Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Essay for Skills for Business
Essay question: A business's only responsibility is to produce profits. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Students are marked out of a total of 30 points (20 for content, 10 for referencing).
Mark scheme for content (up to 20 points):
Evaluation: for 5 marks in this section, students should give their opinion and answer the question: to what extent they agree or disagree with the statement.
The student gives an opinion backed with reasoning and justification. Students need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of CSR against each other. Suggestions are supported by examples.
1-2 - one sided argument no basis for the argument
3-4 - two sided but no weighting, includes a conclusion
5 - weighted argument is used and includes two sided justifications with a conclusion.
Analysis: In this section, students should explain both the advantages and disadvantages of CSR, as well as some challenges that may exist.
1-2: stating an argument, no explanation
3-4: argument stated but attempts some analysis
5: attempts to analyse are supported with counter/alternative views/evidence
Application: for 5 marks in this section, students need to provide examples of what could go right or wrong with CSR.
0 - Remains theoretical
1 - 2: Makes a statement, no support
3-4: Statement is supported by some theory/academic evidence but left wanting more
5: Statement is well supported, not left wanting more
Knowledge: for 5 marks in this section, students need to demonstrate a good understanding of CSR. Students need to define the term.
1- Listed or very basic
2- Definitions only.
3 - good understanding but not always in context of answer e.g. irrelevant to answer but not incorrect
4 - good understanding, answer in context
5- not left wanting more