The purpose of the site or source is the ultimate goal of the author. Ultimately, you are asking the question "why was this source created?"
Some Questions to Ask
- Does the author seem biased?
- This is not necessarily bad if it is an opinion. How do you intend to use the source?
- Does the author make it clear they are stating an opinion or belief? Or are they trying to pass it off and make it look like a research or academic article or information?
- Is the purpose of the article stated?
- Is there a thesis statement?
- If there isn't one, make sure to go back and review Authority to find the author's or organization's mission statement.
- Are editorials clearly identified?
- Is the tone of the writing appropriate for the audience?
- What's the purpose of the overall site?
- This goes back to the Mission Statement
- Is the site for profit?
- Is the site trying to sell something?
- Do they provide credible evidence for their claims? This goes back to Accuracy and making sure they are using relevant sources.
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