Finding Sources
Big6 Stages 2 & 3: Information Seeking Strategies and Location & Access.
Good historical research isn't about finding the most sources. It's about finding the right ones. For this project, you need exactly six sources, spread across three types. Each type does a different job.
Primary Sources (2)
A primary source was created at the time, by someone who was there or directly involved. It gives you a window into what people saw, thought, and felt in the moment.
- Newspaper and magazine articles published at the time
- Photographs and images from the period
- Video footage: news broadcasts, live recordings, music videos
- Speeches, interviews, and official statements
- Government reports and official documents
- Memoirs, diaries, and first-hand accounts
- Songs, albums, or other cultural artefacts from the time
- Early internet posts, forum discussions, or websites (for topics after 2000)
Where to find them:
Academic Articles (2)
An academic article is written by a researcher or scholar, reviewed by other experts, and backed by evidence and citations. These are the most credible sources for building an argument.
Use these databases:
Reference Articles (2)
Reference articles give you reliable background and context. Think of them as well-sourced encyclopaedia entries. Good for getting your bearings and understanding the bigger picture, but not your main argument-builders.
Use these databases:
A Note on Wikipedia
Wikipedia is not a source for this project. It is a good starting point for understanding your topic and finding leads, but you cannot cite it. Follow the references at the bottom of any Wikipedia article to find the real sources.
Activities
Use the planning template below to map out your research before you start hunting for sources. Fill it in using the Google Doc.
| My research question: |
| Supporting hunches: |
| Facts I need to support this: |
| Where I might be able to find this information: |
The supporting hunches should 'add up' and be linked in such a way as to make a strong argument for the research question.