Module: How to Avoid Plagiarism - Using the Internet
Summary
Students will look at a number of websites (or read the handouts) to complete a writing assignment with proper citation techniques for using Internet sources. This in-class writing activity centers on somewhat recent news events. (45-60 minutes)
How it works
- The attached assignment [PDF] gives students the URLs for several stories about plagiarism. Students should view the websites or read the copied handouts provided by the teacher.
- Students should devote 15-20 minutes to reading the sources and 15-20 minutes to writing their extended paragraph.
- Discussion should follow, with volunteers sharing their essays.
- Ask students to illustrate their use of citations and their bibliographic entries.
Prompt: Many high profile cases of plagiarism and other forms of dishonesty have emerged in the past few years. Using some or all of the sources provided here, write an extended paragraph on the following topic: "Schools and workplaces should/should not have a zero tolerance policy toward plagiarism." Include citations and a sample bibliographic entry for each source.
Sources
- Hamilton College President
http://hnn.us/comments/6292.html - Jayson Blair
http://slate.msn.com/id/2082741/ - Notre Dame football coaching candidate
http://und.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/121401aab.html - University of Virginia cheating scandal
http://www.headroyce.org/research/research/uvascandal.html
Did they get it?
The primary goal here is for students to practice citing Internet sources, as many of them will use the Internet in their own research. The secondary issue is to get them engaged in a debate about zero-tolerance policies.
Further Suggestions
The class might hold an impromptu debate on "Zero Tolerance" policies. The class should choose sides, with each side selecting one judge. The instructor should be the third judge.
Each round begins with a student from each side providing one example (from his paper) of an argument defending his position. Judges award each argument 0, 1, or 2. The team with the most points after each student has had one turn is the winner.
Key terms/ideas for understanding
- Zero Tolerance