Sources of Information

Sources of Information

English 8

OOTD (Objectives of the Day)

• Identify the different sources of information

• Classify sources as primary and secondary

• Synthesize sources of information in doing research

Sources of Information

In doing a research work, a writing task or a report, it is important to identify the sources of information that we will use.

Sources of Information

• Primary Sources (First Hand)

• Secondary Sources

Primary Sources

• Primary Sources are immediate, first-hand accounts of a topic, from people who had a direct connection with it

• It is something created by a person who participated in or saw an event.

Open Ended

Give an example of a primary source of information.

Examples

• Texts of laws and other original documents.

• Newspaper reports, by reporters who witnessed an event or who quote people who did.

• Speeches, diaries, letters and interviews - what the people involved said or wrote.

• Original research.

• Datasets, survey data, such as census or economic statistics.

• Photographs, video, or audio that capture an event.

Secondary Sources

• Secondary Sources are one step removed from primary sources, though they often quote or otherwise use primary sources. They can cover the same topic, but add a layer of interpretation and analysis.

Secondary Sources

• Secondary sources are materials prepared by people who did not participate in or see events for themselves. These people can study a primary source to help them find out information to create their secondary source. 

Examples

• Most books about a topic.

• Analysis or interpretation of data.

• Scholarly or other articles about a topic, especially by people not directly involved. (Analysis Essay, Editorials, Features)

• Documentaries (though they often include photos or video portions that can be considered primary sources).

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is an example of a secondary source of information?

• Opinion Article

• Birth Certificate

• Speech

• Interview

Multiple Choice

A diary is an example of...

• primary source

• secondary source

Multiple Choice

A biography is an example of...

• primary source

• secondary source

Multiple Choice

A history textbook is an example of...

• primary source

• secondary source

Criteria in evaluating sources:

• AUTHORITY

• Is the author credible to discuss the topic? What is his or her purpose for writing?

Criteria in evaluating sources:

• ACCURACY

• Can the information be verified using another source? Are the materials correct? Is it from reputable websites or publications?

Criteria in evaluating sources:

• OBJECTIVITY

• Does the text present an impartial view or stand? Is it used for propaganda? Do the words show bias?

Criteria in evaluating sources:

• CURRENCY OR TIMELINESS

• Is the material relevant at present? Have the contents/facts changed through time?

Criteria in evaluating sources:

• COVERAGE

• Does it have accurate information? How much information was discussed? (breadth and depth)

Multiple Select

Which of the following would best describe a credible source of information?

• unbiased

• written by a professional writer

• has supported evidence

• posted on different social media platforms

Multiple Select

What thing(s) should you look for when you are deciding whether a source is credible or not? (Select ALL that apply)

• Date written

• Author

• Type of website

• Length

• Reference material used

Multiple Choice

What is a major redflag about this website?

• All the information is incorrect.

• The information is out of date.

• Everything on this website is biased because it gets sponsored by advertisements.

• Anyone can add information so you can't be sure if it is correct or not.

Recall and Wrap

Open Ended

How will you describe a primary source of information?

Open Ended

Give an example of a secondary source of information.

Multiple Choice

Credible sources are trustworthy, meaning you know that what you are reading or watching is factual and true.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

A source that is relevant at present possesses the quality of...

• Authority

• Currency

• Coverage

Multiple Choice

If a source comes from a reputable site, then it is...

• objective

• accurate

• timely

Multiple Choice

If a source provides a thorough discussion of a concept, this source of information has...

• authority

• coverage

• objectivity

Open Ended

Exit Slip:

How does the understanding of the type of sources of information and qualities of a credible source relevant to you as a young Thomasian?