Using this Paper Guide template
This template provides you with content and suggestions for your paper’s Paper Guide.
This template can be adapted for online delivery. If you have a Stream site consider
including the student support information there and remove it from the print guide. Please
customise for your students/paper.
While all content can be amended to suit your purpose, there are points within the
template where italicised ideas and suggestions are made that will require your input –
either to tailor them for your student audience or to delete. These points are marked by
the STOP icon, which has been inserted so that the suggestions are not accidentally left in.
The icon should also be deleted (click on the icon then press delete).
Automatic Format
This template has been formatted using the automatic Table of Contents feature in Word
version 97-2003. To make the contents page reformat and repaginate automatically to suit
your amendments, follow these instructions:

Highlight the existing Table of Contents listings.

Click on “Update Field” tab on your toolbar. If you don’t have it on your toolbar
you can add it by doing the following:
 Go to “Customize” in “Tools” on the menu bar.
 Under “Categories” go to “All Commands”.
 On the right under “Commands” look for “UpdateFields”.
 Drag the icon up to your toolbar and close the “Customize” box.
If all else fails, the changes can be made manually!
Teaching Consultants from the Centres for Teaching and Learning are available to assist
you with the compilation of your Paper Guide.
We also provide guidance on writing Study Guides for Stream and for print, give feedback
on drafts, and advice on the integration of print with Stream.
2013 Version
Acknowledgement
This template is based on Writing your administration guide: A handbook for extramural teachers, compiled
by Claire McLachlan-Smith, Centre for Extramural Studies, 1998, revised by Teaching Consultants
Manawatu Campus.
[Paper number]
[Paper name]
Paper Guide
[Author name]
[Department]
[Year]
Acknowledgement
Include any acknowledgements you’d like to make. (Remember to acknowledge the
original designer/writer of the paper if this is relevant)
THIS MATERIAL IS PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT AND HAS BEEN COPIED BY AND SOLELY FOR THE
EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES OF THE UNIVERSITY UNDER LICENCE. YOU MAY NOT SELL, ALTER OR
FURTHER REPRODUCE OR DISTRIBUTE ANY PART OF THIS COURSE PACK/MATERIAL TO ANY OTHER
PERSON. WHERE PROVIDED TO YOU IN ELECTRONIC FORMAT, YOU MAY ONLY PRINT FROM IT FOR
YOUR OWN PRIVATE STUDY AND RESEARCH. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE TERMS OF THIS
WARNING MAY EXPOSE YOU TO LEGAL ACTION FOR COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND/OR
DISCIPLINARY ACTION BY THE UNIVERSITY.
Contents
Page
Welcome............................................................................................................................... 1
Paper coordinator ................................................................................................................. 1
Staff ............................................................................................................................. 2
The paper .............................................................................................................................. 3
Prescription ................................................................................................................. 3
Pre/co requisites .......................................................................................................... 3
Learning outcomes ...................................................................................................... 3
Topics.......................................................................................................................... 4
Study resources .................................................................................................................... 5
Paper guide ................................................................................................................. 5
Study guide ................................................................................................................. 6
Textbooks.................................................................................................................... 6
Stream: Your online learning environment................................................................ 7
Contact course ............................................................................................................. 8
Block course ............................................................................................................... 8
How to approach your study ....................................................................................... 8
Suggested study schedule ........................................................................................... 9
Assessment ......................................................................................................................... 13
Requirements for completing the paper .................................................................... 13
Extensions and late assignments ............................................................................... 13
Assignment submission ............................................................................................ 14
Academic integrity .................................................................................................... 15
Assignments .............................................................................................................. 16
Assignment one: (Title) ........................................................................................... 16
Assignment two: (Title) ........................................................................................... 17
Assignment marking guide and feedback ................................................................. 17
References ................................................................................................................. 19
Presentation of written work ..................................................................................... 22
Final examination ..................................................................................................... 22
Conditions for aegrotat pass and impaired performance .......................................... 23
Grievance procedures ............................................................................................... 23
Appendix 1: Student profile .............................................................................................. 25
Paper Guide
i
Appendix 2: How to access Stream................................................................................... 27
Appendix 3: Massey University Library ........................................................................... 28
Appendix 4: The writing process ...................................................................................... 31
Writing essays ........................................................................................................... 31
Writing reports .......................................................................................................... 36
Appendix 5: Supporting your learning at Massey University ........................................... 40
Appendix 6: Feeling overwhelmed? ................................................................................. 44
ii
Paper Guide
Welcome
Include a welcome to the paper statement (include the paper number). You may prefer to
title this section “Introduction”. The use of the first person will assist you to make your
statements appear welcoming and will connect directly with individual students.
Give a general overview of the paper, its position in the programme and components in
general terms.
If you are intending to obtain student feedback via MOST (Massey Online Survey Tool) let
the students know that you value their feedback and when the survey will be available in
Stream.
Suggested length: ¼ – ½ page.
You should begin your study by reading through the administrative and assessment details
in this guide to get an overview of the paper content and deadlines.
Paper coordinator
Include an introduction to yourself here. Students are
likely to be interested in both your professional and
personal interests. Keep it brief and general. Use a
conversational style with reference to the writer as “I”
and the student as “you” for instant student engagement.
Photo – Recommended
Include something about what they can expect from you
during the semester – in terms of assistance – when you
are available etc.
Suggested length: ¼ – ½ page.
Paper Guide
1
Include contact information.
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
Number to leave messages:
Postal address:
Staff
Remember to introduce others teaching in the paper and indicate which parts of the paper
each staff member has written and is responsible for.
2
Paper Guide
The paper
Prescription
Include the prescription.
Pre/co requisites
Include this if this is relevant to your paper.
Learning outcomes
List the general learning outcomes for the paper. These are the learning objectives for
the paper, expressed as learning outcomes to indicate what students will have learned on
successful completion of the paper.
(E.g. On successful completion of the paper you should be able to:


