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ENG 106 Composition II : Start with Reference

In the Beginning

There are lots of different ways to start research. 

One place is with General Resources.

These are encyclopedias, handbooks, dictionaries, and other reference sources that give an overview or broad picture of your topic. You should consider starting your research process with General Sources if:

  • You are starting research on an unfamiliar topic
  • You need some background information on your topic
  • You find "holes" in your information as you do other research and want to fill them in

Another Helpful Source

General Resources in the A.C. Buehler Library

Reference Resources Exercise

Choose one of the electronic reference databases above. Do a search for a topic like

  • your favorite invertebrate (for example, earthworm)
  • a historical period you're interested in
  • a sporting event (like the World Cup or the Olympics)

. Complete the attached worksheet, answering the questions based on your results.

Some argument book series

The Library has several book series:

  • Opposing Viewpoints
  • Global Viewpoints
  • Current Controversies
  • Taking Sides

which are also good for beginning some research as well as exploring a range of possibilities for research questions and argument theses. I've linked to examples for the book series, but you can search for your topic in the catalog as well. Just add the series name in the search box with your topic.If there is a book the catalog will find it.