Choosing a topic can be difficult. It’s best to choose a topic that interests you and is within the scope of your assignment’s guidelines. Once you have an idea in mind, you need to do some preliminary research or pre-research to find background information. Google and Wikipedia are great tools for fact finding. The library also has three databases to help.
Also, make sure your topic isn't too broad. Information on the Black Lives Matter movement is extensive and could easily fill a book, so focus on a smaller subtopic. Simple subtopics address the “who, what, where, when, or how” of an issue. Examples:
Finally, be flexible with your ideas or intent. Even though you have a topic that interests you, it does not mean that in-depth information has been written about it. If that is the case, slightly shift the focus of your topic based on the availability of resources.
Watch the following videos about ways to develop your topic.
Developing a Topic Video from the Oregon School Library Information System (4:19)
Opposing Viewpoints, Issues & Controversies, and CQ Researcher provide excellent background information as well as lists of suggested issues to browse. If you’re writing an argument essay, these e-resources allow you to explore various viewpoints on current topics or hot button issues.