This research guide will explain how to find and cite library materials appropriate for your argumentative research paper assignment for Professor Rivers.
Select the links below or the tabs at the top to explore each topic.
Professor: Bryan Rivers
As you may already have discovered this is often the hardest step in the research paper writing process. It is also a very important step. If you choose a topic that is very broad - "Poverty" - you will be overwhelmed with information and you will have difficulty organizing your ideas and findings into a manageable, cohesive paper. If you choose a topic that is very narrow - "Gifted Children Living in Poverty Benefit From Having Pet Fish" - obviously, you will have trouble finding enough sources to support your paper. Take time to focus your topic.
If you can, try to choose a topic that truly interests you. Thankfully, controversial topics are often the most interesting topics!
Not finding sources that are either pro or con?
*Still have no idea what (general) topic to choose?
*Remember to get your selected topic approved by Professor Rivers.
Here are some guidelines for working on your assignment.
Ebooks and databases are available to all currently enrolled students as well as faculty and staff.
The library is now using Single Sign On (SSO) access with Open Athens
Students: Use your Passport credentials - Student ID number and Password (default: two-digit month and two-digit year of your birth).
Staff/Faculty: Use your Polk email address and password
Search Polk State College's library resources here: