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206 Middle School Research Topics: Original Ideas List

As middle schoolers prepare to go to high school, they are introduced slowly to essay and research writing. They are sometimes given homework that involves picking suitable topics and writing on them. However, it should be noted that i t is not easy to write a research paper for a high grade. Middle schoolers in their preteen age are taught how to be creative, air out their opinions and conduct little research. It helps make them critical thinkers and prepares them for more writing tasks as they advance in their education. This article will help middle schoolers understand what is expected of them when asked to write an essay or research on a topic. It will also expose them to different areas where they can write and many research topics for middle school they can pick from.

What Should Be In A Middle School Research Paper?

Middle school research papers are often not required to be extended. They are in a unique position where they move from writing simple pieces to more detailed essays and research papers. This is the foundation where they learn to write excellent papers as they transcend to high school and eventually college. Writing an essay in middle school is not very different from writing in other stages. Some steps to get you started are

Understanding the Assignment :Before you begin, you should understand your teacher’s expectations when turning in your finished work.There will be rules and procedures to follow. Know the format the essay is supposed to be written in, and keep the due dates in mind. If you do not understand any aspect of the assignment, please ask for clarification, as this will help you deliver a clear and concise essay at the end.
Do Your Pre-Writing :Start with brainstorming on middle school research topics to determine what you would like your essay to be about. There are many options to pick from and several general subjects to break down into topics you want.

Pick up to three topics when you first brainstorm. From there, you can select the best one to write on. When you find a topic, start writing all you know about it. Create a rough paper where you jot down information from your research that will be useful in your essay. Feel free to write freely, as this will be your first draft, and you have the chance to edit it as you go.

Edit Your Work : Editing is essential. It helps give your paper structure. From your rough work, take out parts that are not necessary and add details you think you missed. This is where you should be detailed and try to make your work as neat and correct as possible. You are almost at the end of writing the paper.When you are sure your paper is good, it is time to proofread. Check for spelling and punctuation errors. One expert way to do this is to read the report from the bottom up, and this can help you spot any spelling errors.
Citations and References : Your teacher would have given you a format to write references for your work. Ensure that you are following the prescribed format.References will highlight the sources of the information gathered to make your essay.

What Can Middle Schoolers Write About?

There are many general subjects that middle schoolers can write about in their assignments. Streaming from what they have been taught in the classroom or their experiences outside class. Some issues that can create good middle school research paper topics include:

Science : This broad aspect covers earth science, geology, physical science, life science, and genetics. Science research paper topics for middle school will encourage the students to be interested in growth and learning how things work. Social Studies : This will involve learning about their history, other people’s cultures, human interaction, family, etc. This will create fun research topics for 6th graders, learning about life and how relationships work. Literature : This is the best time to learn about books and works of art. The literature will provide many topics to research for middle school students.

There are many more aspects that middle school students can research and write papers on. Discover more than 200 interesting research topics for middle school students below. However don’t worry if the assignment seems too difficult for you. You are only at the beginning of the path and our cheap research writing service will be happy to get you through with your paper.

Good Research Topics For Middle School

Students who have no experience writing papers and are looking for good research topics to work on are in luck. The topics below are suitable for all middle schoolers and can create detailed essays.

Should students be compelled to wear a specific uniform?
Textbooks or tablets: which is better to read from?
Obesity in American youth: Causes and solutions.
Should boys and girls be allowed to play on the same athletics team?
Should young people be allowed to play violent video games?
Impact of continuously playing violent video games.
When can we say someone is spending too much time in front of the screen?
Listening to music during class: Does it disturb concentration?
How to recognize harmful content on the internet?
Should all businesses be compelled to recycle?
What is the appropriate punishment for students who engage in cyberbullying?
Should school hours be adjusted to later in the morning?
Should our scientists be allowed to test drugs on animals?
Why do people’s behavior change in different settings?
Is sex education important?
Different types of poetry and how they came about.
What to do if you are being bullied on the internet.
How to have healthy self-esteem.
Why does the human body need sleep?
Insect repellents, are they helpful?
Why did dinosaurs go extinct?
What is skateboarding?
The effects of tobacco on the body.
Artificial tanning: Risks and benefits.
What is spam email? Where does it come from, and how can we stop it?
What is a desert mirage? How does it affect people?
What are penguins? Where do they stay, and what do they eat?
When and how was America created?
Who are some well know and inspirational women?
Who are some famous inventors?
What famous inventions helped in shaping human existence?
Steps you can take to protect yourself from scammers online.
What is a cryptocurrency, and why is it so popular?
What did the invention of the mobile phone do to change the world?
How to handle stress from school.
How can issues in the family affect a child?
Is your school working hard enough to prevent bullying?
Should we use mobile phones and tablets in class?
Does technology make you smarter?
What is an unhealthy life, and what are the effects?
Is there any benefit of doing homework?
What is video game addiction, and how to stop it?
What is a museum, and what can be found in it?
What can we do to reduce climate change?
Is soda suitable for children?
Does everyone have to go to college?
Comparing homework and class assignments.
What is physical education?
How the internet has changed our life
What is peer pressure?
What effect has global warming had on the environment?
What is racism?
What is a healthy diet?
Should students be able to pick what they learn?
Do movies depict what happens in real life?
Is arts a vital part of the school curriculum?
What are the challenges students face?
How do we conserve energy in our homes?
What is pop culture?
Should parents monitor their children’s social media?

Fun Research Topics for Middle School

Writing an essay shouldn’t always be stressful or tedious. These topics will make writing papers fun. The topics below can hold the researcher’s attention for a long time as they work on completing their project.

How should celebrities who break the law be punished?
What is bulletproof clothing made of?
All there is to know about hip-hop.
What do we know about ninjas?
Do lie detector tests work?
What are the ingredients contained in a hotdog?
Sharks, how do they hunt, and what do they eat?
How do search engines work?
Some fascinating extinct animals, and what happened to them?
How to manage time effectively.
How does insufficient sleep affect the brain?
How to let go of bad habits?
How do parents help us grow?
How to become a better writer.
Are dogs and cats enemies?
Why do parents punish children for bad behavior?
What is the best punishment for naughty kids?
Is magic real?
How to save money effectively?
What is self-development?
How to motivate yourself to be a better student?
When should you begin to earn money?
What’s the secret of having a successful life?
How not to become a game addict.

Middle School Research Project Ideas

Research shouldn’t always end as essay writing. Sometimes, you need hands-on projects to keep the middle schooler busy. The list below can serve as an ideal hub for research ideas for middle school students and work as interesting essay topics.

