Avoiding Plagarism

Why does this matter?

As a high school student, it is crucial to understand the concepts of plagiarism and cheating, as well as their consequences. This guide will provide a comprehensive explanation of what plagiarism and cheating are, offer detailed example scenarios, and discuss the appropriate use of translators and AI in the context of an IB Spanish class and a Journalism class.

What is plagiarism?

Plagiarism is the act of using someone else's work, ideas, or words without properly acknowledging the source. This includes copying and pasting text from the internet, using quotes without citing the original author, paraphrasing without attribution, or submitting work that was written by someone else as your own. Plagiarism can occur intentionally or unintentionally, but it is always a serious academic offense.

What is cheating?

Cheating is the act of gaining an unfair advantage in an academic setting. This can include copying answers from another student during a test, using unauthorized materials during an exam, collaborating with others on an assignment that is meant to be completed individually, or purchasing pre-written essays or assignments online.

Example scenarios

1. IB Spanish class:

Copying and pasting Spanish text from a website into your essay without citing the source is considered plagiarism, even if you translate the text into English.
Using a Spanish essay written by a friend or family member and submitting it as your own work is both plagiarism and cheating, regardless of whether you made minor edits to the essay.
Collaborating with a classmate on a Spanish assignment that is meant to be completed individually, such as sharing answers or dividing the work, is considered cheating.

2. Journalism class:

Using quotes from an interview without attributing them to the interviewee is plagiarism, even if you conducted the interview yourself.
Copying and pasting sections of a news article from another source into your own article without proper citation is plagiarism.
Submitting a news article that was written by someone else, such as a parent or tutor, and claiming it as your own work is both plagiarism and cheating.
Fabricating quotes, sources, or facts in a news article is a form of cheating and violates journalistic ethics.

Using translators

In an IB Spanish class, using translators can be acceptable in certain situations, such as looking up individual words or phrases to aid in comprehension or writing. However, using a translator to translate entire sentences, paragraphs, or essays is not allowed, as it defeats the purpose of learning the language and may result in inaccurate or awkward translations. Relying too heavily on translators can hinder your ability to develop proper language skills and may be considered cheating if used inappropriately.

Using AI

AI tools are becoming more commonplace in today's society. However, they should never replace real learning. In a Journalism class, using AI tools like grammar checkers or text-to-speech software to proofread your work for errors or to improve clarity is generally acceptable, as long as the content remains your own. Here are some examples of acceptable and non-accepable uses of artificial inteligence.

1. When is it okay:

In a Journalism class, using AI tools like grammar checkers or text-to-speech software to proofread your work for errors or to improve clarity is generally acceptable, as long as the content remains your own.
Asking AI for story ideas is acceptable. However, using AI to generate entire articles, essays, or assignments is considered cheating.

- In an IB Spanish class, using AI-powered language learning apps, such as Duolingo or Babbel, to practice vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation can be helpful, as long as they are used as a supplement to classroom learning and not as a substitute for it.

2. When it is not okay:

Using AI to generate entire articles, essays, or assignments is considered cheating, as it does not demonstrate your own understanding, critical thinking, or writing skills. This includes using AI-powered writing assistants or article spinners.
In an IB Spanish class, using AI to complete written or oral assignments, such as compositions or presentations, is not allowed, as it defeats the purpose of language acquisition and assessment. AI-generated Spanish content may contain errors or lack the nuance and complexity expected at the IB level.
Using AI to automatically translate large portions of text from one language to another and submitting it as your own work is considered plagiarism and cheating.

All work will be ran through an AI checker to make sure your work is your own.

Consequences of plagiarism and cheating

Engaging in plagiarism or cheating can result in serious consequences, both academically and personally. These may include:

- Failing grades on assignments or exams

- Failing the course altogether

- Disciplinary action, such as detention or suspension

- Expulsion from school in severe cases

- A permanent record of academic dishonesty on your transcript, which may impact college admissions or future employment opportunities

- Loss of personal integrity and damage to your reputation among peers and teachers

avoiding-plagiarism.pdf

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