Research Steps

Research Project Steps

1. Read the Assignment

• Read the Assignment - don't lose points for not following directions.
• Read the Rubric - know what you will be graded on
• Underline the type and number of required sources and keywords
• Identify essential questions
• Identify the appropriate writing style

2. Search for Information

• Create a list of questions about your subject, keeping in mind the essential questions
• Create a list of keywords from the question list (topic words, synonyms, words with similar spelling)
• Use Google Advanced Search Techniques: click then choose advanced search, or go to http://www.google.com/advanced_search
• Use search engines, databases, ebooks, print, video
• Check topic with your teacher

3. Evaluate and Analyze Sources

• Accuracy: copyright date, last update, sources verified, quality of source material, range of dates for source material, links work
• Bias: both sides equally presented, no facts omitted, not a parody
• Credentials: authors' credentials, contact information, sponsor or publisher of website, domain (see domain key below)
• Decide: based on the assignment requirements and the accuracy, bias, and credentials of the site, is it a good source to use for your research?
• Primary source: created during the time period you are researching (for example, a diary, newspaper article from that period, etc)
• Secondary source: created after the time period to analyze or report on the time period.
• Answers essential questions?

4. Organize and Write

• Take Notes
• Outline the Paper
• Write a Thesis Statement
• Incorporate Source Material
• Reflect, Compare and Contrast, use original thinking

5. Cite Your Sources

• Avoid Plagiarism
• Use MLA 8 format or the format required by your teacher