YOUR RESEARCH PAPER: Choosing A Topic

Each of the sites linked below contain suggestions and information on choosing a topic for your research project. Even if your topic has been chosen for you, these sites can help you focus on a thesis statement and learn how to conduct keyword searches.

http://destiny1.gilbertschools.net/cataloging/servlet/presentadvancedsearchredirectorform.do?l2m=Library%20Search&tm=TopLevelCatalog&l2m=Library+Search

​If you are interested in choosing a HOT, or controversial Topic, here are some resources to help you with that process:

• The link above will take you to a login screen. Use your username and password.
• Search under the category of "General Reference Databases."
• Choose "Points of View" from the list.
• Under the heading "Browse by Category" you will see about 30 general topics with more specific ones listed beneath. In addition, if you click on "SHOW ALL," a large list of topics will appear.
• Finally, under each of the 30 or so general topics, there is a short list, followed by the word "MORE." Click here to see topics which fall into each category.

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This website will be very useful for finding a very current topic for your research project. While there will never be as many topics as on POV (above), the information is extremely current and usually super interesting.

Follow these directions to access "Opposing Viewpoints" and/or "Global Issues" from GALE through the public library website:

1. Click on the logo above to be directed to the Maricopa County Library website.
2. Click on "Research" and then choose "e-Sources."
3. Click on the box labeled "Current Events."
4. Choose your database and proceed with your search.