Glossary definition

A piece of writing on a set topic. Essays are typically submitted (e.g. through Turnitin) and marked by course staff.
The academic essay evaluates students’ ability to present their thoughts in an organised way. Academic essays usually includes a coherent structure of an introduction, body and conclusion. Essays typically require students to discuss a set topic with reference to the academic literature (which is cited in the essay and referenced in a bibliography/references cited list at the end of the essay).
Essays assist students’ to improve their writing skills, whilst demonstrating their knowledge.
A common type of academic essay is the argumentative paper which requires the author to take a position on the topic and supporting that position with evidence/reasons why that position is valid. Reflective, reflexive, descriptive and creative essays are other types of academic essays that are less formal in their presentation requirements, and are aimed at encouraging the expression of a student’s personal insight and interaction with a topic.