Research Beginnings--

Step One:  Here You Go!

Getting started in a research project can be challenging and even a bit scary.  But it doesn't have to be a daunting task.  Key in any research project is developing a solid base from which to work.  That's where you begin.

For English 111, your research essay will be an argumentative work in which you present a fact-based opinion and develop a clear view of your thoughts and ideas.  An argument can either persuade (produce a recognition of position or change someone's mind) or actuate (present a position that encourages someone to action).  An argument can also present a significant definition, propose a certain value, purport a cause/effect, or rebut a position.  The arena for argument is as broad as experience.

With that said, understand that you can get to an argument from virtually any subject.  Take fishing---now what's arguable about this relaxing sport?  Well, talk to a dyed-in-the-wool fly fisherman who's just had her/his favorite stream restricted.....you'll hear an argument and a passionate one.  Or what about something as seemingly harmless as reading?  Ask a reading teacher or avid reader what's so important about reading.....you'll get a solid argument and new definition of the value of this taken-for-granted skill.

The key to any good argument is thought and connection--and you have to develop that focus and tie.  You can do that best through asking yourself questions about a topic that is important to you--and it may not seem like an argumentative topic at first.  Give it chance--push it--if it's something that you really have strong ties to or strong feelings about as you think of it.

First, make a list of things (objects, ideas, hobbies, concerns, issues...) that are important to you, and don't leave off something just because it seems simple or non-controversial.   Spend some time thinking and letting ideas just generate in your head.  Write it all down....all!

Walk away from the list and then come back a bit later and take a closer look.   You may see something that really puts you "on a soap box" or you may find a closer relationship to something you hadn't seen as that important before.  What sparks your interest immediately on that list as you read it?  Highlight those choices and put them on a new list.

Take the new list and with some time at hand--about 30 minutes or so--freewrite about each choice.  Just let you pen or pencil follow your thoughts as you focus on each topic--and don't worry if it's argumentative or not.  Just write.

Write about 10 minutes on each one--or as long as you want.  Don't worry about "form" or "grammar" or even spelling--just dump the ideas that come onto the page and use a separate page for each topic.

Let all this writing sit for awhile--at least an hour or so, but overnight is best.

Come back to that freewriting and spend some time reading it.  Which of those topics now creates more interaction?  Which one literally says "Hey--I'm the one you feel strongest about!"  Be honest and don't discount something that again may seem simple--it really isn't.

Make a choice....but don't throw away your first list, or your second list or any of your freewriting.  You may need them :)

Go on to Step 2 when you're instructed to do so :)