Demonstrate skills and knowledge of the investigative interview process, including
analysing leads, designing questions, and gathering and organising information
Analyse ethical and legal issues in investigations and in publications

Compile, justify and present a story for publication).
It is recommended that you include the specific learning outcomes for each topic/module
within the relevant sections of the study guide.
Paper Guide
3
Topics
Give a brief overview of the topics in the study guide here.
You might organise material in key themes (manageable chunks) and then use the
suggested timetable, to detail a weekly or topic by topic approach.
4
Paper Guide
Study resources
Please note: Changes are proposed for the 2013 delivery method for papers and for the
names of guides (yet to be confirmed). These changes are:
1.
2.
Whether materials/resources will be printed automatically is determined by what
online categories you have indicated for papers. Core study resources will be
supplied directly to students for categories “None” and “Paper Guide and
Administration”. Resources that can be published in print will be supplied to
students who request them for the “Partially Taught Online” and “Fully Taught
Online” categories.
Administration Guides will be called Paper Guides.
Include in this section what study resources students will receive and how they will access
the learning and teaching for the paper.
For example:
Along with this Paper Guide your study resources comprise the essential textbook and the
hardcopy study guide, and are supported by a voluntary contact course. There is no online
learning environment.
or
There are a range of study resources for this paper which are explained in this Paper
Guide. The textbook is supplemented by the study guide and book of readings in
hardcopy. There is an online learning environment where you will access additional study
resources and interact with the class.
Include all or some of the following sections here.
Paper guide
Example
This guide gives you an overview of the paper and tells you what study resources you can
expect. It covers all the administrative aspects of the paper, including the study schedule,
assessment activities and how the paper will be taught.
Paper Guide
5
Study guide
Include what is in this guide. Is it all the resources student need or only some. Does it
only include the readings? Indicate how students should use the study guide – what
sequence of study do you recommend? What expectations do you have?
Textbooks
Remember to list all required and recommended texts.
Note that required and recommended texts should be ordered for both the library and
Bennetts.
Order your textbook from:
Bennetts Book Stores Ltd 2011
Massey University
Private Bag 11004
Manawatu Box Lobby
Palmerston North 4442
Telephone: (06) 354 6020
Recommended reading
Include a reading list somewhere in the guide, either here or within the topics of the study
guide. Remember to check that books in reading lists are available in the library. If not,
send a book order to the library. (This is particularly important for under graduate
students who are not expected to make use of interloan services).
Internet links
Include useful links to web sites with a short description of why you have recommended
them. The date you last accessed them is also helpful as they change regularly.
6
Paper Guide
Stream: Your online learning environment
If you are using Stream as a component of your paper please include here an indication of
the level of use (e.g. Paper Guide and Administration, Partially Taught Online and Fully
Taught Online).
Indicate how students will need to interact with the site. Mention if you are providing
quizzes or weekly forum postings where students can get valuable formative feedback.
For example:
This paper makes use of the internet to help create an “online learning environment” via
Stream. Stream will normally be available 2 weeks before the beginning of semester for
administrative information. Other resources will become available at the beginning of the
semester.
Accessing Stream helps you do well in the paper in three ways:
1.
Lecturer-to-Student Communication:
I will post any important notices,
instructions and additional readings that arise on Stream. By checking Stream often
you will always know ‘what’s going on’. You will also find I have provided selfassessment exercises to give you feedback on your progress. We highly recommend
you make use of these tools.
2.
Student-to-Lecturer Communication: I encourage you to communicate with me
via Stream if you have any questions. Often these questions alert me to potential
areas of confusion that the whole class can benefit from. I aim to respond to your
inquiries in a timely manner.
3.
Student-to-Student Communication: Stream allows you to communicate with
other students via a forum. Post a message introducing yourself to the class.
In the appendices you will find information on how to access Stream.
Paper Guide
7
Contact course
Include information on contact course details (city, campus, dates, times) and the nature
of attendance. Let students know what they need to have prepared/completed before
attending and what to expect, e.g. outline of programme. Answer these questions for
them: Why should I attend? (For many, it is a considerable financial outlay.) What will I
get out of it?
Note: The contact course categories are changing for 2013 (check with College DTL).
The categories assume contact is synchronous whether it is face to face or online. The
categories are:
None
In Person – Recommended
In Person – Compulsory
Online – Recommended
Online – Compulsory
Block course
Include details of block courses (city, campus, dates, times) and nature of attendance
(normally compulsory face to face, although it might be a combination of face to face and
online). Describe for students what to expect. As this is a comprehensive contact period
include a programme and indicate what students are required to have completed prior to
attending and bring with them. Indicate if an assessment is to take place during the block
course.
How to approach your study
Provide an indication of how the students should use the study materials; what to read
first, or ‘pick and mix’ the readings whether from textbook, online and hardcopy; any
particular teaching philosophy that is important to the way students tackle the paper.
Cover what your expectations for the paper are – this is very important.
8
Paper Guide
For example
Each week I suggest you read the study guide then the textbook, followed by additional
readings on Stream. The self-assessment exercises will help you see how you are
progressing and are an important part of your self-directed study. Post a message or
respond to a message for each topic forum.
Suggested study schedule
Include a statement about how you expect students to use their study time. You could
include a note re 15 credits in a single semester = 10 hours per week in study related to
the paper. A 30 credit single semester paper will require 20 hours of study per week.
Example 1
