For the annotated bibliography, I ask that you find and assess 6-8 sources for their applicability in your own research. A sample annotated bibliography is available for reference in Purdue’s OWL guide online, in case you want to view a model. Each source needs to be formatted correctly via MLA guidelines, and each source needs at least two paragraphs of commentary from you. In this assessment, you need to provide a brief summary of the source, an evaluative statement of its value in your research, and a thorough explanation of either how you can use it or why you cannot.

Note: Only two of your sources for this paper can be sources assigned as reading in this class! At least four must come from your own research.

Purpose

You should view an annotated bibliography as an excellent self-created resource for the future. An annotated bibliography collects your potential research material in one place, and it forces you to take a stance on each text rather than merely collecting them, which feels to me like “vacant” research; it takes up space, but it has no substance. The purpose of the annotated bibliography is to prepare you for the final paper by improving your research and analysis skills, as well as to further familiarize you with MLA formatting.

Audience

When writing this paper, assume your audience is our class or one similar to it. Take an academic tone in your evaluation of potential research sources, but feel free to bring a more conversational/personal tone into your descriptions of how you either can or cannot use this source in your final paper for this class. You are the ultimate audience of the work you will put into this assignment. Doing well now helps you later.