Library search tools and Google can't be searched the same way so take a few moments to come up with a search strategy before diving into a search in library tools.
Sample concept: What is the purpose of fireflies' light?
Step 1: Think about the key concepts of your topic and search those instead of entire phrases or sentences.
Step 2: Think of other terms you could use that are synonyms or related. This often requires that you do a little background research to learn more, such as scientific terms and overviews of the species you chose.
Step 3: Think of aspects of this broader topic you'd like to explore. If you don't know enough about it, do a search in a background source (see the box to the right) to find narrower aspects. For example, you may identify reasons for bioluminescence such as communication more broadly, or mating more specifically.
Step 4: Create your database search strings
Remember -
If you use Wikipedia as a first step in your research, you are already using background information to get started with research. Background information helps you:
For more information on ebooks see the Ebook Guide
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