Writing Focus – Collecting Support Using Primary and Secondary Sources

students researching on laptopsThroughout your life, it will be necessary to conduct research in order to find the answers to a variety of questions. In this topic, you will learn and demonstrate research skills that will last for a lifetime. These skills include locating and collecting relevant sources, evaluating the validity and accuracy of primary and secondary sources, and using an effective note-taking method to organize source information. Before you begin your research, you will be asked to consider different types of evidence that can be used to support your argument. You will also learn to differentiate between summarizing, paraphrasing, and directly quoting information.

Essential Questions

  • What types of evidence can you include in your research, and what are the benefits of each type of support?
  • How can you locate and collect relevant sources for research?
  • How do you evaluate the validity and accuracy of primary and secondary sources?