The schedule below, which follows the internal timetable is only a suggested one. You
may prefer to work out your own schedule, one that suits your personal requirements. The
main point is to work to some schedule so that you don’t fall behind.
Example 2
This is a 15 credit paper. The following table gives a breakdown of how I envisage you
allocating your study time. Although the workload varies a little from week to week, you
should allocate about 10 hours a week over the semester. If you are aiming for an A pass
you may need to spend more time.
Set reading from textbook, and study guide
78 hours
Self-directed study exercise and quizzes and supplementary resources
20 hours
Online discussion
15 hours
Contact course
Assessment
TOTAL
Paper Guide
7 hours
30 hours
150 hours
9
Semester 1, 2013
Include study weeks, exams weeks, contact or block course dates etc.
Text/Readings column if you don’t wish to use it).
Date
Weeks
25 February
1
4 March
2
11 March
3
18 March
4
25 March
5
Topic
Text/Readings
(Remove
Assignments
1 April
EASTER, MID SEMESTER BREAK
8 April
15 April
6
22 April
7
29 April
8
6 May
9
13 May
10
20 May
11
27 May
12
3 June
STUDY BREAK
FINAL EXAMINATION – ??
10
Paper Guide
Semester 2, 2013
Include study weeks, exams weeks, contact or block course dates etc.
Text/Readings column if you don’t wish to use it).
Date
Weeks
15 July
1
22 July
2
29 July
3
5 August
4
12 August
5
19 August
6
Topic
Text/Readings
(Remove
Assignments
26 August
STUDY BREAK
2 September
6 September
7
16 September
8
23 September
9
30 September
10
7 October
11
14 October
12
21 October
STUDY BREAK
FINAL EXAMINATION – ??
Paper Guide
11
Summer School, 2013/14
Include exam week and contact or block course dates. You may wish to remind students
Summer School covers a compressed timeframe and that the University will be closed
between Christmas and New Year. (Remove Text/Readings column if you don’t wish to
use it).
Date
Topic
Text/Readings
Assignments
18 November
25 November
2 December
9 December
16 December
UNIVERSITY CLOSED 22 December – 2 January
Thursday 2 January
6 January
13 January
20 January
27 January
3 February
STUDY WEEK
FINAL EXAMINATION?
12
Paper Guide
Assessment
Thought should be given to the scheduling of assessments and the workload implications
for students. This is especially important as students often find they have assignments due
in the same week for all their papers.
Summarise assessment requirements in an “at a glance” format.
Assignment
Due Date
Word Limit
Weighting
Final Examination
(If appropriate)
Requirements for completing the paper
State the minimum requirements for paper completion. Indicate if assignments will be
submitted to Turnitin®, text matching software.
Example
To complete this paper you will need to do three assignments and get a pass mark in all.
Due dates for assignments is the date assignments are received by Massey.
Extensions and late assignments
What are your expectations? It is important for students to know this at the beginning of
the paper.
Students often have assignments due in or around the same week of semester in all their
papers. Providing an element of flexibility helps students manage the competing
pressures, especially important for those new to university study.
Include details here.
Paper Guide
13
Assignment submission
Inform students of how you want them to submit assignments (e.g. through Stream or by
post) and when and how they can expect to get assignments back. The expected
turnaround time is 15 working days. Inform students whether assignments will go
through Turnitin (text matching software to check for copying) on uploading into Stream.
(Indicate on the Course diary when the material goes to NSATS how you want students to
submit assignments)
Example
Please submit electronic versions of your assignments through Stream. Detailed
instructions on how to do this will be provided in Stream closer to the submission dates.
On submission into our Stream course all assignments will automatically go into
Turnitin®, text matching software, to help deal with any academic integrity issues, such as
plagiarism, that may arise. See the information under Academic Integrity later in this
guide for more details.
OR
Please post your assignments to:
Assignments Office
Massey University
Private Bag 11555
Manawatu Box Lobby
Palmerston North 4442
Or Fax your assignment to (06) 350 5625
Overseas students only can email assignments to assign@massey.ac.nz using word.doc or
rts or pdf format.
Remember to complete all coversheet details.
14
Paper Guide
Academic integrity
It is mandatory that any assessment items that you submit during your University study
are your own work. Massey University takes a firm stance on academic misconduct, such
as plagiarism and any form of cheating.
Plagiarism is the copying or paraphrasing of another person’s work, whether published or
unpublished, without clearly acknowledging it. It includes copying the work of other
students and reusing work previously submitted by yourself for another paper.
Academic integrity breaches impact on students as it disadvantages honest students and
undermines the credibility of your qualification. Massey has purchased a licence to utilise
Turnitin®, a text matching web application to assist with the detection of copying.
Assignments submitted to Turnitin will be compared with material available on the world
wide web including electronic books, journals, newspapers, cheat sites (or paper mills),
web pages and previously submitted assignments. Your lecturer will let you know if your
assignments are going to be submitted to Turnitin.
Plagiarism, and cheating in tests and exams will be penalised; it is likely to lead to loss of
marks for that item of assessment and may lead to an automatic failing grade for the paper
and/or exclusion from reenrolment at the University.
Please see the Academic Integrity Guide for Students on the University website for more
information. The Guide steps you through the University Academic Integrity Policy and
Procedures. For example you will find definitions of academic integrity misconduct, such
as plagiarism; how misconduct is determined and managed; and where to find resources
and assistance to help develop the skills of academic writing, exam preparation and time
management. These skills will help you approach university study with academic
integrity.
Paper Guide
15
Assignments
Include all assignments.
Ensure your assignments align with your learning outcomes/objectives for the paper.
Outline details, writing instructions and marking criteria for each assignment. This
information will guide students as to the range and scope expected; presentation details
(see later section), and marking schedule (see example later). This will encourage
students to focus time and attention on the important dimensions of assessment tasks.
Assignment one: (Title)
Due date:
Purpose:
Learning outcome/s being assessed: (as per those stated for the paper)


Task:
Instructions:
Marking criteria:
16
Paper Guide
Assignment two: (Title)
Due date:
Purpose:
Learning outcome/s being assessed: (as per those stated for the paper)


