what is the focus of most high school research papers

100+ High School Research Paper Topics [Updated]

Hey there, high school students! Have you ever felt a bit overwhelmed when your teacher mentioned a research paper? No worries – it’s totally normal. In fact, tackling a research paper is like embarking on an exciting journey where you get to explore topics you’re interested in, do your own research, and become a critical thinking pro! This blog post is like your trusty map for this adventure. It’s here to help you create top-notch high school research paper topics without the stress.

What is The Significance of Research?

Table of Contents

Before delving into the intricacies of crafting a research paper, it’s crucial to understand the significance of this academic exercise. Research papers serve as a platform for students to explore a chosen topic in depth, analyze existing literature, and contribute to the broader conversation within a particular field.

The process of conducting research enhances critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills—essential attributes for success in higher education and beyond.

How to Write a Research Paper?

Writing a research paper can seem like a daunting task, but with a structured approach, it becomes much more manageable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Choose a Topic
Pick a topic that interests you and is relevant to your assignment.
Make sure it’s not too broad or too narrow; find a balance.
Conduct Preliminary Research
Gather some initial information to ensure there’s enough material available.
Note down key points and potential sources.
Develop a Thesis Statement
Formulate a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main purpose or argument of your paper.
Create an Outline
Form an outline that is structured based on your research and ideas.
Assign headings to the sections of your work, such as introduction, methods, findings, discussion, and conclusion.
Write the Introduction
Provide background information on your topic.
State the purpose of your research and present your thesis statement.
Review the Literature
Summarize existing research related to your topic.
Identify gaps or controversies in the literature.
Detail the Methodology
Explain your research design (e.g., experiment, survey, case study).
Describe the data collection process and justify your chosen method.
Present the Results
Showcase your findings using tables, graphs, or charts.
Analyze the results and connect them to your thesis statement.
Discuss Your Findings
Compare your results to existing research.
Explore the broader implications and practical applications.
Encourage critical thinking and discussion.
Write the Conclusion
Summarize the key findings.
Restate your thesis and highlight its importance.
Suggest directions for future research.
Cite Your Sources
Compile a list of all sources cited in your paper.
Use a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA) as per your assignment guidelines.
Revise and Edit
Review your paper for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
Make sure your arguments flow logically, and check for any spelling or punctuation errors.
Seek Feedback
Ask a friend, family member, or teacher to review your paper.
Consider their feedback and make necessary revisions.
Finalize Your Paper
Double-check formatting and ensure your paper adheres to any specific requirements.
Submit your well-crafted research paper on time!

100+ High School Research Paper Topics

Climate Change: Impact and Mitigation Strategies
The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental Health
Cybersecurity: Protecting Against Online Threats
The History and Impact of Vaccines
Gender Inequality in the Workplace
Artificial Intelligence: Boon or Bane?
Environmental Pollution: Causes and Solutions
The Influence of Pop Culture on Society
The Importance of Financial Literacy for High School Students
The Rise of E-commerce and Its Effects on Traditional Retail
Bullying in Schools: Causes and Prevention
The Role of Women in History
Genetic Engineering: Ethical Considerations
The Impact of Video Games on Adolescent Behavior
Youth Activism: Examining Movements and Causes
The Relationship Between Diet and Academic Performance
The History and Impact of Space Exploration
Mental Health Stigma: Breaking the Silence
The Future of Renewable Energy
The Evolution of Language: From Ancient to Modern
The Influence of Art and Music on Society
Cultural Appropriation: Understanding the Debate
The Rise of Online Education: Pros and Cons
Human Trafficking: A Global Issue
The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Academic Performance
The Impact of Social Class on Educational Opportunities
The History of Civil Rights Movements
Technology Addiction: Causes and Solutions
The Role of Government in Public Health
Animal Testing: Ethical Dilemmas
The Influence of Literature on Social Change
Gun Control: Balancing Rights and Safety
The Importance of Diversity in Education
The Rise of Single-Parent Families: Causes and Effects
The Role of Mass Media in Shaping Public Opinion
The Future of Space Travel and Colonization
The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures
Teenage Pregnancy: Causes and Prevention
The History and Impact of Rock and Roll Music
The Ethics of Cloning and Genetic Modification
The Effectiveness of Anti-Smoking Campaigns
The Impact of Social and Economic Inequality
Human Rights Violations: A Global Perspective
The Role of Religion in Shaping Societal Norms
The History and Impact of Hip-Hop Culture
Online Privacy: Balancing Security and Freedom
The Effects of Fast Food on Health
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
Climate Change Denial: Causes and Consequences
The Influence of Ancient Philosophers on Modern Thought
Internet Censorship: Balancing Free Speech and Security
The Effects of Parental Involvement on Academic Achievement
The Impact of Social Media Influencers on Consumer Behavior
Renewable Energy: Exploring Alternatives
The History and Impact of Feminism
Technology and Education: Enhancing or Hindering Learning?
The Role of Social Institutions in Shaping Behavior
The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples
The Evolution of Human Rights
The Influence of Advertising on Consumer Choices
The Importance of STEM Education
The Effects of Peer Pressure on Teenagers
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Healthcare
The Role of Religion in Shaping Political Beliefs
Cyberbullying: Causes and Solutions
The Influence of Literature on Cultural Identity
The Impact of Social Media on Political Activism
The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education
The Effects of Air Pollution on Health
The History and Impact of LGBTQ+ Rights Movements
The Impact of Social Media on Body Image
The Influence of Technology on Human Relationships
The Role of Education in Combating Racism
The History and Impact of the Internet
The Effects of Childhood Obesity on Long-Term Health
The Role of NGOs in Addressing Global Issues
The Impact of Immigration on Society

Tips For Successful High School Research Paper

Choose a topic you’re passionate about and align with the assignment.
Start your research early to allow sufficient time for thorough investigation.
Craft a clear thesis statement that encapsulates your main argument.
Create a well-organized outline to structure your paper effectively.
Use reliable and diverse sources for a comprehensive literature review.
Clearly explain your research methodology, showcasing its relevance.
Present your findings using visual aids like graphs or charts.
Engage in critical discussion in the results and discussion sections.
Conclude by summarizing key findings and suggesting future research.
Follow the prescribed citation style diligently for accurate referencing.
Revise and edit your paper for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
Seek feedback from peers or teachers to enhance your paper further.
Pay attention to formatting details to meet assignment requirements.
Proofread carefully before submission to catch any last-minute errors.

Crafting a high school research paper is an intellectual journey that allows students to explore their passions, hone critical skills, and contribute to the academic discourse.

By following the outlined structure, students can navigate the process with confidence, producing a well-organized and impactful research paper that not only fulfills academic requirements but also serves as a testament to their intellectual curiosity and prowess. I hope this topic on high school research paper topics will help you out with a number of suggestions.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how do i write a research paper as a high school student.

I'm working on a research paper for a competition and it's my first time doing this. Any tips or resources on how to tackle a research paper at the high school level? Thanks!

First off, congratulations on taking the initiative to participate in a research paper competition! Writing a research paper can seem daunting, but breaking it down into steps will make the process more manageable. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to tackle a research paper at the high school level:

1. Choose a topic : Start by selecting a subject that interests you and fits the competition's guidelines. It's important to choose a focused topic rather than a too general or too narrow one.

2. Conduct preliminary research : Familiarize yourself with the topic by looking up related articles, books, and online resources. Note any significant themes, questions, or perspectives that stand out to you during this initial phase.

3. Develop a research question : Based on your early findings, develop a research question that guides your investigation. A strong research question should be clear, focused, and complex enough to require thoughtful analysis.

4. Gather detailed information : Use databases, journals, books, and other reliable sources to collect data related to your research question. Keep track of your sources for citation purposes.

5. Organize and evaluate : As you gather information, analyze the material and look for key points, patterns, and trends. Organize your findings in a logical manner (by theme, chronology, or viewpoint).

6. Develop a thesis : Your thesis statement should be a concise argument that answers your research question and captures the central idea of your paper. This will help guide your writing.

7. Create an outline : Establish a structure for your paper by outlining the introduction, body, and conclusion. This will help you organize your thoughts, create a logical progression of ideas, and keep your paper focused on the main points.

8. Write the paper : Begin by writing a draft of your paper following your outline. Start with the body paragraphs, covering the main points and evidence for each, and then move on to the introduction and conclusion.

9. Revise and edit : After completing your draft, review it for content, organization, grammar, and style. Solicit feedback from peers and teachers who can provide constructive criticism and help you improve the paper.

10. Cite your sources : Use the appropriate citation style (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.) to document your sources in-text and in a bibliography or works cited page at the end of your paper.

To learn more, read this blog post: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-research-paper-in-high-school/

Don't forget to carefully follow your competition's specific guidelines and submission criteria throughout the process. Good luck with your research paper!

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100 Interesting Research Paper Topics for High Schoolers

What’s covered:, how to pick the right research topic, elements of a strong research paper.

Interesting Research Paper Topics

Composing a research paper can be a daunting task for first-time writers. In addition to making sure you’re using concise language and your thoughts are organized clearly, you need to find a topic that draws the reader in.

CollegeVine is here to help you brainstorm creative topics! Below are 100 interesting research paper topics that will help you engage with your project and keep you motivated until you’ve typed the final period.

A research paper is similar to an academic essay but more lengthy and requires more research. This added length and depth is bittersweet: although a research paper is more work, you can create a more nuanced argument, and learn more about your topic. Research papers are a demonstration of your research ability and your ability to formulate a convincing argument. How well you’re able to engage with the sources and make original contributions will determine the strength of your paper.

You can’t have a good research paper without a good research paper topic. “Good” is subjective, and different students will find different topics interesting. What’s important is that you find a topic that makes you want to find out more and make a convincing argument. Maybe you’ll be so interested that you’ll want to take it further and investigate some detail in even greater depth!

For example, last year over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a rigorous research program founded by Harvard researchers. The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . The program actually does not require you to have a research topic in mind when you apply, but pro tip: the more specific you can be the more likely you are to get in!

Introduction

The introduction to a research paper serves two critical functions: it conveys the topic of the paper and illustrates how you will address it. A strong introduction will also pique the interest of the reader and make them excited to read more. Selecting a research paper topic that is meaningful, interesting, and fascinates you is an excellent first step toward creating an engaging paper that people will want to read.

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is technically part of the introduction—generally the last sentence of it—but is so important that it merits a section of its own. The thesis statement is a declarative sentence that tells the reader what the paper is about. A strong thesis statement serves three purposes: present the topic of the paper, deliver a clear opinion on the topic, and summarize the points the paper will cover.

An example of a good thesis statement of diversity in the workforce is:

Diversity in the workplace is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage for businesses, as it fosters innovation, enhances creativity, improves decision-making, and enables companies to better understand and connect with a diverse customer base.

The body is the largest section of a research paper. It’s here where you support your thesis, present your facts and research, and persuade the reader.

Each paragraph in the body of a research paper should have its own idea. The idea is presented, generally in the first sentence of the paragraph, by a topic sentence. The topic sentence acts similarly to the thesis statement, only on a smaller scale, and every sentence in the paragraph with it supports the idea it conveys.

An example of a topic sentence on how diversity in the workplace fosters innovation is:

Diversity in the workplace fosters innovation by bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, which stimulates creativity, encourages new ideas, and leads to the development of innovative solutions to complex problems.

The body of an engaging research paper flows smoothly from one idea to the next. Create an outline before writing and order your ideas so that each idea logically leads to another.

