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Argumentative Research - ELA 12: Home

This LibGuide will help you develop an effective argument on a controversial topic.

Assignment Guidelines / Library Schedule

Library Schedule:

  • Day 1, 10/30-10/31: Introduce research and notecard expectations; find database articles; review exporting citations into NoodleTools
  • Day 2, 11/2-11/3: Review how to find good websites and entering them into NoodleTools

NoodleTools

You will use NoodleTools to create your citations, organize your research, create an outline, and create your Works Cited page for your paper. Not sure how to do something? Click on the "NoodleTools" page at the top of this LibGuide and browse our tutorials. Have more questions? Ask a librarian!

*You will be asked to revalidate your account if you haven't logged in yet this year. Can't remember the password? Ask a librarian!

Research Expectations

Remember:

  • You are expected to use at least five sources.
  • You must use at least two database sources.
  • All source citations must be entered into NoodleTools. Databases allow you to export the citation directly into NoodleTools; when using websites, you must create the citation (the URL is NOT a citation!).
  • You will create a minimum of six notecards in NoodleTools.

Suggested Database Sources

Argumentative/Persuasive Essays and Using the "Free" Web

While librarians and teachers have probably already cautioned you about using "free" web resources (what Google and other search engines find) when researching, one should be especially careful when researching controversial or contentious topics.  Topics such as these often inspire people to insert emotional pleas within the information or emphasize only one side of an issue.  One should be very careful with websites that they select for their own research to make sure they are receiving balanced, unbiased information. Use the infographic below as a checklist to help you determine if the website you found is a good source. Still have questions? Ask a librarian!

 

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