Investigating what life is like inside a beehive.
Steps in creating a movie.
How do our brains store memories and retrieve them when we need them?
What is a landform?
What are some important holidays around the world, and who celebrates them?
What are some significant symbols used in world holidays?
Creating an ecosystem: what’s the process involved?
Research on some exotic underwater creatures.
What is a meteor?
How to build a crossword puzzle.
What is advertising: create a short advertisement campaign.
Write the story of your life.
Create a calendar highlighting critical events in your life.
Create your family tree.

Science Research Topics for Middle School

Science is an exciting part of our lives. Because of science, the quality of our lives has increased, and there are many more inventions to come. These topics can engage the curious mind of the youngster and introduce them to science-related subjects to work on.

Earthquakes: Its causes and effects.
Computer viruses. What are they, and how do they spread?
Evolution of human beings.
Are human beings still evolving?
What is alchemy?
What is a black hole? How is it formed?
What is a submarine? Who uses them, and how do they work?
What is the cause of tornadoes?
What is a sinkhole, and how do they form?
Research on one of the planets in the solar system.
Understanding glaciers and icebergs.
What are volcanoes, and how do they form?
The different types of volcanoes and what causes them.
Who are the most famous scientists, and what are they famous for?
What are the components of airplanes that make them fly?
What are fossils, and what do they teach us?
How do genetics and DNA affect how we look?
Why does the moon change color and shape sometimes?
What is a Lunar eclipse?
What is pollution?
The different types of pollution and what can be done to curb them?
Can fruits play a part in medicine?
What is flooding?
What is an ecosystem?
What measures do butterflies take to defend themselves?
Different types of butterflies.
What is a skeleton, and why is it an essential part of the body?
How many bones are in a skeleton? Which are the most important?
Who is a marine biologist?
What is the connection between a marine biologist and the weather?
What are the risks marine biologists face when they dive?
Different types of fossils?
Are whales still hunted?
What is scientific research, and who conducts it?
What is the job of the nervous system?
Understanding the concept of hibernation?
What are the necessities plants need to grow?
Who are the people who study dinosaurs?
Mammals and reptiles: Similarities and differences.
Why don’t human beings float?
What is a prism, and what does it do?
What gives humans the ability to lift heavy things?
What factors can cause earthquakes?
How is wind measured?
What differentiates a planet from a star?
What is a galaxy? What galaxy is the earth?
Who is an astronaut, and what is their job?
What is a waterfall?
Do plants drink water?
Why do oil and water not mix?
What is microbiology?
How can we preserve our natural resources?
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of exploring space.
What are bacteria, and how useful is it to humans?
The similarities between temperature and heat.

If You Need Paper Writing Help

There are many ways to brainstorm ideas for your middle school homework. The research project ideas for middle school and the topics listed above will make it easier to begin. After picking a suitable topic, the next step is writing the entire paper. This will involve a lot of research and fact-finding to get accurate information for your paper. It doesn’t end at research, as you still have to write a great essay to score high marks. This could be a daunting task for many students. Don’t be afraid to get research paper help from our professional writers. After attending class, you may not have adequate time to write your essay yourself, if this is your situation, it’s okay to search for help on the internet. A quick google search for “write my paper” will result in several websites promising to write the best essay for you. However, you need to make your research before hiring an online writer for your assignment. If you need someone to write your assignment, we can be of help. We provide fast, reliable, custom paper writing services that can be completed online. Our services are available to every student, including university, middle school, high school, and college students. Our team of writers consists of professionals and teachers who are always available to ensure that you meet your deadlines. Contact us with a message “ do my research paper for me ” and enjoy the perfect result!

30 Tips For Finding Great Research Paper Topics for Middle School

Useful information: What is research paper writing and how to format it?

Is going vegan good for your health?
The dinosaurs: what should happen for them to evolve again?
The history of music and its meaning in modern life
Greenhouse effect: is it natural or artificial
What are the possible consequences of drugs legalization
World War II and its impact on the rights of women
Schools, learning and social networks
The causes, effects and consequences of earthquakes
The geological periods of Earth development
The history of cryptography
The nature of sports. Why competition is so important for humanity?
How a person’s behaviour changes in the crowd?
What is propaganda and how it works?
Is sexual education important? Why?
How much can we play computer games to not get addicted?
The prison system: shall it be reformed?
The types and forms of poetry: how does poetry evolve?
Internet safety: what to do if you are threatened or blackmailed?
The endangered cultures: is it important to preserve them in the age of globalization?
Gender roles in media and books for children
The effective strategies of waste recycling
Shall some media be banned from TV or is censorship always bad?
Human morality. Is it a national trait or a social construct?
Multicultural community: do the cultures mix?
Healthy self-esteem: what can influence it?
Forming of social hierarchy: does it differ from one group to another?
Family issues and their impact on the development of the children’s personality
What Jupiter contains of?
What is more perspective planet for colonizing: Mars or Venus and why?
Are cryptocurrencies real currencies?

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100 Unique Middle School Research Topics and Ideas

Table of Contents

Identifying an ideal topic and writing a well-structured research paper is a challenging task that requires a lot of skills and time. In specific, the majority of middle school students experience more difficulties with research topic selection. Therefore, in this blog, for the convenience of middle school students, we have shared certain tactics on how to select an ideal topic and compose a brilliant middle school research paper. Additionally, we have presented a list of outstanding middle school research topics on various themes.

If you are a middle school student struggling to identify an appropriate topic for your research paper, explore this blog and get amazing topic ideas.

Know How to Choose a Middle School Research Topic

When it comes to preparing a middle school research paper, topic selection is the first step you must concentrate on. Usually, your teachers will provide you with interesting research titles or questions. But sometimes, you will be given a chance to pick a topic on your own. In such instances, follow these steps to spot the right topic for your middle school research paper.

First, start by investigating the topics that excite you, or the areas in which you are interested.
Next, formulate a research question by examining the main points of your paper and other topics that your audience would find exciting.
Third, evaluate potential study titles and eliminate those that are not applicable.
Fourth, focus on a topic that both you and your audience will find relevant.
Finally, make sure you follow all of your teacher’s instructions regarding the paper.

Steps for Writing a Middle School Research Paper

Writing middle school research papers is no different from writing assignments in other stages of the academic career. Here are some steps to get started with the task:

Understanding the Assignment Requirement: Before you start writing, consider what the teacher expects to see in the final copy of your research paper. You will come across multiple rules and procedures. Know the format you are supposed to write and bear in mind the due dates.

Complete Your Pre-Writing: Select up to 3 topics when you first ideate your subjects for writing your paper. From there, choose the best one to write on. Then, jot down the valid and useful information from your research.

Compose the Paper: Elaborate on the jotted-down details and craft the paper. Let your ideas flow in the first draft. The paper should contain necessary sections such as the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Edit and Proofread Your Work: Editing and proofreading are essential. Begin the revision process with editing. From your first draft, remove the unnecessary sections and insert details you think you missed. Look for spelling and punctuation errors. Also ensure that your work is neat, accurate, logically structured, and has a smooth flow.

