Balancing sources

Which of the following would be considered a primary source in a research project on Margaret Atwood?

• A peer-reviewed article analyzing The Handmaid’s Tale

• A documentary discussing feminist themes in Atwood's work

• An interview with Margaret Atwood about her writing process

• A biography of Margaret Atwood

What is the main difference between a primary source and a secondary source?

• Primary sources are based on opinions; secondary sources are based on facts

• Primary sources provide first-hand evidence; secondary sources analyze that evidence

• Secondary sources are older than primary sources

• Secondary sources must be peer-reviewed; primary sources do not need to be peer reviewed

True or False: An academic article criticizing the themes of an author is a primary source.

• True

• False

Which of the following is NOT typically considered an academic source?

• A peer-reviewed journal article

• A book published by a university press

• A Wikipedia entry

• A critical essay in an academic journal

What is the main advantage of using both complementary and contrasting sources in a paragraph?

• This reduces the need for your own analysis

• This allows you to cite more and write less

• This shows a balanced and critical approach to the topic

• This quickly increases the word count

Why is it important to start a paragraph with your own idea before introducing sources?

• To make it easier to cite sources later

• To clearly establish your argument and focus

• To avoid accidental plagiarism

• To make the paragraph longer

Which reporting verb is most appropriate to describe an author's interpretation of a text?

• Declares

• Affirms

• Suggests

• Shouts

True or False: It is acceptable to rely entirely on a single secondary source in a paragraph as long as it is academic.

• True

• False

What role does synthesis play in a well-developed paragraph with multiple sources?

• It summarizes each source in turn

• It evaluates the author's credibility

• It connects the sources to your argument and to each other

• It avoids taking a position on the issue

You are writing about identity in Indigenous poetry. Which combination below shows a good balance of sources?

• Two opinion blogs and a Wikipedia summary

• The poet's original work, a critical essay, and a recorded interview

• A textbook chapter and a social media post

• A personal reflection and an encyclopedia entry