How to Research A Topic 

You've received an assignment to write a six-paragraph essay. Now what? Where do you start?

In this module you will learn how to organize your research into an outline with an introduction, body and conclusions. 

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Foreword: When it comes to research projects organization is crucial. Each project is different but each should have a introduction, body and conclusion. The introduction is an overview of the research project. It should contain any background information and historical context that your audience needs to know in order to understand the importance of your topic.

For example my project background information about slavery in the United States will help me explain why Harriet Tubman’s work as an abolitionist was so important.

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The body is where you explain and develop the main idea of your project, pointing to evidence from your research. I am making the claim that Harriet Tubman inspired other abolitionists so the body of my project is where I will provide specific examples. Finally, you end the project with the conclusion. The conclusion summarizes the evidence presented in the body and circles back to the background information in the introduction.

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Classroom discussion topics (library and group project)

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• Describe and demonstrate at least one prewriting method;

• Describe the components of the "organizing stage" of writing;

• Create a concept map of your essay topic, prioritizing the most important themes;

• Assess the relevance and reliability of sources of information before using them in essay;

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Explore Writing Tips below:

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