The three-step process of paraphrasing consists of interpreting an author’s original passage, rephrasing it (i.e., putting it into your own words), and citing (i.e., giving credit to) the author. In order to paraphrase correctly, students must consider the difference between the original text and the re-wording, while still maintaining the original author’s meaning. In contrast to paraphrasing, the academic crime of plagiarism occurs when a second writer presents an original author’s work as his or her own without the use of quotation marks and citation.

Students need to understand that plagiarism can take many forms beyond the most common example of directly copying the exact words of an author without using both quotation marks and citations.

Plagiarism also occurs when someone uses another author’s original idea or concept (or even bibliography) without properly citing the original author’s work.

Even unintentional, accidental plagiarism is a serious violation of academic integrity for academics throughout the world. In addition to a damaged reputation, the consequences of plagiarism may include the loss of one’s diploma and employment. Therefore, you must familiarize yourself with Walden University’s rules of academic integrity as well as the proper use of citation formats. Note that Walden University requires the use of American Psychological Association (APA) format for citations, although other educational institutions and professional associations may prefer different citation formats, such as the Modern Language Association (MLA) or Chicago Style Manual format.

While research suggests that students in the United States continue to struggle with plagiarism, international students may face additional challenges. For example, cultures that place a high value on group collaboration and group achievement may not know about the American and European rules of intellectual property rights for independent authors.

Application Assignment Directions:

• The main ideas of only one article in a brief paragraph (4-6 sentences).
• Do not include any direct quotations in your summary; be careful to avoid plagiarism.

• Paraphrase the conclusion (last paragraph only) of the same article.

• See the “Assignment Rubric” in “Course Information” before you begin.

• The word limit for the summary is 250 words; the word limit for the separate paraphrase is 100 words.