1. English 28 The Research Project

2. What is Research? From the French word “to investigate”
To gather information
To find facts, evidence, opinions
To use any and all available materials found about subject

3. Essay v. Research Essay requires: Research requires:
Following the writing process
Thesis/outline
Structure of introduction/body/conclusion
Supporting information for thesis
Research requires:
So what’s the difference?

4. Research facts, statistics statement from authorities
The difference is…
The evidence/supporting information for research is based upon
other people’s ideas, opinions
facts, statistics
statement from authorities
This information must be documented

5. How to Conduct Research
Three types of sources
PRINT
ELECTRONIC
FIELD

6. PRINT SOURCES Do not use newspaper articles Books Pamphlets
Specialized dictionaries and encyclopedias
Atlases
Almanacs
Periodicals
Do not use newspaper articles

7. ELECTRONIC SOURCES Search engines (only for searches) Websites Email
Blogs
Audio (podcasts, webcasts, radio, speeches)
Video (YouTube, DVD, video.google)
Television shows

8. FIELD SOURCES “hitting the pavement” Personal interviews
Conducting surveys
Contacting organizations/agencies
MADD; PETA
Observations
Observing an elementary classroom
Observing how volunteers assist at a homeless shelter

9. Research Assignment Schedule steps in research writing
Follow the research timeline
All assignments have due dates/points
Penalty for late work
First assignment: find a subject

10. Topic Assignment Find a social issue What is a social issue?
How can I research for a subject?

11. Assignment Locate three possible subjects For each possible subject:
First choice: locate a book
Second choice: locate a journal article
Third choice: locate a newspaper article
Complete the handout—all information