English 090R                                                                  

Instructor: Ms. E. Pumpelly
Gifted Hands research                                                                        

Introduction: The purpose of this activity will be to access resources using the Cuyamaca Community College library in order to supplement the information you learn while reading Ben Carson’s autobiography.

Directions: You will choose one topic from the choices below. In the library and on your own, you will complete the research outline to prepare for an in-class writing assignment with the following specifications.

· One paragraph in length with at least six to eight sentences for your paragraph.

· Your paragraph will contain a topic sentence, supporting details and a concluding sentence, (PIE: point, illustration, explanation).

· All sources will be cited in correct MLA format.

Library Research Question: (CHOOSE ONE)

Topic #1
Carson chose the career of a neurosurgeon. Find out what it takes to become a neurosurgeon. Use the website called Occupational Outlook and type "physicians and surgeons" in the search box. Please answer the following questions.

·         What is the nature of the work and working conditions of a neurosurgeon?

·         What are the educational requirements of a neurosurgeon?

·         What aspects of this career do and/or do not appeal to you? Explain why.

Topic #2
Find resources outside Carson’s Gifted Hands biography (news coverage, websites, etc.) that include his personal commentary. Select one of his quotes that you find meaningful and thought-provoking.

·         Cite the quote and explain what it means to you.

·         Write about whether you agree or disagree with the quote and explain why.

·         Explain how you can apply this quote to your personal life or future.

***Library research tip for #2: Try the following websites:

www.achievement.org

good article from Reading Today

Topic #3
Research the Carson Scholar’s Fund (http://carsonscholars.org/). Explore the website to find out how Ben and Candy Carson continue to make positive change in his community.

·         Describe the foundation’s purpose and goals.

·         Find an example (testimony, personal description) of one student who has benefited from the program. Describe the person’s background and the type of support they received from the fund.

·         Write about the most interesting fact you learned about the foundation. Explain why it interested or inspired you.