How to write a report paper

a) Abstract (200 words)
 A brief summary of the essay and the conclusion that will be reached
b) Introduction (800 words)
 Sets the background and establishes the wider context of the research question  Possibly introduces the most relevant sources
c) Research Review (1800 words)
 Coherently analyses and presents the relevant source material
 A wide range of source material must be consulted
 Ideas and concepts as well as quotations must be fully referenced with footnotes
 Where possible sources must be compared and contrasted, rather than discussed in isolation
 Sources must be analysed for reliability (for example in terms of the status and reputation of the author, and institution represented or publisher of the work), making distinctions between fact, speculation and subjectivity.
d) Discussion/analysis1 (2700 words)
 To consist of a well thought out argument that answers the research question and is supported by several lines of reasoning
 Counter arguments or alternative interpretations must be considered fully
 The discussion must be consistently related to the research evidence/sources.
e) Conclusion (500 words)
 Final summing up and answering of the question
f) Bibliography
 All sources fully referenced and listed alphabetically