Develop A Good Research Question
What is the example used in this section?
Robotics
What does the phrase “let one good source lead to another” mean?
It means using one credible source to discover additional relevant sources by examining its references, citations, and the scholars it engages with.
How can too many voices weaken a paper?
If a writer only summarizes what others say without developing their own position, the paper becomes a report instead of an argument.
Why is evaluating your sources important in research writing?
Because not all sources are equally reliable or credible. Evaluating sources ensures your argument is supported by trustworthy and relevant evidence.
How many kids does he have and are they boys or girls?
2 and they are both boys.
What is a good research question?
It identifies a controversy, posing an issue that people can agree or disagree about
Why is starting with one strong, credible source important?
A strong source is usually well-researched and connected to other reputable scholars, making it a reliable starting point for finding additional academic conversations.
How can you tell if your voice is being overshadowed?
If most paragraphs focus on summarizing others and your own analysis is limited or unclear, your voice may be overshadowed.
How can you determine whether a source is biased?
Look at the author’s language, tone, funding sources, affiliations, and whether the source presents multiple perspectives or only one side.
What apps did he have on his phone?
Minecraft, Bible, Duolingo
What is one big challenge of a research essay?
Navigating the volume of sources that the internet makes available
How does this strategy support the “they say / I say” approach?
It helps you better understand the “they say” part by exposing you to multiple voices in the conversation before forming your own “I say” argument.
What strategy can help you stay focused when research leads in too many directions?
Revisit and refine your research question or thesis to narrow your focus and guide your use of sources.
Why is strong evidence essential in evaluating a source?
Reliable sources support their claims with data, research findings, citations, and logical reasoning rather than personal opinion.
Where did he live?
Colorado
Why should a research question be open-ended rather than answerable with a simple yes or no?
Open-ended questions encourage analysis and argument. Yes/no questions limit depth and usually lead to short, underdeveloped responses.
What is one mistake students make when searching for sources?
Relying on random or unrelated sources instead of tracing sources connected to a specific academic conversation.
What is the main goal of using sources in an argumentative paper?
To support, complicate, or challenge your claim—not to replace your own thinking.
What is a red flag that a source may not be reliable?
Lack of author information, missing citations, exaggerated claims, obvious bias, or unsupported statistics
Where did he used to teach and who did he meet while teaching there?
China and his Wife
Turn a broad topic into a debatable research question.
Broad topic: social media and the effects on teenagers
“How does social media use affect the mental health of teenagers, and are its negative effects overstated?”
Or best answer given
Why is research described as a conversation rather than a hunt for isolated facts?
Because scholars respond to, build on, and challenge one another’s ideas. Research involves understanding these connections, not just collecting information.
What overall lesson does this section teach about research writing?
Research should inform and strengthen your argument, but your voice must remain in control of the conversation
Why is it important to check the date of publication?
Some topics require up-to-date information. Outdated sources may not reflect current research or developments
When and where are his office hours?
In Dunlap 204