Embedded Files
Use the resources below to retrieve information for your research
Suggested Databases
Start your search here! CREDO povides expert-reviewed background information, key context, and broad topic overviews without open-web bias or inaccuracy.
Provides peer-reviewed, fact-checked background information across all subjects. Features a Quick-Click Dictionary with Merriam-Webster definitions, part of speech, and audio pronunciation, Read-Aloud & Translation
This database brings together curated, peer-reviewed reference content, news, media, and primary sources organized into topic-based portals. Features topic Overview Pages,access to reference books, academic journals, news articles, magazines, primary sources, audio files, and infographics
Provides full-text, editorially vetted articles from over 1,600 domestic and international newspapers, magazines, and reference sources. Includes integrated access to resources like Compton’s by Britannica encyclopedia, DK Eyewitness books, maps, charts, and non-fiction photo essays.
Database Search Tips
1. Identify key concepts and terms related to our topic area and use keywords. Avoid entering a full sentence for your search. Use the advanced search options if necessary.
2. Look for relevant articles by browsing your search results. In most databases, you will need to click on the title to read the article.
3. Filter your results, most databases have a filter menu on the the results page to apply filters to refine and narrow your search.
4. Save the articles you plan to use, by copying and pasting the citation or article's DOI.
5. Don't give up! Research takes practice, you will need to revise your search many times to get the results you want.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is the act of presenting someone else's words, ideas, data, or creative work as your own without giving them proper credit.
Tips to avoid plagarism
Cite immediately: Insert in-text citations as you write. Never wait until the end.
Quote direct text: Place quotation marks around any phrase with 3+ consecutive original words.
Paraphrase from memory: Read the source, look away, write the idea in your own words, then cite it.
Distinguish common facts: Common knowledge ("Mars is the 4th planet") needs no citation; specific data or theories do.
Track sources active: Save URLs, titles, and authors in a separate doc the moment you find them.
Don't recycle work: Reusing your own past papers for a new class is self-plagiarism.
Citations -MLA
Most databases will have the appropriate citation done for you. You can simply copy and paste it to your works cited page. Below is the format, just in case.
Book: Author's last name, first name. Title of book. Place published: Publisher, Copyright year.
Database: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Article Title.” Name of Magazine Date of Publication. Name of Database. Name of Service. Name of Library. Date you viewed it (access date) <Web Address/URL>.
Website: Author’s Last Name, First Name.* Name of WebSite. “Name of Specific Page or Article Title.” Date web page was last revised. Date you viewed it (access date)<Web Address/URL>.
Image: Artist Last Name, Artist First Name. Title of Artwork. Type of Image. Database or Website. Date of Access. URL.
More Citation Examples and Resources
Explore More - Helpful Websites
Planetary Habitability
NASA Astrobiology Learning Resources
Best for: Understanding the core ingredients for habitability (liquid water, atmospheric shielding, energy sources, and nutrients).
Why it's credible: Maintained directly by NASA’s Astrobiology Program.European Space Agency (ESA) – Planetary Comparison
Best for: Comparing the early histories of Earth, Venus, and Mars, including why their climates diverged so dramatically over time.
Why it's credible: ESA provides official, peer-reviewed planetary science content.
Earth & Climate Change.
NASA Climate Change & Global Warming
Best for: High-school accessible data on the greenhouse effect, atmospheric composition, and human impacts on habitability.
Why it's credible: Features real-time satellite data and published scientific consensus.NOAA Climate.gov
Best for: Earth system science, climate data graphics, and articles on atmosphere-ocean interactions.
Why it's credible: Run by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Current State of Venus & Mars
NASA Mars Exploration Program
Best for: Live mission data (Perseverance, Curiosity), evidence of ancient liquid water, and atmosphere composition facts.
Why it's credible: Primary repository for NASA's active Mars missions.Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – Exploring the Planets
Best for: Structural breakdowns of Venus’s surface, atmospheric pressure, runaway greenhouse conditions, and Mars terraforming challenges.
Why it's credible: Smithsonian curators write student-focused, peer-reviewed educational content.
Exoplanets & Searching for Life
NASA Exoplanet Exploration
Best for: Interactive 3D visualization tools (Exoplanet Travel Bureau), biosignature analysis, and James Webb Space Telescope discoveries.
Why it's credible: NASA’s primary exoplanet database and public research outlet.The Planetary Society – Planet Guides
Best for: Deep dives into planetary habitability, future space mission goals, and student-friendly summaries.
Why it's credible: Non-profit science advocacy co-founded by Carl Sagan, led by planetary experts.
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