Help finding sources for research paper

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A high school senior is seeking sources for an argumentative research paper on String Theory, a controversial topic in theoretical physics. The student has already acquired Brian Greene's "The Elegant Universe" but requires additional sources. Forum participants suggest that the requirement for 20 sources may be excessive for a high school paper, emphasizing that a few respected sources would likely suffice. They recommend confirming the source requirement and suggest including some lighter, less academic resources if necessary. The discussion highlights the balance between thorough research and the practical expectations of high school assignments.
katatosh
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Hello all! I am a senior in high school with a love for physics. In English, we were assigned an argumentative research paper with a topic of our choice. So, naturally, I chose String Theory, since it is a semi controversial topic in theoretical physics today. My only problem is that I have a lack of sources. Do any of you think that you could help me with sources that are pro- string theory? Thanks in advance!
 
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DrClaude said:
Brian Greene's The Elegant Universe.
Yep! already bought the book. I just need 19 more sources
 
You mean you already read the book? :)
 
19 more sources is totally unrealistic for a High School paper with the subject you have selected. A few respected sources would be sufficient. You will probably have to add a couple of fluff resources ie maybe a science rag or two (or three or four) if you teacher is insistent. Confirm that you NEED 20 sources (as nasu asked, "You mean you already read the book?"). This isn't a literature analysis and review of a Shakespearian play.
 
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Given the current funding situation, you should contact potential departments or research groups before you apply and pay any application fees. Many programs are not taking new graduate students at all this cycle because of funding uncertainty, unless a specific advisor can show they already have money to support you for five years. This is what I’ve heard directly from 20–30 programs. Do not waste money applying blindly.