How is your research going? What are you finding out about your topic? What have been your roadblocks? Successes? What is the basis of your argument and what are some of your major proofs or claims about it? And tell us about your best resources.
Research for my topic, political correctness, is going well. There are so many sources out there concerning the detriment to society caused by political correctness, as well as those promoting it. It’s good to get a full perspective. Surprisingly, I learned that 80% of Americans think that political correctness is a national problem. I’ve gained a lot of perspective on how political correctness and censorship go hand in hand, and the more I read, the more concrete my opinion on this matter becomes. The only issue I’ve ran into is that I’m having some trouble finding information about political division and, to a lesser degree, groupthink, as they pertain to political correctness. The basis of my argument is that politically correct is regulated by anyone who simply wields the term, and that allows for the easy manipulation of groupthink, censorship, and political division. Some major points stem from George Orwell's ideas on 1984, about how ‘newspeak’ is just a ploy to slowly lower the populations vocabulary until they simply cannot express their opinions because there aren’t words for it. I use the history of political correctness to show it’s Marxist roots, and obviously that’s not good. I also think I’m going to talk about the Left's obsession with political correctness and the right’s obsession with total speech freedom and how these ideas in unison distract us from the real issues and cause huge political divisions. ONe of my best, but hardest sources, is 1984. There is a ton that can be used to show the negative effects of eggshell-walking speech, but it’s also hard to pick them out without just reading through the book, which I do not have the time nor effort to do. But I think that it will be a huge help in my essay.
I am glad that you have found many sources for your topic, and I am quite jealous that you did, too! That is quite an interesting statistic of political correctness that you explained. I never would have thought it to be such a problem in this nation, and that will indeed benefit you, as you said, because you can find many sources for the issue. I think it is extremely vital you address the issue with the Democratic side’s love for political correctness, as it is quite a manipulative weapon used in politics, and people need to be shown that. Good work, and good luck to you!
I really like the topic of political correctness. It has become very big and society and can cause a lot of problems. You going to be able to write a great essay about this.
The research for my essay on a national language is very interesting. Before I started researching it I did not know a lot. I thought that if there was a national language, then the country would lose a major characteristic of being very culturally diverse. A major problem that I discovered was the effects of a language barrier. The effects of it are felt by immigrants of all ages. Children can be severely bullied in school when they start to struggle in school due to their poor english skills. A problem that I am running into the most is staying on topic. When I was researching, I started to realize that the sites I was on weren’t the direction that I wanted to take my paper. I also had trouble finding sites that had useful information on it. The basis of my argument is that immigrants moving to America should know english. A person’s language and culture should be accepted but knowing english should be a necessity. My best resource was a website about the effects of a language barrier. It explained how it can seriously affect the success of an immigrant family.
I think it is interesting that your topic completely turned around once you started researching. I like the argument that you formed after researching, because I think that when most people hear "national language", they think of being other cultures being erased which is not necessarily what would happen.
My research is going well, just very very scattered. Since my research topic is primarily based on the multiple intelligence theory, there is a lot a lot of information regarding it specifically. But, research on how that should be put into effect using educational communication in the classroom is very very limited. It is indeed an interesting topic. I have learned a lot about it like certain teaching methods that benefit a specific type of intelligence, and what the types of intelligence are. While it is really interesting, there are so many details to this idea, that from source to source they are typically inconsistent from source to source. This has made research at this point, tough. Like I mean, REALLY tough. On the other hand, something interesting happened the other day regarding said research. I decided on a whim to try and email Howard Gardner (the theorist behind the Multiple Intelligence Theory) at his Harvard email. I truly didn’t expect an email back, since I’m sure he is busy doing his professor work, but to my surprise he did indeed email me back. I briefly mentioned I was from a school in Northern Pennsylvania. He explained to me that he was also from Pennsylvania, as he was born and raised in Scranton PA. Unfortunately however, he said as much as he would love to give me an answer to my questions, he cannot at the moment. He said he wants to give me a well thought out answer to the questions I asked, but at the moment he did not have the ability to do so. He gave me a link to another website he created, which includes further information on his research (which has been only slightly helpful). To end he wished me luck in my studies, and on my paper. So in a sense, that was both a success and roadblock. Another roadblock is how very few, to no sources have actual statistics, or explanations to how they gathered information about the use of educational communication regarding multiple intelligences in the classroom. My argument is different animal. It at first was based on educational communication techniques in the classroom to benefit multiple intelligences. Now, however, I feel as though I could be leaning more on the side that says multiple intelligences are well, bogus, and that it is virtually impossible to appeal to all types of intelligences in one singular classroom setting. It has changed because, while neither side gives much proof as to why they believe this, the side against the MI theory appears more credible than the opposing belief. I am just truly on the fence. In fact, at this point in time, I think I’m stuck on that fence and I’m unable to get off. But I’m still chugging on through with my research. So in the long and the short of things, there aren’t really any “major proofs” to back either argument, which in turn, has really been the biggest roadblock throughout this process so far. My best resource has been a Cornerstone.edu article about how multiple intelligences can be reached in the classroom. It included countless teaching methods and activities that best appeal to specific intelligences. This website also has its setbacks in my opinion. While I know you don’t need numbers to assert your credibility, for a topic like this, it definitely helps. This website, including countless others, have not given any research, statistics, or even their resources. This has made the process exponentially more difficult, and in a way, disheartening. Ultimately, my research is going well, but the quality of information I am receiving from nearly all websites I try to research is lacking. But, like everyone else here, it is my first go at something like this, so I’m sure to have more roadblocks than successes.
