In our last module, we discussed the kinds of outside sources that best support a writer’s position on an issue. The best sources are the most objective, least biased ones, and they usually are written by specialists in specific fields of study or are produced by journalists who have a professional history of being fair and well informed. Although to some extent all evidence presents a perspective on the world and so cannot be considered absolutely true, most scientists and many journalists and academic writers strive to be as objective as possible when they present information, and they stake their reputations on that objectivity. We have discussed the kinds of organizations that present these writers’ work and where to find these types of sources; now we need to consider how best to include the information we want to use in the papers we write. A good starting point for novice researchers is the FSCJ Library databases. In this module, we will explore how to find sources through this tool.

Once you have found unbiased (or at least very well researched) sources which present relevant information, you must clearly explain what those sources are and where they come from. Indeed, as a writer who seeks to build consensus on a controversial topic, you are expected to find accurate and viable sources and to cite those sources accurately and clearly. This is how you build credibility with your audience and avoid plagiarism, which is when you use other people’s ideas and information without giving them the proper credit. Plagiarism is considered a major ethical breach when it comes to academic and professional writing; if you don’t cite properly, you may be given a failing grade or even lose your job. This module will help you understand the basics of how citation works so that you can strengthen your academic arguments and steer clear of plagiarism. Keep in mind that this will only be a brief overview, and as you move on to more research-intensive courses you will need to familiarize yourself with the nuances of citation.

Module Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Recognize that there are multiple citation styles.
2. Identify what plagiarism is and its consequences.
3. Articulate the value of proper citation in the academic environment.
4. Locate database-generated citations and format them correctly in Word.
5. Identify correct in-text citation strategies, including quoting, paraphrasing, and summarizing.
6. Identify situations that call for indirect citation.
7. Identify correctly formatted works cited page.
8. Locate relevant sources in the FSCJ Library Databases.
9. Compose an argument using the steps of the writing process.
10. Compose an argumentative essay using correct MLA in-text citations and works cited page.
11. Use correct grammar, syntax, and diction in writing an argumentative essay.