Plagiarism

What is plagiarism?

Plagiarism is using someone else's words, ideas or work, and claiming it as your own.

Why do you need to be concerned about plagiarism?

Plagiarizing is a serious offense.  Most public schools and colleges view is as Academic Dishonesty, and it can carry a penalty of suspension from school, or expulsion at the college level.  In addition, plagiarism is considered theft and it is also a federal offense, carrying a penalty of monetary fines and/or a jail sentence.

How do you avoid plagiarizing?

Always cite your sources in the proper format.  Give credit to the original author of the work.  This includes material used in electronic formats, as well as in written form.  Refer to the "MLA Handbook" (available in our library) for detailed information on correct citations.

Another good source for information on plagiarism is the Online Writing Lab (OWL) on the Purdue University website.  Visit them at http://owl.english.purdue.edu/

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This page authored by Karen Scott, Media Specialist, Wicomico High School.
Last update 9/19/2005.