I’m really impressed with how you reached out to outside sources. I’ve been thinking about doing the same, but have been nervous. However, seeing your slight success with doing so has definitely given me some encouragement. Keep up the good work!
I really love how honest you are in this “check-up” blog. I could be off, but it sounds to me like you’re in a frustrating place right now in your research. I would like to tell you that, by the looks of it, you are doing a fabulous job with being so through. It is impressive how you reached out to this professor or; I certainly wouldn’t have thought about that! Perhaps you are worrying too much about establishing your ethos and credibility that your logos and pathos could actually help make up for what you lack in ethos?
I am researching all facets of the language of profanity and the stigma surrounding it. It tends to be a rather sensitive topic because mainstream swear words are looked down upon with great disapproval. However, my research is going very well so far, my topic has quite a few reliable and substantial sources that are helpful. I am finding the many sides, or opinions, people have about profane language is rather interesting. There are sides that say using bad words is a terrible influence on children, but I think being cognizant, and understanding they exist provides a great learning experience. I haven’t stumbled upon many roadblocks because most resources are not hesitant to talk about improper words. Of course, big name outlets are not going to publish articles that throw f-bombs out, but they discuss it in a sophisticated way that gives the reader a better understanding. This makes it much easier to get the information I need. The main idea of my argument is that using “inappropriate” language should not be so sheltered and hidden away. There is research proving that using expletives in intense or stressful situations lets out emotions appropriately. One of my best resources has actually been The New York Times, they provide an article entitled ‘The Case For Cursing,’ which has proven helpful to my research.
I can’t wait to read this paper. Your topic is a little out of the ordinary, but that’s why I like it! It’s cool how you are finding the different ways people are sharing their standpoint on profanity through your research. I feel like seeing that huge variety is a great way to form your own opinion more deeply. Keep up the good work, Alex!
I agree so much. I have aways though swearing wasn’t really wrong, just socially unacceptable. There are some obvious derogatory terms that can be greatly offensive and not used, but most swear words we hear are not as bad as they seem.
Alex, I am SO excited to read your paper!!! I really feel like it will be fantastic. I know you will have loads of information, yet still have that touch of “shock factor!” I’m happy to hear how well your research seems to be going! That has to be very encouraging. In fact, it’s encouraging to me as well. Your success makes me want to work even harder to have successs as well! Keep up the fantastic work. Can’t wait to read what you have to say, as always, I’m sure it’ll be a good one!
For my research, I am looking into exaggeration and lying and if it is acceptable depending on the intent. When I first started my research, I planned on focusing more on the difference between exaggeration and lying. However, now that I have looked more into it, I plan on focusing more on how they relate to each-other and how both are forms of deception. While I did not expect it to go that way, I think it is a more interesting way to write the paper. Through my research, I have learned all about why people exaggerate and lie, whether that be a planned lie or spontaneously. One of the most important claims I plan to use is about intent. I learned that most researchers only classify lying as malicious or unacceptable when people are using it to protect their own self-esteem or their social status. My most helpful resource so far has been an article on the New York Times titled “ Looking for the lie”. It has provided a lot of useful information about signs someone is lying and why people lie. Overall, I think my research is going well and is becoming easier as I go on.
I think that this topic is going to turn into a really interesting paper, Megan. It is curious to see how your plans changed as you researched. There are likely many opinions and ideas about this subject which could add some very interesting perspectives to your paper.
I really like your topic. It has definitely become a major problem in society today. There are many ways that you could connect your ideas to form a great paper.
My research on music and its importance in education has been a struggle so far. I have found that many people are willing to voice their support for music education in curriculums, but they do so in the spirit of self-expression for students rather than the educational benefits. Most people are willing to share their opinions, but not many people put forth the effort to prove them true. This has been one of my biggest roadblocks. My lack of experience in researching has not been helping me either. I have found several sources that have good information, contained in very short articles. So far, this has led me to have quite a few sources which I hope to pare down eventually. The basis of my argument is that music is an essential part of education and it needs to be reinstated in schools, as well as protected in the ones that still support it. My strongest claims are studies that show schools that emphasize music score better on standardized tests over those who do not, and that music is an essential part of a classical education - a style that has stayed relevant over the course of hundreds of years. One of my best sources has been thenewamerican.com, where I found an article providing me with a thorough explanation of classical education.
This is a really interesting topic, Viv. Music and education isn’t really something people find a strong correlation between, and I think it’s awesome that you’re bringing some attention to it. I feel the same way about being inexperienced with research, but the only way we can improve upon that is just doing it. Good luck with the rest of your research!
Viv, I’m so over the moon that you are taking on this topic. I know how important music is to you, to me, and to probably everybody. So the fact that you are covering such a loved thing and researching how it can be applied to real life examples, such as education, is really great. I’m intrigued to say the least. From reading this and talking to you outside of school, I’m aware your research has been a bit of a bumpy road. But I am sending a few prayers your way, so keep on doing what you’re doing! The right thing will come, and so will the words. Keep it up!!
