Skip to Main Content

CMST 220 Public Speaking (Reiser): Examining the existing argument

This guide will help students in Megan Reiser's Public Speaking class select a topic and find material for informative & persuasive speeches.

The existing argument

To develop a strong argument you need to research current points of view around your topic. 

As you investigate, read and evaluate, you will inform your own argument. Reading others' views and arguments may point you to evidence, but ultimately the argument you formulate must be uniquely yours.

Video: How Library Stuff Works: Scholarship as Conversation

Source: "How Library Stuff Works: Scholarship as Conversation" by McMaster Libraries, is licensed under a Standard YouTube License.

Learn how students are active participants in academic conversation with their peers, instructors, and all those who came before them.

CQ Researcher Reports

Most articles in the library's CQ Researcher database contain a section called "Pro/Con." This section poses an arguable question, and presents two reasoned answers:

You can also browse CQ Researcher's Pro/Con sections by topic.

Viewpoints essays in Opposing Viewpoints database

Try the library's Opposing Viewpoints In Context database to find "Viewpoints Essays" on current social issues topics. Select Viewpoints from the list of resource types in the box: On this Page.

 

Editorials and Op-eds

Editorials are a great way to find reasoned opinions on current controversial topics. Use these specialized searches to full-text editorials in the library's databases:

 

In ProQuest use the "Document Type" limiter. First type in your search terms:

 

Then, limit your search to editorials. Scroll below "Search Options":

 

In Academic Search Complete use editorials as a Subject Term: