POL246 Assessment One
What is a scoping paper?
It is a short research-based document that explores (scopes) a potential or existing policy issue. It focuses on understanding what the issue is, who it affects, and what is currently being done (if anything). It does not recommend solutions – instead, it provides the foundation for future analysis by clearly defining the scope of the problem. This assessment will help prepare you for Assessment 2 (briefing paper), where you will consider what should be done about the issue you have scoped.
What to include in your scoping paper
Your scoping paper needs to focus on a specific jurisdiction (e.g. a state, territory, or country), and must include the following five components:
1) Policy issue overview
Provide a brief outline of the policy issue, situated within a specific jurisdiction. Identify any existing policy currently in place to address the issue. (Use full sentences)
2) Causal Factors
Outline the key factors contributing to the policy issue in your chosen jurisdiction. (Use full sentences.)
3) Stakeholders and Policy Actors
Identify the main stakeholders and policy actors involved in the issue or policy area. These may include government agencies, advocacy groups, affected communities, or industry bodies. (Use full sentences.)
4) Legislative and Policy Context
Provide a list of relevant legislative requirements, strategies, or other policy arrangements that intersect with the issue (e.g. Acts, parliamentary inquiries, strategy papers, reports, or international agreements). (Bullet points are acceptable.)
5) Reference List
Include a list of sources that demonstrate research beyond the unit readings. All sources must be cited using the Chicago Author-Date referencing style – you must include page numbers in your citations. (The reference list is not included in the word count.)
6) AI Use Declaration (required)
At the end of your submission, please include a short statement (3-5 sentences) explaining if and how you used any AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Grammarly, Microsoft Copilot) in preparing this scoping paper. Clearly state the type of tool used, what it was used for (e.g., brainstorming, drafting, grammar support, editing), and how you evaluated or revised any content it helped generate. If you did not use AI tools, please state: “No AI tools were used in preparing this assignment”. This section will not be graded but is required as part of responsible academic practice. If missing, your paper will be returned with a request to add the required statement – this is not included in the word count.
Submission requirements
- Word limit: 700 words (excluding the reference list)
- Presentation: Use clear subheadings for each section
- Evidence: Support your discussion with properly referenced evidence
- Referencing style: Use Chicago Author-Date referencing for all in-text citations and the reference list
POL246 Assessment One Marking Guid
| Criterion | Description | Criterion Marks and Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Policy Issue Overview | Clearly introduces the issue, jurisdiction, and current policy approach. Demonstrates understanding of context and policy relevance. |
/5 |
| Causal Factors | Accurately and concisely explains the problem, its significance, and who is affected. Shows an ability to scope the issue within the policy environment and jurisdictional context. |
/5 |
| Stakeholders and Policy Actors | Synthesises relevant research, stakeholder perspectives, and comparative policy examples. Demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving, and an ability to assess what the evidence suggests should be done. |
/5 |
| Legislative and Policy Context | Proposes realistic and evidence-informed policy actions. Demonstrates thoughtful application of insights to the specific jurisdiction and issue. Shows ability to make sound policy judgments. |
/4 |
| Use of Research and Referencing | Research is integrated effectively to support analysis and decision-making. Shows independent research beyond unit materials. References are correctly cited using Chicago Author-Date style. |
/4 |
| Structure and Communication | Clearly structured with professional presentation (headings, formatting, cover and contents pages). Communication is clear and logical, enabling understanding of the student’s ideas. Adheres to word count. |
/2 |
| Overall comment: /25 | ||
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