What is the primary reason for having students cite Web sources in their work?

Citing Web sources in student work serves multiple purposes, but the primary reason for doing so is to promote the student's understanding of the importance of citing sources. This practice encourages academic integrity and helps students recognize that acknowledging the contributions of other authors strengthens their own work. By citing sources, students learn to engage with existing literature and research, fostering critical thinking and honesty in their academic endeavors.

The act of citing highlights the relationship between an original idea and its supporting materials, allowing students to appreciate the context of information and how it fits within the larger body of knowledge. This understanding is essential not only for their current academic experience but also prepares them for future scholarly and professional work where credibility and attribution are paramount.

While other answers mention facilitating access to resources or aiding the teacher's evaluation process, these aspects are secondary to the foundational educational value of teaching students why and how to give proper credit for others' ideas. Understanding citation practices is a crucial skill that empowers students in their educational journey and beyond.