The Department of History uses the University's 20 Point Marking Scale. History specific marking descriptors are as follows:

First Class (70+)

• Persuasive and direct answer to the question, establishing the wider significance of the issues concerned.
• Comprehensive coverage of the relevant material; accuracy in the details.
• A direct and coherent argument, well supported by relevant evidence.
• Critical analysis of relevant concepts, theoretical or historiographical perspectives or methodological issues.
• Fluent and engaging writing style; persuasive presentation and structuring of arguments.
• Work which, in addition, displays evidence of creativity, originality, sophistication and freshness of arguments will be awarded marks of 75+.

Upper Second (60-69)

• Direct answer to the question, establishing the wider significance of the issues concerned.
• Adequate coverage of the relevant material, accuracy in the details.
• Skilful mobilisation of evidence in relation to the argument being presented.
• Narrative and description taking second place to analysis.
• Competent manipulation of relevant concepts, theoretical or historiographical perspectives or methodological issues.
• Fluent writing style; effective presentation and structuring of arguments.

Lower Second (50-59)

• Basically satisfactory answer to the question.
• Limited coverage of relevant material; some inaccuracy in the detail.
• Some attempt to mobilise evidence in relation to the argument being presented.
• Analysis taking second place to narrative and description.
• Limited understanding of relevant concepts, theoretical or historiographical perspectives or methodological issues.
• Adequate writing style, presentation and structuring of arguments.

Third (40–49)

• Barely satisfactory answer to the question.
• Inadequate coverage of relevant material; major inaccuracies in the detail.
• No understanding of relevant concepts, theoretical or historiographical perspectives or methodological issues.
• Poor presentation and structuring of arguments.

Fail (less than 40)
One or more of the following:

• Serious misunderstanding of the question.
• Failure to provide any answer to the question.
• Failure to show knowledge of relevant material.
• Seriously muddled presentation and structuring of arguments.