Research specialists are available through the Ivy Tech Library network to assist you in locating relevant sources and to answer questions you may have about your research project.
You can chat with a Librarian live or submit a question to research specialists through the Ask-A-Librarian channel.
The following databases are typically standard starting points for locating research to support argument essays. Helpful navigational videos are also included.
These databases are a sampling of what the Library offers in terms of resources. Always check assignment guidelines to determine if an instructor is asking for only particular databases to be used in a researched argument essay,
Scholarly articles, News articles and Audio-visual content, Opinions, Primary sources, Reference, and Websites on topics of social interest. Scholarly content and general reader. Recommended for argumentative research.
Overview articles, opinions, some primary sources, presenting multiple sides of topical issues. Browse topics or keyword search. Designed for argumentative research.
Search multiple EBSCO databases including Academic Search Complete, Health Source Nursing/Academic Edition, and more.
Defaults to Academic Search Complete, click on “Searching:” above the search boxes to select additional databases.
Reference works, Scholarly journals, Trade publications, and important General interest magazines covering core academic subject areas. Help Guide available.
Additional Database Assistance
If a database is required for assignment guidelines but not listed here, consult the Library's A-Z Resources listing.
Tips regarding how to navigate the A-Z Resources listing can be found here.
Ethos (Ethics)Logos (Logic)Pathos (Emotions)Argument Styles
Writers might be asked to shape a researched argument essay using specialized organizational patterns or approaches known as Toulmin (Traditional) or Rogerian argument styles.
Learn more about how to manage these approaches to argument using the following worksheets:
Logical Fallacies
Logical fallacies result from faulty argument strategies or flawed patterns of logic that undermine a claim. Logical fallacies should be completely avoided in an argument essay.
Equally, an understanding of logical fallacies can allow a writer to spot them in other people's arguments, so it's good to have a grasp on the concept which can be further understood by exploring the following resources:
In this video, Jared Henderson provides a comprehensive look with easily understood examples of logical fallacies and the thought patterns that create them.
A very funny but highly accurate video personification of common logical fallacies and how they would act if thrown together for a meeting.