The conclusion of a research paper should summarize your thesis and reinforce your argument. It’s common to restate the thesis in the conclusion of a research paper.

For example, a conclusion for a paper about diversity in the workforce is:

In conclusion, diversity in the workplace is vital to success in the modern business world. By embracing diversity, companies can tap into the full potential of their workforce, promote creativity and innovation, and better connect with a diverse customer base, ultimately leading to greater success and a more prosperous future for all.

Reference Page

The reference page is normally found at the end of a research paper. It provides proof that you did research using credible sources, properly credits the originators of information, and prevents plagiarism.

There are a number of different formats of reference pages, including APA, MLA, and Chicago. Make sure to format your reference page in your teacher’s preferred style.

Analyze the benefits of diversity in education.
Are charter schools useful for the national education system?
How has modern technology changed teaching?
Discuss the pros and cons of standardized testing.
What are the benefits of a gap year between high school and college?
What funding allocations give the most benefit to students?
Does homeschooling set students up for success?
Should universities/high schools require students to be vaccinated?
What effect does rising college tuition have on high schoolers?
Do students perform better in same-sex schools?
Discuss and analyze the impacts of a famous musician on pop music.
How has pop music evolved over the past decade?
How has the portrayal of women in music changed in the media over the past decade?
How does a synthesizer work?
How has music evolved to feature different instruments/voices?
How has sound effect technology changed the music industry?
Analyze the benefits of music education in high schools.
Are rehabilitation centers more effective than prisons?
Are congestion taxes useful?
Does affirmative action help minorities?
Can a capitalist system effectively reduce inequality?
Is a three-branch government system effective?
What causes polarization in today’s politics?
Is the U.S. government racially unbiased?
Choose a historical invention and discuss its impact on society today.
Choose a famous historical leader who lost power—what led to their eventual downfall?
How has your country evolved over the past century?
What historical event has had the largest effect on the U.S.?
Has the government’s response to national disasters improved or declined throughout history?
Discuss the history of the American occupation of Iraq.
Explain the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Is literature relevant in modern society?
Discuss how fiction can be used for propaganda.
How does literature teach and inform about society?
Explain the influence of children’s literature on adulthood.
How has literature addressed homosexuality?
Does the media portray minorities realistically?
Does the media reinforce stereotypes?
Why have podcasts become so popular?
Will streaming end traditional television?
What is a patriot?
What are the pros and cons of global citizenship?
What are the causes and effects of bullying?
Why has the divorce rate in the U.S. been declining in recent years?
Is it more important to follow social norms or religion?
What are the responsible limits on abortion, if any?
How does an MRI machine work?
Would the U.S. benefit from socialized healthcare?
Elderly populations
The education system
State tax bases
How do anti-vaxxers affect the health of the country?
Analyze the costs and benefits of diet culture.
Should companies allow employees to exercise on company time?
What is an adequate amount of exercise for an adult per week/per month/per day?
Discuss the effects of the obesity epidemic on American society.
Are students smarter since the advent of the internet?
What departures has the internet made from its original design?
Has digital downloading helped the music industry?
Discuss the benefits and costs of stricter internet censorship.
Analyze the effects of the internet on the paper news industry.
What would happen if the internet went out?
How will artificial intelligence (AI) change our lives?
What are the pros and cons of cryptocurrency?
How has social media affected the way people relate with each other?
Should social media have an age restriction?
Discuss the importance of source software.
What is more relevant in today’s world: mobile apps or websites?
How will fully autonomous vehicles change our lives?
How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?

Mental Health

What are the benefits of daily exercise?
How has social media affected people’s mental health?
What things contribute to poor mental and physical health?
Analyze how mental health is talked about in pop culture.
Discuss the pros and cons of more counselors in high schools.
How does stress affect the body?
How do emotional support animals help people?
What are black holes?
Discuss the biggest successes and failures of the EPA.
How has the Flint water crisis affected life in Michigan?
Can science help save endangered species?
Is the development of an anti-cancer vaccine possible?

Environment

What are the effects of deforestation on climate change?
Is climate change reversible?
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect global warming and climate change?
Are carbon credits effective for offsetting emissions or just marketing?
Is nuclear power a safe alternative to fossil fuels?
Are hybrid vehicles helping to control pollution in the atmosphere?
How is plastic waste harming the environment?
Is entrepreneurism a trait people are born with or something they learn?
How much more should CEOs make than their average employee?
Can you start a business without money?
Should the U.S. raise the minimum wage?
Discuss how happy employees benefit businesses.
How important is branding for a business?
Discuss the ease, or difficulty, of landing a job today.
What is the economic impact of sporting events?
Are professional athletes overpaid?
Should male and female athletes receive equal pay?
What is a fair and equitable way for transgender athletes to compete in high school sports?
What are the benefits of playing team sports?
What is the most corrupt professional sport?

Where to Get More Research Paper Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original research topic ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

Unleashing Creativity in Research: How High Schoolers Can Find Unique and Engaging Research Topics

In a competitive college admissions landscape, research accomplishments can help make you stand out, both academically and in terms of extracurriculars. But to achieve these goals, you need to start with a unique and engaging research topic. In this blog post we explain the importance of high school research projects for college admissions, share expert tips for finding your own compelling research topics, and offer you lots of examples of great research topics in different subject areas.

The Importance of Research for High Schoolers

Academic knowledge is driven by inquiry, and virtually all inquiry prompts us to engage in research that advances learning or solves problems. Not only will you need research skills to excel in college, but engaging in high-quality research projects while you’re still in high school can do a lot more than just get you a better grade.

For example, engaging in original research that aligns with your personal passions is a great way to spotlight you curiosity and motivation. And, if you tailor your research project to dovetail with other scholars’ interests, or with a compelling practical application or area of public interest, you’re already spotlighting for admissions officers your ability to apply learning to real life problem solving and public service.

Finally, because a sophisticated research project hones core academic skills, boosts subject-matter learning dramatically, and showcases your academic drive and motivation, an extracurricular research project can go a long way in elevating your college admissions profile!

Great Research Starts with a Great Research Topic

To get the most of a research project, it’s crucial to start with a unique and compelling research topic.

With a research topic that’s relevant and engaging, you’ll get more for the time and effort you’ll be investing in your research project.

Here’s just some of the benefits you can get from a well-designed research project with an interesting and relevant research topic:

learn new information that’s not covered in your regular classes
discover cutting-edge ideas, interests, and unanswered questions in your field of interest
move from passive learning to actively exploring hypotheses and contributing to academic conversations to science, to public policy, or to problem solving
make important strides as a student, by consolidating your learning and contributing new insights to your field of interest

With research projects offering so many benefits for high school students, it’s crucial to remember that all winning research starts with a winning research topic!

So let’s get started!

How to Develop a Great Research Topic

Researching something you’re passionate about that’s original, relevant, and compelling is key to turning your research effort into something that really helps you grow and stand out academically.

But, if you aren’t going to settle for an overly cliche or general research topic, how do you find one that’s truly engaging and also right for your interests?

Using a thorough and tested multi-step process is probably the best way to chart your own path to a unique and engaging research topic.

Brainstorming: Good old-fashioned brainstorming is almost certain to help you tap into your own passions and jumpstart the work of developing a great topic. You’re likely to surprise yourself with your own creativity. Be sure to write your ideas down; then finish this step by creating a “short list” of the topic ideas you believe to be most promising.
Exploratory Research: Sometimes you just need to know a bit more about an area of research in order to come up with the best research topics. Exploratory research is often easy to do online, and is a great way to get insights into the subject matter terrain you’re considering in order to:
find additional topic ideas
deepen or narrow a topic idea
decide if a topic is worth pursuing further

TIP: If you’re exploring topics for a PERSONAL ESSAY for college applications, be sure to check out Crimson Education’s Free Topic & Idea Generator .

Or, do you want to learn more about research-focused extracurriculars for high schoolers , with added guidance and learning in the form research mentorships, internship placements, proposal writing competitions, or summer research intensives? If so, reach out to a Crimson Education Advisor for more information.

Defining and Refining Your Research Topic or Question: A research paper or project typically involves more than just a short essay: you’ll have to craft a driving question or hypothesis and synthesize information from a variety of sources:
Is your topic broad enough to invite meaningful inquiry?
Is it complex enough to incorporate and evaluate competing perspectives?
Is there a way to use specific experiments, examples, or case study approaches in order to keep the project focused?
Outside Guidance and Advice: Getting guidance and input from teachers or professors, other mentors, or industry professionals can be immensely valuable for uncovering new topics or for refining your existing topic ideas!

TIP: Many professionals find it gratifying to talk about their work with an interested young scholar, so don’t be afraid to ask someone in the field for input — it’s a great way to get an expert perspective can really transform a good research topic into a great one.

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Examples of Research Topics Across Disciplines

We’ve covered a lot of ground already, but maybe you’re still wondering, okay, what does a good research topic look like?

As you review the examples below, you can evaluate them on your own by asking yourself:

Is the topic open-ended enough? Can the topic be explored with evidence, critical thinking, a case study approach, or some form of scientific method?
Is the topic relevant and interesting? Does the topic advance scholarly or academic conversations? Or contribute to an area of public interest or social debate? Or have some kind of scientific value?

Topics in Schools & Education

Should high schools re-invest in vocational education or focus exclusively on a college prep curriculum?
Should ethnic studies courses and curricula in public schools be required, optional, or eliminated ?
How can we predict the impacts tools like Chat-GPT will have on student learning?
Should countries have national curriculum standards, or should local communities and school boards decide what is taught in schools?
Have charter schools helped the US improve the public education system?
What countries appear to have the best education systems and what features do they have in common, if any?

Topics in History

What do important examples in history teach us about the causes of civil war and how to prevent civil war?
Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt are among the highest ranking US presidents, based on scholarly estimations and public opinions. What do their presidencies teach us about the qualities of great political leadership?
What constitutes the US’s greatest military or national defense failure? What lessons can policymakers draw from it?
Does the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict offer any insights into how to end it today?
What can we learn about democracy today based on the successes and failures of ancient experiments in democracy?
If used as primary source evidence by historians, how can art illuminate social history or social progress?

Topics in Government

Should we protect or abolish the Electoral College in the US?
Using Canada as a model, what are the pros and cons of a nationalized healthcare system?
Is affirmative action good public policy?
Should we reform the US Supreme Court? Why or why not?
Using carbon cap & trade policy, or a similar economic policy as an example, how effective are economic incentives for solving big social problems?
Should there be a global revenue tax on large global technology companies?
Should industrial countries do more to help developing countries cope with the effects of climate change?

Topics in Literature

How does literature give a voice to the voiceless?
Why are some books banned or censored?
Is literature educational or just entertainment?
Do graphic novels count as literature?
What characterizes the works of authors who have won Nobel Prizes for literature?
Can literature — in the form of novels, short stories, essays, or plays — change the course of history?

Topics in Society, Health, & Human Psychology

What are the best ways to reduce and prevent bullying?
Should we criminalize hate speech?
Since loneliness has been shown to decrease life expectancy, are there any promising ways to combat it?
What can schools do to help reduce mental health suffering in teens and young adults?
Do we truly live in an “age of anxiety”? What do the indicators tell us about the scope of the problem and possible remedies?

Topics in Sports

Should college athletes get paid?
What are the benefits and downsides of participating in athletics in high school?
What sports should be eliminated from the Olympics and which ones added? Why?
How can we use sports to increase international goodwill and cooperation?