Citations and References: Finally, cite and reference your work. Follow the format given by your teacher to write references for your research paper. References will emphasize the sources of the data collected to develop your research paper.

Types of Research Topics

There are significant components that aid in the process of picking middle school research topics. Once you can determine the type of research paper, it will become easier for you to compose your solution. There is an array of categories but three of them are the most crucial ones. Read the below points to find out about them.

Descriptive– These topics are based on vigilant and complete observation of an occurrence, occasion, theme, trait, etc. to distinguish it in feature and to potentially uncover essential, appealing, non-depicted aspects or patterns.
Causal – These ideas investigate whether altering some variables leads to changes in other variables suggesting a causal relationship.
Comparative– These topics inspect resemblance and dissimilarity between two or more entities

Features of a Good Research Paper Topic

Searching for an appropriate middle school research topic becomes easy when you know the characteristics of an excellent topic. The following are the features of an excellent middle school research topic:

Precise and real: Research goals and predictable results must be obvious and focused
Original: scrutinizing aspects, units, and associations that have never been researched before
Highly important: Effective for community, civilization, and a professional field
Highly relevant: The topic should be relevant for probable readers, reviewers
Trending: Rising disciplines and subjects ignite more interest in their originality and yet the uncharted possibility

List of Middle School Research Topics

Have you been assigned to develop a middle school research paper? Are you looking for some excellent ideas to develop your paper? Then, take a look at the range of topics mentioned below.

Middle School Research Questions on Science & Technology

In your middle school research paper, you may focus on any ideas that are associated with physics, chemistry, biology, or technology. Find here, some excellent science and technology research topics for middle school students.

How has light become an instrument to treat cancer and other diseases?
What is the present substantiation that Mars has had water and maybe life?
Can nanomedicine potentially expand the human lifespan?
What is the prospect of computing and artificial intelligence?
What function does cryogenics play in the future?
Can alternative energy efficiently restore fossil fuels?
Is it advantageous for wild animals to have connections with people?
What evidence do we have that CMB is the consequence of the Big Bang?
How will self-driving cars alter the technique in which people live?
Can using currency systems like Bitcoin help safeguard identity theft?

Middle School Research Ideas On Mathematics

For your middle school research paper on math, you can concentrate on topics from areas such as algebra, arithmetic, geometry, etc. From here, get a collection of the finest research questions on mathematics.

The power of algorithms.
Is it possible to develop a successful monopoly policy?
Why is ‘x’ the unknown?
How has math altered the world?
What is the answer to the McDonald’s math issue?
How do math geniuses solve extremely difficult math concepts so quickly?
Should high school math competitions be banned?
Describe the relationship between math and music
Are math formulas ever implicated in real life?
What are some of the most puzzling math issues ever?

Informative Middle School Research Topics

Working on an informative middle school research paper will help you to widen your subject knowledge. So, for your convenience, here, we have listed some informative middle school research titles to get started.

Discuss the history of cryptography.
Suggest some effective strategies for waste recycling.
Analyze how a person’s behavior changes in the crowd.
Discuss the possible consequences of drug legalization.
Explain the meaning of music in modern life.
Investigate what influences healthy self-esteem.
Explain how propaganda works.
Analyze the impact of family issues on the development of the children’s personality.
Discuss the geological periods of Earth’s development.
Write about internet safety.

Middle School Research Paper Topics on Politics

For your middle school research paper, you may focus on ideas related to laws, policies, and government. The following are some exclusive research ideas on politics for middle school students.

Is it necessary to reduce the drinking age?
Should adults have the privilege to carry a hidden handgun?
More gun control laws should be performed
How can the global community prevent Iran from creating nuclear weapons?
How can racial assassination be stopped?
The current outlook for peace between Israel and the Palestinians
How would the world be without wars?
How to avoid personnel reduction?
Should the death sentence be allowed?
Is socialism achievable?

Psychology Topics for Middle School Students

Take a look at anything related to mental health or mental illness in your middle school research paper. Listed below are some outstanding middle school research questions to be considered in psychology.

Is autism an illness or a progressive peculiarity?
How to predict and form behavioral patterns?
How to control child violence?
How to handle a mental breakdown?
The effect of classical music on the functioning of the brain
How does insomnia impact our health?
How badly do dreams impact our mood?
Is stress truly damaging?
How does depression affect the immune system?
Are some people intellectually gifted?

Interdisciplinary Middle School Research Topics

Are you searching for an interdisciplinary middle school research title? Take a look at the list published below. In the list, we have included amazing interdisciplinary research ideas for middle school students.

Explain how climate change affects biodiversity.
Analyze the impact of technology on society and culture.
Explain the role of music in mental health.
Examine the history and science of flight.
Explain how food and nutrition affect brain development and scholastic performance.
Analyze how social media affects the self-esteem of a person.
Explain the impact of sports on physical and mental health.
Discuss the history of ancient civilizations.
Analyze the psychology and biology of addiction.
Examine the relationship between art and science in developing visual illusions.

Middle School Research Topics on Business

Do you need awesome ideas on business for your middle school research paper? If yes, then make use of the following business research titles. It will help you in composing a detailed research paper worthy of top grades.

How do filthy business tactics work?
Can you start a business without money?
Infamous business leaders.
Private enterprise and family business.
Moral decision-making in everyday work situations.
What are the most successful strategies for endorsing a small business?
Is it worth it to spread out the business into a new region or country?
How to develop a victorious startup.
The function of global business and sustainable development.
The effect of climate change on international business strategies.

Simple Middle School Research Questions

You will not find your research process exhausting if you work on easy middle-school research paper topics. So, instead of working on complex research ideas, give preference to any simple research questions listed below.

Is becoming vegan the healthiest option for you?
Is natural greenhouse more effective or artificial?
The reason, impacts, and results of earthquakes
How many computer games do you play without getting addicted?
Princess Diana and her empire.
Why is competition so essential for humans?
How did poetry evolve?
How did ancient sailors find their way around the globe?
Importance of Gender Roles in Children’s Books and Cartoons
Who is the most powerful individual to have lived on the planet?

Unique Middle School Research Topics

Are you interested in composing a top-score-fetching middle school research paper? If yes, then work on original research titles that make your work stand unique in the crowd. The following are some authentic middle school research ideas on different themes.

The methods deal with addressing drug addiction cases in high school.
Physical vs. digital communications.
Body Image and the Korean Pop Culture.
The significance of school volunteering and social work.
The alterations to the academic procedure because of Covid-19.
The Legacy of the Trail of Tears.
The responsibility of motivation in becoming a better student.
The function of books in print and the libraries.
How to improve school safety?
Discuss the importance of parents to get involved in their children’s schoolwork.

