Quick Links:And if you ever get stuck or overwhelmed with searching, don't hesitate to ask/email Mr. White and/or Ms. Barker for help!
Notes & Bibliography:
*While each database gives you the ability to cite your resource, you may need to create your own.
You are using Chicago Style.
NoodleTools
Generates citations for Chicago Citation Styles, and much more!
Ms. Barker's Favorite Video & Media Resources:
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You will be conducting research on an individual from America's past. You get to pick the individual, and in researching and writing you will need to address four topics.
They are:
Remember, you must choose a person from American history, who fits within the scope of this course.Consider the time period of this course to be roughly 1492-1890. The person’s accomplishments must occur within that time period AND fall under topics covered by this course. Check with me if you are unsure about a particular person.
Before We Get Started:
And while Wikipedia is a fantastic source for initial research and topic finding, it is NOT to be used beyond STEP 1. DO NOT commit plagiarism by using information from these articles in your FINAL paper. Just as you would not copy sentences from a general encyclopedia, like Britannica (see below), you should not copy from Wikipedia. You SHOULD definitely look at the notes, references, bibliography, and external links of articles which can lead you to academic sources that will strengthen your project.
Ms. Barker's Favorite Browsing Websites:
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Step 1: Choosing a Topic
"There are several methods.
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Here are the units that you have covered or will cover this year:
Remember, you must choose a person from American history, who fits within the scope of this course.Consider the time period of this course to be roughly 1492-1890. The person’s accomplishments must occur within that time period AND fall under topics covered by this course. Check with me if you are unsure about a particular person.
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Relevant Print Resources:If our library does not have it, we can inter-library loan resources this year!
Relevant Databases:ORR Databases: |
Secondary Sources:
Background Knowledge:
Start by browsing some of the databases below to find a topic that you are interested in and what to purse in your project.
Step 2: Creating a Research Question
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Step 3: Further Your Search:
*Each database has different resources that can help you in your quest.
Make sure to search each database to find new information and materials.*
Make sure to search each database to find new information and materials.*
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U.S. History (Gale In Context)Biography (Gale In Context)
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eLibrary
Academic OneFile (Gale)↑↑ For More Advanced General Searches ↑↑
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Ms. Barker's Favorite Primary Source Websites:
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Primary Source ORRHS Databases:
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Step 5: Creating a Thesis Statement:
- Gather and review a wide range of sources on your topic.
- Look for the key arguments in these sources.
- Settle on a main claim that is provable with evidence you've found.
- Make sure your main claim resists easy refutation by narrowing your scope and addressing competing claims.
- Formulate your main claim in a one- to two-sentence thesis statement.
- Revise your thesis statement to make sure it accurately reflects the organization of your argument.
Boston Public Library Databases:
As a Massachusetts Resident*, you have access to the Boston Public Library and can get an online eCard!
A BPL eCard gives you access to:
Just a few databases to get you started:
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*You will need to login with your BPL e-card number and pin.
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