Annotated Bibliography Example in Chicago Style
Introduction
An annotated bibliography combines the precision of a traditional bibliography with the depth of annotations, providing a concise summary and critical evaluation of each source. Below is an example formatted according to the Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition), showcasing how to integrate citations with insightful annotations.
1. Book
Cowan, Ruth Schwartz. A Social History of American Technology. Oxford University Press, 1997.
Cowan’s work traces the evolution of technology in the United States, emphasizing its societal impact. The book is divided into thematic chapters, each exploring how innovations like the sewing machine and refrigeration reshaped domestic life. Her interdisciplinary approach, blending history, sociology, and economics, makes this a foundational text for understanding technology’s role in cultural change. The inclusion of primary sources, such as patents and advertisements, adds credibility to her analysis.
2. Journal Article
Jones, Karen, and Michael Smith. “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Education.” Journal of Educational Technology, vol. 45, no. 3 (2022): 210-228.
This article examines the integration of AI tools in classrooms, focusing on personalized learning and administrative efficiency. The authors conducted a longitudinal study across 50 schools, revealing a 15% improvement in student engagement when AI was used for adaptive assessments. While the findings are compelling, the study lacks diversity in its sample, primarily focusing on urban schools, which limits its generalizability.
3. Online Source
“Climate Change and Global Food Security.” World Resources Institute, 2021. https://www.wri.org/climate-food-security.
Strengths: This report offers a comprehensive overview of how climate change impacts agriculture, supported by data from over 100 countries. Its interactive maps and infographics make complex information accessible.
Limitations: The report’s policy recommendations are broad and lack actionable steps for local communities, reducing its practical utility.
4. Dissertation
Lee, Jennifer. “Digital Divide: Access to Technology in Rural Communities.” Ph.D. diss., University of Michigan, 2020.
Lee’s dissertation investigates the disparities in internet access across rural America, using qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys. Her findings highlight the role of government policies in exacerbating the digital divide. The study’s strength lies in its mixed-methods approach, though its reliance on self-reported data raises questions about potential biases.
5. Newspaper Article
Garcia, Elena. “The Rise of Remote Work: Challenges and Opportunities.” The New York Times, October 15, 2023.
Garcia explores the shift to remote work post-pandemic, interviewing both employees and employers. While the article provides timely insights, it lacks depth in addressing long-term economic implications. Its value lies in its broad audience appeal and up-to-date statistics, such as the 42% increase in remote job postings since 2020.
FAQ Section
What is the purpose of an annotated bibliography in Chicago Style?
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An annotated bibliography in Chicago Style serves to provide a structured list of sources with concise summaries and evaluations, helping readers understand the relevance and quality of each work.
How long should annotations be in Chicago Style?
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Annotations typically range from 100 to 200 words, depending on the complexity of the source and the depth of analysis required.
Can I include personal opinions in annotations?
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While annotations should remain objective, you can include critical evaluations based on evidence, such as identifying biases or limitations in the source.
How do I format annotations in Chicago Style?
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Annotations follow the full Chicago citation and are indented, single-spaced within the annotation, with a blank line between entries.
Conclusion
This annotated bibliography example demonstrates how to integrate Chicago Style citations with critical annotations, ensuring both accuracy and depth. By evaluating sources across diverse formats—books, articles, dissertations, and online resources—readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic while honing their research skills.
