The Role of Source citation

When to Cite Sources/the Role of Sources

1. Whenever you use factual material that you found in a source

2. Whenever you use ideas (i.e. claims, interpretations, conclusions, etc.)

3. Whenever you use a special concept, term, or theory that you found in a source.

4. Whenever you use the structure, organization, or method of a source (i.e. the way an argument is divided into specific parts)

5. Whenever you quote – You will NEVER quote for any paper in any Dr. Cipra class!

Integrating Sources

1. Summarize/paraphrase – using the main points or conclusions of someone else’s work BUT do so by using your own words

2. Gist – give the main claim of an argument without indicating the reasons or further support

3. Mention – refer to the source in passing, making it part of a generalized claim

a. Some researchers (see Bronfenbrenner, 1969) argue for an ecological systems view of human development.

**NOTES**

Never leave your reader in doubt about which claims are yours and which come from a source.

Use sources to support your ideas. Do not simply summarize the ideas of others.

Always make clear how each source matters to your argument and integrate sources to create a complete “story” or understanding of the topic.