Accountant in Business

Coursework Assignment Brief
Semester: E15
Module Code: PAA102
Module Title: Accountant in Business
Programme: BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance
Level: 4
Awarding Body: University of Plymouth
Module Leader: Andrew Mckenzie
Format: Essays and Report
Presentation: No
Any special
requirements:
All work should be submitted on the Student Portal along with an
acceptable Turnitin Report
Word Limit: 2,000 words (with 10% plus or minus leeway)
Deadline date for
submission:
Thursday 10th December 2015
Learning outcomes to
be examined in this
assessment:
Demonstrate an appreciation for organisational factors, which could
influence the effectiveness of the function of accounting.
Percentage of marks
awarded for module:
This assignment is worth 50% of the total marks for the module
Assessment criteria: Explanatory comments on the
assessment criteria
Maximum marks for
each section
Content, style,
relevance, originality:
Clear demonstration of rigorous research
from recognised authoritative sources.
10%
Format, referencing,
bibliography:
Harvard 10%
Constructive critical
analysis, introduction,
conclusion:
Demonstration of a clear understanding of
the issues. Use of academic models.
80%
Candidates must clearly label their ID Number on additional separate reference, formula or
answer sheets.
Page 2 of 4
Assignment Task:
1. Identify three differing organisational structures and explain in what circumstances they
may be used, and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Include in your answer an
explanation of Scalar Chain and Span of Control. (750 words)
2. Using publicly available information on Intercontinental Hotels Group plc
(www.ihgplc.com), identify what sort of organisational structure is employed. Explain why
you believe this structure is in place, clearly explaining the advantages to the Company
and discuss any shortcomings of the employed structure. (750 words)
3. You have been employed as a Consultant to Intercontinental Hotels Group plc.
Write areport to the Chief Executive of the Company explaining the importance of employee motivation. (500 words).
Total marks for assignment 100
What is expected within students’ answers:
Ability to introduce the essays forming parts 1 and 2, by including assignment objectives.
The description, advantages, disadvantages and contrasts of each structure should
demonstrate a clear understanding of the issues.
Clear understanding of the Intercontinental Hotels Group plc organisational structure
highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of the employed structure.
Arguments should be clearly summed up to reach a conclusion.
In respect of Part 3, a business report including an Introduction, Main Body and Conclusion.
Clear, professional evidence of wide research should be provided in respect of all parts.
Page 3 of 4
Marking Scheme
Marks awarded
Introduction (to cover parts 1 and 2 only) 10
Analysis and Discussion 60
Conclusion (to cover parts 1 and 2 only) 10
Content, style, relevance, originality 10
Format, referencing, bibliography 10
Total marks 100

Standard marking system to be used when marking coursework assignments – for all programmes at
GSM.
Indicative Grade UK% marks Characteristics.
Distinction 70%+ Very high standard of critical analysis using appropriate
conceptual frameworks.
Excellent understanding and exposition of relevant issues.
Clearly structured and logically developed arguments.
Good awareness of nuances and complexities.
Substantial evidence of well-executed independent research.
Excellent evaluation and synthesis of source material.
Relevant data and examples, all properly referenced.