The main reasons to not plagiarize in writing assignments are numerous: Legal repercussions, need to acknowledge other’s work, and hard work. These reasons may not be enough to stop you from plagiarizing; there are also alternative writing assignments that students can use as models. If you have any doubts or need additional information, please contact us. We’ll be happy to assist you.
Alternative writing assignments
For students to avoid plagiarism, teachers should use creative alternatives to traditional essay-writing assignments. For instance, instead of presenting students with a single essay, they can complete a series of shorter assignments. Such an approach will allow students to create original work, contribute their own personal touch, and develop informal personal skills that would otherwise not be possible. As a result, there is a decreased likelihood of students plagiarizing.
It is also advisable to give students examples of non-plagiarized texts. Short pieces of writing of 500-800 words should do the trick. Teachers should be upfront about the expectations of students, as some students are under great pressure. Some cases of plagiarism stem from laziness, stress, and awkward writing stages. Therefore, it is necessary to explain the proper way to handle such situations.
Legal repercussions
Whether you’re an academic, public figure or professional, you’ve likely heard of the legal repercussions of plagiarism. Plagiarism can ruin your academic career, as it damages your reputation. Being accused of plagiarism could even result in the loss of your job. And if you’re a professional, the consequences could be even worse. You could find yourself unemployed or even asked to leave your job, and if your name has been tarnished, it may be impossible to find another one.
The biggest repercussion of plagiarism is the destruction of your reputation. As a result, you will be shamed digitally. In an age of social media, this digital shame is irreversible. If you’re caught in the act of plagiarizing, you can expect a lawsuit. The consequences will vary depending on where you commit plagiarism. Once you’ve been found guilty of plagiarism, you’ll be subject to additional monetary penalties.
Harder to be respected by colleagues
Not only is it harder to be respected by your colleagues, but the practice of plagiarism is also illegal in the United States. The term plagiarizing is derived from the Latin word, “plagium,” which means to borrow words or ideas. While it is not illegal, plagiarism can ruin your motivation and cause you to be expelled or to repeat a course. It can also affect your diploma – some institutions even revoke it if you are caught plagiarizing.
Need to acknowledge others’ work
One reason to not plagiarize is the need to acknowledge other authors’ work. A writer should acknowledge the original source of the material he uses, as well as the theories he has applied. The author of a particular piece should be acknowledged, and the writer should be aware of the differences in writing conventions. To be on the safe side, teachers should require students to document their writing process. A student should submit multiple drafts and copies of sources used for his or her paper. Peer-response exercises and in-class work can also help students document their writing process.
Students who are transitioning from high school to college may be confused as to what constitutes common knowledge and what should be acknowledged. Common expressions and facts are not subject to plagiarism restrictions, but more complex ideas, analyses, opinions, and interpretations must be properly acknowledged. Even if students are writing about something that is common knowledge, they should cite it. However, some students may not be aware that they should cite the source and use their own words instead of the original author.
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