W270: Argumentative Writing
Finding a Controversial Topic or a Contested Term
In each of your papers you will be asked to take a position and support that position with evidence. The resources listed below will help you explore the different sides of each issue.
Academic Search Premier
Use Academic Search Premier to find newspaper, magazine, and journal articles that identify and analyze current topics.
CQ Researcher
This database provides articles devoted to timely topics ranging from school violence to homelessness in America. Each entry includes summaries, insight into all sides of the issues, chronologies of events, presentation of the current situation and future steps to be taken, and bibliographies you can use to take you further in your research.
Ethnic Newswatch
Ethnic Newswatch may present controversial issues that have not been thoroughly covered by the mainstream press and/or a different perspective on popular issues.
Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center
Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center contains essays written from various viewpoints. Links to journal articles, websites, statistics, primary documents, etc. are provided.
Finding Additional Support
Once you have chosen a topic, you may find it helpful to have additional sources to back up your claims.
IUCAT
The online library catalog. Use it to find books and other materials owned by the IU Libraries.
Academic Search Premier
Use Academic Search Premier to find newspaper, magazine, and journal articles that identify and analyze current topics.
Web of Knowledge
This database has journal articles on a variety of topics.
Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe
Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe contains full-text articles from U.S. and international newspapers and broadcast television news show transcripts.
Citing Your Sources
Chicago Manual of Style
Online
Abridged Guide
A print copy is also available in the reference collections in the East and West Towers of the Herman B Wells Library
LB2369.T8 2007
MLA Style Guide
Abridged Guide
A print copy is also available in the reference collections in the East and West Towers of the Herman B Wells Library
LB2369.G53 2003
