English 111/112 - Gleason

Reference tools can provide an overview of a subject, introduce basic concepts, summarize key issues, define terms and cite factual information.

They include encyclopedias, dictionaries & thesauri, biographical compilations, and atlases.

Here are some excellent sources you can access online.

Develop your research topic.

1. What are the key concepts of your topics?

2. Can you broaden or narrow your focus?

3. Consider focusing on one or more of the following:

• time period
• place
• specific event
• specific people

4. Does your topic overlap other subject areas such as psychology or art?

Think of 2-3 questions that you will need to explore.

1. Think about the history of your topic and its categories.

2. Who are the key people? What did they do? Why did it happen?

Under each question, think about the following aspects:

1. What do you already know about your topic or issue?

2. What do you you need to learn to better understand your topic or issue?

3. What kind of information resource might provide the answer to these questions?

Consider your audience.

1. Who will read your paper?

2. Why will it be of interest to them?

3. What will be new to them?