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Bachman Introduction to Research: Evaluating Sources

Fact Checking 101

Fact Checking

A How-to Guide

What are sources?

In a piece of academic writing, sources are the materials from which the writer gathers ideas and information.
 

Types of sources

1. Print sources such as books and journals are the most frequently used sources in academic writing. When evaluating the quality of an academic article, look for “peer-reviewed” publications.

 

2. Non-print sources such as music recordings, radio or television broadcasts or transcripts, internet sites, films or images may also be important sources in some disciplines.

Sources to Evaluate

With your group, review the assigned site. Using the infographic, evaluate the source’s credibility. Is it credible? Explain your reasoning.

How to Spot Fake News

Sites to help evaluate sources

The AllSides Mission:
Free people from filter bubbles so they can better understand the world and each other.

PolitiFact is a fact-checking website that rates the accuracy of claims by elected officials and others on its Truth-O-Meter.

Our Mission:
We are a nonpartisan, nonprofit “consumer advocate” for voters that aims to reduce the level of deception and confusion in U.S. politics. We monitor the factual accuracy of what is said by major U.S. political players in the form of TV ads, debates, speeches, interviews and news releases. Our goal is to apply the best practices of both journalism and scholarship, and to increase public knowledge and understanding.

The definitive Internet reference source for urban legends, folklore, myths, rumors, and misinformation.