Task:
Instructions:
Marking criteria:
Assignment marking guide and feedback
Feedback is a very important part of the learning process. Provide an indication of how,
when and where you will give feedback associated with assignments. If possible construct
assessments that take account of how students have implemented aspects of your feedback
in future assignments. Inform students that you will be looking to see how they have used
your feedback.
Develop and include a marking guide for each assignment. The guide details how marks
will be allocated within assignments, or criteria used for marking.
marker’s guide is used by many papers with an essay component.
Paper Guide
The following
17
18
Paper Guide
Topic not fully covered,
discussion too brief, overuse of
quotations, with little
explanation. Insufficient
support from literature.
Reading not well incorporated
into text of essay. Limited
acknowledgements and light
bibliography.
Opening paragraph simply
restates the topic. Some major
points missed.
No evidence of reading in text
of essay. No
acknowledgements or
bibliography.
Structure confused, not
discernible, not explained.
(acceptable)
Unreflective, personal
comment, incoherent
argument, entirely copied,
complete misinterpretation of
topic.
C
Presentation errors.
(Flawed)
Major presentation flaws.
‘D’
–
OR
10%
+
50%
30%
Main arguments and conclusions
outlined in Introduction.
Definitions provided in context,
main points discussed in logically
sequential paragraphs. Summary
in final paragraphs.
STRUCTURE
The text of the essay shows that
the course materials have been
read and acknowledged. An
accurate list of references is
attached.
EVIDENCE OF READING 10%
A reasonably balanced discussion
of the issues as reflected in the
course study materials.
Acceptable interpretation of topic,
some explanation, illustration and
support is provided from the
literature.
SCOPE OF ESSAY
Most presentation details met,
e.g. front page, margin, legibility,
citations, A4 paper, due date.
PRESENTATION
–
(Average) C+/B- (competent)
Main points elaborated
Extra references included.
A fuller, more systematic
exploration of the topic which
may include an attempt at
critical comment or appraisal.
Regular support provided from
the literature.
Few flaws.
+
(Promising) B/B+ (perceptive)
Critical evaluations
Extra references integrated into
argument.
Comprehensive exploration of
the topic, with sound critical
comment and a personal
synthesis of the issues shown.
Detailed support from
literature, including extra
references.
Virtually flawless presentation
+
(Flair) A-/A/A+ (scholarly)
Listed below are features of an average acceptable essay (C+/B-). Higher or lower grades will differ in some ways listed. Holistic
grading may be based on the features listed under scope of essay.
–
REWRITE
MARKER’S GUIDE
[Paper No.]
References
Provide an example of your preferred referencing format and please use this for your
referencing style throughout the materials. An APA guideline is given here. We suggest
you amend the examples to suit your discipline.
Citing References
The reference system used should enable you to indicate the source of facts and opinions
without interrupting the flow of your argument, and it must enable a reader to check and
pursue these citations quickly and economically. These guidelines are based on the APA
(American Psychological Association) referencing system. APA (2009). Publication
manual (6th ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
When a reference is made in the body of the assignment it is sufficient to mention the
name of the author, the year of publication, and the page number, e.g.:
“..it has been urged (Kotler, 1986, p. 9) that …”, or
“..it has been urged by Kotler (1986, p. 9) that …”
Cite electronic sources as for other texts. Where page numbers are not provided, use the
paragraph number, if available, preceded by the paragraph symbol or the abbreviation
para. If neither paragraph nor page numbers are visible, cite the heading and the number
of the paragraph following it to direct the reader to the location of the material.
“.. Myers (2000, p. 5) believes..,” or
“.. (Beutler, 2000, Conclusion section, para. 1)..”
Reference List
All references cited in the text must be reported in full standard bibliographical form
under a heading “References” at the end of the assignment.
The references should be arranged alphabetically by author’s surname.
Paper Guide
19
When listing references, all lines except the first should be indented five spaces (typically
one tab stop). Note the use of italics (or underlining), capitalisation, punctuation and
order of elements. For a book, italics should be used for the title. For journal articles, the
title of the journal, and the volume number, should be italicised.
The preferred format for different types of publications is as follows:
Books
Biggs, J.B., & Tang, C. (2007). Teaching for quality learning at university: What the
student does (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Open University Press.
Kember, D., & McNaught, C. (2007). Enhancing university teaching: Lessons from
research info award-winning teachers. London, Great Britain, New York, NY:
Routledge.
Ramsden, P. (1997). The context of learning in academic departments. In F. Martin, D.
Hounsell, & N. Entwistle (Eds.). The experience of learning (2nd ed.) (pp. 198-216).
Edinburgh, Great Britain: Scottish Academic Press.
Stephenson, J. (Ed.). (2001). Teaching and learning online: New pedagogies for new
technologies. London, Great Britain: Kogan Page.
Periodicals
Stein, S., & Walker, R. (2010). Tertiary teachers learning about teaching: Integrating
theoretical and practical knowledge. Practice and Evidence of the Scholarship of
Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 5(1), 2-22.
Tait, A.R. (2004). Clinical governance in primary care: A literature review. Journal of
Clinical Nursing, 13, 723-730.
Battling the stress monster. (1996, June/July). Safeguard, 17-22.
N.B. use this style when no author is identified or use (n.a.) where author’s name would
usually be, date then title.
20
Paper Guide
Occasional publications
Bennett, A. (2007). Recognising and providing for Māori values in water allocation.
Unpublished masters thesis. Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
Irons, B. (1996, April). Quality study guides.
Conference, Queenstown, New Zealand.
Paper presented at the DEANZ
Electronic periodicals
Cave, N.J., Bridges, J.P., Cogger, N., & Farman, R.S. (2009). A survey of diseases of
working farm dogs in New Zealand. New Zealand Veterinary Journal, 57(6), 305312.
Pooley, C.G., & Pooley, S. (2010). Constructing suburban identity: Youth, femininity
and modernity in late-Victorian Merseyside. Journal of Historical Geography,
36(4), 402-410. doi:10.1016/j.jhg.2010.03.003
Internet
All references begin with the same information that would be provided for a printed
source (or as much of that information as possible). The web information is then placed at
the end of the reference. It is important to use “Retrieved from” because documents on
the web may change in content, move, or be removed from a site altogether.
Zheng, L., & Smaldino, S. (2003). Key instructional design elements for distance
education. The Quarterly Review of Distance Education 4(2), 153-166. Retrieved
from ERIC database. [Provided by Massey University Library]
Health of older people in New Zealand.
http://www.moh.govt.nz/olderpeople
Note: (n.d.) = no date
Begin with the title when no author is identified.
(n.d.).
Retrieved
from
Court Reporter. (2002, November 21). Alcohol-fuelled driving appals judge. Manawatu
Evening Standard. Retrieved from
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/eveningstandard/0,2106,2489959a6502,00.html
Paper Guide
21
Stephens, D. (2003, April 24). Why do some people have such a need for control? [Msg
430]. Message posted to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/abuse-survivors-withptsd/message/430
Presentation of written work

