The following databases are helpful for choosing speech topics and background research:
Recommended databases to start with:
Reference e-books on a wide range of topics. Sources include dictionaries, encyclopedias, key concepts, key thinkers, handbooks, atlases, and more. Search by keyword or browse titles by topic.
Politics and current events summaries:
In-depth reporting on current controversial issues, with an introductory overview; background and chronology on the topic; an assessment of the current situation; tables and maps; pro/con statements from representatives of opposing positions; and bibliographies of key sources.
Once you choose a topic and do some background research, you'll want to condense your topic into a research question. Topic mapping is a helpful strategy for brainstorming questions about different aspects of your topic.