Clarity

• Be specific: explain what you mean by "scholarly" or "peer reviewed".
• If you discourage the use of "websites" be sure to clarify what that means and that web-based research databases subscribed to by the library are acceptable.
• Don't assume students understand how to differentiate between primary and secondary sources.
• Help students avoid pitfalls by suggesting specific databases or other library resources by name to students.

Work with your librarian to devise shared vocabulary.

Library Resources

• Check to see that the Library has the resources students need to complete the assignment, especially if you haven't used the assignment/activity in a while or teach at multiple institutions. Oftentimes, the library will not have an item in print, but will have it electronically. 
• Refer to the databases by name and not by vendor (i.e.: Academic Search Complete is the name of the database, EBSCO or EBSCO Host is the vendor).
• Be sure to include the full titles of journals or other resources.
• If multiple students are going to be accessing the same resources, put items on physical or electronic course reserves.