Activities

1. List a possible research topic and identify any search terms you might use to find information on that topic. 

2. Distinguish between reputable sources and those that may not be as academically legitimate.
   
   
3. Summarize the key points discussed in each of the sources found for the research project.

4. Hypothesize the answer to your posed research question before investigating the topic.
   
   
5. Cite evidence found in researched sources that support or contradict your hypothesis or thesis statement.
   
   
6. Synthesize your findings in a well-written research paper.

Answer Key/Rubric

1. Student will list possible research topics.  Then, student will list any possible search terms they can think of that may garner effective search results.  Teachers can also introduce the notion of Boolean searches, using keywords with AND, OR, etc.
   
   
2. Student will demonstrate an understanding that not all sources are created equal.  Some web sources are generally more trustworthy than others.  For example, .edu, .gov, and .org sites may be more reputable than .com sites.  A discussion of Wikipedia as a starting point for research can be undertaken with the understanding that student should further explore the primary sources of information found on Wikipedia rather than relying solely on Wikipedia.  Additionally, if print-based sources are required, a discussion should include the date of publication especially in topics that may change over the years.  Student can also be instructed to seek site’s purpose to uncover any potential bias.
   
   
3. Student will summarize the key points in each of the sources found for the research project.  This summarization can be done on note cards, in an annotated bibliography, or any other graphic organizer.  Depending on class needs, a discussion of proper MLA formatting can be undertaken at this point and instruction about how to set up a paper using MLA can be given.  An outstanding website for up-to-date information on MLA (and other types) of formatting can be found at Purdue’s Online Writing Lab:  https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/.
   
   
4. Student will hypothesize an answer to the research question(s) he/she hopes to explore.  Answers will vary depending on topic.  Hypothesis can be written on notecards, in an annotated bibliography, or in any other graphic organizer.
   
   
5. Student will cite evidence that supports or contradicts their initial hypothesis using proper formatting (as determined by the teacher).  Student will understand that in order to avoid plagiarism, in-text citations are required.  Again, the Online Writing Lab at Purdue University is especially helpful in understanding when and how to use in-text citations:  https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/.
   
   
6. Student will synthesize information unearthed during research project in a well-written, well-organized research paper (length determined by teacher).  Research questions will be posed, supporting evidence will be cited, and a logical conclusion will be drawn.  Paper will reflect grade-level understanding of topic and will use standard written English.  Paper will be written in appropriate format (such as MLA) following rules of such a paper.