Academic Dishonesty Policy
Academic Dishonesty is broadly understood to mean offences against the academic integrity of the learning environment. This would include, but is not limited, to the following:
- Copying from another student or making information available to another student for the purpose of copying during a test/examination/quiz or for individual/group assignments.
- Failing to follow the instructions of the presiding teacher during an examination.
- Submitting any written work (electronic or hard copy) in whole or in part which has been written by someone else.
- Using direct quotations or paraphrased material in any assignment without giving the proper acknowledgement per the TDSB Style Guide.
Plagiarism
One form of academic dishonesty is plagiarism. Plagiarism is usually defines as presenting someone’s words and ideas as one’s own. It can take many forms, including the following:
- submitting an essay/assignment written by someone else, e.g. buying an essay online, downloading an essay from a free website, having someone else complete one’s assignment or copying or using work done by another student (including homework).
- Piecing together material from one or several sources and adding only linking sentences.
- Quoting or paraphrasing material without citing the source of the material, including books, magazines, drawings in print or electronic form.
- Not providing quotation marks for the direct quotations – even if sources have been cited.
To ensure academic honesty and avoid instances of plagiarism, students are expected to:
- Seek clarification from teachers about what constitutes plagiarism.
- Seek remediation when their research skills are deficient.
- Ensure that all their work is original and that they cite sources accurately and consistently.
Consequences For Academic Dishonesty
Solid evidence of academic dishonesty will result in a mark of zero for the test/examination/quiz or assignment in question. The opportunity to be re-evaluated on the material in question is forfeited. Additional consequences, including suspension at the discretion of the Principal/Vice-Principal, may be taken.
Appeal
The student may appeal, in writing, to the Principal/Vice-Principal. The Principal/Vice-Principal will consider the document(s) in question. The Principal/Vice-Principal may, if there is an extenuating circumstance, suggest an alternate assignment.
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