Topics in Technology and Social Media

Should there be more age restrictions on social media access?
How can society address hate speech and/or disinformation in social media?
Should employers encourage or discourage more remote work arrangements?

Interdisciplinary Examples

Another great way to pick a research topic is to explore interdisciplinary areas of research . In fact, many engaging research topics are going to naturally encompass different disciplines.

Here are some examples of topics that bridge two or more disciplines:

What concept(s) from the field of economics might help us find ways to improve education?
How can we use marketing principles to develop better public awareness campaigns for reducing teen vaping?
Does participating in team sports help improve mental health?
How can we apply insights from either microeconomics or from organizational psychology to improve health and fitness?
How can concepts from the study of linguistics help us understand political messaging and address political polarization?
What are additional ways we can leverage economic incentives to combat global warming?
Does mainstream advertising have an impact on social prejudices and stereotypes?

The Social Impact Factor

You should always consider if there are ways to shape your research topic to make your research project more relevant and consequential.

As an illustration, look at the two pairs of research topics below.

Compare the topics in each pair. Does A) or B) have more relevance or urgency in your opinion? Why?

A) What are the personal benefits of participating in team sports?

B) How can we use access to team sports programs in high schools to address today’s teen mental health crisis?

A) How can we use insights from linguistics to promote nonviolence and conflict resolution?

B) How can we use insights from linguistics to reduce extreme political polarization?

If your research topic address a clear “need,” “challenge” or “problem,” your audience is likely to find the topic more engaging and relevant.

What to Do When You’re Not Sure You Have a Good Research Topic?

If you’re not sure if you have a good topic, use the simple rubric below and see how your topic stacks up.

Compelling interest and social relevance. Does your research topic set you up to shed light on an important academic or scientific question? Does it illuminate a controversial and consequential social issue? Will it help solve a consequential problem? If so, you have a topic that will help you stay motivated and be more engaging for your audience.

Personally fulfilling. Whatever research topic you choose, it needs to be a research topic that relates to your own learning interests and passions, otherwise it’s hard to imagine that you’ll get the results you hoped for.

Important academic considerations. A good essay topic will offer valuable benefits for your academic growth and college journey: enhancing and accelerating your learning in one or more disciplines you enjoy studying and boosting your overall academic profile.

Research Resources

Once you’ve selected a research topic, you’ll obviously need to gather information from various sources and synthesize it into a coherent set of claims, findings, or arguments.

Here's a list of basic research tools and resources that you might find useful:

Libraries and Librarians

Libraries, especially academic libraries, are the researcher’s paradise.

If there’s a drawback to libraries, it’s not a lack of resources, but the challenge of finding your way to what’s most useful and relevant!

Fortunately, most libraries come with librarians who are trained to help researchers find the right resources, so don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Popular Kinds of Library Research Resources

Books: Useful for in-depth information, background information, historical context.

TIP: Don’t worry about how “long” a book is — use the table of contents and indexes to navigate to the information you need.

Academic Journals: Get scholarly articles useful for gathering more specialized and more up-to-date information about your topic.

Magazines and Newspapers: Good resources for getting interesting quotes from experts in a current events context or for exploring diverse public perspectives and viewpoints.

Online Platforms and Databases: Although some of these, such as Google Scholar are free and easy to access from any computer and internet browser, it’s often easier to get free access to many others with the help of a school or public library acting as an intermediary. Also, there are so many digital resources and databases, that we recommend getting assistance in this area from a trained librarian.

Reference Librarians: Last but not at all least, take advantage of librarians! They are not a direct research source of course, but may help you navigate quickly to the most useful research resources for your particular topic.

TIP: In many larger libraries, the librarians specially trained to help patrons with research are commonly referred to as reference librarians.

Internet Search Engines

Most young scholars today are already well acquainted with internet searches and search engines, with Google and Bing among the most popular.

Here’s a few tips for upping your internet search prowess:

Refine your search parameters with more sophisticated search terms and search engine settings
Know how to identify trustworthy and reliable internet sources

Educational Websites

There are a number of .edu websites operated by reputable sources that provide access to a range of educational content for students at different grade levels. Here are just a few examples:

Khan Academy: Comprehensive overviews and instructional videos on a variety of subjects
BBC Bitesize: Provides study guides for different topics (especially for UK curriculum)
National Geographic Education: Great for geography, history, and science topics
The Learning Network: (NY Times): Educational perspectives on a wide range of current events topics
The PBS Newshour Classroom: A respected educational website covering a range of topics

Government and Organization Websites

There are also lots of government ( .gov ) websites offering useful information for researchers. An upside of .gov websites is they are among the most objective and reliable sources of information, appropriate for academic research. Examples in the US include:

The White House
The Department of State
Science.gov
Department of Justice
Department of Agriculture
Department of Education

Websites operated by large, well-established, and highly reputable organizations are also typically good sources of information for researchers.

Examples could be highly reputable news organizations , such as US News and World Report , The BBC , Time Magazine , or The New York Times . Most of these news outlets also have searchable online resources.

Alternately, large international organizations , such as the United Nations or the World Health Organization, or the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation can also be reliable sources of information.

Documentaries and Educational Videos

Easy to overlook as research resources are any number of educational videos, podcasts, and documentary films.

YouTube educational channels such as CrashCourse and TED-Ed are two examples.

Likewise, ordinary streaming services may also list informative, high-quality documentaries.

Final Thoughts

In this post, we've explored a wide array of strategies and considerations for choosing a compelling research topic. From brainstorming and exploratory research to defining and refining your topic with guidance from mentors and professionals, the journey to selecting the right topic is as important as the research itself!

The Power of a Good Topic: Remember, an intriguing and relevant topic will not only captivate your audience but keep you motivated to the finish line.

Aligning with Your Interests: Does your topic resonate with your personal learning interests and goals? This alignment is crucial for achieving fulfilling and meaningful outcomes.

Practical Considerations: Consider how your chosen topic can enhance your understanding and passion in your field of study, especially in the context of your future academic and career goals.

Finally, don't underestimate the value of the resources and tools available for research exploration.

From online search to electronic databases and journals, to librarians themselves, these tools are pivotal in helping you refine your research interests and embark on a successful research project.

Interested in exploring more options for pre-college research experiences? Want information about more advanced research mentorships, competitions, internships, or initiatives? Connecting with a Crimson Education Advisor is the best way to find opportunities like these, both online and around the world, based on your individual interests and preferences.

These opportunities can take you well beyond ordinary classroom research assignments, connecting you with like-minded peers for group projects, with schools hosting summer research intensives or fun and prestigious research competitions, or with university mentors…

We’ve helped thousands of students just like you elevate their extracurriculars with opportunities like these! Contact a friendly Crimson Education Advisor today and find out what you can do…

Finally, stay tuned for future blogs that explore extracurriculars, interesting future careers, diverse majors, and insights for boosting your university admissions strategy!

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Key Resources & Further Reading

Join our free webinars on US university applications
Free eBooks and guides to help with the college application process

About the Author

Keith Nickolaus

Keith Nickolaus is a former educator with a passion for languages, literature, and lifelong learning. After obtaining a B.A. from UC Santa Cruz and exploring university life in Paris, Keith earned his Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, and then worked for 16 years in K12 education before setting up shop as a freelance writer.

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How To Write A Research Paper

Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples + FREE Template

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | March 2024

For many students, crafting a strong research paper from scratch can feel like a daunting task – and rightly so! In this post, we’ll unpack what a research paper is, what it needs to do , and how to write one – in three easy steps. 🙂

Overview: Writing A Research Paper

What (exactly) is a research paper.

How to write a research paper
Stage 1 : Topic & literature search
Stage 2 : Structure & outline
Stage 3 : Iterative writing
Key takeaways

Let’s start by asking the most important question, “ What is a research paper? ”.

Simply put, a research paper is a scholarly written work where the writer (that’s you!) answers a specific question (this is called a research question ) through evidence-based arguments . Evidence-based is the keyword here. In other words, a research paper is different from an essay or other writing assignments that draw from the writer’s personal opinions or experiences. With a research paper, it’s all about building your arguments based on evidence (we’ll talk more about that evidence a little later).

Now, it’s worth noting that there are many different types of research papers , including analytical papers (the type I just described), argumentative papers, and interpretative papers. Here, we’ll focus on analytical papers , as these are some of the most common – but if you’re keen to learn about other types of research papers, be sure to check out the rest of the blog .

With that basic foundation laid, let’s get down to business and look at how to write a research paper .

Overview: The 3-Stage Process

While there are, of course, many potential approaches you can take to write a research paper, there are typically three stages to the writing process. So, in this tutorial, we’ll present a straightforward three-step process that we use when working with students at Grad Coach.

These three steps are:

Finding a research topic and reviewing the existing literature
Developing a provisional structure and outline for your paper, and
Writing up your initial draft and then refining it iteratively

Let’s dig into each of these.

Need a helping hand?

what is the focus of most high school research papers

Step 1: Find a topic and review the literature

As we mentioned earlier, in a research paper, you, as the researcher, will try to answer a question . More specifically, that’s called a research question , and it sets the direction of your entire paper. What’s important to understand though is that you’ll need to answer that research question with the help of high-quality sources – for example, journal articles, government reports, case studies, and so on. We’ll circle back to this in a minute.

The first stage of the research process is deciding on what your research question will be and then reviewing the existing literature (in other words, past studies and papers) to see what they say about that specific research question. In some cases, your professor may provide you with a predetermined research question (or set of questions). However, in many cases, you’ll need to find your own research question within a certain topic area.

Finding a strong research question hinges on identifying a meaningful research gap – in other words, an area that’s lacking in existing research. There’s a lot to unpack here, so if you wanna learn more, check out the plain-language explainer video below.

Once you’ve figured out which question (or questions) you’ll attempt to answer in your research paper, you’ll need to do a deep dive into the existing literature – this is called a “ literature search ”. Again, there are many ways to go about this, but your most likely starting point will be Google Scholar .

If you’re new to Google Scholar, think of it as Google for the academic world. You can start by simply entering a few different keywords that are relevant to your research question and it will then present a host of articles for you to review. What you want to pay close attention to here is the number of citations for each paper – the more citations a paper has, the more credible it is (generally speaking – there are some exceptions, of course).

Ideally, what you’re looking for are well-cited papers that are highly relevant to your topic. That said, keep in mind that citations are a cumulative metric , so older papers will often have more citations than newer papers – just because they’ve been around for longer. So, don’t fixate on this metric in isolation – relevance and recency are also very important.

Beyond Google Scholar, you’ll also definitely want to check out academic databases and aggregators such as Science Direct, PubMed, JStor and so on. These will often overlap with the results that you find in Google Scholar, but they can also reveal some hidden gems – so, be sure to check them out.

Once you’ve worked your way through all the literature, you’ll want to catalogue all this information in some sort of spreadsheet so that you can easily recall who said what, when and within what context. If you’d like, we’ve got a free literature spreadsheet that helps you do exactly that.

Don’t fixate on an article’s citation count in isolation - relevance (to your research question) and recency are also very important.

Step 2: Develop a structure and outline

With your research question pinned down and your literature digested and catalogued, it’s time to move on to planning your actual research paper .

It might sound obvious, but it’s really important to have some sort of rough outline in place before you start writing your paper. So often, we see students eagerly rushing into the writing phase, only to land up with a disjointed research paper that rambles on in multiple

Now, the secret here is to not get caught up in the fine details . Realistically, all you need at this stage is a bullet-point list that describes (in broad strokes) what you’ll discuss and in what order. It’s also useful to remember that you’re not glued to this outline – in all likelihood, you’ll chop and change some sections once you start writing, and that’s perfectly okay. What’s important is that you have some sort of roadmap in place from the start.

