Academic Research Booklet

43

Break down of descriptive writing On the 19th of May I had my first Reflection meeting with my supervisor. Whilst it is perfectly OK to talk about a meeting you had with your supervisor, this sentence is a statement of fact only – it does not suggest what was discussed, any conclusions reached or any questions answered. It gives no insight and no valuable information, it could refer to anyone’s EE and says nothing about this person’s individual experience. So far I have read and made comprehensive notes on 5 different historical secondary sources. The pupil is trying to suggest they have got off to a good start however this statement does nothing to suggest why the action was taken. Does the essay require secondary sources as per the EE requirements for example? We also discussed a research plan for half term. It’s a good idea to mention your plan of action however again, this sentence gives nothing; the pupil gives no information on what the plan will involve. Although they go on in the next sentence to say what they will do in half term, THIS sentence is descriptive, not reflective. EVERY sentence must be useful, meaningful and reflective. Over half term, I will read the rest of the sources my supervisor put on the shared space, which will make my bibliography 12 sources long, Good that the pupil has stated what they plan to do over half term however you should NEVER state that your supervisor gave you the information you need. It is YOUR research project. We do not need to know how long the bibliography is or will be – the examiner will have seen your bibliography when they read your essay.