Homework Help
Internet Resources
How to Start a Research Project
How to Research @ the Library
Where to Find Information
Internet Resources
The library has selected these internet resources to assist with homework.
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How to Start a Research Project
Step One: Choose your topic
Step Two: What type of information do you need? Primary sources? Secondary sources?
A primary source is a document or other sort of evidence written or created during the time under study, or by one of the persons or organizations directly involved in the event. Primary sources offer an inside view of a particular event. Example of a primary source: The Diary of Anne Frank can be used to learn how Jewish people were treated during World War Two and the Holocaust.
(Source: Simon Fraser University Library)
A secondary source interprets and analyzes primary sources. Secondary sources are one-step removed from the event. Some types are books, textbooks and encyclopedia articles. Example of a secondary source: A book written about Anne Frank.
(Source: Simon Fraser University Library)
Step Three: What kind of information sources do you need? Below is a list of common information sources.
- Books
- Encyclopedia Articles
- Newspapers
- Articles (accessed through databases)
- Websites
Step Four: Evaluate your sources by asking yourself these questions:
- Is this source reliable? Does it give facts or opinions? Research projects generally require facts over opinions
- Is this source complete? Does it give me all of the facts?
- Is this source current? When was it written? Current sources are generally selected over sources written 10 years ago because it presents what we know about the topic "now".
How to Research @ the Library
How do I use the catalogue?
The most effective way to search for books is by using the catalogue.
A keyword search looks for the full word from the title, author, subject or series. When using a keyword search, please make sure the spelling is correct - otherwise the catalogue will not find the word.
If you select "Title Begins with...", you will browse the catalogue and the title that closely matches your search will be highlighted.What is a database and how can I use it for homework?
A database is an electronic collection of encyclopedia, magazine, newspaper and journal articles, among many other information formats, that is available through our website. If you require information on a topic and you cannot find a book or website, you can search our databases to find quality and authoritative information.
Aurora Public Library subscribes to a number of databases of interest to children, parents and teachers that can be accessed from your home 24/7. To access a database from home, you require a valid APL library card. You will enter in your library card number, without spaces, and your PIN (the last four digits of your home telephone number). Please click here for children's databases.
General Information
If you require assistance with your research, you can always ask Library staff in the Children and Young Adult Services Department. We are available by phone during hours of operation, (905) 727-9494 ext. 280. You may also e-mail your question to us. Please note we try to respond to all e-mail inquiries within 24 business hours.
Common Places to Find Information for your Research Project
Aurora Public Library Catalogue: By searching our catalogue, you can find out what kinds of resources we have on your topic.
One Search: A search option from the Aurora Public Library website which searches all of our databases, as well as general and specialized dictionaries and encyclopedias. Consider this a "google" search of quality information.
Grolier Online Passport: An excellent databases to find information on countries, people and more. Contains encyclopedia articles, new items and many other information formats.
World Book Encyclopedia: You may search articles, audio-visual material, research guides and more.
Biography in Context: Contains biographical information on over one million people from all over the world in different areas of interest.
Dictionary of Canadian Biography: Biographical information about notable Canadians who died between the years of 1000 and 1930.
The Canadian Encyclopedia: A comprehensive resource for reliable information about Canadian topics.