You need to have a rough outline in place before you start writing your paper - or you’ll end up with a disjointed research paper that rambles on.

At this stage you might be wondering, “ But how should I structure my research paper? ”. Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution here, but in general, a research paper will consist of a few relatively standardised components:

Introduction
Literature review
Methodology

Let’s take a look at each of these.

First up is the introduction section . As the name suggests, the purpose of the introduction is to set the scene for your research paper. There are usually (at least) four ingredients that go into this section – these are the background to the topic, the research problem and resultant research question , and the justification or rationale. If you’re interested, the video below unpacks the introduction section in more detail.

The next section of your research paper will typically be your literature review . Remember all that literature you worked through earlier? Well, this is where you’ll present your interpretation of all that content . You’ll do this by writing about recent trends, developments, and arguments within the literature – but more specifically, those that are relevant to your research question . The literature review can oftentimes seem a little daunting, even to seasoned researchers, so be sure to check out our extensive collection of literature review content here .

With the introduction and lit review out of the way, the next section of your paper is the research methodology . In a nutshell, the methodology section should describe to your reader what you did (beyond just reviewing the existing literature) to answer your research question. For example, what data did you collect, how did you collect that data, how did you analyse that data and so on? For each choice, you’ll also need to justify why you chose to do it that way, and what the strengths and weaknesses of your approach were.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that for some research papers, this aspect of the project may be a lot simpler . For example, you may only need to draw on secondary sources (in other words, existing data sets). In some cases, you may just be asked to draw your conclusions from the literature search itself (in other words, there may be no data analysis at all). But, if you are required to collect and analyse data, you’ll need to pay a lot of attention to the methodology section. The video below provides an example of what the methodology section might look like.

By this stage of your paper, you will have explained what your research question is, what the existing literature has to say about that question, and how you analysed additional data to try to answer your question. So, the natural next step is to present your analysis of that data . This section is usually called the “results” or “analysis” section and this is where you’ll showcase your findings.

Depending on your school’s requirements, you may need to present and interpret the data in one section – or you might split the presentation and the interpretation into two sections. In the latter case, your “results” section will just describe the data, and the “discussion” is where you’ll interpret that data and explicitly link your analysis back to your research question. If you’re not sure which approach to take, check in with your professor or take a look at past papers to see what the norms are for your programme.

Alright – once you’ve presented and discussed your results, it’s time to wrap it up . This usually takes the form of the “ conclusion ” section. In the conclusion, you’ll need to highlight the key takeaways from your study and close the loop by explicitly answering your research question. Again, the exact requirements here will vary depending on your programme (and you may not even need a conclusion section at all) – so be sure to check with your professor if you’re unsure.

Step 3: Write and refine

Finally, it’s time to get writing. All too often though, students hit a brick wall right about here… So, how do you avoid this happening to you?

Well, there’s a lot to be said when it comes to writing a research paper (or any sort of academic piece), but we’ll share three practical tips to help you get started.

First and foremost , it’s essential to approach your writing as an iterative process. In other words, you need to start with a really messy first draft and then polish it over multiple rounds of editing. Don’t waste your time trying to write a perfect research paper in one go. Instead, take the pressure off yourself by adopting an iterative approach.

Secondly , it’s important to always lean towards critical writing , rather than descriptive writing. What does this mean? Well, at the simplest level, descriptive writing focuses on the “ what ”, while critical writing digs into the “ so what ” – in other words, the implications. If you’re not familiar with these two types of writing, don’t worry! You can find a plain-language explanation here.

Last but not least, you’ll need to get your referencing right. Specifically, you’ll need to provide credible, correctly formatted citations for the statements you make. We see students making referencing mistakes all the time and it costs them dearly. The good news is that you can easily avoid this by using a simple reference manager . If you don’t have one, check out our video about Mendeley, an easy (and free) reference management tool that you can start using today.

Recap: Key Takeaways

We’ve covered a lot of ground here. To recap, the three steps to writing a high-quality research paper are:

To choose a research question and review the literature
To plan your paper structure and draft an outline
To take an iterative approach to writing, focusing on critical writing and strong referencing

Remember, this is just a b ig-picture overview of the research paper development process and there’s a lot more nuance to unpack. So, be sure to grab a copy of our free research paper template to learn more about how to write a research paper.

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Exploring High School Research Paper Topics

Research papers provide an opportunity for students to hone their skills in critical thinking, creativity, and scholarly communication. The process of selecting a research topic can be daunting for high school students who may not have previous experience with formal academic inquiry. In this article, we will explore the various ways that high school teachers can support their students’ exploration of interesting and engaging research topics while also teaching essential research paper writing skills.

I. Introduction to High School Research Paper Topics

Brainstorming and Choosing a Topic: Before selecting research paper topics high school students should consider the expectations of their teachers, as well as any individual requirements they may have. It is important to ensure that whatever topic chosen will not only be interesting for the student, but also relevant to the assignment given. When brainstorming possible ideas it can be helpful to generate multiple topics related to a single subject or concept in order to create more unique options.

Research potential avenues of exploration through magazines, books, websites and other resources.
Create categories based on common themes between your ideas; this allows you organize them logically.

When researching research paper topics high school students must focus on finding reliable sources with information which pertains specifically to their project. As part of this process it is wise for students think about questions they might want answered throughout their investigation as these can help guide discussion points during writing time. Questions such as “What does my research mean?” and “How has this impacted people historically?” are especially useful when considering how best approach an issue from an academic perspective .

II. The Value of Researching High School-Level Topics

and writing.

Researching high school-level topics can provide an invaluable opportunity to develop skills necessary for success in post-secondary education. Analytical thinking, effective communication of ideas through writing, and the development of independent study habits are all important areas that students should focus on developing during their pre-university years.

When researching paper topics at the high school level, it is beneficial to choose a topic which piques your curiosity as this encourages deeper exploration into research materials such as books or scholarly articles. Taking care when analyzing evidence while forming arguments will help prepare students for university courses where these same techniques must be employed more intensively; particularly those related to research paper topics high school . Investigating possible sources ahead of time also demonstrates competency in accessing quality resources—a skill essential for successful completion of most course work beyond secondary education.

Some specific advantages gained from studying research paper topics high school :

• Develops key academic skills such as analytical reading & synthesis;

• Practicing constructing cogent argumentation leading towards critical reflection;

• Enhances confidence when working with information obtained from credible sources ;

• Improves organizational skills by providing structure around any piece of writing – including timelines & checklists , etc.;

• Refines practical understanding required when presenting research results orally or visually .

III. Identifying and Narrowing Down Suitable Research Paper Subjects

When it comes to selecting a research paper topic, the primary focus should be on choosing something that is of interest and relevant to the student’s field of study. By understanding what areas they are most interested in, students can begin narrowing down suitable research paper subjects by considering factors such as availability of resources and access to information.

Research Availability: It is important for the student identify if there are enough sources available for their chosen subject or whether further research may need to be done outside traditional academic outlets.
Narrowing Down: Once students have identified potential topics, they can narrow them down according to suitability and relevance – including time frames such as current trends versus historical evidence depending on their particular assignment. Additionally, with any “research paper topics high school” , an emphasis must also be placed on ensuring originality in order stand out from others who may choose similar ideas.

In this case, it will help if students take notes while researching different materials related to possible “research paper topics high school”. . Making use of existing classification systems (e.g., geographic area) could make determining similarities/differences easier when comparing various papers already published against those still under consideration by the student(s). Lastly yet importantly, even though sources found online may contain valuable information; however these should not constitute all material referenced within a project since relying solely upon digital media reduces validity due its general lack for effective peer review processes compared towards journal articles or other scholarly work generally accepted within academia circles..

IV. Choosing a Topic That Is Not Too Broad or Too Narrow for the Assignment Parameters

Choosing an appropriate research paper topic that adheres to the parameters of a given assignment is an important part of writing any successful high school research paper. It can be challenging to decide whether your chosen topic is too broad or too narrow, but there are several strategies you can use to find a suitable balance.

Conduct preliminary research . Researching potential topics helps you gain insights into their complexity and breadth of available information. If it appears difficult to locate adequate sources on a particular subject, then this could indicate that the topic may not have enough depth for further investigation.
Narrow your focus . Depending on the length and scope of your assignment, narrowing down your focus may be necessary in order for it to fit within its parameters. Consider breaking up broader subjects by looking at them from different angles or limiting yourself geographically when exploring certain areas such as art history or current events related research paper topics high school .

V. Locating Sources of Relevant Information About the Chosen Topic

When writing research papers, it is essential to locate sources of relevant information about the chosen topic. There are several ways to do this:

Libraries: Traditional libraries remain an important source for locating resources related to a given topic or subject area.
Internet Search Engines: The internet provides students with access to vast amounts of reliable and up-to-date information on virtually any research paper topics high school they may encounter. Google Scholar can be especially useful in finding academic material.

VI. Organizing, Summarizing and Presenting Data in an Effective Manner

Understanding the Presentation of Data

Data presentation involves summarizing and organizing information in an understandable format.
This is done by analyzing various aspects, such as qualitative or quantitative observations, before drawing conclusions from them.
“Research paper topics high school” can be used to help students understand data better.

Finding Patterns & Interpreting Results Once all of the data has been collected, it must be organized into meaningful patterns that are easy for audiences to comprehend. This may involve creating graphs, charts or tables with key findings. The interpretation of these results should then be discussed in order to gain insight on potential trends or relationships between different variables. For instance: “What does this research paper topics high school indicate about student’s abilities? How could this influence policy decisions?” . .

VII. Strategies for Writing a Quality Final Draft

Proofreading and Revision

Once the paper is finished, it’s important to review your work for any mistakes or errors. It’s best to read through the paper from start-to-finish in one sitting and also look over each paragraph separately to ensure accuracy. Additionally, make sure that all facts are accurate and supported with research if applicable; especially when writing about topics such as research paper topics high school students might be studying. Take a few days between drafting and proofing so that you can come back fresh – this will help you spot more minor errors like typos or missing words.

Making Your Final Draft Shine

After making revisions based on feedback, there are some additional strategies which can take your final draft up another notch:

Review sentence structure – Make sure sentences flow well together by avoiding run-on sentences as well as overly long ones.
Pay attention to tone – Depending on the type of assignment being written (e.g., persuasive essays), maintain an appropriate tone throughout while still keeping true to yourself.

In conclusion, taking these steps into consideration when producing a final draft of an essay about research paper topics high school students may be researching will help them submit quality assignments which reflect their abilities accurately! This article has explored various high school research paper topics to consider and provide guidance on when selecting a topic. It is hoped that the provided resources are helpful for those wanting to write their own academic papers. As with any project, careful consideration must be taken in order to ensure an effective result; therefore, it is recommended that students take the time necessary to adequately explore these topics before committing themselves fully. Finally, taking into account this information should enable individuals considering writing their own academic research papers at a high school level gain valuable insight towards achieving success with their endeavours.

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 great research paper topics.

General Education

One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

Current Events

What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
Should graduate students be able to form unions?

What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
How does stress affect the body?
Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
What were the causes of the Civil War?
How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
What caused Hitler's rise to power?
Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
What are the pros and cons of fracking?
What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
How are black holes created?
Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
Has social media made people more or less connected?
What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

Are you also learning about dynamic equilibrium in your science class? We break this sometimes tricky concept down so it's easy to understand in our complete guide to dynamic equilibrium .

