A scholarly (or academic) resource is one that is written by experts in the field for experts in the field. A popular resource is one that is written for the general public. Your local newspaper is an example of a popular resource.
Scholarly Journals
Publication has a narrow scope or is limited to a specific field or sub-field of study; goal is to promote and disseminate scholarly research
Intended for academic or specialized audiences such as professors, researchers, students
Has tables and graphics
Has references, bibliographies, notes and/or works cited included
Has little or no advertising; included advertising promotes books, journals, conferences
Has an author and author affiliations; authors are experts in their respective field
Published by a scholarly press or professional organization (verify if/who is sponsoring the article)
Editorial board of scholars in the field who review articles prior to publication in a process known as refereed or peer-review
Tends to use complex language following the academic writing style, usually includes discipline-specific jargon or technical terms
Popular Materials
Publication is designed for a broad, general audience; primary goal is to make a profit
Does not require expertise in the field to understand the information; designed for the general population
Usually has pictures and media included
May have verified facts, but generally does not include references or bibliographies
Usually has advertising
May or may not have an author listed; authors are generalists, journalists, or freelance writers
Usually published by a for-profit entity
Editor is often a journalist who works for the publisher