This document provides guidance to students on developing a research plan for an eighth grade research project. It outlines several key steps: 1) brainstorming keywords and questions related to their topic using tools like mind maps and tables, 2) generating at least three sample research questions using different "question words", and 3) developing background information on their topic by researching its history from other sources. The document emphasizes that developing a clear research question is important to avoid wasting time and having structure for their research.

1. What Makes a Good
Research Paper
Mr. Kinney’s Science Class

2. Today’s Agenda
Looking at strategies to plan a good research
paper.
Brainstorming key words and questions for
your research.
Looking at your first and second source for
answers to those questions.

3. Warning!
Bring me your textbooks or $40.
Otherwise you’re not going on the trip or
anything else that’s nice.

4. Creating a Research
Plan
A good eighth-grade research project is
going to need a plan.
Without a plan, you’re research will lack
structure.
Trust me, having a research plan will make
your life easier.
Having a specific research question keeps
you from wasting time and doing extra work.

5. What are the key words
for your topic?
Look through the textbook chapter for bold
terms.
Brainstorm (using a mind map or other
organizer).

6. Brainstorm: Key
Questions
Use a table with the quot;question wordsquot; (why,
how, who, what, when, where) to generate
research questions from your keywords.
Don’t stress out, I have a sheet to guide you
in this process.

7. Key Question Examples
What is the difference between a series and parallel circuit?
When does a plant grow the most, during the day or night?
Where is the focal point of a lens?
How does a java applet work?
Does a truss make a bridge stronger?
Why are moths attracted to light?
Which cleaning products kill the most bacteria?

8. Throw Out the Garbage
You’re brainstorming; it doesn’t have to be
perfect.
Go for quantity, not quality. The more ideas
you have, the better.
Then throw out anything that doesn’t work.

9. Background Information
You should also plan to do background
research on the history of similar
experiments or inventions.
Ask other people (friends, parents, other
teachers, me) what they know about the
topic.

10. What I need to see by
the end of the period.
I will be checking your worksheet.
I’m looking for at least three good research
questions.
If we conference and you’re research
question is good, you can continue
researching.