Any topic (writer’s choice)

prepare a literature review outline of a specific
area including an appropriate rationale, research question, search strategy and results
identified from search with the articles located clearly documented. The key themes of
the research articles should be highlighted. Choose an area that is under-researched
where a meta-analysis or literature review does not exist i.e. in a specific population
group, location, setting or topic. It is recommended you narrow your search to between
6-12 research articles for the word limit. Use your inclusion/exclusion criteria to do this
i.e. date, geography, population.
The essay is split into the five sections described below and you should use these
subheadings to guide the content:
1. Rationale 20 marks
Provide some background to your chosen topic, and write a rationale for
your choice of topic and how it is related to your practice/discipline, and
why it is important to investigate this area.
Introduce the main concept or definitions e.g. what you mean by child.
2. Research question 5 marks
Clear research question using PICO format if appropriate starting with the
phrase what is the evidence that
3. Search strategy 30 marks
Replicable and detailed search strategy including key words, search terms,
databases used, inclusion and exclusion criteria i.e. date, language, study
type etc.
Clear demonstration of how you got to your final article number. You can
support your search strategy using a flow diagram if this helps i.e. number
of hits, exclusions.
Literature reviews or meta-analysis should not be included.
4. Main findings 25 marks
Some commentary on the types of evidence you found and how it relates to
the hierarchy of evidence.
Identified themes from the research articles- this is not a critical appraisal
but identification of the areas that a critical appraisal could discuss from the
studies you found.
How these findings can enhance your future practice in your respective
discipline.
5. Recommendations 10 marks
Recommendations for research and practice based on the themes that you
have identified from your main findings
Guidance followed including clear, replicable search strategy, Harvard 10 marks
referencing conventions