“Should there be a worldwide universal language?” This is the topic I chose to research for my paper, and I’m on the side that there should not be a universal language, focusing on why it is a deceiving idea that seems good. Below is my thesis:
The implementation of a universal language might present itself as a unifying principle, however, any attempt would instead oversimplify an already beautifully complex, albeit imperfect world.
For the most part, it is going very well. Much like others, I am also having trouble finding websites that stay on my topic, especially because “universal language” is a term that can be applied in a few different ways. For example, on a national level rather than a worldwide one. In addition, the majority of useful information that I find always ends up coming from blogs. However, I have still managed to find other useful and credible information that can help me. For example, there is the idea that humans have an innate desire to be part of a group and have a unique identity, and language a means through which to do that. Another interesting piece of information I have found is that there have actually been dozens of attempts to create a universal language throughout the world, so I’ve been researching the most successful one, called Esperanto, as well as the reasons why it failed. Most of these languages were man made and designed specifically so that they would be simple and easy to learn. While doing so, I came across another problem. These languages were designed to be be secondary languages, and they were never meant to replace all other languages. After all, no one in this school who is taking a Spanish class is in any sort of danger of forgetting how to speak English, so how can I argue against a universal secondary language? This is one of my biggest roadblocks as of now.
Researching various aspects of torture and manipulation - especially using language - has been very interesting. I’ve been finding how much controversy there really is around the topic, and been astonished at the things that happen within out government/military that we don’t really think about, but are very real. My argument revolves around the idea that torture should not be permitted and replaced with skillful interrogation. I have been pleasantly surprised how much discussion there has already been about this issue, and have found some great resources supporting both sides of the argument. There are some great statistics I have found that really show the brutality of modern torture, which can be very convincing to build support for an alternative. There is a bittersweet combination of a success and a roadblock in the fact that there is simply so much out there on this topic. I’m very glad, of course, because I know I have access to plentiful sources to help me put my paper together. On the other hand, this is overwhelming in a sense. I’ve been getting caught up sitting through these essays and journals trying to find a perfect fit, and it’s a little discouraging sometimes. However, as I’m reading more and more, and beginning to have a deeper understanding of my topic, the research is getting easier. My best source is far is from the Jurimetrics Journal of Law, Science, and Technology regarding the APA torture scandal. It has awesome stats, quotes, and ideas, and it’s really helping me develop my understanding of my topic.
Frankly, this is an uber intriguing topic! It is a little dark, but it’s awesome to see someone delve into a subject that could be quite sensitive. I don’t think a lot of people realize how real torture is or how painfully damaging it honestly is, so it’s great to see you not only bringing these harsh realities to light, but also providing a solution in the process. Having so many options to sift through and judge is certainly a drowning weight, but I hope that opens up a bunch of avenues to explore.
Researching my topic, nationalized language in America, has been very interesting. A lot of the things that I have found on the topic have been very intriguing, and so far I’ve learned a lot about the topic. One thing in particular that I have learned is that there are actually laws, or have been laws, in some states, such as Arizona, surrounding language. So far one of my biggest struggles has been finding a lot of information on the topic. Although what I have found already is very helpful, it took a lot of digging to find it, and I am struggling to find more. So far one of my best sources has been an article from The Atlantic that discusses whether or not English should be, by law, the national language of America.
I’m really excited to read your paper! I have also struggled with having too much information during my research. It feels like I have 100 sources right now, so I can definitively relate to your issues. I’m sure your research will get easier as you go along
It is also difficult for me to find just a few good recourses. Every place I look there apis at least one good thing, but they keep adding up. Hopefully if I keep looking I’ll find something that will give me a lot of much needed information.
My research has been quite a roller coaster up to this point. I started with a vast amount to research, but now I am running out of ideas to research as topics for my paper. I am finding interesting causes of my topic, such as why rumination occurs and I have been able to draw many conclusions with my findings. My biggest roadblock to this point is debating with myself if I have enough research, even though it seems like I have a smaller amount than usual. I still believe I can write a good paper with that information. My biggest success was learning how to use the Power Search to find resourceful websites. Without that, I would not have found anything besides Q and A blogs. The basis of my argument is that the language of rumination is linked to social anxiety and depression among today’s society, and that we, as a society, have to read into this language in order to help these people. My best resources are Jordan Peterson. Jordan Peterson is an expert on the human mind, and has a wide range of videos and articles that relate to rumination. He gives many pointers of how this illness can be dealt with, which has helped me to learn how to form conclusions on my topic.
I think we’re all in the same boat as far as how limited sources can seem, so it’s good that you’re finding some useful information. I know a lot about Jordan Peterson, so I’m definitely interested in what he has to say on your topic. Overall, keep working and best of luck!
I am researching some ideas of gossip. So far, it’s going well. I’m learning a lot about different studies that have been done, whether it be questioning the effects of gossip, or questioning what gossip truly is. There have been a large number of studies done, all with roughly the same conclusion. Gossip has a negative effect. This makes it a bit difficult to understand and come to an answer to my basic thesis: is gossip necessary in our society? It’s clear gossip is most often and prominently used in high schools. It’s often defined as a way for ‘insiders’ to find something that clearly separates them from ‘outsiders’. Just as it seems, these things that will separate them are negative. This makes it hard to see any form of gossip that is necessary. Although it seems impossible it could be true, I still think it is necessary. That is just one definition of it. Also, talking about something that defines us is not always a bad thing. It could be as simple as, “I like art, she likes math’. It’s not bringing anyone down or hurting anyone, it’s just sharing information one might not know. Some things that are making this difficult is the new way or researching. I have never used a database before, only google or basic internet searches. It is taking some getting used to, but it is proving to be much easier to find the information I actually want. Although time consuming, this researching is making me realize how much easier it will be to write the paper when I begin with everything I need to know.
