The Outcome is worth 40% of the total subject grade. It consists of:
Synthesis of the research
Identification, or demonstration, of the key findings
Substantiation of key findings with evidence and/or examples from the research
A resolution to the research question
Submission:
Up to 2000 words or 12 minutes multimodal
Criteria:
Synthesis
S1 Synthesis of knowledge, skills, and ideas to produce a resolution to the research question
S2 Substantiation of key findings relevant to the research outcome
S3 Expression of ideas
The research outcome is the product of the research. Planning is crucial to a good outcome. The first step is to identify the key findings of the research. Avoid having too many or too few. Aim for between 5-6 key findings. The outcome must provide a resolution to the question.
Example:
Research question: Should protective headgear be compulsory for Australian Football League players?
General answer: Headgear should be compulsory for Australian Football League players to reduce the impact of concussion.
Key findings (arguments why players should wear protective headgear)
Wearing protective headgear reduces brain injuries.
Existing rules and sanctions are not enough to protect players from head injuries.
Some protection is better than nothing.
Soft helmets are the most appropriate to avoid injury to other players.
Protective headgear does not encourage players to take more risks. (Counter argument acknowledged and refuted)
See the outcome planner student example.
The key findings must be substantiated (supported) by evidence from the research. Each key finding should be supported by evidence from a range of sources. A number of quotes all from the same source does not show insightful synthesis.
Avoid long quotes, or too many direct quotes. In general, direct quotes should not make up more than 10% of the total word count. You should use a direct quote:
When the original working is particularly profound or engaging
If the exact quote is well-known
When you want to give the author's exact position
Put information/quotes into context where possible e.g. include the name and title of the person/organisation that said it.
Provide a balanced response that incorporates a range of perspectives.
Reference appropriately. Decide whether you are using in-text referencing OR footnotes. Paperpile is a useful Google Docs add-on that manages and formats your references. See referencing information and video tutorials.
See the outcome planner student example that identifies the key findings and the supporting evidence for each.
At the 'A' level, expression of ideas is described as 'clear and coherent.' Consider the following points:
Identify the key findings clearly in the introduction.
Highlight key findings with sub-headings or clear topic sentences.
Each paragraph should focus on one key finding.
Link back to the question regularly, particularly at the end of each paragraph.
Include a strong student voice that ties the key findings and evidence together. The outcome should not just be one quote after another.
Include a clear conclusion that reinforces the key findings and links back to the question.
Edit the finished product carefully and ensure accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Reference sources appropriately and consistently.
Integrating sources: Guidelines for teachers and students - SACE document
Voice in academic writing - University of Melbourne
Objective language - University of Adelaide Writing Centre
Editing your own work - University of Adelaide Writing Centre