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Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa).

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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The Complete Guide to Independent Research Projects for High School Students

Indigo Research Team

If you want to get into top universities, an independent research project will give your application the competitive edge it needs.

Writing and publishing independent research during high school lets you demonstrate to top colleges and universities that you can deeply inquire into a topic, think critically, and produce original analysis. In fact, MIT features "Research" and "Maker" portfolio sections in its application, highlighting the value it places on self-driven projects.

Moreover, successfully executing high-quality research shows potential employers that you can rise to challenges, manage your time, contribute new ideas, and work independently.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to take on independent study ideas and succeed. You’ll learn how to develop a compelling topic, conduct rigorous research, and ultimately publish your findings.

What is an Independent Research Project?

An independent research project is a self-directed investigation into an academic question or topic that interests you. Unlike projects assigned by teachers in class, independent research will allow you to explore your curiosity and passions.

These types of projects can vary widely between academic disciplines and scientific fields, but what connects them is a step-by-step approach to answering a research question. Specifically, you will have to collect and analyze data and draw conclusions from your analysis.

For a high school student, carrying out quality research may still require some mentorship from a teacher or other qualified scholar. But the project research ideas should come from you, the student. The end goal is producing original research and analysis around a topic you care about.

Some key features that define an independent study project include:

● Formulating your own research question

● Designing the methodology

● Conducting a literature review of existing research

● Gathering and analyzing data, and

● Communicating your findings.

The topic and scope may be smaller than a professional college academic project, but the process and skills learned have similar benefits.

Why Should High School Students Do Independent Research?

High school students who engage in independent study projects gain valuable skills and experiences that benefit and serve them well in their college and career pursuits. Here's a breakdown of what you will typically acquire:

Develop Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Research and critical thinking are among the top 10 soft skills in demand in 2024 . They help you solve new challenges quickly and come up with alternative solutions

An independent project will give you firsthand experience with essential research skills like forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting results. These skills will serve you well in college and when employed in any industry.

Stand Out for College Applications

With many applicants having similar GPAs and test scores, an Independent research study offer a chance to stand out from the crowd. Completing a research study in high school signals colleges that you are self-motivated and capable of high-level work. Showcasing your research process, findings, and contributions in your application essays or interviews can boost your application's strengths in top-level colleges and universities.

Earn Scholarship Opportunities

Completing an independent research project makes you a more preferred candidate for merit-based scholarships, especially in STEM fields. Many scholarships reward students who show initiative by pursuing projects outside of class requirements. Your research project ideas will demonstrate your skills and motivation to impress scholarship committees. For example, the Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology rewards students with original independent research projects in STEM fields. Others include the Garcia Summer Program and the BioGENEius challenge for life sciences.

Gain Subject Area Knowledge

Independent projects allow you to immerse yourself in a topic you genuinely care about beyond what is covered in the classroom. It's a chance to become an expert in something you're passionate about . You will build deep knowledge in the topic area you choose to research, which can complement what you're learning in related classes. This expertise can even help inform your career interests and goals.

Develop Time Management Skills

Time Management is the skill that lets you effectively plan and prioritize tasks and avoid procrastination. With no teacher guiding you step-by-step, independent study projects require strong time management, self-discipline, and personal responsibility – skills critical in college and adulthood.

Types of Independent Research Projects for High School Students

Understanding the different types and categories can spark inspiration if you need help finding an idea for an independent study. Topics for independent research generally fall into a few main buckets:

Science Experiments

For students interested in STEM fields, designing and carrying out science experiments is a great option. Test a hypothesis, collect data, and draw conclusions. Experiments in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and psychology are common choices. Science experiment is best for self-motivated students with access to lab equipment.

Social Science Surveys and Studies

Use research methods from sociology, political science, anthropology, economics, and psychology to craft a survey study or field observation around a high school research project idea that interests you. Collect data from peers, your community, and online sources, and compile findings. Strong fit for students interested in social studies.

Literary Analysis Paper

This research category involves analyzing existing research papers, books, and articles on a specific topic. Imagine exploring the history of robots, examining the impact of social media on mental health, or comparing different interpretations of a classic novel. If you are an English enthusiast, this is an easy chance to showcase your analytical writing skills.

Programming or Engineering Project

For aspiring programmers or engineers, you can take on practical student projects that develop software programs, apps, websites, robots, electronic gadgets, or other hands-on engineering projects. This type of project will easily highlight your technical skills and interest in computer science or engineering fields in your college applications

Historical Research

History research projects will allow you to travel back and uncover the past to inform the future. This research involves analyzing historical documents, artifacts, and records to shed light on a specific event or period. For example, you can conduct independent research on the impact of a local historical figure or the evolution of fashion throughout the decades. Check to explore even more history project ideas for high school students .

Artistic and Creative Works

If you are artistic and love creating art, you can explore ideas for independent study to produce an original film, musical composition, sculpture, painting series, fashion line, or other creative work. Alongside the tangible output, document your creative process and inspirations.

Bonus Tip: Feel free to mix different ideas for your project. For example, you could conduct a literature review on a specific historical event and follow it up with field research that interviewed people who experienced the event firsthand.

How To Conduct an Independent Research Project

Now that you have ideas for project topics that match your interests and strengths, here are the critical steps you must follow to move from mere concept to completed study.

1. Get Expert Guidance and Mentorship

As a high school student just starting out in research, it is advised to collaborate with more experienced mentors who will help you learn the ropes of research projects easily. Mentors are usually professors, post-doctoral researchers, or graduate students with significant experience in conducting independent project research and can guide you through the process.

Specifically, your mentor will advise you on formulating research questions, designing methodologies, analyzing data, and communicating findings effectively. To quickly find mentors in your research project area of interest, enroll in an online academic research mentorship program that targets high school students. You’d be exposed to one-on-one sessions with professors and graduate students that will help you develop your research and publish your findings.

The right mentor can also help transform your independent project ideas into a study suitable for publication in relevant research journals. With their experience, mentors will guide you to follow the proper research methods and best practices. This ensures your work meets the standards required, avoiding rejection from journals.

2. Develop a Compelling Research Question

Once you are familiar with the type of independent research best suited to your strengths and interests, as explained in the previous section, the next step is to develop a question you want to answer in that field. This is called a research question and will serve as the foundation for your entire project.

The research question will drive your entire project, so it needs to be complex enough to merit investigation but clear enough to study. Here are some ts for crafting your research question:

● Align your research question(s) with topics you are passionate about and have some background knowledge. You will spend a significant amount of time on this question.

● Consult with your mentor teacher or professor to get feedback and guidance on developing a feasible, meaningful question

● Avoid overly broad questions better suited for doctoral dissertations. Narrow your focus to something manageable, but that still intrigues you.

● Pose your research question as an actual question, like "How does social media usage affect teen mental health?" The question should lay out the key variables you'll be investigating.

● Ensure your question and desired approach are ethically sound. You may need permission to study human subjects.

● Conduct preliminary research to ensure your question hasn't already been answered. You want to contribute something new to your field.

With a compelling research question as your compass, you're ready to start your independent study project. Remember to stay flexible; you may need to refine the question further as your research develops.

3. Set a Timeline and Write a Proposal

After defining your research question, the next step is to map out a timeline for completing your research project. This will keep you organized and help you develop strong time management skills.

Start by creating a schedule that outlines all major milestones from start to finish. In your schedule, allow plenty of time for research, experimentation, data analysis, and compiling your report. Always remember to build in some cushion for unexpected delays.

Moreover, you can use tools like Gantt charts to design a timeline for an independent research project . Gantt charts help you visualize your research project timeline at a glance. See the video below for a tutorial on designing a Gantt chart to plan your project schedule:

[YouTube Video on How to Make a Gantt Chart: https://youtu.be/un8j6QqpYa0?si=C2_I0C_ZBXS73kZy ]

Research Proposal

To have a clear direction of the step-by-step process for your independent study, write a 1-2 page research proposal to outline your question, goals, methodology, timeline, resources, and desired outcomes. Get feedback from your mentor to improve the proposal before starting your research.

Sticking to your timeline requires self-discipline. But strive to meet your goals and deadlines; it will build invaluable real-world skills in time and project management. With a plan in place, it's time to move forward with your research.

4. Do Your Research

This is the active phase where a student is conducting a research project. The specific method you will follow varies enormously based on your project type and field. You should have your methodology outlined in your approved research proposal already. However, most independent research has a similar basic process:

Review existing studies : Perform a literature review to understand current knowledge on your topic and inform your own hypothesis/framework. Read relevant studies, articles, and papers.
Create methodology materials : Design your independent research methodology for gathering data. This may involve experiments, surveys, interviews, field observations, or analysis of existing artifacts like texts or datasets.
Permissions and Equipment : Secure any necessary equipment and permissions. For example, if doing interviews, you'll need a recording device and consent from participants.
Collect your data : For science projects, perform experiments and record results. For surveys, recruit respondents and compile responses. Gather enough data to draw valid conclusions.
Analyze the data using appropriate techniques : Quantitative data may involve statistical analysis, while qualitative data requires coding for themes. Consult your mentor for direction.
Interpret the findings : Take care not to overstate conclusions. Look for patterns and relationships that shed light on your research question. Always maintain rigorous objectivity.

While a student's project methodology and its execution are unique, ensure you follow the standard practices in your field of interest to ensure high-quality acceptable results. You can always refer to the plan in your research proposal as you diligently carry out the steps required to execute your study. Ensure you have detailed records that document all your processes.

5. Write Your Final Paper and Presentation

Once you've completed your research, it's time to summarize and share your findings with the world by writing the final paper and designing its presentation. This involves synthesizing your work into clear, compelling reporting.

Drafting the paper will likely involve extensive writing and editing. Be prepared to go through multiple revisions to get the paper polished. Follow the standard format used in academic papers in your field; your mentor can provide you with examples of independent study related to yours. The final product should include:

Abstract : A short summary of your project and conclusions.
Introduction : Background on your topic, goals, and research questions.
Literature Review : Summary of relevant existing research in your field.
Methods : Detailed explanation of the methodology and process of your study.
Results : Presentation of the data and main findings from your research. Using visual representations like charts was helpful.
Discussion : Objective interpretation and analysis of the results and their significance.
Conclusion : Summary of your research contributions, limitations, and suggestions for future work.
References/Bibliography : Full citations for all sources referenced.

Adhere to clear academic writing principles to keep your writing objective and straightforward. Generally, stick to a 10-15 page length limit appropriate for student work. However, you may need to write more depending on your project type.

6. Research Presentation

After writing your research project report, you should prepare a presentation to share your research orally. Moreover, a research presentation is a tangible opportunity to practice public speaking and visual communication skills. Your presentation will include slides, handouts, demonstrations, or other aids to engage your audience and highlight key points in your independent study project.

Once you have written your final paper, you will likely want to publish it in relevant journals and publications. For detailed tips see our guide on how to publish your student research paper . Some options you have to formally publish your high school-level independent research include:

Submitting your paper to academic journals and competitions
Presenting at symposiums and science fairs
Sharing on online research databases
Adding your work to college applications

Publishing your independent project allows you to share your findings with broader scholarly and student audiences. It also helps amplify the impact of all your hard work.

