Essay Writing Tips LAW112 201960

Starting Point – Instruction Words We know that written words are open to interpretation! ALLaN Common Instruction Words Study Guide https://student.csu.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/463381/Common- Instruction-Words.pdf Outline: Provide a general description or summary of the main features. Critically analyse: Provide an in depth examination of the strengths and weaknesses of the ideas/arguments in the assessment question/statement supported by evidence. Compare: Show the similarities between two or more issues; identify two or more views on the same issue and discuss the similarities and differences. Explain: Provide a detailed account of an issue, process or event; offer reasons why, describe cause and effect.

Getting Started How do I start? Start with an Introduction, then address the parts, then a conclusion Use subheadings to ensure you address each part Instruction words: Critically analyse: provide an in depth examination of the strengths and weaknesses of the ideas/arguments put forward in your selected case, supported by evidence

Finer Details In your response: You must show evidence of an ability to plan and apply research strategies Use a minimum of 6 peer reviewed and credible academic sources (this does not include dictionaries, blogs or web pages) You must use supporting evidence to back up your assumptions Be selective in your research – focus on authoritative and academic sources Pay attention to your formatting

Writing Tips: paragraphs P – make 1 point per paragraph Topic sentence E – Explain and Evidence Develop your point/explain reasoning. Apply theory/explain cause and effect. Stepping stone approach – build up your point Use examples to support/illustrate point E – Evaluation Weigh up the points outlined? Do they explain the whole argument/position? No? why not? What else do we need to consider? L - Link to question Draw on the essay title and explain how the point has provided a partial answer to the question. Then explain what point you will be making in the next paragraph

Writing Tips: paragraphs

Proof reading Create a spare copy of your essay Delete everything EXCEPT: introduction, topic sentences, conclusions Can you identify the development of your argument? Does it answer the thesis statement? If yes, you have a coherent essay

Writing Tips: grammar Good grammar is crucial to convey a clear argument Don’t try to overcomplicate the message by using overly formal language Avoid repetition Keep your tense consistent Watch your plurals and apostrophes Random Caps! Ask yourself is it necessary? Colon v’s semi colon “:” introduces or defines something; “;” separates things, most commonly, two related clauses which could stand on their own Pet habits – “in which” / “in relation to” / “furthermore”… make sure it serves a purpose Legislation has no plural – it is a law or body of laws

Writing Tips: referencing Must use AGLC4 referencing Generally reference at end of sentence, not mid-sentence If you cite directly from a source, you must include the pin point reference to the page or paragraph of the source in brackets in-text Put legislation and case law in italics Include abbreviated jurisdiction in brackets after the year of legislation eg. Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth) Footnotes should be in a subscript and consistent font Bibliography should follow on a new page

Final Tips Fix spelling – but don’t just rely on spellcheck Keep sentences simple Ensure you have answered each part of the question If you are well over the word count, take a break and go back to the question – focus on what is asked, check that you have apportioned your response appropriately Look for repetition Be direct – say it like it is, avoid waffle Extension requests (with grounds) required before the due date

Remember! You must use AGLC4 referencing (footnotes + bibliography) Check your word count (+/-10%) Proofread it! Ask ALLaN to review your work Use the CLJ submission template Run it through turnitin Submit via EASTS