lecture recording on 07 March 2025 at 09.52.56 AM

Introduction to the Research Matrix

• Importance of Planning

  • Organizing 10+ sources into a cohesive paper can be overwhelming.

  • Research matrix aids in planning, organizing, and synthesizing information.

Creating a Research Matrix

• Definition & Purpose

  • A tool to organize research sources visually and practically.

  • Helps in forming a thesis and outline.

  • If executed well, it simplifies the writing process.

• Steps to Create a Research Matrix

  • Step 1: Collect and annotate sources.

  • Step 2: Identify common ideas, connections, and contradictions among sources.

  • Example Research Question: How does light pollution affect human biology?

  • Notice overlaps and contradictions in how sources address the research question.

Understanding the Assignment

• Nature of the Assignment

  • Argumentative synthesis paper compared to previous informative synthesis papers.

  • Focus on making an academic argument supported by evidence from research.

• Key Clarifications

  • Not a summary of sources: Avoid summarizing individual sources in paragraphs.

  • Move beyond mere comparison: Synthesize viewpoints to support your argument.

  • Importance of retaining your voice in argumentation.

Joining the Conversation

• Importance of Comparative Analysis

  • Identify contributions of each source in the conversation on the research topic.

  • Fundamental to synthesize ideas rather than merely summarizing.

  • Provide personal insights or new perspectives based on gathered research.

Building the Matrix

• Methodology of Filling the Research Matrix

  • Create a column for each source and rows for major ideas/theses.

  • Example Points:

    • Light pollution alters circadian rhythms.

    • Light pollution linked to health issues (breast cancer).

    • Light pollution suppresses melatonin levels.

  • Each point needs to engage multiple sources for significance.

Evidence and Documentation

• Importance of diversity in sources

  • Need more than one source discussing a claim for it to be included in the argument.

  • Document page numbers alongside evidence for easy referencing.

Developing the Thesis

• Crafting an Effective Thesis Statement

  • Thesis should provide a clear answer to the research question.

  • Should be arguable and focused, not too broad or vague.

  • Connection to the argument and sources must be evident.

• Three-Step Test for Thesis Statements

  • Is it a single, arguable statement?

  • Does it indicate the writer's stance?

  • Does the thesis serve as the focus of the argument?

Writing the Body Paragraphs

• Structuring Body Paragraphs

  • Each point from the matrix should correspond to a body paragraph topic sentence.

  • Develop paragraphs using claims substantiated by evidence from the matrix.

  • Include various sources in each paragraph to enrich the discussion.

Conclusion and Further Steps

• Recommended Actions

  • Before spring break, complete the research matrix and develop a preliminary thesis.

  • Optional: Create a topic sentence outline that supports your thesis with evidence from sources.

  • Upon return, ready to dive into writing body paragraphs.