Practice Incorporating a Quotation

In the Civil War movie Glory, the narrator, Colonel Shaw, is isolated from his men in the Massachusetts 54th by an incredible social barrier. However, as the story progresses, all the men become closer and more united in the war effort. By the end, in their final battle, a sense of brotherhood is evident between the infantry. While addressing this phenomenon, the author of a review from Reelviews, James Berardinelli, wrote: "In the heat of the fight, men are color blind."

I refreshed my memory on the importance of both paraphrasing and incorporating quotes and their appropriate uses during class today. First of all, I was reminded that going line by line through a passage I want to paraphrase makes it difficult to avoid copying entire phrases, which is to be avoided in paraphrases. I became better at hyperlinking. Also, I learned that it is just as important to accurately convey what the author is saying. Additionally, I was reminded of how useful quotes can be in my writing. Sometimes in the past, I avoided using them because of an incorrect mindset that they are an "easy way out" of sorts. However, a pithy quote can often be beneficial and supplementary to an essay or paper. I will definitely use them more in the future.

This is what Mrs. Lawson wanted me to learn today:

• Only use a quote when it adds power and style to my writing.
• Always make it clear, from context, that I understand the full meaning of the quote.
• Whenever I quote or paraphrase, always be transparent about the source and how I'm using it.
• If I use an author's exact words or phrases, to any extent, I have to use quotation marks and give credit.
• If I use another author's presentation of facts or ideas, but put their ideas in my own words, I better have a good reason for doing that, and I MUST give credit.
• Hyperlinking is so easy, there is no excuse for not being transparent about my sources.

I truly believe that I understand these concepts entirely. Let's go.