[CALIBK12] Common Knowledge

[Connie Young]

Try this link. It explains common knowledge well. The students' definitions are incorrect.
  Connie Young
   
  http://www.berea.edu/hutchinslibrary/factsonplagiarism.asp

Heather Gruenthal <mrsgteach at yahoo.com> wrote:
  My English Department came to me with a question that
I'd like your help with:

Some students are saying that if they find something
in three sources, it is common knowledge and does not
have to be cited. 

I said that finding the same thing in three sources
confirms its validity (choose one of the three to
cite). I don't think we can ever assume that
something is "common knowledge." Everything needs a
source because some things that people think are
common knowledge may actually be false (i.e. daddy
long legs spiders are the most poisonous spider, or
"you can't get pregnant the first time -- ha ha!" I
told our freshmen during their health research paper
that you weren't born knowing anything, so every bit
of information has to come from somewhere. Even if
you think you know something, you must confirm that it
is true. 

We use MLA style manual. Is there an official
position on what is considered "common knowledge?"


Heather Gruenthal, Teacher Librarian
Western High School
Orangeview Junior High School
Anaheim Union High School District



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