How can I find some basic, background information about my topic?
Answer
One good starting place is the Gale Ebooks/Gale Virtual Reference Library. Its purpose is to provide background information on a range of topics from reliable, academic sources.
In the search box, type in only the topic word or topic phrase. You could also type in a person's name, or the name of a company, the name of a book or a movie, a country, or a historical event, for example. But don't type in a sentence or a question. Then click Search.
If you are researching a current or controversial topic, you may want to use the Opposing Viewpoints in Context database.
Enter a word or phrase in the search box, or, especially if you're not sure what to write about yet, click on Browse Issues.
Every topic on this list will have its own background essay. Click on the topic to see its background essay, plus there will be many more sources on that issue.
Although not considered by everyone to be an acceptable academic source, Wikipedia can provide valuable information as you are exploring your ideas. Check with your teachers to find out if they will accept quotations from Wikipedia.
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