Secondary Source Worksheet

Thesis (one sentence):

Summary (100 words max.):

Main Evidence/Sources (—ex. Newspapers, court records, diaries? Did the author use original research or rely on research done by others?):

Evaluating the Thesis: Is it Convincing? (Explain your answers)

1. Was there enough evidence and was the type of evidence used compelling? Why or why not?
2. What other evidence could have been used?
3. Does the author deal adequately with counterevidence (information that does not support the thesis)? Explain:
4. Was the piece well-organized, with the argument clearly laid out?
5. Is there anything the author says he/she is going to do, but does not?
6. Did the author make any leaps in logic when formulating his/her argument?
7. What are the author’s assumptions and biases? Where do you see them?
8. Does this author’s interpretation support or challenge others you’ve read? Explain:
9. Do you agree with the author’s conclusions? Why or why not?
10. Are you left with any questions? List them.

Overall Reaction:

1. Was the piece interesting?
2. Was it well written? Easy to understand?
3. What did you like about the piece? What did the author do badly?