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	Evaluating Sources Worksheet Part 1: Author expertise: Who is the author of the book or article? Sources to consult (databases/directories): How often does this author publish? Any co-authors? About what subject(s)? What do you know about the sources publishing this author's work? Part 2: Discourse: How does the author's argument compare with the discussion of the subject over time? Sources (databases, print indexes) consulted: Summarize the author's or authors' argument. What other types of discussion or other arguments are found on this topic during the same time period? What other types of discussion or arguments can be found at 5-year intervals before and after the publication date of this work? Briefly characterize the place of the author's argument in relation to the other arguments or discussions you found on this topic. Part 3: Quality of the author's argument Sources consulted: What is the authors' argument? What kinds of evidence does the author provide to support her/his argument? Does the evidence or methodology "prove" the author's argument? Is the use of evidence or methodology a typical or usual approach within this discipline? Pose a specific question about this article that needs answering. Part 4: Extra Credit Sources consulted: Web of Science How many other authors have cited this work?
BACK TO TOP  Last Updated: 12/15/99	Contact the instructor at: jwholmes@u.washington.edu