Independent Research Project Examples

To spark creative ideas for independent research projects, it can be helpful to read through and examine examples of successful projects completed by other high school students in recent years. Here are some inspiring examples:

● Using machine learning to diagnose cancer based on blood markers (bioinformatics)

● Applying feature engineering and natural language processing to analyze Twitter data (data science)

● Investigating connections between stress levels and HIV/AIDS progression (health science)

● The Relationship between Color and Human Experience

These published i ndependent research project examples demonstrate the impressive research high schoolers take on using the Indigo research service with mentors from different fields. Let these case studies motivate your creative investigation and analysis of the best ideas for your project.

Need Mentorship for Your Independent Research Project?

As outlined in this guide, conducting a rigorous independent research study can be challenging without proper guidance from experts, especially for high school students. This is why partnering with an experienced research mentor is so crucial if your goal is to produce publishable research work.

With Indigo's structured research programs and ongoing expert feedback, you can elevate your high school independent study to a professional level. To get matched with the perfect research mentor aligned with your academic interests and passions, apply to Indigo Research now.

Indigo Research connects high school students with PhD-level researchers and professors who provide one-on-one mentorship through the entire research process - from refining your initial topic idea all the way through analyzing data, writing up results, and finalizing your findings.

Research Skills

Developing a research focus.

What is the difference between a subject and a topic ? What about between a research question and a research problem ? We often use these terms interchangeably, but they mean different things. As you begin to develop a personal research process, it is important to define these terms and be able to differentiate them. By the end of this section, you will be able to articulate a research question and develop a framework for a future study.

Topic vs. Subject

The best way to think about the difference between a topic and a subject is to think about the classes you took in high school. You took classes called “American History” and “World Literature,” but within those classes you studied more specific topics, like the Spanish-American War or The Aeneid . Academic research is similar. Your “subject” is your specialization within your major. If you are majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders, for example, you may be most interested in the field of Audiology. Audiology is a research subject .

You wouldn’t be able to write a research paper on audiology, however. It’s far too broad; there are entire courses—and graduate degrees—for audiology. The first step in developing a research focus is to narrow your general subject to a more specific topic .

Here are some examples of how common subjects can be broken up into more specific topics:

As you can see from the chart above, topics are much more specific than subjects and they are more manageable to use when determining a research focus. A topic doesn’t give you enough to dive in and start drafting, but it is enough to help you develop a framework for turning the topic into a successful research project.

So how do you get from subject to topic ? The next section will give you some strategies.

Finding your Topic

Now that you understand the connections between your major and your discipline and how these create an academic discourse community, you are ready to begin sifting through the current topics, issues, and concerns that your discourse community is focused on at present. In academia, as elsewhere, there are trending topics. These topics reflect what people in your discipline think is most important at the moment. It might be helpful for you to consider what you have discussed in your major courses, or what you and those in your major discuss most often. What challenges do your field and its practitioners face now and in the future? When determining your topic, you will likely go through a number of steps. These will help you to sort through the many topics you will encounter and to select a topic that is relevant, current, and interesting to you. The best research topics are well defined, sufficiently narrow, and part of a larger problem in your discipline.

Identifying a topic

To select a viable topic for your research project, you should:

Brainstorm about topics that you have encountered in your discourse community;
Select several potential topics based on your interest(s);
Ensure that the topic is manageable (i.e., that it is narrow enough);
Ensure that scholarly material is available;
Ensure that the topic is focused on a solvable problem;
List academic terms associated with this topic;
Use generated academic terms to search databases focused on your discipline; and
Define your topic as a focused research question.

First, have a look at this resource that describes the rather intricate process of finding a research topic that is sufficiently narrow, yet still present enough in the literature of your discourse community to support a semester-long project:

Check your understanding

Let’s say your assignment is to research an environmental issue. This is a broad starting point, which is a normal first step.

One way to customize your topic is to consider how different disciplines approach the same topic in different ways. For example, here’s how the broad topic of “environmental issues” might be approached from different perspectives:

Social Sciences: Economics of Using Wind to Produce Energy in the United States
Sciences : Impact of Climate Change on the Habitat of Desert Animals in Arizona
Arts and Humanities : Analysis of the Rhetoric of Environmental Protest Literature
Determining your Topic. Authored by : Andrew Davis & Kerry Bowers. Provided by : University of Mississippi. Project : WRIT 250 Committee . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike
OER Commons: Begin your Research. Provided by : OER Commons. Located at : https://www.oercommons.org/courseware/module/11888/overview . License : CC BY-NC: Attribution-NonCommercial

A guide to writing a scientific paper: a focus on high school through graduate level student research

Affiliation.

1 NIEHS Children's Environmental Health Sciences Core Center, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201, USA. [email protected]
PMID: 23094692
PMCID: PMC3528086
DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2012.0743

This article presents a detailed guide for high school through graduate level instructors that leads students to write effective and well-organized scientific papers. Interesting research emerges from the ability to ask questions, define problems, design experiments, analyze and interpret data, and make critical connections. This process is incomplete, unless new results are communicated to others because science fundamentally requires peer review and criticism to validate or discard proposed new knowledge. Thus, a concise and clearly written research paper is a critical step in the scientific process and is important for young researchers as they are mastering how to express scientific concepts and understanding. Moreover, learning to write a research paper provides a tool to improve science literacy as indicated in the National Research Council's National Science Education Standards (1996), and A Framework for K-12 Science Education (2011), the underlying foundation for the Next Generation Science Standards currently being developed. Background information explains the importance of peer review and communicating results, along with details of each critical component, the Abstract, Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion. Specific steps essential to helping students write clear and coherent research papers that follow a logical format, use effective communication, and develop scientific inquiry are described.

Publication types

Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Communication
Education, Graduate
Guidelines as Topic*
Peer Review*
Science / education*
Science / methods
Universities

Grants and funding

R25 OD011142/OD/NIH HHS/United States
P30ES004184/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States
R25RR026299/RR/NCRR NIH HHS/United States

Master Course List
STEM Courses
Social Science Courses
Project Extensions
Instructors
How It Works
Why Participate
Student Testimonials
Examples of Student Work

Horizon Academic

How our program works, program overview, horizon academic is a trimester-long online research program for extraordinary high school students interested in doing undergraduate-level research. our program is structured to advise students in selecting a topic, conducting research, and crafting a research manuscript under the individualized guidance of a professor or doctoral researcher from a globally renowned university. students in horizon academic choose their own field of inquiry within one of the 15 subjects that we offer. after a trimester of reading, writing, and exploring, students finish their final projects, most often a 20 page research paper. by showcasing a student's very best work, horizon gives students the opportunity to get letters of recommendation, seek outside recognition of the quality of their work, and demonstrate their exceptional talent to universities. horizon academic has always been conducted entirely online, and students complete research projects using desktop research methods, without the need to access any equipment or research facilities. please feel free to join our upcoming information session about the program if you're unable to join but would like a recording, please complete the interest form above, and a recording will be sent to you by email. may 15 8:00pm eastern time: register here june 5 8:00pm eastern time: register here june 27 8:00pm eastern time: register here july 17 8:00pm eastern time: register here, horizon academic research program details, horizon is a purely online research program that connects exceptional high school students from around the world with top university professors. the program's capstone project is a 20 page research paper aimed to equip high schools students with the practical knowledge and research writing skills needed to excel in their future academic careers. horizon seminar uses a unique combination of small group classes (with an average class size of 4 and a maximum size of 6), office hours, writing clinics, and, of course, independent research. for students interested in more specialized topics, the horizon labs program offers completely individualized instruction and guidance on each student's research topic., choosing a research topic.

Students may choose to research any one of the pre-approved topics provided by their respective instructor. Alternatively, students may choose to develop a completely original research topic that best connects with their personal interests. Our professors, instructors, and teaching assistants work closely with students to formulate original research topics that are relevant to course material and ambitious enough to ground a 20 page research paper.

Duration and Time Commitment

Horizon scholars strive to produce a carefully crafted academic essay throughout the course of a trimester. Students have the option to apply for Spring, Summer, or Fall trimesters. We estimate that students will spend 8-10 hours per week on the project. The fall and spring trimesters each last for 16 weeks, while the summer trimester follows a more compact schedule of 10 weeks.

Research Methods

Students may use a variety of methodologies and approaches, and we advise students on what method is the best fit for their preferred topic. Traditional qualitative methods such as argumentative essays and literature reviews are popular, and some topics are conducive to meta-analysis or formal research proposals. Students with a background in statistics or coding may also have the option to do empirical experimentation on publicly available data sets.

Outcomes

Students will complete a 20 page research manuscript that is often the best and most ambitious work they've ever completed. Students will receive a grade from their instructor, along with detailed feedback throughout the writing process. Students who excel in the program have the opportunity to earn letters of recommendation, and exceptionally strong papers can be submitted to academic journals for publication, science fairs, essay contests, or academic conferences.

Our Purely Online Program, By the Numbers

Horizon Seminar Course Structure

Orientation:.

Our orientation offers a comprehensive overview of how to use our unique teleconferencing software and online submission systems, how to best uphold research ethics and academic honesty, and how to navigate the transition from writing shorter to longer form essays.

Group Class with Professor:

Fourteen times throughout the trimester, each cohort of Horizon scholars meets together for either a group class or office hour session led by their professor. Group classes often involve class discussion of suggested readings, peer review sessions, and in-class debates and simulations.

Discussion & Office Hours with Teaching Assistants:

Six times throughout the trimester, each cohort of Horizon scholars meets together for a discussion session led by their teaching assistant. Horizon teaching assistants are either MA, MS, or Ph.D. candidates, or have completed their undergraduate studies and have 2 years of relevant work experience.

Virtual Writing Center:

At Horizon Academic, we aspire to provide the best possible training and mentoring to students as they navigate their research projects. Horizon offers assistance with general writing and composition, allowing class time to focus on the substance of each scholar’s research. Writing assistants identify stylistic, grammatical, and other procedural areas through which students may improve their draft papers, within 3 days of getting a draft.

Horizon Labs Course Structure

20 hours of one on one advising sessions with your instructor：.

Horizon Labs instructors are PhD or postdoctoral researchers who are on the front lines of academic research in their respective fields, and many have taught university level classes in the subject.

Customized Course Design：

Horizon Labs courses are completely personalized and adaptable to the needs and research interests of each student. Generally, Horizon Labs instructors begin the program with a topic consultation to hear what topics a student is most interested in. They then lead several classes that teach students key concepts and necessary background knowledge to undertake the research. Once a student identifies their topic, students receive customized suggested reading lists, and classes shift to individualized mentorship sessions.

Virtual Writing Center:

Horizon seminar versus horizon labs, program differences , horizon seminar.

> Taught by professors & lecturers with decades of teaching experience.

> Offered for topics with broad appeal.

> Group classes have an average of 4 students (no more than 6).

Horizon Labs

> Taught by PhD researchers who are emerging experts in their fields.

> Offered for specialized topics.

> All classes are 1 on 1: students receive 100% individualized attention.

How Does Horizon Academic Help Students in the College Admissions Process?

In an ever-more competitive admissions landscape, "standing out" matters..

Standing Out, So Colleges See Who You Really Are

In a stack of thousands of applications, how is yours different.

Completing college level research projects as a high school student makes you unique. Professors are busy people, and it's rare for a professor to work with a high school student on a research project. Most college students don't write a 20 page research paper until well into their college careers. Doing so in high school is exceptional and helps you stand out among thousands of other candidates.

An Assessment from a Professor or Researcher

Grades and assessments show how well you did..

All students at Horizon Academic get a letter grade from their professor or instructor as well as detailed final project feedback on what they did well and areas for improvement.

