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University Library

LibGuides

Rhetoric

This guide provides quick and easy access to library resources for Rhetoric assignments as well as guidance on getting research and writing help.

Handout: Select The Best Information Source

Class Activity 1: Engaging With Sources

All sources you find while conducting research are part of an ongoing conversation on a particular topic. It is your job as a researcher and writer to evaluate your sources to determine the validity of their contribution to the broader conversation.

Sample Research Question

"Is there a connection between neighborhood air pollution and asthma rates?"

Instructions

1. Make a list of up to 5 criteria with a partner that you would use to determine if a source is credible.

2.  Review the following sample source based on the criteria you developed. What are some good things and what are some potential problems with this source?

Class Activity 2: Searching Databases

Now that you've learned more about library databases, let's practice by finding an article related to your research question! Please open this link and follow the instructions: https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/699609009

Instructions

  1. Find an article using either the database Academic Search Ultimate or one from the Find Articles Guide that meets the following requirements:
    • From a peer-reviewed journal
    • Published in the last five years
    • Related to your research question
  2. Enter information about the article in the link web form as well as notes about how you searched.
  3. Be prepared to share your experience with the rest of the class.