All written work must be submitted on A4 (21 cm x 29.7 cm) sized paper.



Please write on one side of the paper only.
Leave a 4 cm margin on the left-hand side for marker’s comments.
Double-spaced or 1½ line spacings are preferred for both typed and handwritten
work.
Your work does not need to be typed, but if you do handwrite it please try to write
clearly or print.
Using small handwriting or all capitals is very difficult to concentrate on and follow.
Please adjust your style to assist the person who marks your work.
Each page should be numbered in one continuous sequence in the top right-hand
corner. Commence numbering from the page following the title page. Print your





last name at the top of each page.
All sheets should be stapled together at the top left-hand corner. Do not clip, pin or
fold pages to secure them.
Do not embellish the paper with a cover. Put the cover page on top of the work.
This should give your full name and local address, your student number, the title,
paper coordinator, the paper, assignment number and paper title.
Final examination
As electronic copies of previous exam papers are available online through Massey
Library suggest students go there to access past papers.
http://kea.massey.ac.nz/screens/exams.html.
Include details for exam coverage, type of questions – short answers, essay type answers,
solving problems.
22
Paper Guide
Conditions for aegrotat pass and impaired performance
If you are prevented by illness, injury or serious crisis from attending a compulsory
learning experience, an examination or completing an element of assessment (worth 10%
or more) by the due date, or if you consider that your performance has been seriously
impaired by such circumstances, you may apply for aegrotat or impaired performance
consideration. You must apply on the Aegrotat & Impaired Performance Application
form available from the Massey University website. The completed form must be
accompanied by a certificate signed by a health professional, and/or corroborating
evidence.
Grievance procedures
A student who claims that he/she has sustained academic disadvantage as a result of the
actions of a University staff member should use the University Grievance Procedures.
Students, whenever practicable, should in the first instance approach the University staff
member concerned. If the grievance is unresolved with the staff member concerned, the
student should then contact the relevant Head of Institute/School/Department or College
office for further information on the procedures. The procedures can be found on the
University website in the University Calendar.
Paper Guide
23
24
Paper Guide
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Student profile
Please complete this student profile and return it to me at your earliest convenience so that
I can get to know you. Attach a photo if you like. The information given is for my
personal use only and will not be held in the university files.
Note that at the bottom you have the opportunity to allow information on your phone
number, address and email address to be circulated as part of a list to other students (this
can help with networking in your area, and give you others to turn to when you’re not sure
how your work is going).
Name:
............................................................................................................................
Address:
............................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................
Home phone: ............................................... Work phone: ...........................................
Email address: ...................................................................................................................
Occupation: ........................................................................................................................
Educational background/qualifications: .........................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
Previous papers taken at Massey: ....................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
Interests: .............................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
Reasons for taking this paper: .........................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
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25
[Delete this if there is no contact or block course]
Any particular issues you would like to study this year or at the contact course? .....
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
Any other comments that you would like to add about yourself (including, for
example, learning difficulties that you may face …): ....................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
I am willing to have my name and the following contact details circulated to other
students enrolled in this offering of the paper:
address
phone number
email address
Signed: .....................................................................
Date: ..........................................
Please return this form to me ASAP.
[Include your postal details]
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Paper Guide
Appendix 2: How to access Stream
You can access Stream via any computer connected to the internet. If you have an
internet connection at home or elsewhere, you can access the Stream site for this paper at
any time. It is also possible to access the online environment from work (seek permission
first if from work as there may be access issues, e.g. firewall protection), friends’
computers, libraries or similar public access points such as internet cafes.
You can access Stream from the Massey homepage (through 1 or 2 shown above) or
directly at http://stream.massey.ac.nz.
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27
Appendix 3: Massey University Library
The Library provides resources and help to support your study. Please contact us if you
need help finding information or requesting Library material.
Phone: 0800 MASSEY (0800 627 739) ask for the Library
OR
call direct +64 6 350 5670 ext. 2880
Email: library@massey.ac.nz
There are three key ways to access Library help and resources while studying at a
Distance:



Distance Library Service – our delivery system especially for you
Library Website – access to our resources and services
Visiting the Library in person – make the most of any visits to campus
Distance library service
The Distance Library Service delivers course-related Library materials to students who are
eligible (students studying predominantly distance or block mode courses in a semester).
For information about using the Distance Library Service, see The Library for Distance
Learning section of our website (http://library.massey.ac.nz). If you are uncertain about
your eligibility please contact the Distance Library Service.
We will:



