As a part of the introduction to scientific information, you need to read three items in the order listed below:

a) An article entitled “Experimental Magnetic Fuel Efficiency Boosters and Water Treatment Systems” copied from a web page with the following URL: http://www.orgonelab.org/xpmagnet.htm

b) The worksheet entitled “evaluation of a claim” taken from the SCI 110 web page.

c) An article entitled “Magnetic Water and Fuel Treatment: Myth, Magic, or Mainstream Science?” copied from the Skeptical Inquirer magazine. We found this on a web page with the following URL: http://www.csicop.org/si/9801/powell.html

 

After you read the first article (a) on your own, work through the worksheet (b) in your discussion groups. Answer as many of the worksheet questions about the first article as you can. Write down these answers!

Next, read the second article (c) on your own. Reconvene your discussion groups and answer the following questions. You may or may not want to write these answers; we will be discussing group answers as a whole class.

1. Does the Skeptical Enquirer article influence your evaluation of the first article? Why or why not?
2. Is there a major difference in how the two articles are written? Do they have different styles, structures, points-of -view, etc?
3. Which article appears to be more credible? Justify your answer.
4. Is there a major difference between the articles in how evidence is presented? Explain.
5. Do either of the authors have an agenda or other reason that may affect their objectivity? Explain.

This exercise may act as a model for your writing assignment on dietary supplements. The writing assignment (see course web page) is worth 20 points and should be handed in Jan 24 or 28. During class in one week, you will be asked to give a very brief oral presentation of your findings. Please get your instructor’s approval of your topic.