First essay for uni and I don't have a clue where to start

[MiaWallace]

I have to write a 2000 word essay on the following -

?What are the main social, economic, political and intellectual factors which shape current research either in education or in childhood and youth studies? Discuss with reference to examples of published research.?

I have no idea where to start and it's making me very stressed and upset.

If anyone could give me any advice I would be very grateful.

Remember too that the marks for this year DO NOT COUNT for your BA - do NOT stress if you get below par.

As you get in to the "way of writing" it will become easier - it is far more "formal" than A-level essays but the tutors will give you feedback.

You won't do half as bad as you are expecting; I did BA Ed Studies, as I said and then switched to English (because I want to become a teacher and wanted my options open for secondary or primary teaching but that is by the by..)

When is it due in?

Thanks I've been looking at TES online a lot and Teachers TV. Both have been very useful.

I have now done my research, planned my essay and decided on what evidence I will use to back my arguemnts. Just need to right the thing now!

The essay is due in by Friday

Key mistake my students make it to write the essay before they have worked out the answer. Start off by taking notes and work out what you think. Then trace out an argument. Writing it should thus be a piece of piss (think of it as just a longs MN post!)

Sounds like I'm on the right track then witchandchips. I've spent hours and hours planning so the writing of the essay should just be a case of getting it all down on paper now.

What do you teach?