| Select a topic Get background information
Explore arguments and points of view
Support your argument
Consider the source |
Choose an issue you care about. You'll do a better job and
enjoy the process more. Some resources that may help you select a topic include:
Use these resources to get a concise, authoritative overview of a topic. They can be useful by providing an overview of a topic, useful keywords and phrases for further searching, and/or a list of resources to consult for more information.
- Build-a-Guide:
Under each topic are listed resources for background information
-
CQ Researcher (online and in print, Ref
H35 .E35): Reports provide
overview, history and timelines of issues
- Subject encyclopedias and subject dictionaries available in the reference collection: click on a subject to find resources for
background information. For more, see Subject Encyclopedias (Ref Desk Z5848 .M57 1999). It directs you to specialized encyclopedia, which are good sources of background information.
- General encyclopedias : Encyclopedias are good resources
for getting an overview of a topic, and familiarizing yourself with
the vocabulary, issues and individuals relating to the topic. (Even if you may not want to use them on your list of sources, they can often be useful in getting you started and leading you to other resources).
These are good resources for finding various opinions surrounding an issue
- CQ
Researcher (Ref H35 .E35)
Reports provide pro/con essays on each issue/LI>
- Newspaper
databases: Newspapers publish commentaries, opinion pieces, letters
to the editor and editorials, all which provide different points of
view. (In these databases, try limiting your search to commentary, opinion,
editorial, etc.)
- Associations
Unlimited Find organizations devoted to various interests and issues.
They may publish information to use for or against your argument.
- Editorials
on File Ref
Z6944.E4 E44)
- Books series devoted to controversial
issues: several book series look at controversial issues from
different points of view. They are useful in clearly and concisely explaining
issues from several perspectives. Do a title search on the series title
in the library catalog to retrieve lists of these books.
Series titles:
-At Issue
-Opposing Viewpoints
-Current Controversies
-Contemporary World Issues
These are examples of resources that provide statistics and
facts to use as evidence supporting your argument. Ask a librarian to assist you in finding additional sources for statistics related to your topic.
A strong argument requires credible
information. Use these tools to help you in evaluating the credibility of the
resources you find.
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