Topic Selection and Brainstorming
Overview
This Remote Learning Plan was created by Joanna Pruitt as part of the 2020 ESU-NDE Remote Learning Plan Project. Educators worked with coaches to create Remote Learning Plans as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
*I have remixed this lesson to use for a 9-12 grade research paper class. The only changes I made were to break it up into smaller sections (Topic Selection and Brainstorming) in order to fit it into our course schedule.
Step 1: Pick a Topic
This needs to be something that you have an interest in or an opinion on that can be answered or supported through research. You will spend a huge amount of time on this paper so make sure that the topic interests you.
After you complete some research, you should be able to narrow you topic. In choosing a suitable topic, ask yourself the following questions:
- Is there enough material on my topic?
- Do I have time to contact all the sources I need?
- Will I be able to narrow this topic?
- Will I be able to develop a thesis?
- Is this topic interesting enough to work on for two months?
- Will I be able to cover the topic in the assigned length of the paper?
a. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXNztCLYgxc
Note: If you Google research paper topics, you will get a ton of lists.
Step 2: Brainstorm
Watch this video on brainstorming.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jj-F6YVtsxI
Think about these strategies when you create your driving questions.