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Our reader will not be convinced of what we are saying unless we can back it up. To achieve this, we need to integrate evidence into our writing.
Our reader will not be convinced of what we are saying unless we can back it up. To achieve this, we need to integrate evidence into our writing.
Integrate - combine one thing with another to form a whole.
Evidence - textual examples or external sources that support a claim.
Introduction
Introduction
There are two ways that we can integrate evidence into our writing: paraphrasing and quoting. In this guide we learn how each of these methods work, and which style we prefer in English.
Note that the referencing in this guide follows the conventions of the APA style. Note also that while this guide is designed for English classes, much of the information is applicable to other subjects.
Let's get started.
Paraphrasing
Paraphrasing
If we are primarily interested in the ideas that are present in a text or source it is enough to simply paraphrase this information. This means rewording the original language so that it fits into our own writing.
Paraphrase - express the meaning of something using different words, especially to achieve greater clarity.
Consider the following example of paraphrasing:
Original source
Cain, E. (1947). "ROMEO AND JULIET": A REINTERPRETATION. The Shakespeare Association Bulletin. 22(4).
These detailed considerations of the ethical, social, and literary provenance of Romeo and Juliet strongly support an interpretation of the play as one in which the hero perishes because of a tragic flaw or weakness in his character.
Paraphrasing
Cain (1947) suggests that Romeo's death is due to a fatal flaw in his character.
Quotations
Quotations
If we are primarily interested in the language that is present in a text or source we need to quote these words directly.
There are a number of conventions we should follow when quoting a text:
Conventions
Place quoted text inside quotation marks ("").
A quotation can be introduced with a comma, colon or without punctuation (see examples below).
Use a capital letter at the beginning of a quotation (even if it begins mid sentence).
Use an ellipsis (…) to replace any words that are deliberately omitted from the middle of a quotation.
If a quotation is a complete sentence, place a full stop inside the quotation marks.
If a quotation is not a complete sentence, place a comma outside the quotation marks.
Additional information or corrections can be inserted into a quotation using square brackets []. Note that a quotation should not be changed—square brackets should only be used to clarify meaning or improve readability.
When a quotation continues across more than one line of a poem or play, use a slash (/) with a space on either side to indicate this separation.
Longer quotations should be placed in a separate block paragraph with the left margin indented. However, such quotations should be avoided in English assessment tasks.
Consider the following examples of integrated quotations:
Original Source (Novel)
Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of man’s heart, and the fall through the air of the true, wise friend called Piggy.
Golding, W. (1954). Lord of the Flies. Faber and Faber. p. 255.
Quotation
At the end of the novel, Ralph "Wept for the end of innocence." (Golding, 1954, p. 225).
Original Source (Speech)
Churchill, W. (1940). First Speech as Prime Minister to House of Commons. International Churchill Society. www.winstonchurchill.org.
I would say to the House, as I said to those who have joined this Government, I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat.
Quotation
Churchill (1940) told parliament, "I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat."
Original Source (Play)
Shakespeare, W. (1597/2022). Romeo and Juliet (Act 2, Scene 1: 36-39). Folger Shakespeare Library.
JULIET
O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?
Deny thy father and refuse thy name,
Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love,
And I’ll no longer be a Capulet.
Quotation
In her soliloquy on the balcony, Juliet expresses her desire that she and Romeo leave their families to be together: "Deny thy father and refuse they name, / Or if you wilt not ... I'll no longer be a Capulet." (Shakespeare, 1597/2022, 2:1 37-39).
Evidence in English
Evidence in English
So, should we use paraphrasing or quotations when integrating evidence within our English assessment tasks?
While both styles are valid, it is preferable to directly quote the texts we study.
In order to show that our interpretation of a text is valid we need to demonstrate that the text itself supports this interpretation. To do this, we need to refer to specific examples of the elements or techniques used by creators to communicate meaning in their work. To be able to explain and evaluate these elements and techniques as part of our interpretation, we need to show them directly to our readers, and this can only be done through direct quotations.
That said, if we are completing a research task that requires us to consult experts on a given text or subject, it is sufficient to paraphrase the ideas presented by such experts. Ultimately, we should think carefully about what we are trying to achieve with our writing, and integrate our evidence in the best way to achieve this.
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