Assessment Criteria for Evidence

Criteria will vary according to the form of the assessment, namely whether it is a problem or an essay question, unseen examination or researched coursework, oral or written, individual or group work. The following are the generic requirements.

Structure and presentation

Answers should be written in a clear academic style.  The argument should be set out in in a logical and analytical structure which comprehensively addresses the question set and cites, where appropriate, a range of alternative views. Legal authority should be cited for propositions and references, whether to cases, statutes or scholarly texts, should be accurate, up-to-date and consistent in style. Answers should come to a reasoned conclusion whether an assessment of the strengths of competing arguments in the case of an essay or a succinct summary of practical advice in the case of a problem question. 

Content

The body of the answer should identify the evidential  issues arising from the facts and the law should be applied systematically to them. Academic commentary, where relevant, should be cited to support argument or legal advice. Answers may, if appropriate, include the historical, political and social context of the law under review.  Evidence of research should be demonstrated.  Grades will be awarded  according to how far the answer is analytical, applies the research carried out creatively  and avoids a merely narrative approach.