Argumentative Middle School Research Topics

Find here, a collection of argumentative middle school research questions. All these ideas will help you in conducting in-depth research and developing interesting arguments with valid supporting pieces of evidence.

Why is education not free for everyone?
Bloggers and influencers are not professionals. Share your views on the statement.
Serving in the military is an act of maturity. What are your views on the statement?
Unlimited internet access to college professors is harming the quality of education offered at colleges and universities.
The death penalty is not an ethical way to reduce crime.
The fashion industry has a negative influence on youngsters.
Fairplay is only beneficial if it comes with a financial reward.
Indoor consumption of tobacco should be illegal.
Religious differences often lead to wars
The greater part of mobile applications symbolize the invasion of privacy

The Bottom Line

All the topics suggested above will help you in composing a compelling middle school research paper. If you are interested in picking a topic on your own, give preference to the title that is unique, interesting, and researchable. After choosing a topic, conduct extensive research on it and then compose a well-structured middle school research paper that is flawless and plagiarism-free. However, to get the desired results, you should make sure to prove your thesis statement in your paper with valid supporting evidence.

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33 Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School Students . Bonus! Many of these ideas are also GREAT for students and writers of all ages.

Argumentative essays tend to require a little more research and logic than their cousin, the persuasive essay—but your middle school students will enjoy the opportunity to argue convincingly to readers all the same.

More importantly, as students research their papers, gather evidence, and form their positions and arguments, they’ll be learning and practicing a number of important writing and critical thinking skills.

Good Grades in Essay Writing this School Year

The way to good grades for every student is to practice.

Yes, some students will have to practice their essay writing skills more than others. But…

It is the exploration and understanding of the essay writing process that lead to good writing.

This is why to support your students, we offer you…

Good Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas (and Free, too!)

With these 33 new argumentative essay topics for middle school students, you can help your students learn more about what makes a good argument and how to evaluate and decipher so-called “evidence.”

As they explore topics like the ways in which schools handle bullying and whether or not the Pledge of Allegiance should be required in schools, they’ll have the chance to see how biased some sources may be—and how those sources can be construed to support a particular side of an argument.

Whether students choose to argue for or against a given topic, you can be sure they’ll learn plenty about the components of an excellent argument either way.

You can help your writers form a point of view on topics they are interested in by using our ideas for your next homework assignment.

So get to it and…

Use these argumentative essay topics for middle school today to teach your middle-schoolers all about the process of delivering well-researched, evidence-based arguments to their peers. I’m sure you’ll be glad you did.

33 Powerful Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

Enjoy using these middle schooler argumentative essay topic ideas with your kids.

Do people have a right to Internet access?
Do violent video games make people more likely to be violent in real life?
Is it ever fair for minorities to receive special treatment or consideration?
Does the average American have a healthy diet? What are the effects of good or bad eating habits on the healthcare system?
Should students have a greater say in what they learn?
Do girls or boys face more societal pressure—or do they face equal amounts?
Do schools do enough to prevent bullying?
Does reality television accurately depict real life? Do movies?
Does nature or nurture play a bigger role in who we are?
Do athletes, celebrities, and CEOs deserve to make more money than the average person?
Is arts education as important as other types of curriculum?
What is the greatest challenge today’s students face?
What responsibilities do people have to help one another out?
What one thing should all households be doing to conserve energy?

Argumentative Essay Ideas for Middle School Students

Does pop culture have value?
Should parents monitor their children’s Internet and/or social media usage?
When it comes to government monitoring, which is more important—individual privacy or national security?
How does the location someone grows up in affect who they become?
Should the Pledge of Allegiance be recited (or required) in schools?
Should official forms and documents have more than two options available when asking about gender?
Do participation trophies have value or do they undervalue the achievements of the winners?
Should children have restricted limits on the amount of screen time they can have on their cell phones, computers, and so forth?
Is climate change real, and is it happening?
What types of responsibilities does a government have to take care of its citizens?
Knowing what we know about the dangers of smoking, should cigarettes be outlawed?
Should students be required to learn a second, foreign language in school?
What issue should lawmakers be most concerned about?
Should Photoshopped magazine covers be banned?
Should religion be kept out of politics or brought into it?
Do celebrities have a right to privacy or do they forfeit some of that right by choosing to live in the public eye?
Should peanut products and other common allergens be kept out of schools?
Is it immoral to download copyrighted content illegally—or is it something that is a violation of the law, but not an issue of ethics?

I hope you enjoyed these argumentative essay topics for middle school writers.

Now, in case your students need more ideas, here are…

13 More Argumentative Research Paper Topic Ideas

A few of these topics are deep and may be better suited for more advanced writers. Of course, they may also be reworked and simplified for writers of all skill levels if needed.

Should all kids have curfews?
Are pets really “fur babies” and should they have the same rights as children?
Are school uniforms a good idea?
Should gym class (physical education) be required in school for all students?
Do beauty pageants objectify the participants?
Was the civil rights movement one of the most significant times in American history?
Should the United States revise the history lessons taught in public schools?
What events from history do you think must continue to be taught in public schools? (Great Depression, historical mistreatment of Native Americans, etc…)
If a politician is caught lying, should they be required to instantly resign from their elected office?
The minimum wage law in the United States is…
Is too much homework harmful, helpful, or both?
Do you believe access to a needed medical treatment is a human right?
Young adults today are…

Ok, in case more writing prompt ideas are needed, check out the resources listed below.

174 More Essay Writing Topics

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35 Essay Topics for Kids
37 Essay topics for 6th graders
36 Opinion Writing Prompts
35 Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students

Until next time, keep on writing!

If you enjoyed these Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, please share them on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Pinterest. I appreciate it!

Sincerely, Jill journalbuddies.com creator and curator

Argumentative Essay Prompts for Middle School

PS – This Argumentative Writing Step-by-Step Plan might be helpful for your students!

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Exciting Research Topics for Middle Schoolers to Fuel Curiosity

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Middle school is a time of burgeoning curiosity and the perfect opportunity for students to engage in research that not only educates them academically but also cultivates skills for the future. By encouraging young learners to explore topics they are passionate about, educators and parents play a pivotal role in their intellectual development and the growth of their intrinsic motivation. This blog post outlines a diverse range of research topics suited to the inquiring minds of middle school students, giving them the freedom to deepen their understanding of various subjects while honing critical thinking and independent study skills.

Uncovering the Mysteries of History

Middle schoolers often find history fascinating, particularly when learning about the past from distinct perspectives. Here are some intriguing historical research topics to consider:

The Unsung Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement: Apart from the well-known leaders, students can explore the contributions of lesser-known figures who played a significant role in the struggle for equality.
The Impact of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Society: Researching the ways in which the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, or other ancient societies have influenced contemporary culture, politics, and technology offers a broad canvas for exploration.
Everyday Life in Different Historical Periods: Focusing on the routines, customs, and technologies that shaped people’s daily lives in times gone by can provide valuable insights into societal norms and individual experiences.

