My expectation is that you will have 30-40 note cards (depending on how “information rich” they are) or their equivalent (if you are taking notes electronically). Don’t panic, it goes faster than you might guess, but don’t procrastinate either. I also expect you to use 3-4 different sources. Note that you do not need to FINISH taking notes on one great source before moving on to the next, if it’s longer than an article, and probably shouldn’t. My experience is that students who are still stuck on one source by the note card check-in wind up writing weaker papers: it becomes harder to diversify your sources and the result often winds up being more of a book report than true synthesis.
Please review the grading criteria for Wednesday:
- Required number of note cards (or equivalent) is met: 30-40 cards
- Every scrap of information can be clearly tied back to a source (use a code to save yourself work!) and a page number (if applicable)
- Clear and systematic topic headings are used, and notes contain sufficient context that you (and I) can make some sense of them
- Notes cover appropriate breadth and depth of information: at least 3-4 sources
- Notes are legible
And electronic notes can be taken in PowerPoint or Word:
If you are using any online sources that are not from unquestionably trustworthy sources (organizations that your teacher will have heard of, for example), please check them with me. I am highly skeptical of any website that does not have the oversight of an editor, even if the individual is or claims to be highly qualified. As always, don’t hesitate to drop me an email if you have any questions or concerns!
Enjoy the long weekend, and I’ll see you on the other side …
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