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Arguing from credible sources
Can do: Builds an argument on evidence from sources they've evaluated, and explains why each source is trustworthy.
Why it matters
An argument is only as good as its evidence. Sourcing is now assessed directly, and it's the habit that protects them from being fooled.
What it looks like when it's wobbly
Cites whatever appeared first, including sources with an obvious commercial interest in the claim.
โฑ๏ธ Two-minute check
"Where did this evidence come from? Why should a reader trust them?"
Solid looks like: Names the source and gives a reason โ expertise, independence, method.
The full activity for this topic ยท 25 minutes
Rank Your Sources
- 1Gather four sources of deliberately mixed quality: a study, a news article, a blog, a company page.
- 2Rank them for trustworthiness and write the reason for each ranking.
- 3Use the top two in an argument paragraph, naming the source in the sentence.
- 4Check whether the weakest source actually contradicts the others or just says less.
- 5Add one sentence acknowledging the limits of the evidence.
If it's too hard
Two sources, one obviously stronger.
If it's too easy
Include a source that disagrees and address it head-on in the argument.
Say this
"Who's saying this, and what do they gain if you believe it?"