and logical answer which shows understanding of the basic principles ~ Pass 50 -59 Understanding Selection & coverage Structure General

Some capacity to reflect critically but with no significant evidence of originality

Sound knowledge base of primary and secondary sources

The argument is developed but lacks fluency

C (55-59) approaching merit, sound degree of competency but incomplete argument, contains some inaccuracies

C (50-54) broadly satisfactory, narrow argument, contains inaccuracies

A superficial answer with limited knowledge of core material and limited critical ability ~ Fail 40 – 49 Understanding Selection & coverage Structure General

Lack of understanding and focus Limited sources Argument not fully developed and lacks structure

F+ (40-49) patchy overall knowledge, presentational weakness, little evidence of independent thought

An answer almost entirely lacking in evidence of knowledge and understanding ~ Fail 0-39 Understanding Selection & coverage Structure General

Shows almost no insight into the problem or topic

Irrelevant sources and/or out of date sources

Argument not developed, confused and incoherent

F (0-39) fundamental mistakes, poor/unacceptable presentation

Key features applicable in the assessment of essays and dissertations/project reports at level 7

Taught postgraduate marking criteria

1 A mark > 40 is condonable where programme specific regulations permit