You'll need to have a topic in mind when you sit down to begin your research. Talk to your professor for clarification regarding the parameters of your assignment or for topic suggestions. If the topic is relatively open, browse through the Internet, Google News, or some recent newsmagazines such as Time or Newsweek to get some ideas. If you still need some topic ideas, these sources are helpful:
Weekly reports on a variety of social issues topics, published by Congressional Quarterly press. Requires a login from off-campus.
Produced by the International Debate Education Association, this site lists over 200 controversial topics with pro and con columns listing different viewpoints.
This nonpartisan site includes over 20 issues guides that cover a social issue in some detail, including key facts and links to additional resources.
For more assistance, ask a reference librarian.