Send books to you and provide access to journal articles.
Note: The Library must comply with the Copyright Act which restricts the amount
that can be copied or scanned (normally one chapter or article, or 10 percent from
any one publication).
Help you to find information that you need for your study.
Teach you how to use databases and resources effectively to do your own research.
o
Undergraduate students get help from professional librarians over the
telephone (use the 0800 number), email or live via the Internet. We will talk
you through finding articles, books and other research on your topic.
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Paper Guide
o
Postgraduate students book a Research Consultation. This is training with a
subject specialist librarian and can be by telephone, email or live via the
Internet.
Details and Contacts are available on The Library for Distance Learning section of the
website.
Studying outside New Zealand? We will supply materials to help you with your studies,
but there may be some restrictions. Please contact us for more information or look for the
Services to Offshore students part of the Library for Distance Learning pages.
When you are using the Library from a distance it is especially vital to plan ahead to allow
plenty of time just in case the material or assistance you need is not immediately
available.
Library website (http://library.massey.ac.nz)
You can use the Library website to find resources by:





searching Discover – search across our physical collections and a large proportion
of our electronic resources (article databases, e-journals, e-books and more) – so you
get both books and a selection of articles and other resources in the one search.
searching the Catalogue (using Encore or Classic) to find and request books,
theses, DVDs and other items held at any of the Massey Libraries.
using Subject Guides – a quick way to the key resources in your subject area
searching individual Article Databases to find journal and newspaper articles on a
topic. This will provide access to our full range of databases.
printing copies of past exam papers – sorry we don’t have the answers!
You can also log in to your MyLibrary record to check your due dates, renew your
books, view your reading history and request items from the Catalogue.
There are request forms on the website to request resources and help – look under the
Quick Links for Forms.
For advice on finding information see the How to Find section. These pages include
onscreen demonstrations of key information skills that will help you get started.
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29
As well as The Library for Distance Learning page, use The Library for Undergraduates
or Postgraduates (whichever is appropriate), Subject Guides, Article Databases, and
check out our blog Library Out Loud (LOL), follow us on Twitter or Facebook for the
latest news from us.
Using the library in person
You’re welcome at any of the Massey Campus Libraries – in Albany, Palmerston North
and Wellington. Services available from these libraries include Information Desks where
you can get help in using Library resources, research consultations for postgraduate
students and EndNote support, access to computers and photocopiers, wireless network
from your laptop (setup is required). All Massey libraries provide help and support, but
not all resources are held in every Library.
All the details about our libraries, including opening hours, locations and services are
available on the Library website, under About Us.
When you are visiting, why not take advantage of our professional help (at the
Information Desks) or if you are a postgraduate, book a Research Consultation with a
subject specialist Librarian. Details are on The Library for Postgraduates page.
EndNote
EndNote is specialised software for organising the research and articles you find. It allows
you to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Create, store, and manage your references
Import and store references from electronic databases
Annotate, sort and search your references
Create bibliographies instantly in a variety of bibliographic styles
Insert citations into your Microsoft Word documents.
See the Library’s EndNote webpage (under Quick Links on the website) for further
information on ordering the software, and our training and help materials.
30
Paper Guide
Appendix 4: The writing process
Include assignment writing guidelines here. The sample essay and report writing
guidelines included here may be appropriate for your paper.
Writing essays
If your research has been thorough you will be in a good position to move on to writing
your essay.
The structure of an essay
An essay is generally made up of three elements: Introduction, Body and Conclusion.
The Introduction and Conclusion each make up about 5-10% of the total essay, while the
evidence paragraphs (the body) make up the remainder.

The Introduction should briefly outline your argument or thesis and/or give your
overall position on the topic.

The Body may be made up of two or more supporting statements, followed by
sentences which develop these ideas with evidence.

The Conclusion is a summarising statement which leads to a final broad statement
on the implications or significance of your argument.
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31
Introduction
5-10% of total paper
Opening sentences are broad and general, gradually focusing the reader
on to the topic and finally on to the proposition.
Proposition: Main idea of the essay, summarising the whole point of the
essay.
First topic sentence
*Paragraph 1
Sentences developing first topic sentence (definition, explanation,
evidence, illustration)
Second topic sentence
*Paragraph 2
Sentences developing second topic sentence
Third topic sentence
*Paragraph 3
Sentences developing third topic sentence
Statement relating back to the conclusion of the previous paragraph
Conclusion
5-10% of total paper
Summary leading to a final broad statement on the implications or
significance of your argument.
*These are all argument paragraphs
Paragraphs
A topic sentence should be used at the beginning of each paragraph. Its purpose is to
introduce one idea which is then developed in the rest of the paragraph by:

explanation


examples
proof

reasons
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Paper Guide
Length
An essay paragraph should not be longer than about 200 words. As a general rule most
essay paragraphs have three to 10 sentences.
Make sure you always develop arguments adequately.
Writing the essay
There are five stages in writing an essay.
1.
Write an essay plan
Using the essay structure shown above, you should be able to plot a broad essay plan in
outline form.

The introduction: In the briefest way note down the main point, central
proposition or argument.

Main points: Note the main points which support your central idea. At
undergraduate level you should be able to identify three to five main points,
depending on the kind of essay. Each point will form a separate paragraph.

Conclusion: Your conclusion should repeat the argument or central idea and
summarise the findings or arguments presented by the main points.
2.
Draft
Following a broad essay plan will make it easier to write a draft. Never try to write an
essay neatly without at least one or two drafts. Few people are good enough writers to be
able to produce a well structured essay in one sitting. Try to write as quickly as you can.
Don’t think about sentence structure, grammar or spelling at this stage.
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33
3.
Revise
Take a break between writing the draft and writing the final version of the essay. This
will allow you to disengage from your own writing and evaluate it critically. The things
to look out for when revising your draft are:




Has the question been answered?
Are the central ideas clearly expressed and well supported by your main points?
Is there a logical thought flow from beginning to end?
Is the essay about the right length?
4.
Edit
Before you write your final version there are some things you should check first.




