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ENG104: Introduction to Research Writing: Additional Evaluating Sources Resources

From Topic to Thesis

Developing my research question & thesis. Topic: Something social science-y about cricket Slightly narrower topic: Something about politics & cricket Preliminary Question: What role does cricket play in this region?
What did I find? Cricket cauldron: the turbulent politics of sport in Pakistan This book sees Pakistan – its history, politics and society – through the prism of cricket. Shaharyar Khan describes how cricket defines national identity and boosts morale even while Pakistan struggles to contain internal political conflict and the influence of the Taliban near and within its borders; he shows how the game shapes the political, social and cultural landscape of Pakistan and its fractured relations with India. Summary: Cricket’s importance in Pakistan makes it a platform for international relations with India
What did I find? The magic of Indian cricket: cricket and society. It is a unique account of the Indian cricket phenomenon. Drawing on a combination of extensive research and personal experience, Bose traces the development of the Indian game from its beginnings as a colonial pastime to its coming of age as a national passion and now a global commercial powerhouse. This illuminating study reveals Indian cricket's central place in modern India’s identity, culture and society. Insightful, honest and challenging, Bose tackles the myths and controversies of Indian cricket. He considers the game in terms of race, caste, politics, national consciousness and ambition, money, celebrity and the media, evoking all the unpredictability, frustration and glory that is the magic of Indian cricket. Summary: India’s pastime began as a colonial power, but now helps define the identity of the country while connecting across castes.
What did I find? Cricket obsession in India: through the lens of identity theory Summary: Because it is a country of lots of religious & ethnic identities, cricket acts as a way to create a national identity in India
What did I find? Feel Good, Goodwill and India's Friendship Tour of Pakistan, 2004: Cricket Politics and Diplomacy in Twenty-First-Century India Summary: Cricket is one arena where India/Pakistan conflict isn’t as evident. It has been used as a diplomatic tool.
Developing my research question & thesis Focused question What role does cricket play in the larger political and social landscape of India? Answer = my working thesis Despite its colonial roots, cricket has emerged as a nationalist force providing a backbone of Indian identity, a platform for political talks, and a bridge across castes. Proving my thesis = my paper Now my job is to explain how those things leads to violence with evidence gathered from my sources.

Parts of a scholarly article

SIFT method

SIFT method. Stop, investigate source, find better coverage, trace claims, quotes and media to the original context

Reading Articles in the Humanities

Source Types