For my environmental science reseaerch paper on coral reefs I wanted to copy this intro paragraph from my workbook:
Coral reefs are the second richest ecosystem or interdependent environment on Earth. They have been called the rain forests of the oceans because of the rich diversity of life they support. One of the most common examples is the Great Barrier Reef in the northeast part of Australia, which is one of the biggest reefs in the world. There are several different types of reefs that serve as “homes” for numerous plants and animals. Unfortunately reefs are disappearing at an alarming rate. While coral reefs are extremely beneficial to humans, their existence is threatened by human activities.
To put it in my own words:
Coral reefs, also called the rain forests of the oceans, are the second richest ecosystem on Earth. They have this nickname because of the prosperous diversity of life they maintain. The Great Barrier Reef in the northeast part of Australia is one of the common examples of coral reefs. The Great Barrier Reef is also one of the biggest reefs in the world. Reefs also have several different types, and serve as homes for various plants and animals. Sadly, reefs are dying out at a startling rate. Even though coral reefs are tremendously helpful and beneficial to humans, their survival is being endangered by human activities.
Is that okay? I tried to change up some words and use synonyms..
Yeah, I think this would work.
If you want more information you cold go on to google and type in "Coral reefs powerpoint" Then click on the eighth site on that first page. It gives good dteailed points about what you may be looking for.
P.S all the best on ur research paper
Yes, your revised paragraph is a good attempt at putting the original text in your own words and avoiding direct copying. You have effectively changed some words and used synonyms to make the paragraph your own. However, I'd like to emphasize the importance of not only changing words but also restructuring and rephrasing sentences to truly make it your own work.
Here's an edited version of your paragraph that further rephrases and structures the sentences while maintaining the key points:
Coral reefs, known as the rainforests of the oceans due to their abundant biodiversity, rank second as the most diverse ecosystems on our planet. An iconic example, the Great Barrier Reef in northeast Australia, stands as one of the world's largest coral reefs. Exhibiting various forms, these reefs provide a vital habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species. Tragically, fast disappearing at an alarming pace, coral reefs face a grim future due to the detrimental effects of human activities. Despite bringing tremendous benefits to humanity, the survival of coral reefs is now gravely threatened.
Remember, when paraphrasing or using ideas from another source, it is always important to give proper credit through appropriate citations. This applies to any information, statistics, or ideas that are not common knowledge.