Research

The Research Hub

The Research Process

Research isn’t just Googling—it’s a journey! Here’s how to do it right:

Choose a Topic Pick something that interests you and fits your assignment. Make sure it’s not too broad or too narrow.
Ask Questions What do you want to know? Turn your topic into a few guiding questions.
Find Reliable Sources Use trusted databases and library resources (see below!).
Take Notes Write down key facts, quotes, and ideas. Keep track of where you found them.
Organize Your Information Group similar ideas together. Create an outline to help structure your writing.
Cite Your Sources Give credit to the authors and websites you used. It’s part of being a responsible researcher

Use Trusted Databases

Skip the random websites! Use the Online Research Library available via your student portal (please see image below).

The Online Research Library is built for middle school students and full of reliable databases. Please click on the picture below to access the GCPS Online Research Library Chart which has the Home Access Passwords in case you don't log in via your student portal.

GALILEO stands for GeorgiA LIbrary LEarning Online. It is a project sponsored by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia that gives you access to many databases indexing thousands of credible and authoritative resources such as full‑text articles, ebooks, scholarly journals, periodicals, educational videos, and more.

To access Galileo please click on the GALILEO picture and use the information listed to log in.

GALILEO Password

The GALILEO password changed on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

Old password: serenity

New password: absorb

Valid until: January 9, 2026

Cite Your Sources

Citing means showing where you got your information. It’s important for:

Avoiding plagiarism
Giving credit to authors
Helping others find your sources

Easy Citation Tools

NoodleTools – Create citations and organize notes
Citation Machine - Automatically formats citations in MLA, APA, and more
EasyBib – Quick citation generator
Google Docs via Google Workspace for Education – Use the built-in citation tool under “Tools” → “Citations”

Citation Basics

Include the author, title, website or book name, date, and URL (if online)
Use MLA format unless your teacher says otherwise

Pro Tip: Always double-check your citations—machines make mistakes too!

🐏 Rams Research. Rams Think. Rams Lead.🐏