Science and the Natural World

The sciences are a playground of wonder, with an infinity of topics waiting to be explored. Here are some research ideas that can nurture a love for discovery and experimentation:

Climate Change: Effects and Solutions: Investigating the causes and potential solutions to this global challenge can make students aware of their role in protecting the planet.
The Wonders of the Solar System: Encouraging a study of the planets, their moons, and the vast expanse of space they inhabit can ignite dreams of interstellar exploration.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation: Researching the variety of life on Earth and strategies to protect and sustain ecosystems can foster a sense of environmental stewardship.

Literature, Language, and Creative Expression

Language and literature are potent forms of human expression, allowing students to explore complex ideas and emotions. Here are some topics that bridge the gap between art and academia:

Interpreting Classic Literature for Modern Relevance: Encouraging the study of timeless works can lead to discussions on their contemporary significance and the evolution of societal values.
The Structure and Evolution of Language: Investigating the origins and changes in language over time can be a rich area of study, especially when paired with the examination of cultural shifts.
The Intersection of Art and Literature: Exploring how visual arts and writing intersect to convey messages and emotions can be a fertile ground for interdisciplinary research.

Mathematics and Logic Puzzles

The precision and patterns found in mathematics can be both satisfying and thought-provoking. Middle school students often enjoy the thrill of solving problems and unraveling puzzles. Here are some mathematical research topics that can engage students’ analytical minds:

Famous Mathematical Conjectures: Researching unsolved problems, such as the Goldbach conjecture or the Riemann hypothesis, can introduce students to the excitement of open questions in mathematics.
The Application of Math in Various Industries: Investigating how mathematical principles underpin fields like music, art, sports, and technology can illuminate the subject’s real-world utility.
The History of Mathematical Discoveries: Tracing the lineage of mathematical concepts through different cultures and periods can showcase the universality and timelessness of mathematics.

Social Sciences and Human Interaction

Studying human behavior and society can help students develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Here are some social science research ideas to explore:

The Impact of Social Media on Friendships and Relationships: Research could focus on positive and negative effects, trends, and the future of social interaction.
Cultural Traditions and Their Meanings: Investigating the origins and contemporary significance of customs from various cultures can foster respect for diversity and a global perspective.
The Psychology of Decision Making: Exploring the factors that influence human choices, from cognitive biases to social pressures, can provide insights into individual and collective behavior.

Technology and Innovation

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Middle schoolers are often tech-savvy and interested in the latest gadgets and advancements. Here are some technology and innovation research topics to tap into that curiosity:

The Impact of Gaming on Society: Research could examine how video games influence education, social issues, or even career choices.
Emerging Technologies and Their Ethical Implications: Encouraging students to study technologies like artificial intelligence, gene editing, or wearable tech can lead to discussions on the ethical considerations of their use and development.
Inventions That Changed the World: Chronicling the history and influence of significant inventions, from the wheel to the internet, can provide a lens through which to view human progress.

By providing middle schoolers with the opportunity to conduct meaningful research in a topic of their choosing, we not only deepen their education but also equip them with the skills and passion for a lifetime of learning. This list is just the beginning; the key is to foster curiosity and guide young minds toward engaging, challenging, and diverse research experiences. Through such explorations, we empower the next generation to think critically, communicate effectively, and, most importantly, to nurture their innate curiosity about the world.

Implementing Research Projects in the Classroom

Encouraging middle school students to undertake research projects requires a strategic approach to ensure sustained interest and meaningful outcomes. Here are some methods educators can employ:

Mentorship and Support: Pairing students with teacher mentors who can guide them through the research process, provide feedback, and encourage critical thinking is essential for a fruitful research experience.
Cross-Curricular Integration: Linking research topics to content from different subjects helps students appreciate the interconnectedness of knowledge and develop versatile learning skills.
Use of Technology and Media: Incorporating digital tools for research, presentation, and collaboration can enhance engagement and teach essential 21st-century skills.
Presentation and Reflection: Allocating time for students to present their findings nurtures communication skills and confidence, while self-reflection activities help them internalize their learning journey.

These strategies can create a robust framework within which students can pursue their curiosities, leading to a more personalized and impactful educational experience.

What is a good topic to research for middle school?

A good topic for middle school research could delve into the Role of Robotics in the Future of Society . Students can explore how robotics may transform jobs, healthcare, and everyday life. They can examine the balance between automation and human work, predict how robots could augment human abilities, and discuss the ethical dimensions of a robotic future. This inquiry not only captivates the imagination but also encourages critical thinking about technology’s impact on tomorrow’s world.

What are the 10 research titles examples?

The Evolution of Renewable Energy and Its Future Prospects
Investigating the Effects of Microplastics on Marine Ecosystems
The Influence of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Democracy
Understanding Black Holes: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Cosmos
The Impact of Augmented Reality on Education and Training
Climate Change and Its Consequences on Coastal Cities
The Psychological Effects of Social Media on Teenagers
Genetic Engineering: The Possibilities and Pitfalls
Smart Cities: How Technology is Shaping Urban Living
The Role of Nanotechnology in Medicine: Current Applications and Future Potential

Fascinating Facts About Middle School Research Topics

Interdisciplinary Impact : Research projects in middle school often blend subjects, such as the integration of art and mathematics when exploring patterns and symmetry, which helps students discover the interconnectivity of different fields of knowledge.
Skill Building : Engaging in research equips middle schoolers with advanced skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management, which are beneficial across their academic journey and beyond.
Diversity in Content : Middle school research topics are notably diverse, ranging from examining the role of robotics in society to exploring the psychological effects of social media, catering to a wide array of student interests and strengths.
Tech Savvy Learning : Technology-based research topics, such as the influence of smart cities or the impact of augmented reality in education, are deeply relevant to tech-savvy middle school students, making learning more engaging and relatable.
Cultural Relevance : Researching topics like cultural traditions and their meanings encourages middle schoolers to develop a global perspective and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity within their own school community and the world at large.

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10 Great Research Topics for Middle School Students

Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring the fascinating world of research, especially if you're passionate about STEM and the humanities. Engaging in research projects now not only feeds your curiosity but also develops critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning. Whether you're intrigued by the secrets of the universe, the beauty of numbers, or the complexity of robotics, there's a research project that you can pursue to help you build your knowledge. Let's dive into some advanced yet accessible research topics that will challenge you and enhance your academic journey.

1. Program your own robot

What to do: Start by defining the purpose of your robot. Will it be a pet robot that follows you around, or perhaps a robot that can help carry small items from one room to another? Sketch your design on paper, focusing on what sensors and motors you'll need. For instance, a robot that follows light might need light sensors, while a robot that avoids obstacles will require ultrasonic sensors. Use an Arduino or Raspberry Pi as the brain. You'll need to learn basic programming in Python (for Raspberry Pi) or C++ (for Arduino) to code your robot's behavior.

