All of the playwrights studied on this module were(Nicholas Kent, David Henry Hwang, Caryl Churchill, Young Jean Lee) in their own times, theatrical innovators. Paying close attention to the work of two playwrights, discuss the way their innovations relate to issues of drama and democracy.

Description

Assessment Criteria
Argument and Analysis:

Is the argument contextualized (with reference to appropriate scholarly literature, theoretical ideas or political contexts)? Is it substantiated (i.e. are you providing evidence and examples to back up your points)?
Are the ideas and insights original? Or is the writer relying too heavily on secondary critics to make all of the main points? Try not to over-quote: use critics to support your thinking, rather than in place of it.
Is there detailed critical analysis of performances/playtexts? Remember that the first step of analysis involves describing particular details (of texts or performances) before demonstrating why they are relevant and unpacking their significance.
Does the essay move beyond description (summarising texts) to reflect critically on the meanings of the materials you are addressing?
Is the structure clear and appropriate? Is there an introduction and a conclusion? Are the points organised in a logical sequence that allows the argument to build throughout? Or are you writing in long paragraphs where the ideas drift around too much and lack focus?

Knowledge and Research:

Is there evidence of reading and research? Have the key texts relevant to your argument been consulted or addressed? Does the research move beyond the reading list (essential for a first)?
Does the essay use relevant conceptual frameworks? (e.g. in an essay about Beyoncé and feminism it would be important to make reference to ‘intersectionality’)
Is your discussion of the primary texts and critical ideas accurate? This includes spelling names and titles of works correctly.

Writing and Presentation:

Is the written expression lucid and accessible? Are sentences easy to read and is the meaning clear?
Are authors, case studies and quotations introduced properly?
Is there a full bibliography of all materials consulted?
Is the referencing accurate and consistent, according to a standard referencing protocol?
Is spelling, punctuation and syntax accurate or are there lots of lapses?