A Supplement to the College Application

Many universities allow supplemental documents in their applications..

Many universities such as Cornell, MIT, and the University of Pennsylvania allow students to send supplemental documents along with an application. Many of our students have send their paper abstracts as application supplements.

Letters of Recommendation and Publication

For students who truly excel..

Our students who do their very best work and impress their professors or TA can request a letter of recommendation for admission to college. Students whose papers are truly exceptional can even get their work published in a journal, accepted at a conference, or selected by an essay contest.

Proof Positive You Can Succeed

In a high-intensity selective program..

Perhaps the best proof that you're capable of college-level work is to do college level work, early on in your academic career. By working with college faculty in a challenging and selective program, you signal to admissions officers that you are up to the challenges of being a student at an elite university.

Depth in Your Extracurriculars

Demonstrate commitment and depth in your after school activities..

More and more colleges such as the University of Chicago, George Washington University, and many top liberal arts colleges have become test optional. Without the SAT or ACT, how you spend your time after school matters more than ever. Yet many students commit to a wide range of extracurriculars, at the expense of depth and long-term improvement. Doing a long-term research project demonstrates that you're different and that you finish everything that you start.

391 Students

We have worked with 391 students to complete independent research projects though our program.

Our team of instructors, teaching assistants, and program staff have a combined total of more than 450 years of teaching, mentorship, and program management experience.

57 Instructors

Whom we collaborate, drawn from every Ivy League university, as well as Oxford, Cambridge, UCLA, Stanford, Georgia Tech, and MIT.

65% of our students in Summer 2020 hailed from the United States.

34 Countries

Our international students and faculty hail from 34 countries.

13 Subjects

We offer 13 subjects and more than 300 subtopics for student research.

Horizon Academic versus Horizon Labs

Program differences.

Taught by professors & lecturers with decades of teaching experience.
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The Impact of Digital Tools on Student Writing and How Writing is Taught in Schools
Part II: How Much, and What, do Today’s Middle and High School Students Write?

Part I: Introduction
Part III: Teachers See Digital Tools Affecting Student Writing in Myriad Ways
Part IV: Teachers Assess Students on Specific Writing Skills
Part V: Teaching Writing in the Digital Age

AP and NWP teachers participating in the survey report giving students written assignments ranging from research papers to short responses, journaling, and creative writing. The type and frequency of written assignments varies considerably by the subject being taught and grade level, but on the whole these AP and NWP teachers place tremendous value on formal written assignments.

These teachers also point out that “writing” can be defined more broadly than written work assigned in an academic setting. In focus groups, many teachers noted that in addition to the “formal” writing students do for class, they are engaged in many forms of writing outside of the classroom, much of it using digital tools and platforms such as texting and online social networking. How to define these new types of writing and determining what impact they have on the “formal writing” students do in class remains an open question for many of these teachers. But most agree that among students , “writing” continues to be defined as assignments they are required to do for school, as opposed to textual expression they engage in on their own time.

The writing assignments AP and NWP teachers give their students

The survey quantified what types of writing exercises AP and NWP teachers assign to their middle and high school students. As the graphic below suggests, among this group of teachers, short essays and journaling are the most commonly assigned writing tasks. More than half of the sample (58%) report having their students write short essays, short responses, or opinion pieces at least once a week. Four in ten (41%) have students journal on a weekly basis.

Research papers, multimedia assignments, and creative writing in the form of plays or short stories, while not assigned by many teachers on a weekly basis, are assigned at some point during the academic year by most of these AP and NWP teachers. Just over three-quarters report having students complete a research paper (77%) or a multimedia project (77%) at some point during the current academic year. Two-thirds (66%) have students engage in creative writing, such as poetry, a play, a short story or piece of fiction, at least once a year.

In contrast, more specialized types of writing assignments such as writing out mathematical problems or proofs, writing up labs, writing computer programs, designing computer games, and writing music or lyrics are assigned rarely, if ever, by most AP and NWP teachers surveyed.

The type and frequency of written work assigned is obviously highly dependent on the subject matter being taught. Among Math teachers, for example, 81% report having students write out mathematical problems, proofs or concepts on at least a weekly basis. And among science teachers, 51% have students write up labs at least once a week and 56% have students write out mathematical concepts or problems. All of these percentages are much higher than those for teachers of other subjects.

In addition, while 94% of English teachers and 83% of history/social studies teachers had their students write a research paper in the 2011-2012 academic year, that figure is 68% among science teachers and 36% among math teachers. A similar pattern emerges for multimedia or mixed media assignments, with English (84%) and history/social studies (82%) teachers most likely and math teachers least likely (51%) to have given their students this type of assignment in the prior academic year. Science teachers (70%) fall in the middle.

How do teachers—and students—define “writing” in the digital world?

A fundamental question posed to the AP and NWP teachers in the current study is how they and their students define “writing.” Specifically, we asked teachers which forms of writing in the digital age—academic writing assignments, texting, social network site posts, blogs, tweets, etc.— are “writing” in their eyes, and which are not? In a 2008 Pew Internet survey of teens on this topic, the consensus among 12-17 year-olds was that there is a fundamental distinction between their digital communications with friends and family and the more formal writing they do for school or for their own purposes. Only the latter is considered “writing” in teens’ eyes. 9 Survey and focus group findings in the current study indicate this perception has not changed, either among students or their teachers, and that there remains a fairly strong conceptual divide between “formal” and “informal” writing. For both groups, much day-to-day digital communication falls into the latter category.

Asked in focus groups to clarify what, specifically, they consider “writing,” the majority of teachers indicated that “formal writing” and “creative writing” fit their definition of “writing.” Slightly fewer said they would classify “blogging” as writing, and very few said they would consider texting as a form of writing. Asked how they thought students would categorize these same writing forms, the results are comparable. Most of these teachers do not think their students consider texting writing, but rather confine their definition of “writing” to those exercises they are required to do for school. A handful of teachers went even further, saying that some students define “writing” only as something that requires them to use complete sentences.

On how students define “writing,” AP and NWP teachers say…

Our kids, over the course of their lives, will write infinitely more than we ever will. I’m 43 years old–half of my life was lived without email, texting, social networking, etc. The fact is, that is writing. Kids have more access points today and those access points are literally at our fingertips and beeping and buzzing blipping…nudging us to write. Incredibly though, students do not see this as “writing.”

Because students still write journals in some classes, I think they still distinguish this from blogging. I think they see journaling as writing, but not blogging quite yet. Although, I think that is starting to change as they start blogging for classes. I think blogging will be viewed as more official writing in the future.

While most AP and NWP teachers in the focus groups said they do not consider texting, blogging, or micro-blogging (posting on social network sites) “writing” in the traditional sense, they believe these digital formats do spur thinking and encourage communication among their students, which may lead to deeper thinking and self-expression. Several teachers characterized these shorter online posts as “pre-writing” that may get a student engaged in a topic or discourse enough to want to write a longer piece about it or explore it further. In some teachers’ eyes, these digital forms of expression are building blocks for lengthier, more formal writing.

On newer digital forms of writing, AP and NWP teachers say…

These digital technologies give students a reason to write. Social media and texting are very engaging for them; they write reflexively. It is not classic academic writing for sure. But, they do use the written language to communicate. This requires a certain amount of composition activity. Texters must decide the most efficient set of words to include in their message in order to convey meaning. These activities are “pre-academic writing”, but nevertheless for some kids they are formative processes that can lead to more sophisticated composition skills.

Students can write and voice ideas in many different registers. It is often not “academic” writing in the sense that many teachers would consider. However, I think the kinds of real world applicability of student work in classes makes these new digital tools much more relevant for students beyond their schooling years.

I read a fascinating article that talked about the impact of micro-blogging on writing. The piece started talking about how everyone just assumed that when things like Twitter and Facebook began to become more prevalent we would see a decline in our society’s willingness to take the time to write. What the article went on to explain however, was that many people who blurt something out on these sites are also actually taking the time to digest what others are saying on the matter, collaborate or chat with the others who are talking about the same thing, and then in turn they feel more compelled to go on and take the time to compose a longer piece of writing – such as a blog post. I see a lot of truth to this idea. In essence, the micro-blog has become to some their pre-writing.

Teachers in the study say today’s students are expressing themselves more, and more often

Though most AP and NWP teachers who participated in the study do not characterize activities such as texting, tweeting, blogging or micro-blogging on social network sites as “writing” in the strictest sense, there is almost universal agreement among them that the digital ecology in which today’s teens live provides many more avenues for personal expression. In addition, most agree that many forms of personal expression are more accessible to the average student than has been the case for past generations. Ultimately, most of these teachers see their students expressing themselves in text (and other formats) more so than was the case when they themselves were in middle and high school. Asked in focus groups, if students today simply write more, in sheer quantity, most participating AP and NWP teachers agree this is the case.

On whether today’s students write more than prior generations, AP and NWP teachers say…

Digital technologies provide many opportunities to practice writing through participation. Mobile technologies allow one to write, capture, edit, & publish while on the go, anytime, anywhere. Be it at a museum, walk through the old neighborhood, or on a wilderness hike. Writing is no longer limited to a designated time or location.

They enjoy writing. When you talk to these kids, they like to write. They don’t like to write when you tell them, ‘I want you to write this.’ But in fact they love to write, and when you look at what they’re writing, they’re talking about themselves and expressing themselves. Maybe not well but they are speaking their minds, so they are, I think, exploring who they are and what they’re about and they’re reading what other people are writing and looking at, and exploring other people’s feelings and ideas.

The informality of the written word and how students use the language is the downside of technology, but the upside is that students are communicating in the written form much more than I ever did at their age.

The ease of accessibility brought via technology has opened the availability of writing opportunities for students today. Some devices have tempted students to write everything as if it were a text, but teacher focus on this issue can channel the text craze into more academic writing. I think like all technologies, there are good and bad points, but at least the thought processes of writing are taking place.

I think they’re writing more, more than ever, and I think they have a much more positive outlook on writing, not just because of the school…you have Facebook, you have email, you have Twitter…they’re writing constantly.

[other teacher]

92% of AP and NWP teachers surveyed describe writing assignments as “essential” to the formal learning process, and “writing effectively” tops their list of skills students need to be successful in life

The survey gauged AP and NWP teachers’ sense of the overall importance of incorporating writing into formal learning today, and asked them to rank the value of effective writing vis a vis other skills students may need to be successful in life. The vast majority (92%) say the incorporation of writing assignments in formal learning is “essential,” with another 7% saying it is “important, but not essential.” Only 11 teachers out of more than 2,000 describe the incorporation of writing assignments into formal learning as “only somewhat important” or “not important.”

These results are not surprising, given the large number of writing teachers in the sample and the focus on formal writing in much of the U.S. educational system. But the high value placed on writing extends across AP and NWP teachers of all subjects. While 99% of English teachers in the sample say that writing assignments are essential to the formal learning process, the same is true for 93% of history/social studies teachers, 86% of science teachers, and 78% of math teachers.

Asked to place a value on various skills today’s students may need in the future, “writing effectively” tops the list of essential skills, along with “judging the quality of information.” 10 Each of these skills is described as “essential” by 91% of AP and NWP teachers surveyed. Again, while large majorities of teachers of all subjects respond this way, English teachers are slightly more likely than others to say that “writing effectively” is an “essential” skill for students’ future success.

