Us politics

Assessment Brief 2 US Politics and Policy Assignment Two: Student Briefing Module: US Politics and Policy | Lecturer: Matthew Mokhefi-Ashton | Due: 17 April 2026 Overview This is a 3,000-word essay (10%), meaning a minimum of 2,700 words and a maximum of 3,300 words. Word count includes citations but excludes the reference list and diagrams. Submission deadline: 17 April 2026. The Task Critically apply and critique three theories of the policy process of your choosing. You cannot use the Stages Heuristic Model (SHM) choose any other three theories. Apply each theory to a different US policy (three policies in total). Compare the strengths and weaknesses of the three theories. For bonus marks: discuss how the three theories could be combined to provide a more holistic understanding of the policy process. Policy Selection Rules You cannot reuse a policy from your first assignment. You cannot use policies covered in lectures, seminars, or example work specifically: Not the Assault Weapons Ban of 1994 Not the Affordable Healthcare Act (2008) Choose something as contemporary as possible (but do not use executive orders). Recommended Structure and Word Counts Introduction 200 words Policy 1 introduction 200 words, followed by Diagram 1, then Critique 500 words Policy 2 introduction 200 words, followed by Diagram 2, then Critique 500 words Policy 3 introduction 200 words, followed by Diagram 3, then Critique 500 words Critical discussion (comparing all three theories) 400 words, followed by a new synthesising diagram Conclusion 300 words The essay is designed to be written section by section and then assembled do not try to write it all at once. What Each Policy Introduction Should Cover (200 words each) Identify the problem the policy was designed to solve. Identify the role of the Constitution in this policy area (if any). Identify the key formal and informal actors involved. Describe the policy solution developed. Explain how the policy was legitimised. Discuss whether the policy was a success or not. Use graphs, tables, or images to illustrate where helpful (do not go significantly over 200 words here as this section is mainly descriptive and carries fewer marks). Diagrams Produce all diagrams in PowerPoint (templates available in the NOW room), then paste into your Word document. Do not describe or explain how the theory works in your written critique a correct diagram demonstrates that understanding. Save your word count for the applied critique, not diagram description. What This Assignment Tests Knowledge and understanding of specific contemporary US policies. Knowledge of US political institutions and actors. Ability to apply theories of the policy process accurately. Ability to critique those theories in an applied context. Ability to synthesise theories into a new, holistic framework. Key Reading Theories of the Policy Process, Volumes 3 and 4 (available online through the library). Paul Cairney’s work on policy theories is also strongly recommended. Engage with the academic literature more substantially than in Assignment One. Practical Advice Aim to complete one diagram and critique per week to avoid last-minute pressure. Leave at least three weeks at the end for editing, proofreading, and checking references. Check every paragraph against the module learning outcomes. If a sentence does not contribute to a learning outcome, consider whether you need it. Speak to the lecturer about your diagrams and sections as you write them. Use Harvard referencing only.