PURPOSE: In preparation for writing an academic paper, students will do library research on their teacher-approved topic. This website contains links to your
essay options and library research strategy.

ESSAY OPTIONS

Option #1:   Using materials from the essays we have read in the two books, other sources, as well as your observations and experiences, write an essay in which you either support or refute the idea that the kinds of toys a child plays with are a strong influence on developing gender identity and self-image. More details on your research paper

 Option #2: If, as McLaughlin argues, men are more concerned now than ever before with their appearance, what elements in our society are most responsible for their heightened awareness?  To what extent is the media (television, movies, magazines) responsible?  What consequences do you expect?  Have you noticed changes in advertising or new products that support this idea?  How? More details on your research paper

Option #3:
Has a particular form of media increased or decreased stereotypes in our society? Take a position on this and be sure to limit your argument to one form of media (television, magazines, music, etc) and to narrow the focus on one stereotype.  More details on your research paper

RESEARCH STRATEGY

STEP 1: Find articles.

DIRECTIONS to find articles: 1) Go to Library homepage.  2) Click on Databases A-Z.  3) Select a database.  Note: if you use one of these databases from a remote location, you must enter your campus username and password.

• General Onefile - database of articles from magazines and journals.

• CQ Researcher - Excellent for political, social, family, education and health issues.

• Opposing viewpoints - controversial issues.

STEP 2: Find books.

For books, go to the Library homepage. Click on the links to the Library Catalog or the SDSU Library Catalog.