English Urgent Homework Eng
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ResearchPaperRequirementsandSources.pptxResearch Paper Requirements and Sources
ENGL 1102
GSU-Alpharetta
Prof. Jenkins
Requirements for Research Paper
1200 – 1500 words (4-5 pages, double-spaced, 12-pt. TNR)
MLA 8 style
10 -12 sources
At least FIVE sources from GALILEO/GSU library databases
May use more than that
May use print or ebooks
May use other web-based sources (focus on .edu, .gov, and .org)
May use one Wikipedia-type source
May use one personal interview
Evaluating sources
Consider the “source”: publication, author, organization, etc.
Compare to other sources
Apply “reasonable person” test
How many people were involved in decision to publish?
Hierarchy:
Peer-reviewed articles
Books (from reputable publishers)
Articles in reputable publications
Organizational websites
“Joe’s website”
GALILEO
Brand name turned generic (like Kleenex)
“Georgia Library….(something, something)
GINORMOUS virtual library
Database of databases
Advantages:
LOTS of sources (literally, millions)
Already vetted
MANY PROVIDE CITATION!
Searching the GSU databases
Go to gsu.edu
Click “Academics” on top menu and “University Libraries” on the left
You’ll get a search box which you can start using immediately
On the right, there’s also a menu featuring other library services, including live chat, online workshops, and how to find ebooks
Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these!
Search tips
Brainstorm search terms in advance
No “hits”? Change search terms
Too many hits? Try narrowing by adding words
Too few hits? Broaden your search by removing or changing words
Remember, the word isn’t “search.” It’s “re-search.”
Realistically: 30-60 minutes per source
Research goals
Find 3-4 sources by April 10 (need four for proposal, due on the 12th)
Find the rest by April 7
Remember, research is the “invention” part of the research paper project
As you find sources, you are “writing” the paper
