Paraphrasing and Quotations

1. Paraphrasing and Quotations Del Mar Middle School

2. Paraphrase • A paraphrase is when you rewrite a passage in your own words. • You must understand a passage to paraphrase it, and one good reason for a writer to paraphrase material is to rewrite it in language that is less confusing or abstract. • Unlike a summary, a paraphrase is generally the same length as the passage on which it is based.

3. Quotations • A quotation records the exact written or spoken language used by someone else. • Direct Quote – you record the exact language of another writer/speaker • Indirect Quote – you report what a writer/speaker said without repeating the words exactly • You must credit your sources for both types of quotes!

4. When to Quote • Use quotes when another writer’s language is memorable. • Use quotes when another writer’s language is clearer and more economical than your own. • Use quotes when the authority or reputation of the author will lend credibility to your work.

5. Incorporating Quotes • 1.) Quote only the part of a sentence/paragraph that you need. • 2.) Incorporate quotes in a natural and fluid manner. • 3.) Quoted sentences should never be freestanding. • 4.) Use ellipses when leaving out words in the middle of a quote. • 5.) Use brackets to add or substitute words in a quote.

6. When to Summarize, Paraphrase, and Quote • Summarize main points of lengthy passages and to condense supporting points. • Paraphrase to clarify a short passage or to emphasize a main point. • Quote writing that is memorable, economical, and adds authority to your own writing.

7. Sample In-Text CitationParaphrase My civilization, Rosetopiopolis, will use a series of interconnected irrigation systems to provide a reliable source of water to farmers and peons on the outskirts of the main city. This system will resemble what the Mesopotamians used to supply their fields with water (Frey 36).

8. In-Text CitationQuote While developing the sprawling megacity of Rosetopiopolis, I decided to create large walls to surround and protect the city. In this way, my civilization was similar to Sumerian cities because they were also “walled cities… like independent countries” (Frey 38).

9. Plagiarism • Plagiarism is defined as attempting to pass off the work of another author as your own. • Avoid plagiarism by: • Citing all quoted, summarized, and paraphrased material (unless it is common knowledge). • Making sure the wording of summaries and paraphrases is clearly your own.