Online Learning for Information Literacy: Cite and Paraphrase

Class Exercise - Paraphrasing

As a class, discuss what paraphrasing is and how is it different from direct quotations. Why is paraphrasing important? After students seem to have a clear understanding of what paraphrasing is, provide them with a sample paragraph to paraphrase (Note: this could be pulled from the course readings). Have students read through the paragraph and write a paraphrase of it, including a proper in-text citation. Students can review each others paraphrases, providing feedback on what they did well, and areas for improvement. It can also be powerful if the teaching faculty member shares their paraphrase of the content, and explain the thought process that went into it.

This activity can be done in person, with students writing their paraphrases on paper or white boards, or electronically, with all students submitting their paraphrases in a Google form or a Moodle discussion forum.