AboutLaura Expertise I can help with questions about research projects, literature, and writing for middle school and high school. I can also help with on-line resources and integration of technology in learning.
Experience I am a certified library media specialist and language arts teacher.
Education/Credentials MEd Instructional Technolgy- 1999 Arkansas Tech University
BA English- 1995 University of Central Arkansas
Expert: Laura Date: 2/26/2006 Subject: High school research
Question I am transitioning my 61 12th graders into a research project
which should result in a quality paper and presentation within
the next month. I've started them on a line of inquiry regarding
the distinctions (sometimes not so clear) between fact, truth,
and opinion. Ive given them the assignment of asking two
experts a question. The question should be a "burning question"
of some importance or urgency and the expert should have
some credentials. They will make an encyclopedia of the results
and give it to the school library. After this we must do a term
paper. I am bewildered by the wide range of ability in this class.
I have many low skill, low motivation students mixed with just as
many high skilled students. Could you recommend an exciting/catchy/
relevant research paper project with
group work component/option? Our literature selections are
heavy on heroism, death, and greed. I have free reign to do as I
see fit in my class (aside from choosing the readings).
Answer Hi Benjamin,
I like to use the "I Search" format (see http://www.literacymatters.org/content/isearch/intro.htm)for beginning research. With this format, students focus on the act of research rather than producing a "research paper." They have to ask a question, then record their answers and, ideally, reflect on their process. I require them to get approval for their questions, and take time then to help make sure that the question is complete enough, or narrow enough. You could then use the information they gather to write articles for your encyclopedia project.
If you have not seen this lesson plan site, check out http://www.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/score/cy912.html. The lesson on King Arthur looks like it might lend itself to what you are trying to do.
