Throughout their lives, successful people use information to make decisions, solve problems and communicate more effectively. Based on information literacy standards, this series helps students learn to navigate our complex, information-rich world through the development of critical research skills and the ability to access, evaluate and use information. This series was developed with Joyce Kasman Valenza, a nationally recognized school librarian, as well as a columnist, author and speaker on issues relating to libraries, educational technology and information literacy. It includes skills such as how to focus and refine a research question, how to access information on the invisible Web, how to synthesize information throughout the research process and how to communicate new knowledge most effectively.
Avoiding Plagiarism
Using someone else's words, ideas or artistic creations without acknowledgement is plagiarism -- and whether it's deliberate or unintentional, it can have serious consequences. Plagiarism can be avoided by understanding how to organize time and research notes; quote, paraphrase and summarize information; and properly document and cite sources. By following these practices correctly, students not only steer clear of plagiarism, but also achieve the academic integrity that comes with creating a successful project with their own thoughts and ideas.