Gossip is definitely a tough topic to defend, so there’s so doubt that your paper will be an interesting one once it’s all done. I can definitely understand how it would also be difficult to research that topic, so it’s good that the database is helping. Good luck on your paper!
Interesting topic, Mary. I think that it is interesting, although practical, that all of these studies done came out to be of negative effect which gossip has on people. But I do think your argument is bold, in a sense that you can write a lot about it. Yes, gossip may be negative, but is it necessary? That is really cool, and I am interested to read your take on this topic. I believe the hardest part of it all for you may be defining your terms on gossip, which it seems as if you have done that, clearly. Good job, and I hope you continue to find some insightful research.
I have been led down the rabbit hole of, personally, unexplored information. This in regards to my argumentative styled paper’s subject—People Talk Too Much. This topic was not the first one that caught my eye, however, as far as I am concerned, it has been quite a pleasant experience when delving into the research needed in order to fully and completely lay out the paper. Whilst organizing the many, many notecards I wound up filling out, I came across a plethora of ideas and concepts that could be implemented into my thesis so that he argument could be expanded upon. Of course this cake with a few setbacks, major and minor alike, but the anxiety over whether or not I am covering the right subject seems to be sizzling out of flame. The process is also opening and closing a number of gateways. Whilst researching my topic—People and their incessant jabber— I stumbled upon some pretty interesting ideas and facts. There are certainly a large quantity of reasonable explanations that would clarify why people tend to voice their opinions or join into a random conversation so much. Scrutiny guided me to understand how others are affected by one speaking on and on excessively. It hurts them; it affects their confidence and certainty. It was a nice occasion to notice how I am truly not the only person who believes that it is rude when another person barges into an already pleasurable conversation and essentially “take over”. I couldn’t have found this out without the reliable source of Psychology Spot and its author Jennifer Delagado, who is actually a certified psychology professor for Cornell University. It was rather easy to locate this website for all I had to do was type into the URL my title: “People Talk Too Much”. It was the second option going down. There seems to be so many avenues I could travel with this paper, and I am grateful for that. I could vaguely search “people talk a lot” or I could narrow it down by restating the statement into a question “what causes people to speak so much?” or “are talkative people narcissistic?”. I was hoping for the argument to get heated, which probably couldn’t occur under the same circumstances if I went on with my original subject. This was a major stump that I hit on my path to developing a decent thesis statement. I was informed of a paper that was written by a former student who took AP Language and Composition prior to I, and this student and I shared similar interests. We both loved animals. Due to this, this student wrote her paper on The Language of Animals and talked about how animals communicate through body language and basically have a completely different, yet universal, vocabulary of utilizing their bodies instead of their voice to send messages to other animals. I wanted to do comparable to this student’s paper, meaning, I desired to write my paper on the subject of animals.
(Continued) The issue with me and writing about animals would slap me in the face a couple of times. I didn’t want to copy this person’s ideas, as I wanted my paper to be just that: mine. I desired for my paper to be original and all my own style. I didn’t intend on letting someone else’s prior ideas deep into my own, so I knew I had to come up with a different emoticon but with the same creatures involved in it. “I could incorporate animals into the palate if I really wanted to,” was what I was told. That make sense to me. On top that whole ordeal, was the mess that was my thesis statement. It was much too long (over three long senescences), and it just didn’t sound right. You see, I already have written several research papers in eleventh grade, and one of them I was quite proud of. Due to this, I attempted to follow my thesis’s format off of the already constructed base of my older thesis, which was a research thesis mind you. That clearly wasn’t fitting the bill, so, with the help of Mrs. Messineo, we rewrote the thesis several times. This was because I couldn’t stand how it sounded; I wanted it to sound “more intelligent”. Despite all of these setbacks, my success at this point of the writing process is the fact that I was able to settle in a topic that I can personally relate to and can provide more knowledge to its backing. The thesis is still a work in progress, but it is coming along rather swimmingly. The basis of my argument is simply that people talk too much and that is an issue because it can dumb down the conversation and make those present within it zone out and disconnect. It can also cause these people to feel less valued, as if their opinion doesn’t matter as much as the person who is speaking the most frequently and the most dominantly. Some of the biggest proofs I have of this come from the public library. I found a bibliography on Abraham Lincoln, who is a famous shy person that talked about how the former president was stepped on in conversation quite frequently. It was saint that Lincoln would analyze the situation and take notes on these people and their character. People who speak a lot tend to talk a lot about themselves, which is why I think a majority of them are narcissists The influential Friedrich Nietzche, a German philosopher whose work has exercised a proud affect on intellectual modern history, perfectly summed it up: “Talking much about oneself can also be a means to conceal oneself
Research for my topic, political correctness, is going well. There are so many sources out there concerning the detriment to society caused by political correctness, as well as those promoting it. It’s good to get a full perspective. Surprisingly, I learned that 80% of Americans think that political correctness is a national problem. I’ve gained a lot of perspective on how political correctness and censorship go hand in hand, and the more I read, the more concrete my opinion on this matter becomes. The only issue I’ve ran into is that I’m having some trouble finding information about political division and, to a lesser degree, groupthink, as they pertain to political correctness.
