ORIGIN | PURPOSE | CONTENT | VALUE | LIMITATION
The IBMYP I&S course required the use of OPCVL to evaluate sources. You are asked to consider each of the following for sources you encounter (both primary and secondary sources) and for those you choose to use to complete research assignments:
- The origin* of the source. (Who wrote it? Who published it? When? Where?)
- The purpose of the source, particularly relevant for primary sources. (Who is the intended audience of the source? What are they meant to get from it)
- A short summary of the content of the source
- The value of the source for your project (How does this source help you to explore your research question? How will it help you to connect to your global context, create your final project and/or achieve your goal?)
- The limitations of the source. (What questions does this source raise? What perspective does the source take? Does the information contrast with other sources? Does it present a balanced view? What does it make you think about the next steps for your research?)
*Be thoughtful when you discuss the origin of a source. Do not simply repeat the name of the author. In fact, do not repeat any details that already appear in the MLA8 citation. Instead, show that you know something about the author's or publisher's authority or expertise. Demonstrate critical thinking skills--do not simply state the obvious.
