Parts of a writing assignment

1. Purpose

State specific purpose of assignment in the context of overall course goals.

2. Audience

The audience may be real or invented, but knowing for whom you are writing is important for effective composition.

3. Writing task

Be clear; avoid both vagueness and intimidation in describing the task. Check that the task is aligned with your purpose.

4. Stylistic and formatting information

State explicitly any expectations about citation style (e.g. MLA, APA, …). Also state any formal requirements re title page, length, abstract, ….

5. Resources to be used for the assignment

What resources are permitted (expected) – other students, course readings, library resources, …?

6. Evaluation criteria

State the specific criteria to be emphasized in evaluating the assignment. It is best to provide in advance a criteria sheet that might later be used for providing feedback. Indicate task’s weight in grading system.

7. Due date

When and where is the assignment due?