ReplyDeleteThe basis of my argument is that politically correct is regulated by anyone who simply wields the term, and that allows for the easy manipulation of groupthink, censorship, and political division. Some major points stem from George Orwell's ideas on 1984, about how ‘newspeak’ is just a ploy to slowly lower the populations vocabulary until they simply cannot express their opinions because there aren’t words for it. I use the history of political correctness to show it’s Marxist roots, and obviously that’s not good. I also think I’m going to talk about the Left's obsession with political correctness and the right’s obsession with total speech freedom and how these ideas in unison distract us from the real issues and cause huge political divisions. ONe of my best, but hardest sources, is 1984. There is a ton that can be used to show the negative effects of eggshell-walking speech, but it’s also hard to pick them out without just reading through the book, which I do not have the time nor effort to do. But I think that it will be a huge help in my essay.
I am glad that you have found many sources for your topic, and I am quite jealous that you did, too! That is quite an interesting statistic of political correctness that you explained. I never would have thought it to be such a problem in this nation, and that will indeed benefit you, as you said, because you can find many sources for the issue. I think it is extremely vital you address the issue with the Democratic side’s love for political correctness, as it is quite a manipulative weapon used in politics, and people need to be shown that. Good work, and good luck to you!
DeleteI really like the topic of political correctness. It has become very big and society and can cause a lot of problems. You going to be able to write a great essay about this.
DeleteThe research for my essay on a national language is very interesting. Before I started researching it I did not know a lot. I thought that if there was a national language, then the country would lose a major characteristic of being very culturally diverse. A major problem that I discovered was the effects of a language barrier. The effects of it are felt by immigrants of all ages. Children can be severely bullied in school when they start to struggle in school due to their poor english skills. A problem that I am running into the most is staying on topic. When I was researching, I started to realize that the sites I was on weren’t the direction that I wanted to take my paper. I also had trouble finding sites that had useful information on it. The basis of my argument is that immigrants moving to America should know english. A person’s language and culture should be accepted but knowing english should be a necessity. My best resource was a website about the effects of a language barrier. It explained how it can seriously affect the success of an immigrant family.
ReplyDeleteI think it is interesting that your topic completely turned around once you started researching. I like the argument that you formed after researching, because I think that when most people hear "national language", they think of being other cultures being erased which is not necessarily what would happen.
DeleteMy research is going well, just very very scattered. Since my research topic is primarily based on the multiple intelligence theory, there is a lot a lot of information regarding it specifically. But, research on how that should be put into effect using educational communication in the classroom is very very limited. It is indeed an interesting topic. I have learned a lot about it like certain teaching methods that benefit a specific type of intelligence, and what the types of intelligence are. While it is really interesting, there are so many details to this idea, that from source to source they are typically inconsistent from source to source. This has made research at this point, tough. Like I mean, REALLY tough. On the other hand, something interesting happened the other day regarding said research. I decided on a whim to try and email Howard Gardner (the theorist behind the Multiple Intelligence Theory) at his Harvard email. I truly didn’t expect an email back, since I’m sure he is busy doing his professor work, but to my surprise he did indeed email me back. I briefly mentioned I was from a school in Northern Pennsylvania. He explained to me that he was also from Pennsylvania, as he was born and raised in Scranton PA. Unfortunately however, he said as much as he would love to give me an answer to my questions, he cannot at the moment. He said he wants to give me a well thought out answer to the questions I asked, but at the moment he did not have the ability to do so. He gave me a link to another website he created, which includes further information on his research (which has been only slightly helpful). To end he wished me luck in my studies, and on my paper. So in a sense, that was both a success and roadblock. Another roadblock is how very few, to no sources have actual statistics, or explanations to how they gathered information about the use of educational communication regarding multiple intelligences in the classroom. My argument is different animal. It at first was based on educational communication techniques in the classroom to benefit multiple intelligences. Now, however, I feel as though I could be leaning more on the side that says multiple intelligences are well, bogus, and that it is virtually impossible to appeal to all types of intelligences in one singular classroom setting. It has changed because, while neither side gives much proof as to why they believe this, the side against the MI theory appears more credible than the opposing belief. I am just truly on the fence. In fact, at this point in time, I think I’m stuck on that fence and I’m unable to get off. But I’m still chugging on through with my research. So in the long and the short of things, there aren’t really any “major proofs” to back either argument, which in turn, has really been the biggest roadblock throughout this process so far. My best resource has been a Cornerstone.edu article about how multiple intelligences can be reached in the classroom. It included countless teaching methods and activities that best appeal to specific intelligences. This website also has its setbacks in my opinion. While I know you don’t need numbers to assert your credibility, for a topic like this, it definitely helps. This website, including countless others, have not given any research, statistics, or even their resources. This has made the process exponentially more difficult, and in a way, disheartening. Ultimately, my research is going well, but the quality of information I am receiving from nearly all websites I try to research is lacking. But, like everyone else here, it is my first go at something like this, so I’m sure to have more roadblocks than successes.
