What interests you Bridgette?
If you are going to write a research paper might as well make it something you enjoy or something that is needed for another class. Why not make your topic work for several different purposes if you can.
There are eight or nine different types of essays. Once you decide on a general topic area be sure to decide what type of essay you are undertaking (Definition, Classification, Description, Comparison and Contrast, Sequence,
Choice, Explanation, Evaluation) be sure you decide what your form will be and be consistent in your writing.
General guidance: Once you decide what your topic will be and what the goal (type) is, begin your research...the library is the place to go...remember that the librarian works for you! Have them help you in doing your research. They will assist you in specifying your topic, narrowing and being sure that you use credible, current materials for your research. Capture your important data on note cards or on your lap top...use a single page for each source (with full bibliographical documentation at the beginning of the page. Be sure to differentiate between notes and quotations. When you write notes, paraphrase the information accurately, but do not copy the information word for word. Quotations should be in quotes with direct attribution to the source.
Once you have gathered your data, (data leads to more data and additional sources)...make sure all of your material is pertinent and falls under your specific purpose, then organize the body of your presentation...array the data (notes and quotes) in a logical and appropriate sequence (it will be one of many organizational types, i.e. chronological, problem/solution, spacial, cause and effect or topical.
In the process of developing the body of the essay, your introduction should reveal itself as should the conclusion...I always try to incorporate several things in the introduction: Attention getting device, with an explanation of the topic and a reason for the reader to continue reading the paper. A thesis sentence is critical.
The conclusion should also flow from the body of the essay. Re-emphasize the main points. A good conclusion should have a strong hook. A definitive statement that captures the readers mind and leaves them with a positive impression of the material presented.
Doing your research early is important, and be prepared to amend your direction as you discover new and interesting material...be objective in your approach.
One of the ways my students select topics is to sit down and read a good newspaper...read every story...see which ones capture your imagination...and then go see that librarian! Note that I said a good newspaper...pick up a Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, St. Louis Post Dispatch...have fun and enjoy the learning process.