Tips to get started: The official websites for Arduino and Raspberry Pi offer tutorials for beginners. For more specific projects, such as building a pet robot, search for guides on Instructables that detail each step from hardware assembly to software programming.

2. Design a solar-powered oven

What to do: Investigate how solar ovens work and the science behind solar cooking. Your oven can be as simple as a pizza box solar oven or more complex, like a parabolic solar cooker. Key materials include reflective surfaces (aluminum foil), clear plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect, and black construction paper to absorb heat. Experiment with different shapes and angles to maximize the heat capture and cooking efficiency. Test your oven by trying to cook different foods and measure the temperature achieved and cooking time required.

Tips to get started: The Solar Cooking wiki is an excellent resource for finding different solar cooker designs and construction plans. YouTube also has numerous DIY solar oven tutorials. Document your process and results in a project journal, noting any changes in design that lead to improvements in efficiency.

3. Assess the health of a local ecosystem

What to do: Choose a local natural area, such as a stream, pond, or forest, and plan a series of observations and tests to assess its health. Key activities could include water quality testing (for pH, nitrates, and phosphates), soil testing (for composition and contaminants), and biodiversity surveys (identifying species of plants and animals present). Compile your data to evaluate the ecosystem's health, looking for signs of pollution, habitat destruction, or invasive species.

Tips to get started: For a comprehensive approach, NOAA’s Global Monitoring Laboratory provides information on atmospheric and environmental monitoring techniques. Tools like iNaturalist can assist in species identification, and water and soil testing kits are available from science education suppliers.

4. Develop an educational app

What to do: Identify a gap in educational resources that your app could fill. Perhaps you noticed that students struggle with a particular math concept, or there's a lack of engaging resources for learning a foreign language. Outline your app’s features, design the user interface, and plan the content it will deliver. Use MIT App Inventor for a drag-and-drop development experience, or Scratch for a game-like educational app. Test your app with classmates or family members, and use their feedback for improvements.

Tips to get started: Both MIT App Inventor and Scratch provide tutorials and community forums where you can learn from others’ projects. Begin with a simple prototype, focusing on one core feature, and expand from there.

5. Model rocketry: design, build, and launch!

What to do: Dive into the basics of rocket science by designing your own model rocket. Understand the principles of thrust, aerodynamics, and stability as you plan your rocket. Materials can range from simple kits available online to homemade components for the body, fins, and nose cone. Educate yourself on the proper engine selection for your design and the recovery system to ensure your rocket returns safely. Conduct a launch in a safe, open area, following all safety guidelines.

Tips to get started: The National Association of Rocketry is a treasure trove of information on model rocket safety, design, and launch procedures. For beginners, consider starting with a kit from Estes Rockets , which includes all necessary components and instructions.

6. Create a wearable electronic device

What to do: Envision a wearable device that solves a problem or enhances an aspect of daily life. It could be a smart bracelet that reminds you to stay hydrated or a hat with integrated LEDs for nighttime visibility. Sketch your design, listing the components you'll need, such as LEDs, sensors, a power source, and a microcontroller like the Adafruit Flora or Gemma. Plan your circuit, sew or assemble your device, and program it to function as intended.

Tips to get started: Adafruit’s Wearables section offers guides and tutorials for numerous wearable projects, including coding and circuit design. Start with a simple project to familiarize yourself with electronics and sewing conductive thread before moving on to more complex designs.

7. Explore the science of slime and non-Newtonian fluids

What to do: Conduct experiments to understand how the composition of slime affects its properties. Create a standard slime recipe using glue, borax (or contact lens solution as a safer alternative), and water. Alter the recipe by varying the amounts of each ingredient or adding additives like cornstarch, shaving cream, or thermochromic pigment. Test how each variation affects the slime’s viscosity, stretchiness, and reaction to pressure.

Tips to get started: The Science Bob website offers a basic slime recipe and the science behind it. Document each experiment carefully, noting the recipe used and the observed properties. This will help you understand the science behind non-Newtonian fluids.

8. Extract DNA at home

What to do: Use common household items to extract DNA from fruits or vegetables, like strawberries or onions. The basic process involves mashing the fruit, adding a mixture of water, salt, and dish soap to break down cell membranes, and then using cold alcohol to precipitate the DNA out of the solution. Observe and analyze the DNA strands.

Tips to get started: Detailed instructions and the science explanation are available at the Genetic Science Learning Center . This project offers a tangible glimpse into the molecular basis of life and can be a springboard to more complex biotechnology experiments.

9. Investigate the efficiency of different types of solar cells

What to do: Compare the efficiency of various solar panels, such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Design an experiment to measure the electrical output of each type under identical lighting conditions, using a multimeter to record voltage and current. Analyze how factors like angle of incidence, light intensity, and temperature affect their performance.

Tips to get started: Introductory resources on solar energy and experiments can be found at the Energy.gov website. Consider purchasing small solar panels of different types from electronics stores or online suppliers. Ensure that all tests are conducted under controlled conditions for accurate comparisons.

10. Study ocean acidification and its effects on marine life

What to do: Simulate the effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms in a controlled experiment. Use vinegar to lower the pH of water in a tank and observe its impact on calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, such as seashells or coral fragments. Monitor and record changes over time, researching how acidification affects the ability of these organisms to maintain their shells and skeletons.

Tips to get started: NOAA’s Ocean Acidification Program offers educational materials and experiment ideas. For a simpler version of this experiment, see instructions for observing the effects of acidified water on eggshells, which are similar in composition to marine shells, at educational websites like Science Buddies .

By pursuing these projects, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of STEM principles but also develop invaluable skills in research, design, and critical analysis. These projects will teach you how to question, experiment, and innovate, laying the groundwork for future scientific inquiries and discoveries.

One other option – Lumiere’s Junior Explorer Program

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a program for middle school students to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore their academic interests and build a project they are passionate about . Our mentors are scholars from top research universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Duke and LSE.

The program was founded by a Harvard & Oxford PhD who met as undergraduates at Harvard. The program is rigorous and fully virtual. We offer need based financial aid for students who qualify. You can find the application in the brochure !

To learn more, you can reach out to our Head of Growth, Khushi Malde, at [email protected] or go to our website .

Multiple rolling deadlines for JEP cohorts across the year, you can apply using this application link ! If you'd like to take a look at the cohorts + deadlines for 2024, you can refer to this page!

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

middle school students

Exploring Exciting Research Topics for Middle School Students

Are you searching for the best research topics for middle school? If yes, then your search ends here with the best ever research topics for middle school.

Research is an essential aspect of learning, and it is never too early to introduce it to students. Middle school is an excellent time for students to start learning how to conduct research and develop critical thinking skills. By engaging in research projects, students can explore various topics in-depth and develop a deeper understanding of them.