ReplyDeleteI’m really impressed with how you reached out to outside sources. I’ve been thinking about doing the same, but have been nervous. However, seeing your slight success with doing so has definitely given me some encouragement. Keep up the good work!
DeleteI really love how honest you are in this “check-up” blog. I could be off, but it sounds to me like you’re in a frustrating place right now in your research. I would like to tell you that, by the looks of it, you are doing a fabulous job with being so through. It is impressive how you reached out to this professor or; I certainly wouldn’t have thought about that! Perhaps you are worrying too much about establishing your ethos and credibility that your logos and pathos could actually help make up for what you lack in ethos?
DeleteI am researching all facets of the language of profanity and the stigma surrounding it. It tends to be a rather sensitive topic because mainstream swear words are looked down upon with great disapproval. However, my research is going very well so far, my topic has quite a few reliable and substantial sources that are helpful. I am finding the many sides, or opinions, people have about profane language is rather interesting. There are sides that say using bad words is a terrible influence on children, but I think being cognizant, and understanding they exist provides a great learning experience. I haven’t stumbled upon many roadblocks because most resources are not hesitant to talk about improper words. Of course, big name outlets are not going to publish articles that throw f-bombs out, but they discuss it in a sophisticated way that gives the reader a better understanding. This makes it much easier to get the information I need. The main idea of my argument is that using “inappropriate” language should not be so sheltered and hidden away. There is research proving that using expletives in intense or stressful situations lets out emotions appropriately. One of my best resources has actually been The New York Times, they provide an article entitled ‘The Case For Cursing,’ which has proven helpful to my research.
ReplyDeleteI can’t wait to read this paper. Your topic is a little out of the ordinary, but that’s why I like it! It’s cool how you are finding the different ways people are sharing their standpoint on profanity through your research. I feel like seeing that huge variety is a great way to form your own opinion more deeply. Keep up the good work, Alex!
DeleteI agree so much. I have aways though swearing wasn’t really wrong, just socially unacceptable. There are some obvious derogatory terms that can be greatly offensive and not used, but most swear words we hear are not as bad as they seem.
DeleteAlex, I am SO excited to read your paper!!! I really feel like it will be fantastic. I know you will have loads of information, yet still have that touch of “shock factor!” I’m happy to hear how well your research seems to be going! That has to be very encouraging. In fact, it’s encouraging to me as well. Your success makes me want to work even harder to have successs as well! Keep up the fantastic work. Can’t wait to read what you have to say, as always, I’m sure it’ll be a good one!
DeleteFor my research, I am looking into exaggeration and lying and if it is acceptable depending on the intent. When I first started my research, I planned on focusing more on the difference between exaggeration and lying. However, now that I have looked more into it, I plan on focusing more on how they relate to each-other and how both are forms of deception. While I did not expect it to go that way, I think it is a more interesting way to write the paper. Through my research, I have learned all about why people exaggerate and lie, whether that be a planned lie or spontaneously. One of the most important claims I plan to use is about intent. I learned that most researchers only classify lying as malicious or unacceptable when people are using it to protect their own self-esteem or their social status. My most helpful resource so far has been an article on the New York Times titled “ Looking for the lie”. It has provided a lot of useful information about signs someone is lying and why people lie. Overall, I think my research is going well and is becoming easier as I go on.
ReplyDeleteI think that this topic is going to turn into a really interesting paper, Megan. It is curious to see how your plans changed as you researched. There are likely many opinions and ideas about this subject which could add some very interesting perspectives to your paper.
DeleteI really like your topic. It has definitely become a major problem in society today. There are many ways that you could connect your ideas to form a great paper.
DeleteMy research on music and its importance in education has been a struggle so far. I have found that many people are willing to voice their support for music education in curriculums, but they do so in the spirit of self-expression for students rather than the educational benefits. Most people are willing to share their opinions, but not many people put forth the effort to prove them true. This has been one of my biggest roadblocks. My lack of experience in researching has not been helping me either. I have found several sources that have good information, contained in very short articles. So far, this has led me to have quite a few sources which I hope to pare down eventually. The basis of my argument is that music is an essential part of education and it needs to be reinstated in schools, as well as protected in the ones that still support it. My strongest claims are studies that show schools that emphasize music score better on standardized tests over those who do not, and that music is an essential part of a classical education - a style that has stayed relevant over the course of hundreds of years. One of my best sources has been thenewamerican.com, where I found an article providing me with a thorough explanation of classical education.
ReplyDeleteThis is a really interesting topic, Viv. Music and education isn’t really something people find a strong correlation between, and I think it’s awesome that you’re bringing some attention to it. I feel the same way about being inexperienced with research, but the only way we can improve upon that is just doing it. Good luck with the rest of your research!
DeleteViv, I’m so over the moon that you are taking on this topic. I know how important music is to you, to me, and to probably everybody. So the fact that you are covering such a loved thing and researching how it can be applied to real life examples, such as education, is really great. I’m intrigued to say the least. From reading this and talking to you outside of school, I’m aware your research has been a bit of a bumpy road. But I am sending a few prayers your way, so keep on doing what you’re doing! The right thing will come, and so will the words. Keep it up!!
