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EN 121 F Principles of Writing: Library Classes (Prof. Matthew Schultz and Elora Agsten- Spring 2021): Week 2: Topic and Annotated Bibliography

The Library classes for Prof. Schultz's EN 121 class.

Annotated Bibliography

The Library classes will culminate in an annotated bibliography. This assignment will put together all of the skills we have learned and you will work on it bit-by-bit over the course of the semester (i.e.- don't panic.). You may write this annotated bibliography on the subject of your choice or use it as a tool to help you research a topic for another class. Either option is fine with me! 
 

In this class, you will:

  • Be introduced to (or review) how to make an annotated bibliography.
  • Get some tips and tricks on how to choose a topic.

What is required this week: 

  • Read the annotated bibliography assignment and look over the example. 
  • Watch the videos on this page
  • Add your topic and a one paragraph (4-7 sentences) explanation to your Google Doc. Check your email for your invitation to  personal Google Doc. If you don't see it, please email me ASAP. This is due by Sunday, January 31 at 11:59pm. 

Introduction

This video (or transcript) will discuss the annotated bibliography assignment and how to find a topic:

 

Annotated Bibliography Sample

Assignment and Rubric

Need a topic?

Having trouble thinking of a topic? Check out this Schewe Library resource guide here: https://library.ic.edu/topics. These can make a great starting point! 

Other sources of inspiration:

  • Take a look at the syllabus for your EN 121 class or others. What would you like to learn more about?
  • Know you have a major research paper coming up for another class? Use this assignment to help you find resources for it. 
  • Issues and ideas in your prospective major
  • What hobbies or interests do you have outside of academic work? Anything you'd like to learn more about?

 

Remember: 
Once you find a topic, think about what you want to learn within that topic. For example, while "baseball" by itself is not a very strong topic (it's too broad), "integration of baseball in the United States in the 1940s" would produce some very interesting research. 

 

This guide can also help you: