Assessment task
As part of the food composition and analysis unit, students will identify and quantify target analytes in a range of food matrices, with each case study providing a commercial brief and experimental aim(s) for this work. Students will write a report detailing the results of each these practical investigations, to address the investigative requirements of their employer/client. Students will submit a portfolio of their best work for summative assessment.
Each report should include the following:
• An introduction which outlines the purpose of the experiment and explains the theory of the methods and technologies used (25%)
• A full methodology and experimental design (method protocols should be appended or referenced) (10%)
• A results section giving full results of the practical experiments, with appropriate statistical treatment and summary of results (25%)
• A discussion that compares and evaluates both experimental findings and analytical methodology performance. Experimental results and literature references will be used to support the points made, with logical and appropriate conclusions drawn. (30%)
• References and overall good presentation. (10%)
Students will have the opportunity to submit up to a total of 2 draft reports (each relating to different experiments) for formative feedback – see schedule above. Students should use this feedback to improve their report writing skills.
Please note: The final portfolio submitted for summative assessment should contain a minimum of 2 experimental reports. A separate word count should be provided for each report.
When producing each report, you should be able to:
* Describe the methods of analysis accurately, in your own words, and demonstrating an appropriate depth of knowledge.
* Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of these technologies / methods.
* Cite peer reviewed and reliable sources of information.
* Present experimental results clearly, completely, and appropriately, in tables and figures.
* Calculate results correctly from the data presented, and employ appropriate statistical tests (as appropriate).
* Evaluate the design/performance of the employed analytical methods using valid criteria (e.g. validity, accuracy, precision, sensitivity, reproducibility, technical performance, cost) with comparisons to alternative approaches and technologies
* Use experimental results and literature to support the points made in the evaluation.
* Prepare a well-constructed report with clarity of expression, using concise language within the word count.
* Ensure conclusions address the key research questions posed by the experimental brief, and that specific recommendations for action and/or further work be made
