Module 2: Evidence > Unit 3: Quoting and paraphrasing > Formatting & presenting quotes in an assignment

Let's see an example of how a student might integrate quotes into an argument, using appropriate formatting and presentation conventions.

You will see how Lisa, an undergraduate student, has quoted and presented some source material in her writing.

First, read this section from the source material:

Original text

The power of the state is dispensed within its institutions. Both the state and its institutions reflect and construct power relations in society. Education is a crucial site through which the capitalist system actively engages in creating a workforce suitable to its needs. Differential expectations for boys and girls are embedded in educational curricula. Boys are directed towards more scientific disciplines, girls into the humanities. Differential expectations elicit differences in behaviour and are internalised as beliefs. Boys are encouraged to be assertive while girls are rewarded through nurturing and compliance. Therefore, though an analysis of women's schooling in relation to their position in society is necessary, it would not produce a sufficient explanation. The impact of these processes of reproduction must be considered with regard to the labour market and the family.

Ardington, A. 1985. The Under-representation of Women in Engineering: Some implications for the sexual division of labour. Masters Thesis: University of Sussex, pp. 6-7.

Now look at how Lisa has presented quotes from the source in her assignment. Read the associated comments.

(Note that she has used footnotes for her references, as required by her department.)