Does each paragraph have a topic sentence and a single subject?
Does sentence length vary?
Is your spelling correct?
Have you avoided using sexist language?


Have you used the first or third person correctly and consistently?
Are your quotes or citations properly integrated into your work?
distinguished between your ideas and the ideas of other writers?
5.
Write final version
Have you
You are now ready to write a final version. I prefer work to be typed on A4 paper. If this
option is not available to you, make sure your writing is legible. Markers hate struggling
to decipher bad handwriting. Follow the guidelines in the “Presentation of written work”
section in this guide.
… and finally TAKE A COPY! Assignments occasionally get lost so a backup copy is
always a good bet.
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Paper Guide
Essay checklist
Please check to make sure you have included the following important elements of a good
essay.
Introduction
 Does the essay have an introductory paragraph, e.g. the purpose of this essay is to …?
 Does your introduction restate the topic and outline your main arguments and

conclusions?
From your introduction will your reader understand what your essay is about?
Body
 Do your ideas introduced in each paragraph relate to the essay topic?
 Do your ideas proceed logically?
 Have you defined terms which have a special meaning?
 Are the statements you make supported by what you have read – theory, research …?
 Have you written in full sentences?
 Does your information come from at least three different books or articles?
 If you have used someone else’s idea, have you acknowledged this by citing their
name and the date of publication?
 If you use an author’s idea in your essay, is their name in your List of References?
 If you have used an author’s name in your List of References have you cited their
work in your essay?
Conclusion and presentation
 Do you have a conclusion?
 Does your conclusion summarise what you have discussed in your essay?
 Are you within the word limit?
 Have you proofread your essay for spelling errors, punctuation and readability?
 Have you included a List of References?
 Does your essay have a completed cover sheet?
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35
Writing reports
The following structure can be used for report writing at university level or for report
writing in a professional business situation. The principles for research, drafting, editing
and rewriting your report are the same as those for essay writing. The only difference is
the overall structure.
The core structure of a report has six sections which can be arranged either deductively or
inductively, depending on specific requirements. A deductive style is used if you want to
present the findings first and the discussion last. Employ the inductive style if you want to
lead readers through your argument and convince them of your position.
Deductive
Inductive

Title page

Title page

Introduction

Introduction

Conclusions (Recommendations)

Discussion

Discussion

Conclusions (Recommendations)

References

References
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Paper Guide
Additional possible requirements
In some situations you would be expected to add the following additional sections as
follows:
Covering letter/memo
Title page
Executive summary
Table of contents
Introduction
Conclusions (Recommendations)
Discussion
References
Basic Structure
(deductive approach)
Appendices



Covering letter/memo is used when a report is going to several readers
Executive summary is for senior management to get a quick overview of the report
findings
Appendices provide detailed information for the specialist reader.
Covering letter/memo



Use a memo if the reader is in the same organisation and a covering letter if not
Identify topic
Identify person who commissioned the report


Acknowledge assistance
Indicate willingness to provide additional information.
Title page




Title of report
Name of person submitting the report
Name of person to whom the report is being submitted
Date of submission

Paper title and number.
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37
Executive summary
This is used when writing a report in a business context. It summarises the aims,
objectives and main findings of the report. It provides a quick overview for the senior
manager who does not have time to read the whole report.
Table of contents
Use if the report is longer than six pages.
Introduction





Briefly details the context and subject of the report
Defines the objectives of the report
Outlines the scope of the investigation
Indicates the broad conclusion reached by the report
Comments on any limitation of the report and assumptions made.
Conclusion




Relates to the objectives detailed in the introduction
Is a list of numbered points
Shows major conclusions first
Is short but identifies major issues.
Recommendations

Suggest an action




Are related to discussion and conclusion
Are numbered
Are arranged in order of importance
Are brief.
Discussion



38
Explains your conclusions
Justifies your recommendations
Presents evidence for your conclusions
Paper Guide



Shows effects of current situations and potential benefits from your recommendations
Is divided into numbered sections with headings
Cites any theoretical arguments which support your position.
References
You will need to provide references in a consistent style for the preferred method used by
your department or paper coordinator.
Appendices




Provide detailed information for specialised people
Relate clearly to the report
Are listed in the contents
Are numbered and have a title.
Paper Guide
39
Appendix 5: Supporting your learning at Massey
University
Whether you are; a distance or internal student, first year or postgraduate, a high achiever
or just scraping by, Massey University is committed to helping you reach your full
learning potential.
During your studies, you may want to explore effective ways in dealing with the
following:








planning essays and reports
assignment structure and format
using and referencing sources
using Stream to its full effect
enhancing study skills
effective time management strategies
reading and note-taking
exam preparation


postgraduate level writing
inclusive and accessible learning resources
Support is available to help you to advance and further develop your skills in academic
writing.

OWLL (Online Writing and Learning Link) Website
The Online Writing and Learning Link is a centralised website for academic writing
and study resources. It allows all Massey students to access an extensive range of
resources about study skills, assignment writing, avoiding plagiarism, exam skills,
FAQs and how to navigate your way through Stream. Utilise the useful tools
such as APA interactive and the Assignment Planning calculator. Go to
http://owll.massey.ac.nz for more information.

Academic Support Request Form
A web-based Academic Support Request form is located within the OWLL website.
Distance students can submit requests, ranging from help about writing assignments
to effective ways of learning in the university setting. It does not give specific
40
Paper Guide
content based assistance. Consultants will respond to these requests by the
following business day. Go to http://owll.massey.ac.nz/academic_support.html

Online Assignment Pre-reading Service
If your primary mode of study is distance or if you are an internal student within
your first eight papers at Massey, you are entitled to utilise the online assignment
pre-reading service. You can submit up to two assignments per semester to Writing
Consultants for review and advice related to the structure, focus, style, presentation,
and use of outside sources before the assignment is submitted for marking to your
lecturer. The turnaround time is three working days. To submit your assignment,
go to the Academic Writing and Learning Support course on Stream or contact prereading@massey.ac.nz

Fax or Post Service
If any student cannot access the online pre-reading service, a draft assignment can
be sent by post or fax to the Manawatu campus. Consultants post back faxed and
mailed assignments, so please include a postal address. Faxed and mailed
assignments are usually return mailed within 5 working days.

