Essay Questions

How is the fantasy of home ownership represented in contemporary culture? Discuss in relation to one contemporary cultural artefact.

Research content: For this exercise, you are expected to engage in and show evidence of scholarly research by using at least two readings from the subject’s weekly set readings and at least two readings from the subject’s recommended readings (listed on the module page for each week). You can also use additional academic, scholarly sources. 

Length: 2000 word essay

Referencing style: MLA. 

What this exercise entails: This exercise aims to reflect critically on the set question and to offer a theoretically informed response, making an argument that uses concepts and ideas sourced from the subject material and independent research. You should define and theorise the concept(s) you have chosen to research and explain how they work. Where appropriate, you should illustrate your points and claims with an example. Some questions ask for specific examples.

Assessment Criteria

· Explicit and comprehensive engagement with the question

· Demonstrated understanding of concepts, theories and arguments engaged in the subject

· Evidence of a clear, well developed and well-supported argument

· Excellent use of research to support discussion

· Good clarity and fluency of written expression

· Uses of appropriate conventions of academic writing, including referencing

View Rubric

Answered the question (worth 15% of final mark)：Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the prompt, addressing all key aspects in a nuanced and insightful manner.

Topic and concepts understood clearly (15%)：Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of complex theoretical frameworks and can apply them effectively to the analysis.

Clear and consistent argument (15%)：Presents a clear, original, and compelling thesis, supported by a well-structured and logically developed argument.

Use of evidence to support argument (15%)：Effectively integrates a wide range of credible sources to support the argument with insightful analysis.

Critical understanding of text (10%)：Demonstrates a deep and insightful engagement with primary sources, going beyond surface-level analysis.

Overall structure (8%)： Exhibits a clear, logical, and well-organized structure with a strong introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion.

Coherence of sentences and paragraphs (7%)：Writes with clarity, precision, and fluency, using effective sentence structure and paragraph development.

Writing style. (5%)：Employs academic writing style. effectively, using appropriate tone and vocabulary.

Grammar, spelling, punctuation (5%)：Exhibits excellent grammar, spelling, and punctuation with no errors.

Referencing (5%)：Accurately and consistently cites sources according to the required style. guide (e.g., MLA).

FAQs

How many sources do I need?

For this exercise, you will be expected to engage in and show evidence of scholarly research by using at least two readings from the subject’s weekly set readings and at least two from the subject’s recommended readings. Using only recommended readings as your extra sources is acceptable, but you can also use more scholarly sources if needed. As this guide explains, you can use non-academic sources (e.g. news articles) but remember (a) these do not replace scholarly sources in your minimum research engagement, and (b) these need to be approached critically. As cultural studies scholars, we shouldn't take media reports or YouTube clips at face value. We must understand them as cultural artefacts and consider how they make meaning.

Can I just look at one example?

Yes, we largely recommend looking at one example. However, you can also look at more examples if you feel something interesting comes from looking at them side-by-side. For example, they may contrast with one another (i.e. have different viewpoints on an issue), or they may be surprisingly similar (i.e. they may share some presuppositions, despite appearing to be different). So, one example is excellent as it allows you to go in-depth. If you're using more than one example, you need to spend time analysing the two (or more) examples and how they relate to one another.

Can I include pictures or photos?

Yes, you can if you want. You don’t have to, but if you think you aren’t able to make your argument without including a visual source, then feel free to include it. Ensure you cite your visual sources correctly, just like text sources!

Do I have to pick an example for my essay, or can I just talk about the theory?

Yes, you must use an example. The example will help you work through the theoretical and conceptual material we have studied this semester. In general, we have found that your cultural studies essay will always be stronger if you provide examples that demonstrate your argument and understanding of the readings.

Tips for success

Engage deeply with sources: Make sure to not just cite, but critically engage with at least two set readings and two recommended readings.

Focus on recent examples: As suggested, use examples from 2022-2024 to avoid extensive historical, contextual explanation.

Develop a clear argument: Ensure your essay has a strong, well-supported thesis that directly addresses the chosen question.

Use examples effectively: Incorporate specific cultural artefacts or practices to illustrate your theoretical points.

Practice proper citation: Familiarise yourself with MLA style. and cite all sources correctly, including visual ones if used.