Note teaking part 3

Essay by Sydneyx3mHigh School, 11th gradeA, May 2005

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Evaluating Sources

Who is presenting it?

- is the author reputable, credible, or an expert

- has he/she published other works in the field

- is the publisher academic, special interest, or mass market

- is it independent or close with a political party/pressure group

What is being presented?

- is the account balanced and neutral or subjective and persuasive(not informative)

- is clear evidence provided to support any claims or arguments

- what is the personal/academic connection between the author and the material

When was it first presented?

- is the information still accurate and relevant

- is it a primary or secondary source

- is it a reprint or a revised/updated edition

- is older, is it considered a classic

- how important is currency of information to the topic

How is it presented?

- does the book have a serious, thoughtful appearance or is it designed to get attention than balanced discussion

- is there a table of contents, detailed index, bibliography/bibliographical notes

- are units and chapter titles reasonable in tone

- is the vocabulary of a high order or is it simplistic and overcharged with generalization

- is the source largely based on fact, opinion, or argument

Why is it being presented?

- what appears to be the purpose of the source

- is it intended to inform or to persuade; is there a commercial intent

- how much bias/subjectivity appear in the source; could it be considered propaganda

- are there any sponsors of the work

Bias

- predisposition or prejudice; limited view; one-sided position

Recognizing personal bias:

- make sure your point of view is fair and well-informed

- bias develops out of references: own life experiences and personal knowledge

- we should recognize out biases and don't be a prisoner of them...