Additionally, research projects can help students develop crucial skills such as time management, organization, and communication. This guide will provide examples of research topics for middle school students and offer tips on how to identify research topics and access scholarly sources. With this guide, students can discover the exciting world of research and the many benefits it offers.

Importance of research topics for middle school students

Table of Contents

Have a close look at the importance of research topics for middle school students.

Develop critical thinking skills

Research topics encourage students to analyze information, think critically about issues and topics, and make informed decisions. This helps them develop their ability to assess evidence and draw conclusions.

Enhance academic skills

Research projects help students develop essential academic skills such as reading, writing, and critical thinking. These skills are critical for success in high school, college, and beyond.

Prepare for high school and beyond

Research projects prepare students for the more in-depth research assignments they will encounter in high school and beyond. It also prepares them for the rigors of college-level research.

Foster creativity

Research projects can provide students with opportunities to explore creative ways of presenting information and engaging with their topic. This can include using technology, art, or multimedia presentations to showcase their findings.

Encourage curiosity

Research projects can encourage students to ask questions, investigate, and discover new information about topics that interest them. This helps them develop a love of learning and become lifelong learners.

Develop time management skills

Research projects require planning and organization, and can help students develop time management skills. This prepares them for managing their time and workload in high school, college, and beyond.

Promote collaboration

Research projects can be done individually or in groups, allowing students to collaborate, share ideas, and learn from one another. This helps them develop teamwork skills and learn to appreciate diverse perspectives.

Increase engagement

Research topics that are relevant and interesting to students can increase engagement and motivation in learning. This can help students become more invested in their education and develop a deeper understanding of the topic.

Improve communication skills

Research projects can help students develop communication skills, such as presenting findings and participating in discussions. This helps them become better communicators and prepares them for future academic and professional pursuits.

Encourage lifelong learning

Research projects can foster a love of learning and encourage students to continue exploring new topics throughout their lives. It helps them develop a sense of intellectual curiosity and a desire for continued personal growth.

Benefits of engaging in research projects

Have a close look at the benefits of engaging in research projects.

Enhances critical thinking skills

Research projects not only require students to gather information but also to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate it from various sources. These skills are essential for developing critical thinking skills, which are crucial for academic and real-life situations.

Promotes problem-solving skills

By engaging in research projects, students learn to identify problems, develop hypotheses, and test them. Through this process, they acquire problem-solving skills, which are essential for academic success and life beyond school.

Develops creativity

Research projects often require students to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. This encourages creativity, which is a valuable skill for success in many areas of life, from science to the arts.

Improves communication skills

Research projects often require students to present their findings in written or oral form, which helps improve their communication skills. The ability to communicate effectively is crucial for academic and professional success.

Boosts confidence

Successfully completing a research project can give students a sense of accomplishment and boost their confidence in their abilities. This, in turn, can lead to greater motivation and engagement in learning.

Provides hands-on learning experiences

Research projects allow students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations, providing hands-on learning experiences. This can help students connect what they learn in school to the world around them.

Encourages independent learning

Research projects require students to work independently and take ownership of their learning, which encourages self-directed learning. This is a valuable skill that can help students become lifelong learners.

Builds research skills

Engaging in research projects helps students build research skills, such as conducting literature reviews, designing research studies, and analyzing data. These skills are essential for success in college and many careers.

Prepares for college and career

Research projects provide valuable experience that can prepare students for college and careers that require research and critical thinking skills. These skills are highly valued by colleges and employers.

Fosters a love of learning

Engaging in research projects can foster a love of learning and curiosity about the world around us. This can lead to a lifelong passion for learning and exploration.

Research Topics for Middle School

Have a close look at research topics for middle school.

STEM Research Topics

Here are some STEM research topics that middle school students can explore:

Renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment
The effects of pollution on local ecosystems
Investigating the properties of different types of soils
Building and testing a simple machine or robot
The effects of different types of fertilizers on plant growth
The relationship between exercise and heart rate
The chemistry of food preservation
The physics of roller coasters and amusement park rides
Investigating the efficiency of different types of insulation materials
The effects of music on the brain and body

How to Identify a STEM Research Topic

Have a close look at how to identify a stem research topic.

Identify your interests

Think about what subjects interest you in STEM, such as biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, or computer science.

Explore current events

Look at recent news articles or scientific journals to see what topics are currently being researched and discussed in STEM fields.

Consider problems and challenges

Think about problems or challenges in the world that could be addressed with STEM research, such as climate change, renewable energy, or medical advancements.

Brainstorm ideas

Write down any ideas that come to mind based on your interests and the topics you have explored. Consider how you could approach these topics from a STEM perspective.

Research existing studies

Look at existing research studies in your area of interest to see what has already been done and what gaps still exist that you could explore.

Consult with experts

Seek guidance from teachers, professors, or professionals in STEM fields to help you identify potential research topics and provide resources.

By following these steps, you can identify a STEM research topic that aligns with your interests and has the potential to contribute to the field.

Benefits of STEM Research Projects

Engaging in STEM research projects can offer a variety of benefits for middle school students, including:

Development of critical thinking skills

STEM research projects require students to analyze data, identify patterns, and draw conclusions, which enhances their critical thinking abilities.

Hands-on learning experiences

STEM research projects provide opportunities for students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations, which offers hands-on learning experiences.

Preparation for future careers

STEM research projects can prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math, as they develop skills relevant to these fields.

Fostering creativity

STEM research projects often require students to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions, which fosters creativity.

Development of research skills

Engaging in STEM research projects helps students build research skills, such as designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

Collaboration

STEM research projects can be done individually or in groups, allowing students to collaborate, share ideas, and learn from one another.

Improvement of communication skills

STEM research projects often require students to present their findings in written or oral form, which helps improve their communication skills.

Boosting self-confidence

Successfully completing a STEM research project can give students a sense of accomplishment and boost their self-confidence in their abilities.

Encouragement of lifelong learning

STEM research projects can foster a love of learning and encourage students to continue exploring new topics throughout their lives.

Social Science Research Topics

Examples of social science research topics for middle school students:

The impact of social media on mental health.
Gender inequality in education and the workplace.
The effects of poverty on child development.
The relationship between stress and physical health.
The role of parenting styles in child behavior.
The effects of bullying on mental health and social relationships.
The impact of immigration policies on families.
The influence of media on body image and self-esteem.
The relationship between personality and academic achievement.
The effects of technology on social relationships.

How to identify a social science research topic:

To identify a social science research topic, you can follow these steps:

Identify a broad area of interest

Begin by thinking about the general field of social science that interests you the most. This could be psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, or any other related field.

