Choosing a topic

• If you are not assigned a topic, choose one that is of interest to you. Before finalizing your choice, visit the library to see how much information is available on your topic. A search on the library catalogue can suggest books, subject DVDs or other information sources
• If your topic is very new, you may not be able to find much printed material on it. See if there are any online resources, including databases, encyclopedias, or Internet sites that may be helpful
• If your topic is too broad, try to narrow it down by focusing on one aspect. You could concentrate on a certain time period or key individual
• A topic that is too narrow in scope may not provide enough material to support your point of view. Searching the catalogue or online databases can provide other titles or terms that might help to broaden your focus

Writing the paper

Once you have decided on your topic, here are the steps to writing a basic essay or research paper:

• If your essay involves the development of an argument, include a thesis statement that defines the main point you are trying to make and how you plan to prove it.
• Prepare an outline that organizes the facts, examples and points you wish to make to support your thesis
• Make notes as you read about your topic, and keep track of the sources you use
• Write a first draft, putting the information into your own words. If you wish to quote an author in your essay, put quotations marks around the sentence and note the source
• Revise and proof read your work, checking grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Prepare a final copy and include a bibliography using the citation format specified by your teacher

For more information on how to write an essay or research paper see:

A+ Research and Writing Guide How to Write a Term Paper

ISU Suggestions

Take some time when choosing your independent studies unit (ISU) topic. Choose something that personally interests you. Do some preliminary research to make sure that there’s enough information on your topic to help you.

If your topic is controversial, you will need material on different viewpoints to present a balanced overview of the topic. For a well-rounded presentation of a topic, use both current and historical information sources. There are many books in the library collection to help you. For example, books in the series, Opposing Viewpoints, explore current controversial issues. Other series that cover a wide range of social, political, and health topics include:

• Current Controversies
• Global Viewpoints
• Groundwork Guides

Each title presents both sides of a controversial hot topic in a pro/con format. Be sure to also check library databases for current magazine and newspaper articles on your topic.

Canadian and world issues - For information on issues such as poverty, war, history, social science, or current events, another good resource is CBC’s News in Review series of DVDs. Each one hour DVD covers 4 topics and includes a resource guide. The resource guides are also available online . Older recordings are in VHS format.

Suggestions for an Independent Novel Study

When you need to choose a title for an independent novel study, consider both classic and contemporary novels. Depending on your assignment, a memoir or biography might be a good choice as well. Most importantly, your reading interests should determine your final choice.

Check our our list of a few suggested titles for an Independent Novel Study

While reading, try to think about the important underlying issues or themes with which the novel is concerned. Examples of themes include: coming of age, the insanity of war, censorship, racism, and good versus evil.

Literary Criticism Sources - If you are looking for literary criticisms or require background materials on a work of literature, there are several online databases, eBooks, reference and book titles that provide this type of information. The Guide to Literary Criticism Sources at the Barrie Public Library lists several online and print resources available to help you evaluate a poem, play, short story, or novel. Good sources for author biographical information are included, as well.