engaging secondary sources ( literature)

1. 3.reading for a problem.Read , not randomly, but deliberately to find a problem.Look for claims that seems puzzling, inaccurate and you disagree with.

1.1. look for creative agreement.If you agree with the claims, try to extend that claim. You can offer new evidences. Confirm unsupported claims. Apply claims more widely.

1.2. look for creative disagreement. Look for contradictions in claims.

2. 4. Reading for arguments

2.1. read for arguments that oppose your view.

2.2. Read for models of reasoning and analysis NOT for ideas.

3. 5.For data and support

3.1. for data to use as evidence.

3.2. For claims to use as support, not only claims but also reasoning.

4. 7. annotating your sources

4.1. marginal annotations-comments, arguments and points of disagreement.

4.2. Use annotated bibliography

5. 1. record all bibliographical information

5.1. because you can refer all the relevant sources and you can cite it in your writing

6. 2.engage sources actively

6.1. read actively and reread. Summarize what you read. Record your response to the claims of the author..

7. 6.Taking notes. Read purposefully and carefully. To help you remember, use and expand your own thinking.

7.1. taking notes on paper, index cards.Record author, title,page number, key words, call number etc. Differentiate between direct quotes and paraphrases using different colors.

7.2. On computer , using Word, note-taking applications and reference management systems.

7.3. while taking notes, decide whether to quote,paraphrase or summarize. Do no misquote.

7.4. Get the context right. Record not only conclusions, but also the arguments that support them.Also, note why different sources agree or disagree.