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Biology

Writing in Your Own Voice

When we are summarizing information we have learned from a source, it is considered proper practice (particularly in science writing) to write using your own voice (words & understanding). This means that the information is presented in a way that captures the core ideas from the source, but is not written using the same language or order of information. This can be a challenge, particularly when we are summarizing complicated information. However, it is important to practice writing in your own voice as this is critical for success in a science program and almost all careers that require written communication.

The above material is modified from © Dr. Sarah Stockwell, Dr. Lisa McDonnell, Dr. Stanley Lo

Chapman Resources

Campus resources for students who wish to gain a deeper understanding of issues of academic integrity and plagiarism:

 

Word-for-Word Example

The above appears originally in the work of © Dr. Sarah Stockwell, Dr. Lisa McDonnell, Dr. Stanley Lo.

Paraphrasing Example

The above appears originally in the work of © Dr. Sarah Stockwell, Dr. Lisa McDonnell, Dr. Stanley Lo.

Patchwork Writing

The above appears originally in the work of © Dr. Sarah Stockwell, Dr. Lisa McDonnell, Dr. Stanley Lo.

Technical Parroting

The above appears originally in the work of © Dr. Sarah Stockwell, Dr. Lisa McDonnell, Dr. Stanley Lo.