Researching a Revolution (Kashem & Amirault)

Created by Stacy Kitsis, Arlington High School Librarian. Last updated: February 26, 2020.

Recommended Sources

Note: Database passwords are available online and at the front desk.

Assignment Reminders

Your topic should focus on the Age of Revolution, the period in history from about 1774 to 1849. You may choose one of the following:

    • United Irishmen’s Rebellion

    • Serbian Revolution

    • Spanish American Wars of Independence

    • Brazilian War of Independence

    • Greek War of Independence

    • Revolutions of 1820 (pick ONE country)

    • Revolutions of 1830 (pick ONE country)

    • European Revolutions of 1848 (pick ONE country)

    • Eureka Rebellion

    • Taiping Revolution

If you choose a different revolution that is not on this list, make sure it falls between 1774-1849 and have it approved by your teacher. You CANNOT choose the French Revolution, American Revolution, Haitian Revolution, or Industrial Revolution.

Source: Buffy Hamilton.

Remember, your goal is to learn vocabulary and big ideas about your topic while exploring potential resources before you start focusing questions, taking notes, etc.

Source: Search mapping lesson adapted from Buffy Hamilton and Norcross High School librarians.

Mini-Lesson: Focus Formulation

Today we are going to do a search mapping activity designed to help you explore high quality sources of information and begin to focus your topic. As you search the databases introduced by the librarian, try to answer the question, WHY did this revolution occur?

Why take the time to do search mapping?

  • Build a list of keywords (search terms) for your topic

  • Create a more robust/helpful search with better results

  • Explore a variety of resources

  • Begin to move from background research to formulating a draft thesis

How do you do search mapping?

  • Track search terms/phrases

  • Identify sources of information

  • Skim and scan 2-3 articles or resources per information source

  • Record terms, big ideas, concepts, do NOT take notes or focus on facts

  • See, think, and wonder with your group members

    • Save or send yourself any really great finds for later

What will it look like?

  • Student exemplars

  • Sample pre-search strategy map made by a librarian colleague:

Questions, comments, concerns? Email me at skitsis@arlington.k12.ma.us.