Biotechnology: Independent Research Project: Home

Use this list of usernames and passwords to access our databases from home.

To access the traditional Destiny Search screen with Resource Lists, click the link below:

• Brainstorm for ideas
  • Jot down 2 to 5 potential hypothesis topics
  • Consider topics that will hold your interest over an extended period of time
  • Make sure the topics fit the requirements of the assignment
  • Choose 2 to 3  topics to explore by conducting preliminary research
• Read general background information
  • Use a database such as Student Resources in Context to get quick authoritative information from reference sources
  • You can also use other databases and authoritative websites
• Focus in on a topic
  • Keep it manageable - make sure it is not too broad or too narrow.
  • Be careful of very recent topics because there may not be enough information published
• Make a list of keywords
  • Keep track of the words that are used to describe your topic
  • Start with the descriptive words in the initial references you use on the first day
  • Find synonyms and broader and narrower subject headings to expand your search possibilities
  • Look for alternative subject headings, especially when using databases such as EBSCO and SIRS Researcher - pursue those links that seem relevant
• Be flexible
  • It is common to modify your research topic as you go along
  • If you find too much information, consider narrowing your topic
  • If you find too little information, you will have to broaden your topic or change it
• Research and read more about your topic
  • Use the keywords you have gathered to research in the library catalog, databases and Google or other search engines
  • Make sure you have enough information before you go to the next step
• Formulate a research question or hypothesis

Remember:

• Citations from databases can be exported directly to NoodleTools (the exception is Britannica)
• Use the Quick Cite (Copy and Paste) to add citations from Britannica.
• Articles in reference books often have the author's name at the end of the article
• If you have forgotten your password click the I forgot my password link under the Sign In box.
• NoodleTools can now cite content created using AI like Chat GPT.

Nashua CTE Biotech Competency:         Students will learn, demonstrate and apply scientific laboratory skills in the Biosafety level 1 and 2 lab.

NH DOE Biotech State Competency:  Understand scientific process and designs in order to successfully complete a scientific inquiry.