Critical writing
The piece of writing below is taken from an essay on leadership:
Brown (2005) maintains that leadership is an essential quality in nursing. This is confirmed
by the recent requirements of the NHS Plan (DOH, 2002). This Plan has emphasized the
importance of introducing the transformational model of leadership. Smith (2001) explains
that this is a leadership which involves the use of charisma and interpersonal skills to enable
achievement. Jones (2004) argues that the key characteristic of transformational leadership
is empowering others to achieve. In my own experience, a leader with transformational
qualities can make any team member feel that they have a useful part to play in the
organization. This is confirmed by Fea (2001) who argues that transformational leadership
increases feelings of self-worth and capability in their team members.
1. Is this piece an example of good academic writing?
• Yes , the style is formal and flows well.
• Paraphrasing (rather than quotations) is used to introduce evidence from the
