POL246 Public Policy Analysis Assessment One 2026 | Murdoch University

POL246 Assessment One

What is a scoping paper?

It is a short research-based document that explores (scopes) a potential or existing policy issue. It focuses on understanding what the issue is, who it affects, and what is currently being done (if anything). It does not recommend solutions – instead, it provides the foundation for future analysis by clearly defining the scope of the problem. This assessment will help prepare you for Assessment 2 (briefing paper), where you will consider what should be done about the issue you have scoped.

What to include in your scoping paper

Your scoping paper needs to focus on a specific jurisdiction (e.g. a state, territory, or country), and must include the following five components:

1) Policy issue overview

Provide a brief outline of the policy issue, situated within a specific jurisdiction. Identify any existing policy currently in place to address the issue. (Use full sentences)

2) Causal Factors

Outline the key factors contributing to the policy issue in your chosen jurisdiction. (Use full sentences.)

3) Stakeholders and Policy Actors

Identify the main stakeholders and policy actors involved in the issue or policy area. These may include government agencies, advocacy groups, affected communities, or industry bodies. (Use full sentences.)

4) Legislative and Policy Context

Provide a list of relevant legislative requirements, strategies, or other policy arrangements that intersect with the issue (e.g. Acts, parliamentary inquiries, strategy papers, reports, or international agreements). (Bullet points are acceptable.)

5) Reference List

Include a list of sources that demonstrate research beyond the unit readings. All sources must be cited using the Chicago Author-Date referencing style – you must include page numbers in your citations. (The reference list is not included in the word count.)

6) AI Use Declaration (required)

At the end of your submission, please include a short statement (3-5 sentences) explaining if and how you used any AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Grammarly, Microsoft Copilot) in preparing this scoping paper. Clearly state the type of tool used, what it was used for (e.g., brainstorming, drafting, grammar support, editing), and how you evaluated or revised any content it helped generate. If you did not use AI tools, please state: “No AI tools were used in preparing this assignment”. This section will not be graded but is required as part of responsible academic practice. If missing, your paper will be returned with a request to add the required statement – this is not included in the word count.

Submission requirements

• Word limit: 700 words (excluding the reference list)
• Presentation: Use clear subheadings for each section
• Evidence: Support your discussion with properly referenced evidence
• Referencing style: Use Chicago Author-Date referencing for all in-text citations and the reference list

POL246 Assessment One Marking Guid

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