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ENGL 1311 - Composition I: Primary/Secondary Sources

This guide identifies sources useful for completing assignments in Composition I.

Primary Sources

Primary source - an item that contains first-hand information.  It is a one-of-a-kind source.  Examples:
  • Letters
  • Diaries
  • Autobiographies
  • Speeches
  • Photographs
  • Interviews
  • Video/film footage
  • Artwork
  • Works of literature
  • Music
  • Original research

Primary and Secondary Sources

Secondary Sources

Secondary source - an item that interprets, describes, or evaluates a primary source, or is based upon a primary
source.  Examples:
  • Books
  • Articles
  • Biographies
  • Reviews
  • A paper you are writing for a class
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