Research Paper Help
Follow the rules when writing your research paper!
If you have any questions about the MLA format, don't forget to check the Purdue O.W.L.!
Databases
Do your teachers insist you use databases for your research? Or has Mrs. Prettol convinced you that databases are 100 times better than Google (because Google only accesses a VERY small amount of online content)?
The Sacramento Public Library (SPL) has plenty of databases for you to use for free - you only need a SPL card! Don't have one? See Mrs. Prettol to use one of our free e-card to access those SPL databases!
For Students
Google Scholar
Use Google Scholar for access to scholarly books, dissertations, and articles.
Here are some great tips to use Google Scholar efficiently.
The Public Library
The Sacramento Public Library is an invaluable resource to help you with your research projects or class assignments.
Anyone with a Sac Public Library card can access the databases through the Digital Library (under "Students K-12). The card information (card barcode and PIN) will be needed to access the databases.
For students who do not have a Sac library card, we have e-cards that can be used for the sole goal of accessing the databases. Information about the e-cards can be accessed using the Sacramento Public Library e-cards Google Sheet (Sign in to your NCS gmail account to access the link).
Click here to apply for a Sacramento Public Library card online, or come by the Library and Media Center to borrow a temporary Sacramento Public Library card, to gain access to the SPL's databases.
The FAQs include hints on how to find information in the library's catalog, as well as the names of books, magazines, videos, websites, associations, and other resources related to your topic.
Online Reference Materials
Specialized Dictionaries:
- Merriam Webster Dictionary is a dictionary for the visual learner.
- Handspeak is an online sign language dictionary.
- Learnersdictionary is for students learning English as a Second Language.
- Wordcentral provides help in building word power and language skills.
- MySpellIt focuses on about 1150 words, divided into sections by language or origin which can help you learn and remember several important rules, tips, and guidelines for successfully spelling words in English.
Encyclopedias
- Performing and Arts Encyclopedia is a performing and fine arts encyclopedia
Biographies
This Day in History
Online Newspapers and Magazines:
- Sacramento Library
- Sacramento Bee
- Newspaper Links
- Time For Kids
- Smithsonian Magazine
- National Geographic
- PBS Kids
Just for you: Research Guides & Databases
Our research guides are created and updated just for you! Mrs. Prettol has found and listed helpful, reliable websites for some of your most important research projects.
Databases:
You can also use these databases; if you are accessing them from off-campus, find the login information here (you will be able to access the doc with your school Gmail):
Britannica
Britannica School - Online encyclopedia for general reference.
Escolar - Online encyclopedia for general research in Spanish.
Proquest
School & Educators Complete (eBooks!) – eBook subscription database (over 12,000 titles) to support multiple subject areas (English Language Arts, Science, Math, Social Studies, Health, Physical Education, Information Literacy and Technology).
CultureGrams – Concise cultural information on countries around the world.
eLibrary – General reference aggregation of periodical and digital media content with editorial guidance for novice researchers. Two unique interfaces available.
SIRS Discoverer – Selected content for novice researchers, especially elementary and middle school students and educators.
SIRS Issues Researcher – Curriculum-aligned database of content organized by complex issues, ideally for middle and high school students and educators.
ProQuest Central Student –Millions of articles from more than 10,000 full-text scholarly journals.
TeachingBooks
TeachingBooks - Connect books with author interviews, readings, videos, lessons, and so much more! Take a brief video tour of this resource.
