Understanding Paraphrase and Summary Plagiarism

Aug 29, 2024

Lecture on Paraphrase and Summary Plagiarism

What is Paraphrase Plagiarism?

  • Definition: Plagiarism by paraphrase or summary occurs when you present ideas from a source in your own words but fail to document the source properly.
  • Paraphrasing: Involves rephrasing ideas from a source without using the exact words. It allows for summarizing and synthesizing material into a new formulation.

How to Properly Paraphrase

  • Use Your Own Language: Except for common vocabulary or technical terms.
  • Use Your Own Structure: Present the material in a unique format and structure.
  • Documentation: Always cite the source even if the words are your own to acknowledge that the ideas are sourced.

Examples of Paraphrasing

  • Incorrect Paraphrasing: Striking out and replacing a few words from the original text is not paraphrasing. Example:

    • Original words are struck out and new, italicized words are added intermittently.
    • Material in red shows verbatim text, which is not correct.
  • Correct Paraphrasing:

    • Summarize the source without looking at it.
    • Ensure you do not use more than three words from the source in sequence.
    • Avoid closely following the structure of the source.
    • Example slide: Proper paraphrase showed content in a new way, with minimal overlap of expected technical terms.

Avoiding Paraphrase Plagiarism

  • Proper Citations:
    • Paraphrase citations require an in-text citation and a bibliographic entry, but not quotation marks.
    • Example shown with adequate paraphrasing compared to source material.
      • Common vocabulary like "Paul" and "Third Missionary Journey" are acceptable as they are expected terminology.
      • The student used their own structure and presentation.
    • Included footnote for the in-text citation and bibliographic entry in the bibliography.

Conclusion

  • Key Strategies: Understand the source thoroughly, use your own words and structure, and properly cite every idea from the source.
  • Assessment: Assess your understanding of paraphrase plagiarism to ensure compliance with academic integrity.