The activities and example searches in this tutorial are based on the example topic detailed in the Topic Analysis box below. When working through the activities and searches in this tutorial please feel free to replace the examples provided with your own topic.
A topic analysis will help you to clarify and understand what your assessment question is asking you to do.
You will generally be given three key pieces of information:
This Guide is based on the following example assignment question:
Prepare a report and discuss 'Will selection for increased muscle score in beef cattle, effectively lift herd profits in Australia? '
| Instruction words | Prepare, report, discuss |
| Qualifying words & phrases | Australia |
| Key concepts | muscle score, beef cattle, herd profits |
Once you have decided on a topic you need to think of words and phrases to use in your information searching.
Write down the key concepts from your topic and have a go at brainstorming as many alternative keywords and phrases as possible.
Dictionaries and encyclopaedias can also help you to find additional keywords and may provide an overview of a concept.
Activity
Search the Macquarie Dictionary for the keyword cattle and take a look at the alternative terms suggested, these terms, including bovine, beef cattle and livestock are synonyms which could be used as alternative keywords in your information searching.
Charles Sturt University acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which its campuses are located, paying respect to Elders, both past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples.
Charles Sturt University is an Australian University, TEQSA Provider Identification: PRV12018. CRICOS Provider: 00005F.
