Notre Dame High School Library - Projects and Reserves - SA - Academic Challenge Paper

A few things to keep in mind when choosing a topic: watch, read, listen to the news for possible topics! brainstorm possible topics find a topic which is debatable, since you will need to write a persuasive paper and "take a stand" on an issue find a topic which is narrow enough for an 8 page paper - find a unique aspect of the topic! find a topic for which you can incorporate: Theology History Plus two of the following: Math/Science/Health Language/Literature/Cultural Views Visual and Performing Arts Social Sciences (such as Psychology/Sociology/Economics,etc.) READ, READ, READ about possible topics - do not just choose a topic without reading any articles about it find a topic which truly interests you! Try these sources to help you brainstorm topics for your Academic Challenge Paper on a social ethical issue: Any of the Social Issues / Current Events databases (ESPECIALLY Gale Opposing Viewpoints in Context) current print news magazines and newspapers web sites listed under "Social Issues" web sites listed under "New/Current Events" browse print books with call numbers 179 (ethics) and 300s (social issues) reference book Social Issues, call number REF 301.03 SOC More tips... *Remember sources for your paper are to be from reliable sources such as subscription databases, books, and periodicals.  Web sites need to be approved by your advisor.  You need a minimum of ten sources for your paper.  Of course, you will find more than 10 possible sources as  you conduct your research!  Try to learn everything you can about the topic!  Gather, gather, gather information, read it, and then select the best sources for your paper. *Remember to find information for ALL aspects of your topic.  Find ALL the views people have about your topic.  In other words, you will need to learn about views and arguments which go against your thesis.  You should be able to defend your thesis against the best arguments held by those who don't agree with your view. *As you refine your topic and begin research for your paper, don't forget about interlibrary loan!  (Here's a link to library catalogs to search.) *Once you have a topic and have found the best searches in the subscription databases, learn about RSS feeds and how new information on your topic can be automatically delivered to your e-mail.  See Ms. Kleparek for more information! See your advisor with any questions!