Plan Possible Sources
Choose the right source for the right project.
Good research requires finding information in a variety of resources and with multiple points of view.
To learn how, watch this Popular and Scholarly Sources tutorial that focuses on magazines and journals. Then review the information below, and click on the links to learn when and how to use the various sources. Last, complete the activity at the bottom.
If this inquiry requires . . . then try this type of source: | |
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The most up-to-date information . . . newspaper, magazine, website, almanac
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Historical information . . . reference, nonfiction book, biography, primary source, documentary
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Background or summary information . . . general encyclopedia, dictionary
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Very specific or in-depth information . . . nonfiction book, magazine, website, reference, documentary
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Firsthand accounts . . . primary source, interview, nonfiction book, biography, documentary
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Adapted with permission from the Empire State Information Fluency Continuum by New York City Dept. of Education
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Still having trouble finding sources? Read about specialized resources, or ask your librarian.
Activity:
Fill out the Exploring Possible Sources worksheet to help you think about sources that might be a good starting point for your research project.
Next => Now that you have done some planning, it is time to go to the next step of the OSLIS research process: Find.