Evaluating News Coverage: Comparing Scientific Sources

Abstract

Source Comparison Assignment – Select a scientifically based news story from a news outlet. Your news can be selected from printed material or online. Then, work backwards to find the original scientific source. Before you begin your 2-3 page essay it will be helpful to think about and draft short answers for the following questions. Explain why the story caught your attention. What is the source of the story? Where did the writer get the information? (A reputable news outlet will cite their sources). Do you feel the news story is credible? Why or why not? Use arguments covered in chapters from the text. Compare the story to the original scientific source. Are they accurate in their interpretation/message to the reader? Identify at least two overstatements made by the news story. If the news article is reported accurately provide evidence. What questions do you still have for the story? Source Comparison Essay - In a 2-3 page write up, describe the actual results of the original experiment and discuss how the information may have been reported differently in the popular press. A complete assignment will include: source comparison essay (Microsoft word), copy of news article, and copy of original scientific study Format – Single or 1.5 line spacing (no double-spaced documents) 11 or 12-point font, Arial, Calibri, Cambria, Helvetica, Times New Roman It may be helpful to use the following guidelines: Introduction (2 paragraphs): Expansion of questions 1 and 2, then transition into Body (2-3 paragraphs): Expansion of questions 3 and 4 Summary (1 paragraph): Expansion of question 5 and provide commentary Discussion/Conclusion (2-3 paragraphs: Expansion of Question 6 A highly scored essay will follow formatting and have: few to no grammatical/spelling errors, complete thoughts, smooth transitions, verifiable statements/conclusions, integration of learned content from chapters of the text. Addressing, at...