The Dissertation: overview of the SQA Advanced Higher English independent literary study
An overview of the SQA Advanced Higher English dissertation: an independent critical study of literature of 2,500 to 3,500 words worth 30 marks, covering how to choose a topic and thesis, structure the argument, use evidence and criticism, and meet referencing conventions.
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The dissertation is the largest single piece of SQA Advanced Higher English coursework: an independent critical study of literature of 2,500 to 3,500 words, worth 30 marks. You choose a literary topic and texts (not your Literary Study texts), frame a thesis, and sustain one argument with engagement with criticism and proper referencing. This page maps the skills the dissertation rewards.
The skills of a strong dissertation
- The dissertation task
- Knowing the three framing rules and what a finished dissertation must contain, and treating it as a project to start early.
- Choosing a topic and framing a thesis
- Pairing related texts with productive tension and narrowing the topic into an arguable, bounded thesis.
- Structuring the argument
- Building a framing introduction, body sections organised by idea, and a conclusion that reaches an independent judgement.
- Using evidence and secondary criticism
- Leading with close analysis of the texts and using criticism to support, extend or challenge it, keeping your own judgement in control.
- Referencing and academic conventions
- Acknowledging sources consistently, integrating quotations accurately, and including a bibliography and word count.
How to study the dissertation
- Start early. The dissertation rewards sustained reading and redrafting; a rushed draft cannot show its depth.
- Settle topic and texts first. Check the three rules, pair texts well, and frame a thesis before drafting.
- Read criticism with a purpose. Gather critics who confirm, extend or challenge your reading, not a heap of opinions.
- Draft and redraft to the word limit. Sharpen the argument and fit it within 2,500 to 3,500 words.
For the official course specification
The SQA publishes the coursework instructions, dissertation guidance and exemplars for Advanced Higher English at sqa.org.uk and on Understanding Standards. Always follow the current coursework instructions and your centre's guidance.