Patchwriting — English definition

Defined in 3 courses:

Where it is taught

In use

Patchwriting swaps a few words while retaining the original sentence’s structure and can disguise copying.

Research Notes, Quotation & Paraphrase

It includes the quiet, common versions: a paraphrase left uncited, a summary passed off as original analysis, and especially patchwriting, where you copy a source's sentence and swap a few words for synonyms while keeping its skeleton intact.

Citation & Academic Integrity

' The dramatic cases — copying, or patchwriting a lightly reworded paraphrase and leaving it uncited — you can already spot.

Documentation & Academic Integrity

Questions using patchwriting

Problem 1

Explain patchwriting in your own words and give an example from the assigned reading or a fresh sentence.
Answer and explanation

Changing a few words while closely retaining source wording or structure. The unit case offers this example to examine: According to Source A, two-thirds of the eighteen questionnaire respondents chose quieter drawing rather than shared projects from the offered options. The draft changes respondents into all residents, preference into a demand, and quieter drawing into guaranteed silence. An accurate paraphrase retains those category limits and identifies the source. Identify the wording or choice that fits the term. A different accurate example is acceptable.

Use the model to discuss reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; written work needs human marking.

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