Corroborating the Facts

Corroborating the Facts
What is it?	Corroborating information means checking other sources to find out if the information in one is consistent with the information in the others.
Why do it?	The more often the information is the same, the more often it's likely to be reliable. It's possible, of course, that the sources you examine are all taking their information from another, erroneous source, so it's best to find diverse sources to corroborate each other.
How do you do it?	When you come across statistics, explanations, or other significant facts, make a list of them for corroboration. Then as you review other sources, compare them to the original source you used. Often the facts will change in small ways, making it difficult for you to compare them. When you can, make sure that you compare them carefully, checking statistics for the same time period, using the same definitions, etc. When you find an inconsistency, then continue checking other sources to find one that corroborates one of the original sources. Rely on the corroborated information or cite the discrepancy in your reporting of the information.
Task #28	1) As you read the linked article see if you find any discrepancies (inconsistencies) in it with the description in the text of the reasons for the creation of the CCC and the WPA. Describe any differences. Do you believe text or the article to be more reliable? 2) Then read President Roosevelt's speech, noting particularly his explanation of why the agricultural crisis was a priority for him. Is it consistent with the text we read? How does it differ from the text we read? Is it reliable? Post your answers on the Forum.