| 0-49% Fail | 50-59% Pass | 60-69% Credit | 70-79% Distinction | 80%+ High Distinction | |
| Define the research topic 5% | No mention of the research topic | Topic is mentioned with no embellishment | Topic is defined with some further explanation | Topic is defined with some further appropriate explanation | Student clearly and succinctly defined the topic with nuances |
| Methodology was discussed 10% | No mention of the research methodology used. |
Basic information regarding methodology Eg/Primary, secondary |
Basic information regarding methodology With additional explanations |
A detailed explanation of the research methodology employed | Detailed explanation of the methodology used and the rationale for that use. |
| Description of findings 35% | Parts of the findings were summarised | Most of the findings were included in the summary | All of the findings were included in the summary | All of the findings were included in the summary with greater emphasis placed on the main arguments | All of the findings were included in a coherent logical manner |
|
Ideas (concepts) 40% |
No mention of the underlying concepts | The authors concepts are clearly explained | Some attempt at connecting the concepts of the article | All the concepts of the article are summarised in a logical manner | A comprehensive explanation that clearly displays the connectivity of the concepts and underlying themes |
| Objectivity5% | Use of “I” in the writing or the students opinion is aired | Mostly objective with some evidence of subjectivity | Objective with some evidence of subjectivity | Objective with some evidence of nuanced subjectivity | No evidence of subjectivity |
| Quotations5% | No quotations | Some quotations but did not enhance the summary. | Mixture of quotations that was appropriate with those that did not add value to the summary. | Consistent use of quotations in an appropriate manner | Excellent use of quotations that assisted in enhancing the summary |