85502 Chap.12 Researching Two Artefacts: Analysis and Argument
Researching Two Artefacts: Analysis and Argument
The research project
Assessment 2 asks you to research two design artefacts or systems, place them in historical context, connect them through concepts, and present the work both in writing and in a five to seven minute talk.
The template
Part 1 prepares in point form: the artefacts, six sources, a formal and semiotic brainstorm, historical contexts and connecting themes.
Part 2 turns them into paragraphs that build a case.
The rubric
Four criteria worth 25 points each: Research, Connections and Analysis, Writing and Referencing, and Verbal Communication. At 65% of the mark, this project is where the subject’s lenses and skills come together.
What this chapter covers
- 01
Choosing two artefacts, one from a collection
- 02
Finding and annotating six good sources
- 03
Formal and semiotic brainstorm
- 04
Contexts of design, making and use
- 05
Building a case that connects the artefacts
- 06
The closing reflection
- 07
Presenting research in progress
Worked example · free
Plan the argument paragraph for two artefacts
- 1Choose the concept from your Part 1 list: waste and product longevity from Week 11.
- 1State the connection: both store food, but one was made to last and be kept, the other to be thrown away.
- 1Signal the evidence you will need for each artefact: materials and maker for the canister, material and intended lifespan for the container.
- 1Write the claim: read together, the two objects show storage shifting from durable household goods to disposable packaging.
Key terms
- Research Process Template
- The structured document for Assessment 2, with preparation questions in Part 1 and writing questions in Part 2.
- Annotation
- A short note on a source saying why it is useful and reliable and what you learned from it.
- Research in progress
- Work presented before it is finished, to share findings and ask for feedback.
- Image reference list
- A list of the sources of every image you use, in APA 7 style.
Researching Two Artefacts: Analysis and Argument FAQ
How many artefacts do I need for Assessment 2, and where can they come from?
Two. They can be 2D, 3D or a designed system. At least one must come from a museum, archive or library collection, subject to your tutor’s approval; the other can be anything, including an everyday object. Choose them so you can use themes from at least one Weeks 6 to 12 lecture or reading.
How long is the Assessment 2 presentation?
Five to seven minutes, with seven as the maximum, presented in class in Week 11 or Week 12 as your tutor assigns. It is research in progress, so it can come before the written template is finished, but by those weeks it should show advanced development. Be ready for questions afterwards.
Can I use Wikipedia or AI to research my artefacts?
No. The brief says not to use Wikipedia or generative AI tools to find information, and the template says they are not reputable sources for this task. Use books, journal articles, museum catalogues and reputable online sources, starting with the UTS Library catalogue and Trove.
How is Assessment 2 marked?
On four criteria worth 25 points each: Research, Connections and Analysis, Writing and Referencing, and Verbal Communication. The High Distinction bands ask for compelling artefacts and high-quality sources, rigorous formal and semiotic analysis, well-structured referenced writing, and an engaging, logical talk.
When is the Assessment 2 written template due?
The Weekly Topic Schedule gives the end of Week 12, 22 October 2026, while the Canvas submission panel shows 23 October at 23:59. Treat the earlier date as your deadline and confirm on Canvas. Submit the template as a PDF no larger than 8MB, named in the pattern the brief gives.
What goes in the six best sources list?
Six sources in APA 7 that help you research your artefacts and place them in context, ideally from reputable academic or educational publishers, museum catalogues or reliable online sources. At least one must be a required or recommended reading from Weeks 6 to 12, and the two most useful each get a short annotation.
Assessment move
Fill in Part 1 in point form before you write any paragraph, because Part 2 keeps sending you back to it. Draft the argument paragraph next, then the analysis and context paragraphs that support it, and write the opening sentence last, as the template suggests. Rehearse the talk against a timer at least twice, and keep every source and image in your journal as you go.
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