Unit Checkpoint
Demonstrate mastery of source analysis skills.
Checkpoint Questions
Question 1: What is the difference between a primary and secondary source?
Answer
Primary sources are firsthand accounts (diaries, photos, speeches). Secondary sources analyze or interpret primary sources (textbooks, documentaries).
Question 2: What is bias in a source?
Answer
Bias is a one-sided or slanted view that favors a particular perspective, often based on the author's beliefs or interests.
Question 3: Why should you consider an author's perspective when reading a source?
Answer
The author's background, beliefs, and purpose affect how they present information and what they emphasize or omit.
Question 4: What does it mean to corroborate information?
Answer
To verify information by checking if other independent, credible sources report the same facts.
Question 5: List two factors that affect a source's credibility.
Answer
Examples: Author expertise, accuracy, publication date, purpose, objectivity, citing evidence.
Question 6: A campaign ad criticizes a political opponent. What type of bias might this show?
Answer
Political bias and propaganda - the ad is designed to persuade, not inform objectively.
Question 7: Why is triangulation (using 3+ sources) important in research?
Answer
Multiple sources help verify accuracy, reveal different perspectives, and reduce the impact of any single source's bias.
Question 8: An article has no date. How does this affect your evaluation?
Answer
You cannot determine if the information is current, which affects credibility for topics where timing matters.
Question 9: What questions help identify an author's purpose?
Answer
Why was this created? Who is the intended audience? What does the author want readers to think or do?
Question 10: Two sources disagree on the same historical event. What should you do?
Answer
Find additional sources, evaluate each source's credibility and potential biases, and consider which evidence is more reliable.
Self-Assessment
- 8-10 correct: Excellent! Ready for next unit.
- 6-7 correct: Good! Review missed concepts.
- Below 6: Review lessons before continuing.