Academic Q + A
To ask any question related to the academic skills of writing, researching,
referencing or to see what other students have asked and read the answers, go to the
Academic Q + A discussion board which can be found on the Academic Writing and
Learning Support course on Stream. A Learning Consultant from the Centre for
Teaching and Learning will answer all questions within 24 working hours and other
students will often contribute too.

Internal Individual Appointments
You can make an appointment to discuss either study skills, using Stream
effectively or the review of an assignment with a Learning/Writing Consultant.
Make sure you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Workshops
Each campus offers a series of workshops to cater to the wide genre of students
ranging from first year students to postgraduates. Students will be able to
participate in on presentations that cover strategies for writing assignments to
effective time management. Students can also attend these workshops off-campus
Paper Guide
41
from wherever they are in the country.
For information
http://owll.massey.ac.nz/about-OWLL/online-workshops.php

go
to
Writing and Study Skills Handouts
A large collection of handouts on topics ranging from the correct way of
referencing to effective exam strategies is available. View these online at
http://owll.massey.ac.nz or request a hard copy if you do not have Internet access.
Centre for Teaching and Learning have created an Academic Writing: A Guide to
Tertiary Level Writing booklet which is also downloadable free from the OWLL
website. If you would like a hard copy, you can purchase it for $5.00 from Centre
for Teaching and Learning, Manawatu.

On-Campus Days
These are offered in Auckland, Palmerston North, Wellington and Christchurch on
the Saturday before semester starts. Students not only have access to sessions
focused on time management, reading and notetaking, researching and writing
assignments and referencing but also have the opportunity to get further
information from lecturers from the Colleges and consultants specialising in Stream
and post-graduate work. The On-Campus days are organised by Centre for
Teaching and Learning, Manawatu campus. For further information go to:
http://owll.massey.ac.nz/regionalworkshops_ex.html

Staff supporting your learning at Massey
Various staff members who work in the Centre for Teaching and Learning have
specialist skills in the areas of learning, postgraduate, writing, Pasifika, ESOL,
disability and transitional. To book an appointment to utilise their services see
below.
Centre for Teaching and Learning Manawatu Campus
(Distance and Manawatu internal students)
For any queries regarding any of the services mentioned above, please contact:
Phone:
+64 6 3502251
Fax:
+64 6 3505760
Email:
SLC-PN@massey.ac.nz
Hours:
8.30am – 4.30pm
Location:
Manawatu Campus
Student Centre – Level 2
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Paper Guide
Centre for Teaching and Learning – Auckland Campus
For all Auckland students who would like to book an appointment to see an advisor,
please contact:
Phone:
+64 9 414 0800 extn 9143
Email:
slc-alb@massey.ac.nz
Hours:
8.30am – 4.30pm
Location:
Albany Campus
Room, SC1.18.
Lower Level Study Centre Building
East Precinct
Centre for Teaching and Learning Wellington Campus
For all Wellington students who would like to book an appointment to see an advisor,
please contact:
Phone:
Email:
Hours:
Location:
+64 4 801 5799 extn 624498
wnlearn@massey.ac.nz
8.30am – 4.30pm
Wellington Campus
Block 5, Ground Floor (level A)
Entrance E, Tasman Street, Wellington
The Extramural Students’ Society (EXMSS) is your distance student
support organisation. EXMSS services include scholarships, financial assistance in times
of hardship, advocacy support, events, communication with other students, subsidized
shuttles to contact courses and much more. To connect with EXMSS, your student
society, go to www.exmss.org
Disability Services have offices and staff on the Albany, Manawatu (Turitea) and
Wellington Campuses of Massey University. For any enquiries, please contact
0800 Massey (0800 627 739) and ask to be put through to Disability Services or email:
disinfo@massey.ac.nz.
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43
Appendix 6: Feeling overwhelmed?
Are you…



Having doubts, sudden feelings of incompetence?
Having awful realisations of time running out?
In other words, thinking of withdrawing?
Before you do, ask yourself…

Will I regret this later?

Will I feel better after a cup of coffee/the baby has gone to sleep/the weather has
improved?

Do I really have to decide now?

Should I write to or phone my paper coordinator?
Tell yourself…

I’ve got this far, I might as well finish.

I have the right kind of reasons to ask for an extension of time for the assignment.

I could even send in a draft outline if I am confused and don’t know if I’m on the
right track.

There are people around who can help if I ask.
Do…

Talk about it with your paper coordinator. Often students withdraw because,
working in isolation, they do not realise that other students are having the same
problems and in fact, compared to others, they are doing very well. Make contact
and find out how you are going, and what suggestions the paper coordinator can
make to help you. Discuss withdrawing with your family, your employer and others
important to you.

Get on with what needs to be done now (leave future tasks to the future).
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Paper Guide
If after all that you find you have no alternative but to withdraw then …

Check the Distance Learning Handbook. Note what date you need to withdraw
before if you don’t wish to have the paper recorded as a failure.

Please contact Massey University at 0800 MASSEY or email contact@massey.ac.nz
to withdraw. But contact me too, if you possibly can. I am interested to hear what
your problems have been, and whether there is some way I can make it possible for
you to take this paper again in a future year.
The only way you can be withdrawn or change your course is to notify the Enrolment
Office. Writing to the paper coordinator or tutor does not affect your withdrawal.
Paper Guide
45
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Paper Guide