TASK 1: Developing a Research Question
Today you will begin your research journey by creating a research question that you will attempt to answer in your research paper and in your TED Talk. Creating a good research question is essential for writing an effective and informative research paper. Here are some sample research questions that may help you get started:
- Social Studies: Why did the threat of additional nuclear destruction not deter the Japanese Empire even after Hiroshima? Why did the German public allow the Nazi's to come to power? Did the invention of the movable type printing press truly redefine history?
- Art/Film/Music: In what way(s) does lighting affect the mood or tone of media? What components of a musical score (tempo, meter, dissonance/chord structure, volume, instrumentation, etc.) make it suitable for a particular scene in a movie? Does art matter? Should the arts be mandatory in school?
- English: Are the characters in a novel realistic? In what way did the societal values of the late 19th and early 20th centuries reflect the work of Rudyard Kipling? How do the literary devices such as metaphor, simile, personification and irony affect the tone of a particular poem? Is rap/hip-hip considered poetry?
- Science: Should agriculture be forced to become organic? What role should ethics play in stem cell research? Should human DNA be manipulated to produce healthier people? Is space exploration necessary? What is the effect of pesticide runoff on local water supplies?
- Physical Education: Is there such a thing as too much exercise? What is the MOST important factor affecting obesity in the United States? What are the best types of diets for teenagers? Are energy drinks dangerous?