Select one of the essays from Chapters 8–12 or 16 to examine the different ways an author uses source materials to support claims. Begin by highlighting the signal phrases you find attached to...

Select one of the essays from Chapters 8–12 or 16 to examine the different ways an author uses source materials to support claims. Begin by highlighting the signal phrases you find attached to borrowed ideas or direct quotations. How well do they introduce or frame this material? Then categorize the various ways the author actually uses particular sources. For example, look for sources that provide context for the topic, review the scholarly literature, define key concepts or terms, explain technical details, furnish evidence, or lay out contrary opinions. When you are done, write a paragraph assessing the author’s handling of sources in the piece. Are the borrowed materials integrated well with the author’s own thoughts? Do the sources represent an effective synthesis of ideas?