What does it do?

An ideal information source for school papers and speeches, Opposing Viewpoints provides material on a range of “hot-button” political, social, and economic issues. History and background, pro/con arguments, up-to-date magazine/newspaper articles, studies, statistics, images, and website links are among the types of sources available.

Finding Information

To do a basic search, enter your search terms in the box provided or select an issue from the list.  Once you have entered a selection, you will be directed to the results page. 

• Navigate through the different types of sources by clicking on the tabs near the top of the page.  If the words on the tab are light gray, that option is unavailable for the topic. 
• A list of related subjects may be listed along the left side of the screen.  Focus or expand your search by clicking one of these!
• Click on the title of an article (in blue) to see its contents.  To email yourself an article, click on the “email” icon onscreen; enter your email address, specify the format, and hit “send”.  To print an article, click on the “print” icon onscreen.  (If you’re using a library computer, the article will print out at the Magazines/Computer Desk.)

Help!

There are some excellent features built in to this database that can help streamline your research. 

In the upper right-hand corner of the screen (next to the “Opposing Viewpoints” logo) you will see some options.  Among them are:

• Help: A more in-depth version of what you’re reading now.
• Search Tips: Hints on how to get the most out of your search, using wild cards, stopwords, and other strategies.
• Gale Databases: Links to other databases we subscribe to.
• Dictionary: Look a word up in Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate, Biographical, and Geographical Dictionaries.
• Research Guide: An incredibly useful feature, packed with good advice for students and researchers.  Topics include evaluating information sources, analyzing current issues using the Opposing Viewpoints material, judging opinionated material, and more.
• Toolbox: Another invaluable aid, containing info on formulating and writing thesis statements, creating outlines, building arguments, and other related subjects

If you need help, please see a librarian at the Reference Desk or call 558-7814.