Investigate how to apply judgements that are critical
In most of the written assignments you will be asked to write, there will be at least some element of evaluation. This may be stated explicitly in the title, though at other times it is merely implicit. For example, you may be asked to:
- Compare and contrast two or more schools of thought, theories or theorists
- Consider which of two or more items, models or ideas is best suited for a particular purpose
- Evaluate how well another writer has analysed a subject
Most evaluative writing involves the same basic elements. Below are the descriptions of five stages in making an evaluation of two or more alternatives. Decide on the order in which you would present these in a written assignment. Do not worry if you have not done any evaluative writing before.
Drag the headings into the boxes to match them to the correct description of the stage.
Note any thoughts or questions you have about writing an evaluation.
Stages in making an evaluation
- Comparing items to show similarities
Identify points of similarity between the areas you are considering. Show that you have recognised any points of minor difference within areas of overall similarity. - Contrasting items to show differences
Set items in opposition, in order to bring out the points of difference. Show that you have recognised any points of minor similarity in these areas of overall difference. - Assessing significance
Evaluate the significance of the similarities or differences you have identified. Do these matter? Do they have important implications for which model should be used, or for probable outcomes? - Selecting criteria
Discuss the criteria you have used in arriving at your judgement. Typically these will involve data or research evidence, combined with some assessment of their reliability. - Coming to a judgement
Indicate which item is preferable, in your judgement. Explain the reasons for your opinion, basing these on your analysis of the evidence.
Investigate how to apply judgements that are critical
In most of the written assignments you will be asked to write, there will be at least some element of evaluation. This may be stated explicitly in the title, though at other times it is merely implicit. For example, you may be asked to:
- Compare and contrast two or more schools of thought, theories or theorists
- Consider which of two or more items, models or ideas is best suited for a particular purpose
- Evaluate how well another writer has analysed a subject
Most evaluative writing involves the same basic elements.
Below are descriptions of five stages in making an evaluation of two or more alternatives.
Comparing items to show similarities
Identify points of similarity between the areas you are considering. Show that you have recognised any points of minor difference within areas of overall similarity.
Contrasting items to show differences
Identify points of difference between the areas you are considering. Show that you have recognised any points of minor similarity in these areas of overall difference.
Assessing significance
Evaluate the significance of the similarities or differences you have identified. Do these matter? Do they have important implications that bear on the choice to be made between the areas being discussed?
Selecting criteria
Discuss the criteria you have used in arriving at your judgement. Typically these will involve data or research evidence, combined with some assessment of their reliability.
Coming to a judgement
Indicate which item is preferable, in your judgement. Explain the reasons for your opinion, basing these on your analysis of the evidence.
My journal
Note any thoughts or questions you have about writing an evaluation.