Delete“Should there be a worldwide universal language?” This is the topic I chose to research for my paper, and I’m on the side that there should not be a universal language, focusing on why it is a deceiving idea that seems good. Below is my thesis:
ReplyDeleteThe implementation of a universal language might present itself as a unifying principle, however, any attempt would instead oversimplify an already beautifully complex, albeit imperfect world.
For the most part, it is going very well. Much like others, I am also having trouble finding websites that stay on my topic, especially because “universal language” is a term that can be applied in a few different ways. For example, on a national level rather than a worldwide one. In addition, the majority of useful information that I find always ends up coming from blogs. However, I have still managed to find other useful and credible information that can help me. For example, there is the idea that humans have an innate desire to be part of a group and have a unique identity, and language a means through which to do that. Another interesting piece of information I have found is that there have actually been dozens of attempts to create a universal language throughout the world, so I’ve been researching the most successful one, called Esperanto, as well as the reasons why it failed. Most of these languages were man made and designed specifically so that they would be simple and easy to learn. While doing so, I came across another problem. These languages were designed to be be secondary languages, and they were never meant to replace all other languages. After all, no one in this school who is taking a Spanish class is in any sort of danger of forgetting how to speak English, so how can I argue against a universal secondary language? This is one of my biggest roadblocks as of now.
Researching various aspects of torture and manipulation - especially using language - has been very interesting. I’ve been finding how much controversy there really is around the topic, and been astonished at the things that happen within out government/military that we don’t really think about, but are very real. My argument revolves around the idea that torture should not be permitted and replaced with skillful interrogation. I have been pleasantly surprised how much discussion there has already been about this issue, and have found some great resources supporting both sides of the argument. There are some great statistics I have found that really show the brutality of modern torture, which can be very convincing to build support for an alternative. There is a bittersweet combination of a success and a roadblock in the fact that there is simply so much out there on this topic. I’m very glad, of course, because I know I have access to plentiful sources to help me put my paper together. On the other hand, this is overwhelming in a sense. I’ve been getting caught up sitting through these essays and journals trying to find a perfect fit, and it’s a little discouraging sometimes. However, as I’m reading more and more, and beginning to have a deeper understanding of my topic, the research is getting easier. My best source is far is from the Jurimetrics Journal of Law, Science, and Technology regarding the APA torture scandal. It has awesome stats, quotes, and ideas, and it’s really helping me develop my understanding of my topic.
ReplyDeleteFrankly, this is an uber intriguing topic! It is a little dark, but it’s awesome to see someone delve into a subject that could be quite sensitive. I don’t think a lot of people realize how real torture is or how painfully damaging it honestly is, so it’s great to see you not only bringing these harsh realities to light, but also providing a solution in the process. Having so many options to sift through and judge is certainly a drowning weight, but I hope that opens up a bunch of avenues to explore.
DeleteResearching my topic, nationalized language in America, has been very interesting. A lot of the things that I have found on the topic have been very intriguing, and so far I’ve learned a lot about the topic. One thing in particular that I have learned is that there are actually laws, or have been laws, in some states, such as Arizona, surrounding language. So far one of my biggest struggles has been finding a lot of information on the topic. Although what I have found already is very helpful, it took a lot of digging to find it, and I am struggling to find more. So far one of my best sources has been an article from The Atlantic that discusses whether or not English should be, by law, the national language of America.
ReplyDeleteI’m really excited to read your paper! I have also struggled with having too much information during my research. It feels like I have 100 sources right now, so I can definitively relate to your issues. I’m sure your research will get easier as you go along
DeleteIt is also difficult for me to find just a few good recourses. Every place I look there apis at least one good thing, but they keep adding up. Hopefully if I keep looking I’ll find something that will give me a lot of much needed information.
DeleteMy research has been quite a roller coaster up to this point. I started with a vast amount to research, but now I am running out of ideas to research as topics for my paper. I am finding interesting causes of my topic, such as why rumination occurs and I have been able to draw many conclusions with my findings. My biggest roadblock to this point is debating with myself if I have enough research, even though it seems like I have a smaller amount than usual. I still believe I can write a good paper with that information. My biggest success was learning how to use the Power Search to find resourceful websites. Without that, I would not have found anything besides Q and A blogs. The basis of my argument is that the language of rumination is linked to social anxiety and depression among today’s society, and that we, as a society, have to read into this language in order to help these people. My best resources are Jordan Peterson. Jordan Peterson is an expert on the human mind, and has a wide range of videos and articles that relate to rumination. He gives many pointers of how this illness can be dealt with, which has helped me to learn how to form conclusions on my topic.
ReplyDeleteI think we’re all in the same boat as far as how limited sources can seem, so it’s good that you’re finding some useful information. I know a lot about Jordan Peterson, so I’m definitely interested in what he has to say on your topic. Overall, keep working and best of luck!
DeleteI am researching some ideas of gossip. So far, it’s going well. I’m learning a lot about different studies that have been done, whether it be questioning the effects of gossip, or questioning what gossip truly is. There have been a large number of studies done, all with roughly the same conclusion. Gossip has a negative effect. This makes it a bit difficult to understand and come to an answer to my basic thesis: is gossip necessary in our society? It’s clear gossip is most often and prominently used in high schools. It’s often defined as a way for ‘insiders’ to find something that clearly separates them from ‘outsiders’. Just as it seems, these things that will separate them are negative. This makes it hard to see any form of gossip that is necessary. Although it seems impossible it could be true, I still think it is necessary. That is just one definition of it. Also, talking about something that defines us is not always a bad thing. It could be as simple as, “I like art, she likes math’. It’s not bringing anyone down or hurting anyone, it’s just sharing information one might not know.
