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WAK BIO 192: Environmental Science and Ethics

Evaluating Sources Tutorial

Fact Check Websites and Explanations

Evaluating Articles/Tips to Avoid Fake News

Even if you got your article from a reputable news source and are sure it isn't "fake news,"  it is important to evaluate your article.  The following steps can help you determine the quality of your news article.

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IFLA / CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)

How to Spot Fake News:

Consider the Source - Click away from the story to investigate the site, it's mission and its contact info.

Read Beyond - Headlines can be outrageous in an effort to get click.  What's the whole story?

Check the Author - Do a quick search of the author.  Are they credible?  Are they real?

Supporting Sources? - Click on those links.  Determine if the info given actually supports the story.

Check the Date - Reposting old news stories doesn't mean they're relevant to current events.

Is it a Joke? - If it is too outlandish, it might be satire.  Research the site and author to be sure.

Check Your Biases - Consider if your own beliefs could affect your judgment.

Ask the Experts - Ask a librarian, or consult a fact-checking website.