Assignment Example: 100 Level Math Course

Find one or more reference books in the library that discusses your topic AND includes related statistics that range over an approximately 10-year period. Performing the mathematical procedures you have learned in class, project those statistics for the year 2020. Then, write two or three paragraphs that cover a) what the statistical chart measures, and b) the impact of the expected changes in the topic or field you have chosen -- what issues or changes are expected to be important in 2020. Finally, include 1/2 - 1 page evaluating the reference source(s) used.

You will be evaluated on: 1) Ability to read and interpret a statistical table 2) Accuracy of statistical projection 3) Content and form of discussion section of the paper 4) Reference evaluation that addresses: currency, depth of treatment of the subject, bias or tone of writing, organization (Was the index helpful and logical? Was the information presented in an orderly and reasonable fashion?) and authority (Is this a reliable source? Why? What are the credentials of the authors?) What have you learned about reference books and the type of information they provide? 5)Complete citation of source(s) used in MLA format.

Outcome: Student identified, consults, and evaluates reference books appropriate to the topic in order to locate tables and issues.

Curriculum

• LC call number ranges for topics OR reminder about catalog searching
• Reference books shelved separately
• Role of reference books
• Organization of reference books
• Ways to view a purpose statement in an introduction
• Criteria for examining a reference book
• MLA format

  Learning Activity

• Give a statistical reference book to each small group of students. In groups, determine 3 distinct features of this book: why they would use it, what questions would it answer, what makes it unique from other types of sources in the library. Discuss as a class.
• Handout out LC class chart. Have students locate their topic and what classification it is in.
• Remind students who have used the library catalog about keyword searching and subject headings. Have students use one of the two techniques to locate a reference book on their topic and bring it back to the classroom.
• Write down information about the book using a model on the board of correct citation format.
• Discuss with students what their next step is.

Assessment 1/2 - 1 page evaluation of source

Criteria:

• Books cited are indeed reference books
• Description/Evaluation of the book includes at least 3 of the factors discussed in class
• Organizational pattern for the book is accurately stated
• Student states at least one opinion statement: why the reference book was useful, what they have learned about themselves or the research process, etc.

From: Gilchrist, D. Pierce College Information Competency Workshop, Spring 1999. Updated 4/00.