A sample site evaluation reveals a parody (p. 242)

When you're researching on the Internet, you need to carefully evaluate sites to determine if they are credible sources for your essay. Make sure to read any introductory material, preview headings and subheadings, and evaluate the URL. Sometimes all the information on the site will look legitimate and still not be usable. One seemingly credible, but completely bogus Web site is the Dihydrogen Monoxide (DHMO) site, shown below.

Dihydrogen Monoxide Web site

This site appears to be credible because of its clear organization, scientific language, links to official organizations such as the EPA, Green Party, The Sierra Club, the American Cancer Society and Center for Disease Control. There are also links to fact sheets, press and media coverage, and even a link to make donations to support the ban of DHMO.

If you do a quick Internet search for more information about DHMO or the sponsoring organization, United States Environmental Assessment Center, you will find that the organization does not exist and that DHMO is actually water.

For more examples of bogus Web sites that you can use to hone your evaluating skills, go to Bogus and Questionable Web Sites.