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HSC Biology - Adaptations and responses of Australian organisms for temperature regulation: Using print material? - Be critical

Analyse information from secondary sources to describe adaptations and responses that have occurred in Australian organisms to assist temperature regulation

Taking notes

It is so important to take notes as you research, but then reflect upon and evaluate your notes, finally summarising them in your own words.

The Cornell Note Taking system is ideal for this.

Please read the advice found here for further information.

Remember, practice makes perfect.

You can open a template for comprehensive note-taking using the Cornell system here.

Evaluating print resources

Use the following checklist as a guide to confirming that the information you have found is valid and credible.

Evaluating Print Resources

 

  1. How do I decide what’s important?

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Is it something others will want to know?
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Does it fit the scope of the topic?
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Is the information at the right level and type?
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Is the information too simplistic or too complicated for the intended reader?

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Is it hard to read—fine print?

 

  1. What information can you find on the resource?

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Is the publisher a reliable source?
Example: Newsweek vs. National Enquirer
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Does the source clearly state the author or source of information?

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Is the author an authority on the topic?
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Does the source clearly state when the information was written?
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Is the data accurate and complete?
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Is there a bias?

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Is the source easy to use?

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Does it have an index?

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Are the pages numbered?

 

  1. Look for indicators of quality information

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Is there a copyright at the bottom of the article?
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Are sources documented with footnotes or citations?
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Are the citations to other sources reliable?

 

  1. What do others say about the resource?

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Are there reviews written about this resource?

Subject Guide

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