Brainstorming
The following tools are digital aids to help with the brainstorming process. You can either use them or just a good old fashioned pencil and paper to map out ideas (including nebulous, half formed ideas) on your topic.
Topic ideas
These databases are an excellent source for articles on all types of social and controversial issues. Different perspectives on the issues they cover are provided with topic overviews, pro/con viewpoints, court-case overviews, and more. If you're not sure about your topic, you can browse through a list of current topics and issues to help give you ideas.
|
|
WSU Libraries has a number of print books from both the Opposing Viewpoints series and the Taking Sides series that can assist you in determining topics for a persuasive or informative speech. Search "opposing viewpoints" or "taking sides" in SmartSearch (on the Finding Books & Articles tab to the left).