CMAS CMAS Research and Critical Thinking Skills

Question 1

When evaluating a source for a research project, which question helps determine if it is reliable?

Accepted Answer

Is the source from a credible author or organization with expertise in the topic?

Answer

Checking whether the author or organization has expertise in the topic is a key step in evaluating a source's credibility.

Question 2

Which type of source would be most reliable for a research report on the health effects of air pollution?

Accepted Answer

A peer-reviewed article from a scientific journal

Answer

Peer-reviewed scientific journal articles are vetted by experts in the field, making them among the most reliable sources for scientific topics.

Question 3

What does it mean to 'cite' a source in a research paper?

Accepted Answer

To give credit to the author or publication where information was obtained

Answer

Citing a source means providing information about the author, title, and publication so readers can find and verify the original material.

Question 4

A student reads two articles about climate change: one from a government environmental agency and one from a fossil fuel company's website. How should the student approach these sources?

Accepted Answer

Consider the potential bias of each source and look for corroborating evidence from neutral parties

Answer

Critical readers consider the potential bias of each source, especially when a source has a financial or political interest in the topic.

Question 5

Which of the following is an example of a fact rather than an opinion?

Accepted Answer

The Colorado River originates in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Answer

A fact is something that can be verified with evidence; the origin of the Colorado River is a verifiable geographic fact.

CMAS - Colorado Measures of Academic Success Practice Test

CMAS - Colorado Measures of Academic Success Practice Test

CMAS CMAS Research and Critical Thinking Skills