Plagiarism

What is Plagiarism? It’s when you “steal” someone else’s work and pretend it’s yours. Not only is this stealing, it is also cheating!

Consequences of Plagiarism: Embarrassment & humiliation Embarrassment & humiliation Failing the assignment Failing the assignment Failing the class Failing the class Expulsion from school Expulsion from school

What if I just revise or paraphrase written material? “You still have to give credit to the creator and cite the source, otherwise you have just plagiarized!”

What about homework? Copying your friend’s homework or having your parent write your paper and putting your name on it is still ……… Plagiarism

Excuses For Plagiarism: “I can get away with it … no one checks!” “I can get away with it … no one checks!” “I didn’t have enough time.” “I didn’t have enough time.” “I need a good grade on this.” “I need a good grade on this.” “The project was too hard.” “The project was too hard.”

Steps to Avoid Plagiarism: Steps to Avoid Plagiarism: Take notes using your OWN words. Take notes using your OWN words. Quote your source correctly. Quote your source correctly. Cite your sources. Cite your sources.

Protect Yourself! Ask your librarian or teacher if you ever have copyright or plagiarism questions. Ask your librarian or teacher if you ever have copyright or plagiarism questions. Make sure you always do your own work, and cite your sources! Make sure you always do your own work, and cite your sources!

From Churchill’s Student Handbook:

Adapted from “Intellectual Property, Copyright and Fair Use Laws” by ASD Middle School