Other skills relevant to the current digital culture also rank high as life skills, with large majorities of these teachers saying that “behaving responsibly online” (85%) and “understanding privacy issues surrounding online and digital content” (78%) are “essential” to students’ success later in life. Skills that fewer of these AP and NWP teachers view as essential for students’ success in life include “presenting themselves effectively in online social networking sites” and “working with audio, video, or graphic content.” Fewer than one in three AP and NWP teachers in the sample describes either of these skills as “essential” to their students’ futures, though pluralities do describe each of these skills “important, but not essential.”

Do AP and NWP teachers see continued value in longer writing assignments?

The tremendous value most AP and NWP teachers place on writing of all forms, and particularly “formal” writing, was reflected throughout focus group discussions. For some AP and NWP teachers, the extent to which today’s middle and high school students engage in what many see as “informal” writing means that “formal” writing assignments are more critical than ever. Moreover, many see tremendous value in longer writing assignments that require students to organize their thoughts and fully develop complex ideas (particularly because they often have to present ideas on standardized tests in this format). They see longer, formal writing assignments as an important juxtaposition to the more informal and often more truncated styles of expression in which their students regularly engage. Throughout focus groups, AP and NWP teachers expressed the belief that students must master all styles of writing in order to be successful across social domains and to communicate with different audiences.

On the value of longer writing assignments in the digital world, AP and NWP teachers say…

There is great purpose and value in teaching students to write long and formal texts. Again, there are a whole lot of ideas that simply cannot be reduced simply without serious distortion or reduction. Consequently, developing complex ideas and thinking often requires longer texts. Writing is a demonstration of thinking, after all. So the deeper and more complex the thinking, the more that is reflected in the writing. As for formal texts, academia certainly requires a greater level of formality but so does a lot of work in the political, legal, and commercial world. Formal writing is almost always a factor that can be used for exclusion. Inability to write formal texts potentially robs students of voice and power. Arguably more important is the ability to recognize and adjust to the context that is appropriate for a given purpose. So knowing when and how to write with greater formality is an essential skill.

The organization and critical thinking skills that must be employed when students write a longer, more formal piece are skills that will students to become better, more engaged citizens. The processes of brainstorming, researching, evaluating, selecting, analyzing, synthesizing, revising are all skills that help students become more critical citizens, more discerning consumers, and better problem-solvers.

To carry an idea out to see if it is “true” to the thinker or not, I think this is so important. I want students to grapple with the complexity of a subject, to see it from all sides by way of a formal written response. Further, I think breaking down that response into its finer parts help me to teach the components that would go into an extended response. An example of this would be a section of their packet simply titled, DEFINITION. Before going into their response, I ask my students to define their terms and to set their parameters for the paper, not only as a service to their readers, but as a guidepost for themselves.

Writing is thinking—and, quite honestly, I don’t think any of us fully knows what our writing is (will be) about until we write it. Writing develops our thoughts and allows us to grapple with the “whats” and the “whys” of life. In this respect, writing informal and formal texts serves as role playing exercises as much as they do anything else. It is practice in being critical, analytical, reflective, informative and so on. We’re shipping young people out into the world where they are going to have to buy a car, a lawn mower, a stove…and they are going to want to read informative reviews before they spend their money. Writing it allows us to become familiar with it–we may never write an informative review once we leave school, but some…many…will want to read reviews before they spend their own money on something. Beyond buying something, I want to emphasize “writing is thinking is role play for life” as a cross-curricular ideal that too often becomes buried as just an English class objective.

Long texts give students the opportunity to deeply analyze an idea. Longer texts are essential to articulate complex concepts and beliefs. Although not everyone will be asked to write a long academic paper for their jobs, the reflection that goes behind this type of writing is critical for everyone. The process of making thinking transparent and clear to others is essential to knowing the why behind the what. The notion of form al texts supports the idea of knowing how to communicate with various audiences. The more registers a person has in his or her arsenal, the more effective that person will be when communicating with a diverse group.

I think that there is value of having long and well organized thoughts about a topic. I think that when we delve deeply into a topic and have to provide an argument or exploration then we must be able to write logically and coherently and be able to develop a point without getting off track. We must be able to write for an audience and provide evidence and delve deeply. I think there are also audience needs to be met when deciding on what level of formality we will write with so I see the value in teaching formal writing. People have to produce reports for colleagues and prospective business partners and college professors so this is obviously a skill that needs to be learned.

Writing is crucial across the curriculum. Good writing teachers teach students how to communicate a logical argument that is well-researched. At my school, I am impressed with the amount our English and history students write as well as the amount our science students write. The IB program does not have many multiple choice tests; therefore, students have to be good writers to perform well on IB exams… The IB program places such a heavy emphasis on communication that the students (and teachers) have adapted their definition to include anything that involves clearly stating ideas and explaining rationale.

While many focus group participants stressed the importance of learning to write in multiple styles—including more “formal” styles—and to write lengthier pieces on complex topics, other teachers questioned the “term paper mentality” and the tendency of some educators to equate length of assignment with complexity of thought. Some AP and NWP teachers in the study debated the value of longer textual expression today, not just for students but for society as a whole. As many digital tools encourage shorter, more concise expression, these teachers questioned whether mastering more traditional writing styles will be critical for their students moving forward. While these skills may be valued in standardized testing and in the college and university settings, there was some debate about how useful these skills are beyond those two arenas. Moreover, some teachers questioned whether lengthy writing assignments are the most effective format for teaching students specific writing skills.

Regardless of the length of a student’s writing, I think it is more important to teach students to develop their thoughts completely. If development of thought can come through length or formality then so be it. More important than length or formality would be for students to have a firm understanding about how to organize their ideas in such a way where they can effectively communicate their thoughts and ideas. I certainly don’t think that a teacher should only teach any one kind or length of writing, but the most often I hear the reason we should teach students to write lengthy formal essays is because that is the way they will have to write in high school, which in turn is how they will have to write in college. While I would say there can be value in getting a student dedicated to deeply investigating a certain topic through a longer writing assignment, I would never be willing to teach kids formal writing just because that is the way they do it in high school – there would have to be another purpose.

This almost starts to get at the “how many words should this be question.” I tend to find that when I say 500 words long, kids work to that end and stop. Sometimes they seem to like this better…it’s easy and sure. Usually, I say to make a plan and work to thoughtful response to the assignment and the feedback from their peers. This usually drives more from their thought process that my giving them a word count. Is this a formal text? Not really, but yes at the same time. I think many teachers panic when students deviate from the 5 paragraph essay that they know and understand. The belief seems to be that this serves their needs on the near future high stakes test that are demanded on students. I’m not sure that this serves them past this point.

I don’t think length is a point to pound home with any student. We need to look at the content of a students’ writing the most. If that means a paper has 8-10 pages to it, then so be it, but students need to learn how to sort out what is relevant and irrelevant details and information. Students need to produce well planned, thought out papers that get to the point.

“Writing, Technology and Teens,” available at https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/Reports/2008/Writing-Technology-and-Teens.aspx . ↩
For more on the latter, see “How Teens Do Research in the Digital World,” available at https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/Reports/2012/Student-Research.aspx ↩

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A Guide to Writing a Scientific Paper: A Focus on High School Through Graduate Level Student Research
This article presents a detailed guide for high school through graduate level instructors that leads students to write effective and well-organized scientific papers. Interesting research emerges from the ability to ask questions, define problems, design experiments, analyze and interpret data, and make critical connections.
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The following guidelines on formatting are considered a standard for research papers, and can be altered as per the requirements of your specific assignments, just check with your teacher/grader! Start by using a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, in 12 or 11 sized font. Also, add one inch margins for the pages, along with some double ...
PDF A Guide to Writing a Scientiﬁc Paper: A Focus on High School Through
Abstract. This article presents a detailed guide for high school through graduate level instructors that leads students to write effective and well-organized scientiﬁc papers. Interesting research emerges from the ability to ask ques- tions, deﬁne problems, design experiments, analyze and interpret data, and make critical connections.
How to Write a Research Paper as a High School Student
Writing a research paper is an excellent way to hone your focus during a research project, synthesize what you're learning, and explain why your work matters to a broader audience of scholars in your field. The types of sources and evidence you'll see used in a research paper can vary widely based on its field of study.
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Writing a research paper can seem like a daunting task, but with a structured approach, it becomes much more manageable. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process: Choose a Topic. Pick a topic that interests you and is relevant to your assignment. Make sure it's not too broad or too narrow; find a balance.
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8. Write the paper: Begin by writing a draft of your paper following your outline. Start with the body paragraphs, covering the main points and evidence for each, and then move on to the introduction and conclusion. 9. Revise and edit: After completing your draft, review it for content, organization, grammar, and style.
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Develop a list of future education and career interests. Brainstorm potential research topics relating to your passion or interest. Look up ongoing research studies by professors or doctoral degree-seeking students with a local college or university. Ask family members if they know any researchers who they could connect you with.
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Examples of research paper topics for high school students. The options for research paper topics are endless, and students should consider choosing something that interests them or is relevant to their lives. Here are some examples of research paper topics that high school students could explore: Climate change. Gun control.
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2. The Concord Review. Submission Deadline: August 1 (Winter), November 1 (Spring), February 1 (Summer) and May 1 (Fall). The Concord Review, one of the most popular journals to publish your research, is a quarterly publication showcasing history essays authored by high school students.
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Abstract This article presents a detailed guide for high school through graduate level instructors that leads students to write effective and well-organized scientific papers. Interesting research emerges from the ability to ask questions, define problems, design experiments, analyze and interpret data, and make critical connections. This process is incomplete, unless new results are ...
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High school research papers are a great way to dive into topics you're passionate about. With some creativity and hard work, you can create an engaging paper that will have your peers wanting more! ... When it comes to selecting a research paper topic, the primary focus should be on choosing something that is of interest and relevant to the ...
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113 Great Research Paper Topics. Posted by Christine Sarikas. General Education. One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and ...
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Type of research: Including but not limited to research papers, review articles, and humanity/social science pieces. Curieux Academic Journal is a non-profit run by students and was founded in 2017 to publish outstanding research by high school and middle school students. Curieux publishes one issue per month (twelve per year), so there are ...
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March 13, 2024. If you want to get into top universities, an independent research project will give your application the competitive edge it needs. Writing and publishing independent research during high school lets you demonstrate to top colleges and universities that you can deeply inquire into a topic, think critically, and produce original ...
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The first step in developing a research focus is to narrow your general subject to a more specific topic. Here are some examples of how common subjects can be broken up into more specific topics: Subject. Topics. Accountancy. Responsibility of high schools to instruct students on budgeting/financial knowledge.
A guide to writing a scientific paper: a focus on high school through
This article presents a detailed guide for high school through graduate level instructors that leads students to write effective and well-organized scientific papers. Interesting research emerges from the ability to ask questions, define problems, design experiments, analyze and interpret data, and make critical connections.
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Completing college level research projects as a high school student makes you unique. Professors are busy people, and it's rare for a professor to work with a high school student on a research project. Most college students don't write a 20 page research paper until well into their college careers.
Part II: How Much, and What, do Today's Middle and High School Students
The type and frequency of written work assigned is obviously highly dependent on the subject matter being taught. Among Math teachers, for example, 81% report having students write out mathematical problems, proofs or concepts on at least a weekly basis. And among science teachers, 51% have students write up labs at least once a week and 56% ...
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Research is an inherently creative process, which is why we welcome students who want their output to reflect their artistic talents. You can channel what you learn through research into a poem, a painting, a musical composition, a photography portfolio, a fashion design, a multimedia collage, and more! Visual art. Creative writing.