ReplyDeleteSome things that are making this difficult is the new way or researching. I have never used a database before, only google or basic internet searches. It is taking some getting used to, but it is proving to be much easier to find the information I actually want. Although time consuming, this researching is making me realize how much easier it will be to write the paper when I begin with everything I need to know.
Gossip is definitely a tough topic to defend, so there’s so doubt that your paper will be an interesting one once it’s all done. I can definitely understand how it would also be difficult to research that topic, so it’s good that the database is helping. Good luck on your paper!
DeleteInteresting topic, Mary. I think that it is interesting, although practical, that all of these studies done came out to be of negative effect which gossip has on people. But I do think your argument is bold, in a sense that you can write a lot about it. Yes, gossip may be negative, but is it necessary? That is really cool, and I am interested to read your take on this topic. I believe the hardest part of it all for you may be defining your terms on gossip, which it seems as if you have done that, clearly. Good job, and I hope you continue to find some insightful research.
ReplyDeleteI have been led down the rabbit hole of, personally, unexplored information. This in regards to my argumentative styled paper’s subject—People Talk Too Much. This topic was not the first one that caught my eye, however, as far as I am concerned, it has been quite a pleasant experience when delving into the research needed in order to fully and completely lay out the paper. Whilst organizing the many, many notecards I wound up filling out, I came across a plethora of ideas and concepts that could be implemented into my thesis so that he argument could be expanded upon. Of course this cake with a few setbacks, major and minor alike, but the anxiety over whether or not I am covering the right subject seems to be sizzling out of flame. The process is also opening and closing a number of gateways.
ReplyDeleteWhilst researching my topic—People and their incessant jabber— I stumbled upon some pretty interesting ideas and facts. There are certainly a large quantity of reasonable explanations that would clarify why people tend to voice their opinions or join into a random conversation so much. Scrutiny guided me to understand how others are affected by one speaking on and on excessively. It hurts them; it affects their confidence and certainty. It was a nice occasion to notice how I am truly not the only person who believes that it is rude when another person barges into an already pleasurable conversation and essentially “take over”. I couldn’t have found this out without the reliable source of Psychology Spot and its author Jennifer Delagado, who is actually a certified psychology professor for Cornell University. It was rather easy to locate this website for all I had to do was type into the URL my title: “People Talk Too Much”. It was the second option going down.
There seems to be so many avenues I could travel with this paper, and I am grateful for that. I could vaguely search “people talk a lot” or I could narrow it down by restating the statement into a question “what causes people to speak so much?” or “are talkative people narcissistic?”. I was hoping for the argument to get heated, which probably couldn’t occur under the same circumstances if I went on with my original subject. This was a major stump that I hit on my path to developing a decent thesis statement. I was informed of a paper that was written by a former student who took AP Language and Composition prior to I, and this student and I shared similar interests. We both loved animals. Due to this, this student wrote her paper on The Language of Animals and talked about how animals communicate through body language and basically have a completely different, yet universal, vocabulary of utilizing their bodies instead of their voice to send messages to other animals. I wanted to do comparable to this student’s paper, meaning, I desired to write my paper on the subject of animals.
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ReplyDeleteThe issue with me and writing about animals would slap me in the face a couple of times. I didn’t want to copy this person’s ideas, as I wanted my paper to be just that: mine. I desired for my paper to be original and all my own style. I didn’t intend on letting someone else’s prior ideas deep into my own, so I knew I had to come up with a different emoticon but with the same creatures involved in it. “I could incorporate animals into the palate if I really wanted to,” was what I was told. That make sense to me. On top that whole ordeal, was the mess that was my thesis statement. It was much too long (over three long senescences), and it just didn’t sound right. You see, I already have written several research papers in eleventh grade, and one of them I was quite proud of. Due to this, I attempted to follow my thesis’s format off of the already constructed base of my older thesis, which was a research thesis mind you. That clearly wasn’t fitting the bill, so, with the help of Mrs. Messineo, we rewrote the thesis several times. This was because I couldn’t stand how it sounded; I wanted it to sound “more intelligent”.
Despite all of these setbacks, my success at this point of the writing process is the fact that I was able to settle in a topic that I can personally relate to and can provide more knowledge to its backing. The thesis is still a work in progress, but it is coming along rather swimmingly. The basis of my argument is simply that people talk too much and that is an issue because it can dumb down the conversation and make those present within it zone out and disconnect. It can also cause these people to feel less valued, as if their opinion doesn’t matter as much as the person who is speaking the most frequently and the most dominantly. Some of the biggest proofs I have of this come from the public library. I found a bibliography on Abraham Lincoln, who is a famous shy person that talked about how the former president was stepped on in conversation quite frequently. It was saint that Lincoln would analyze the situation and take notes on these people and their character. People who speak a lot tend to talk a lot about themselves, which is why I think a majority of them are narcissists The influential Friedrich Nietzche, a German philosopher whose work has exercised a proud affect on intellectual modern history, perfectly summed it up: “Talking much about oneself can also be a means to conceal oneself