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Research Process: Research at Duke University

Paper

BIG SIX RESEARCH STEPS


1. Task Definition

  • Define your assignment & identify information needed to complete it.
  • Restate the assignment in your own words. What are you interested in learning?
  • Gather basic information about your topic by reading articles, web pages etc.
  • Talking with teachers/parents/librarians is also helpful.

2. Information Seeking Strategies

  • Make a list of all possible sources & select the best ones.
  • Choose from nonfiction, news articles, reference books, web pages, databases, directories and multimedia encyclopedias.

3. Location and Access

  • Locate sources (intellectually and physically) & find information within the texts.
  • Consult the library catalog, library reference section, search engines, and web-based references on the AP History LibGuide.
  • Use a graphic organizer to map out your topic and sub topics

4. Use of Information

  • Engage with your source: read, hear, view & extract the most valuable information
  • Use skimming and scanning to find information that addresses your topic.
  • Look for key words, pictures, read headlines and first & last paragraphs of articles to help find the “right” information.
  • Take notes – NoodleBib will help you use note cards, cite your source and remember to use
  • summary, paraphrase or quotation.
  • -Remember to cite each source you use. Use Citation Machine, a web tool
  • located on our “Resources and Homework Helpers” section.

5. Synthesis

  • Choose the format of your project and organize your research notes according to how you will share the information.
  • If your format is a paper, begin by writing an outline.
  • If you are producing a PowerPoint or Prezi, categorize your main bullet points and images. Different formats require different types of organization.
  • Present the information effectively by practicing and knowing you audience

6. Evaluation

  • Judge the product and the process.
  • Make a rubric to evaluate your work. Did you meet the objective?
  • Judge the quality of your work on a scale from one to five.
  • Next, judge the quality of your presentation.
  • You can use criteria such as accuracy, content, creativity and legibility.

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