English 10: Foundations of Literary Studies (Gao/Omeiza)

By the end of the session, you will be able to:

• Search for and obtain materials to use in your literary research project
• Use library databases (including UC Library Search) to find relevant, credible sources
• Request materials from other libraries using InterLibrary Loan (ILL)
• Practice using MLA format correctly
• Know how to contact librarians for help

Research is an iterative process. Instead of straightforward and linear, it is repetitive and cyclical. As you move through the steps to learn, you should modify and revise your strategies. Don't be afraid to return to an earlier step to reset your process!

Long description of "Research is a Process" for web accessibility

Lesson Plan Outline

1. Welcome & Introductions
   • Required Readings - ILL or ebooks
   • VPN (Homework)
2. How to develop an interesting research question/thesis?
   • Reading as part of the process
3. Background Information (what you use to get familiar with a topic) vs. Foreground information (the research you cite)
   • Librarian Demo in a scholarly article database, MLA International Bibliography (Secondary Sources) 
   • Database Searching Activity with online worksheet
4. Discussion of Writing and Citation support on campus (see step 5)
5. Feedback / Exit Slip - Please help improve instruction from UC Merced Library!

Homework!

1. To access library databases  from off campus, you MUST download and install the VPN. See below for information on how to do that.
2. Complete the MLA tutorial found at the link below.

VPN software allows you to connect to the library's online articles and eBooks from off campus.

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