I use grade descriptors (A+, A... C-, D+ etc) rather than % grades. You should search UCD for definitions/explanations of grade descriptors. I have posted similar material on the website.
In terms of answering prosaic, essay style questions you can employe a couple of approaches, they all amount to the same thing however, know your material, produce your own thoughtful response, practice using past papers.
Sometimes students struggle more with organising their thoughts, the following might be of help:
A simple style of raising questions, responding, and further questioning responding in the Socratic style is ok. So long as you demonstrate your knowledge and answer the question.
In terms or organising your thoughts, as mentioned in class the so-called Hegelian approach; thesis, anti-thesis, synthesis might be useful:
1. Simple bullet points >
2. Detailed definitions >
3. Examples of application >
4. Critical analysis of practical use >
5. Own interpretation and synthesis >
In a similar fashion you might organise a response inspired by Bloom’s cumulative (classification) of knowledge :
1.Data/factual statements (rules)
2.Simple description, explanation (theories)
3.Straight forward application, applied
4.Analysis of unexpected outcomes
5.Synthesis of new or adapted theory
6.Expert reflective application in use.
