Part 2: Evaluating information

Before we begin to search for information, let’s look at some infographics. You will evaluate them answering a series of questions, looking at such things as who the author is, what the purpose is, who the audience is, and if the claims it makes are accurate. This will prepare you to evaluate information sources you find in your research.

Choose one of the following infographics to examine:

• The Healing Power of Cat Purrs
• Cannabis Law: The Past, Present, and Future
• Olympic Gold Medal Winners
• Why Does Bacon Smell So Good?
• What Makes Health Care So Expensive?
• U.S. Police Brutality

Then, using your worksheet, answer the following questions:

• Who is the creator/author?
• What is the purpose?
• Who is the intended audience?
• What (if any) financial interests are at play?
• What sources are cited?
• Choose one claim the infographic makes. Can you confirm or contest this claim in another, unrelated source?

Finally, consider the design of the infographic.

• How do the images/graphics/symbols, colors, and other design choices contribute to the content and intent of the infographic?