The report must be based around a single question that lends itself to in-depth research. The report should be written for a non-specialist audience.
Throughout their research, candidates must keep a research log and submit it with their report. The log must be a separate document to the report. In their log, candidates should record information relating to the research process and reflect on their research findings and decisions.
For the Cambridge Research Report, candidates should demonstrate AO1, AO2 and AO3 skills. Candidates will be assessed on their ability to:
• use a research log to record, plan and reflect on research (AO1, AO2)
• reflect on research findings and decisions (AO2)
• analyse their research question (AO1)
• use appropriate research methods (AO1)
• select and analyse relevant concepts (AO1)
• use and assess sources to support arguments and perspectives (AO1)
• build and compare contrasting perspectives (AO1)
• reflect on how alternative perspectives have influenced their argument (AO2)
• make judgements which are supported by evidence (AO1)
• reflect on their conclusions (AO2)
• structure their report effectively, use accurate terminology and use complete and appropriate citation and referencing (AO3).
The report must be written in continuous prose and must not exceed 5000 words. An accurate word count must be clearly stated. The title and bibliographical references are not included in the word count. Work beyond the 5000 word maximum will not be marked.
The report must include a bibliography and full bibliographical references must be given for any quotations. The format and referencing conventions used should be appropriate to the subject discipline/s.
