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Westchester Community College Harold L. Drimmer Library

Prof. Norbury - English 101 - Fall 2023: Interrogate Texts

An image of a patchwork quilt.

  Your task is to propose a thesis on a topic and to support that thesis with ideas and information gleaned from your research sources. In other words, you will construct a logical, cohesive patchwork of ideas including those of authors whose work you read, view, and/or hear along with your own understanding and interpretation of the topic. 

An annotated bibliography is a great way to record and share your thinking about each source you are considering (reviewing) as you work. 

What does each potential source bring to your conversation?

Rhetorical triangle

Who wrote the article (source), for whom, and why?

How does this source compare with the other potential sources I have found?

In what ways is it similar or different?

Consider these questions:

  • What's unique about this source? What does it add to my understanding of the topic, the issues, the ideas?

  • Does this source - and its author(s) - add a new voice to the discussion? New reasons? New ideas? Alternative points of view? Other explanations or interpretations? Illustrations? Case studies? Background information?

  • What is the author's intention/purpose? What is his or her perspective on my chosen topic?

SOAK Your Texts

Chart to assist in evaluating articles

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