Research your topic at a library, on the Internet and in newspapers. Look for authoritative sources written by experts in the field, such as academics, scientists, historians or websites published by credible institutions. Ask if your school library has access to academic databases such as ProQuest.
Outline your background essay. Write a broad topic statement that provides a brief synopsis of the essay. Organize your research into two to four key categories and create a general statement for each one. These will constitute the body of your essay. For example, if your topic is the causes of WWI, you could divide the body of your essay into economic, social and political factors that led to the outbreak of the war.
Write your background essay out in full paragraphs. Begin with an interesting introduction that will catch the reader's attention, but remember, this paper is largely informative. Your teacher will mark your essay for its quality of information and skill at handling research.
Paraphrase the majority of your research. Quote phrases, sentences or paragraphs that read aptly as they are; use your own words for everything else in the essay.
Cite all references you made to outside sources in your background essay according to the citation style your instructor indicates. Provide both in-text citations as well as a final bibliography or a works-cited page at the end.
Proofread your background essay for accuracy of information, smooth transitions between ideas and grammar and spelling mistakes.