Judging Criteria

The Evaluation Process

Each essay submitted will be evaluated by at least two independent judges using the criteria below. Essays shortlisted for the final phase will then be read by judges on the Grand Panel.The judges’ decision is final. Participants will be notified of their essay’s status by the end of November and main prizewinners will be invited to a prize-winning ceremony scheduled for early 2011. 



Quality of research (1/3 total score)
The quality of research will demonstrate knowledge and depth of understanding about the issues addressed. The following points will be considered:

• Adequately researched facts and well-supported points of view
• Proper citations of ideas and information from external sources

Quality of analysis (1/3 total score)
You should develop your own perspective on the issues and this should be reflected in your arguments, which should be clear, concise and supportive of your point of view. The following points will be considered:

• Thoughtful analysis of the subject matter
• An examination of the issues from a unique perspective
• The use of critical thinking to support analyses

Style and Creativity (1/3 total score)
Inclusion of charts, graphs, news clippings as well as the quality of your writing will also impact on your score. The following points will be considered:

• Creative presentation of ideas (eg: inclusion of relevant charts, graphs, news clippings that strongly support the main arguments)
• Free of errors in syntax, grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• A confident and coherent expression of ideas