Question

Indicate whether each source is reliable or unreliable.


A scientist who studies dinosaurs presents her research on velociraptors at a science convention.


A chemistry teacher discusses plant cells on his personal blog.


An advertisement for weight-loss pills in a magazine claims that you will lose 10 lbs in one week.


An article discusses photosynthesis in an encyclopedia.


An article discusses salmonella on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Answer 1

1) Scientist presenting velociraptor research at a science convention — Reliable.
Reason: Expert in the field presenting in a scientific forum where work is scrutinized.

2) Chemistry teacher discussing plant cells on his personal blog — Unreliable.
Reason: Personal blog lacks editorial/peer review and the author is outside the specific expertise (biology).

3) Magazine advertisement for weight-loss pills claiming 10 lb in one week — Unreliable.
Reason: Commercial, self-interested source with exaggerated claims and no independent evidence.

4) Encyclopedia article on photosynthesis — Reliable.
Reason: Edited and reviewed reference work that summarizes established knowledge.

5) CDC article on salmonella — Reliable.
Reason: Authoritative public-health agency providing evidence-based, expert-reviewed information.