Gathering EvidenceOr researching your topic

Researching your Topic Know what you are researching.

Possible search terms Break down your question. Thesis statement (Debatable & Narrow)

Know where to go to get your info. Evaluate your sources. All sources ARE NOT

EQUAL. Browse or Direct/Search Box Gather evidence that supports your assertion.

Cite your sources. It’s the right thing to do. Adds credibility to your argument.

Sometimes finalizing your thesis comes after you begin to collect evidence.

Fact vs. opinionUse databases and websites to gather your evidenceAre you composing an ARGUMENT or PERSUADING someone.

Libguide Opposing Viewpoints Database

Database vs. Search Engines Websites Data online

http://libguides.stewardschool.org/simpsonhistory

Opposing Viewpoints Database

Opposing Viewpoints Database

Opposing Viewpoints Database

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Anyone can publish a website. (wanna see mine?) So, look at them closely. If you found the answer to your question in a click or two on the Internet, it’s probably mediocre evidence.

Think to yourself: Is it credible? Accurate? Is there a date of publication at the bottom of the website? What does it say in the “About” section of the website? Was it paid for by an organization with a vested interest?

What is the URL? .org; .gov is more credible than .com

There are times that Google and Wikipedia are fine to explore a topic and there are times you need to pull “the big guns” out and find your evidence on a database.

Want more than the database?Selecting a sourceThink critically

Plagiarism is a violation of the honor code.

Paraphrase your research!

Attribute thoughts and ideas accordingly.

Check your rubric for bibliography requirements.

OWL Purdue is the best digital reference for MLA Citation Style.

MLA Citation You must cite your evidence!Not only is it the right thing to do but it improves your argument.