B: Background Source - These are sources used to establish common ground with the reader, provide context, and for background information such as basic facts and general information.

E: Exhibit Source - Used for analysis or to provide evidence. These sources may be used to provide examples to back up an argument, or may be presented and analyzed. May take the form of data, an image for analysis, quotations.

A: Argument Source - Used when the writer engages in the ideas or claims of a source as part of an argument. Writers may use these sources to affirm, refute or refine an argument.

M: Method Source - Offers a model, definitions or perspective for understanding an argument. Often takes the form of a particular school of thought, for example, applying a Marxist literary criticism to an interpretation of a work.

1. In your group, determine a notetaker to write in this document. Feel free to change your group name!  
2. Use a sample research question/topic from someone in your group
3. Try to find 3 sources (bonus points for using library resources), and sort each respective source into a BEAM category, format the citation, and add 1-2 sentences/notes on why it’s a background, exhibit, argument, or method.

Hint on places to look

Background: Encyclopedia + Reference Materials

Everything Else: Books OR Articles