1. How would you describe Australia's political culture? Is the tendency towards apathy and cynicism a sign that our democracy is healthy, or does it pose a threat to the democratic process?
As you research and develop your understanding of the essay question, your ideas and thoughts may change from some of the initial observations made in your essay plan—this is completely fine. Your essay should be seen as an evolution of your essay plan once you engage further with your topic.
Step 1: Conduct further research
Your essay plan would have raised key topic areas and ideas which you can use to orientate your research for this essay.
In your essay, you must draw on at least ten peer–reviewed scholarly texts. You may include reflections upon discussions with your peers that have taken place on the discussion board, remembering to cite these conversations appropriately in your essay.
While you conduct your research, new ideas and evidence may emerge. You can choose to tweak your essay plan or modify any arguments you have made that takes into account such developments. Be clear about what you want to say, in light of what you have discovered since you first answered the essay question.
Step 2: Familiarise yourself with the requirements
Take a look at the Assignment criteria for more detail on how your essay will be assessed. Keep it handy as you write your essay.
Step 3: Write your draft essay
By having prepared a detailed essay plan, you should find it easier to begin writing.
If you are struggling at the first draft stage, go back to your essay plan and ask yourself:
Do you need to revise the plan?
Are your ideas and arguments clear? Do you have sufficient evidence?
Where are the gaps?
Step 4: Finalise and submit your essay
Provide you complete the following steps before submitting your final essay:
Take a break before you review your draft.
Print out a hard copy of your essay.
Read your essay out loud, or get someone else to read it.
Check your grammar and spelling before you submit.