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ENG 111 & EDE 11: College Composition I (Ferrara-Loudoun)

This guide has been created to provide research tips and help you find books, articles, and other resources related to your assignment. Direct comments and questions to Eliza Selander, NOVA Reference Librarian: eselander@nvcc.edu.

Welcome and Introduction

Welcome to the library! This research guide will help you find information and resources for your ENG 111 research assignment. 

Ask yourself: Do you prefer taking notes on paper or on a computer--or both? How will you keep track of your research? There is no wrong answer to this question; but organizing yourself before you begin research will help you be more efficient in your work.

ENG 111 Research Assignment

Part 1: Annotated Bibliography

You will choose one topic to explore in-depth from the list of topics below. You will then narrow your topic, develop a focused research question, and create an annotated bibliography containing four academic sources (2 primary sources and 2 secondary sources). The annotation should include a summary and analysis or reflection of the source. Be sure to include a source that provides an alternative perspective to your research question and topic.

Use the citation tools provided in the library databases and catalog to cite your sources properly in the MLA 9th citation style.

Part 2: Expository Essay

Building on your research and annotated bibliography work, you will now develop a 750-1,000 word expository essay that analyzes multiple viewpoints related to your research question. 

Your goal is to explain and analyze at least two different viewpoints you discovered during your research process. The essay should maintain an objective tone throughout, focusing on explaining rather than persuading.

For more detailed assignment information, please refer to your Canvas course or contact your professor.

Research Topics and Sample Questions

  1. What are the dangers of AI?
  2. What is the impact of ChatGPT in higher education? Is using ChatGPT for college assignments considered cheating?
  3. Could AI robot "companions" combat human loneliness?
  1. Is mental illness a risk factor for gun violence?
  2. Can implementing mindfulness and meditation techniques improve mental health?
  3. How can workplace policies be improved to better support employee wellbeing and mental health?
  1. Should frozen embryos be considered children in wrongful death liability court cases and how could this impact IVF practices and reproductive care?
  2. Should the law require that parents of minors seeking abortions be notified?

  3. What progress has been made to increase women’s access to reproductive health care?

  1. Should children's and teen's social media use be restricted?
  2. Should social media companies do more to combat misinformation on their platforms?

  3. What is the impact of social media on consumer behavior?