Narrow down the focus

Once you have identified a broad area of interest, narrow down your focus to a specific topic or issue within that field. For example, if you are interested in psychology, you might focus on a specific mental health condition or treatment.

Consider current events

Look at current events or issues that are receiving a lot of attention in the news or media. Consider how you can apply social science research methods to study these topics in more depth.

Talk to your teachers, professors, or other experts in the field to get ideas for research topics. They may be able to provide you with valuable insights and suggestions.

Conduct a literature review

Conducting a literature review involves reading published research studies, articles, and books related to your topic. This will help you understand what research has already been done in the field and identify any gaps or areas that need further exploration.

Refine your research question

Once you have identified a topic of interest, refine your research question by making it more specific and focused. This will help you to develop a clear research plan and stay on track during your project.

Benefits of social science research projects

Have a close look the benefits of social science research topics.

Improved critical thinking skills

Social science research projects require students to analyze and evaluate information from various sources, which helps develop their critical thinking skills.

Enhance problem-solving skills

Through research, students can identify problems and find solutions by gathering and analyzing data, developing hypotheses, and testing them.

Develop empathy

Social science research projects often require students to explore topics related to human behavior and interactions, which can help them develop empathy and understanding for others.

Foster a love of learning

Engaging in social science research projects can foster a love of learning and curiosity about the world around us.

Develop research skills

Social science research projects allow students to develop important research skills such as conducting literature reviews, designing research studies, and analyzing data.

Enhance communication skills

Social science research projects often require students to present their findings in written or oral form, which can help improve their communication skills.

Promote civic engagement

Social science research projects can encourage students to become active and engaged citizens by exploring issues related to society and government.

Expand cultural awareness

Social science research projects can help students understand and appreciate different cultures, beliefs , and perspectives.

Prepare for college and career

Social science research projects provide valuable experience that can prepare students for college and careers that require research, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Humanities Research Topics

Examples of humanities research topics for middle school students:

The impact of art and music on society
The history and cultural significance of traditional dress
The role of religion in shaping world events
The influence of ancient civilizations on modern society
The significance of oral history in preserving cultural traditions
The portrayal of gender roles in literature and media
The impact of social media on interpersonal communication
The role of government in promoting human rights
The significance of historical landmarks in shaping national identity
The portrayal of mental health in literature and media.

How to identify a humanities research topic

Have a close look at how to identify a humanities research topics.

Brainstorm topics

Begin by brainstorming ideas that interest you or your students. This can include topics related to literature, history, art, philosophy, or culture.

Narrow down the ideas

Once you have a list of potential topics, start narrowing them down by considering the available resources, the level of complexity, and the relevance to current events or personal interests.

Conduct preliminary research on the narrowed-down topics to ensure that there is enough information available and that the topic is suitable for a research project.

Consider different perspectives

Humanities topics often involve multiple perspectives and interpretations, so it’s essential to consider different viewpoints and debates related to the topic.

Consult with teachers or librarians

Ask for input from teachers or librarians who specialize in humanities subjects. They may have ideas for topics, recommended resources, or can help guide students towards a suitable topic.

Refine the topic

Once a suitable topic has been identified, refine it further by clarifying the research question, determining the scope of the project, and outlining the research methodology.

Benefits of humanities research projects

Have a close look at the benefits of humanities research projects.

Developing critical thinking skills

Humanities research projects require students to analyze information, form opinions, and develop arguments, which helps them to think critically.

Enhancing creativity

Humanities research projects often require students to think creatively about how they present their findings and engage with their topic.

Improving communication skills

Humanities research projects often involve written or oral presentations, which help students to develop their communication skills.

Encouraging curiosity

Humanities research projects can encourage students to ask questions and explore new topics, fostering their curiosity.

Developing empathy

Humanities research projects often involve examining different perspectives and cultures, which can help students to develop empathy and understanding for others.

Preparing for higher education

Humanities research projects provide students with valuable research skills and a foundation for more advanced research projects in high school and college.

Increasing engagement

Research topics that are relevant and interesting to students can increase engagement and motivation in learning.

Encouraging lifelong learning

Humanities research projects can foster a love of learning and encourage students to continue exploring new topics throughout their lives.

Interdisciplinary Research Topics

Examples of interdisciplinary research topics for middle school students:

How does climate change affect biodiversity?
The impact of technology on society and culture.
The role of music in mental health.
How do food and nutrition affect brain development and academic performance?
The history and science of flight.
How does social media influence body image and self-esteem?
The connection between art and science in creating visual illusions.
The impact of sports on physical and mental health.
The psychology and biology of addiction.
The history and science of ancient civilizations.

How to identify an interdisciplinary research topic

Have a close look at how to identify an interdisciplinary research topic.

Look for common themes or issues

Think about topics that overlap between different subjects. For example, climate change is a topic that can be explored in science, social studies, and literature.

Identify the questions

Once you have identified a common theme or issue, think about the questions that arise from it. What do you want to learn or investigate about this topic?

When exploring interdisciplinary topics, it’s important to consider different perspectives from different subjects. For example, if you’re researching climate change, you might want to explore the scientific causes and effects, the social and economic impacts, and the ethical and moral considerations.

Brainstorm possible connections

Consider how the different subjects you’re interested in can connect to the topic you want to explore. For example, if you’re interested in exploring the history of music, you might look at how different historical events influenced music and how music, in turn, influenced history.

Refine your topic

Once you have some possible connections, refine your topic by focusing on a specific aspect or question. This will help you narrow your focus and make your research more manageable.

If you’re having trouble identifying an interdisciplinary research topic, consider consulting with your teachers or librarians. They may be able to offer guidance or suggest resources that can help you identify a topic.

Benefits of interdisciplinary research projects

Have a close look at the benefits of interdisciplinary research projects.

Encouraging creativity and innovation

Interdisciplinary research topics often require students to approach problems from different angles and find creative solutions by combining knowledge from different fields.

Enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Interdisciplinary research requires students to analyze and synthesize information from various sources, think critically, and solve complex problems.

Promoting collaboration and teamwork

Interdisciplinary research often involves working in teams, which fosters collaboration, communication, and teamwork skills.

Providing a broader perspective

Interdisciplinary research allows students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a topic by examining it from multiple perspectives.

Developing research skills

Interdisciplinary research projects help students develop research skills, such as conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings.

Preparing for future academic and career opportunities

Interdisciplinary research projects provide students with valuable experience and skills that can prepare them for future academic and career opportunities that require interdisciplinary approaches.

Resources for Conducting Research

There are various resources available for middle school students to conduct research. Here are some examples:

School Library

The school library is a great resource for finding books, academic journals, and other resources on a wide range of topics. Librarians can also provide guidance on how to find and evaluate sources.

Online Databases

There are several online databases that provide access to academic journals, magazines, and other scholarly sources. Examples include JSTOR, Project MUSE, and Academic Search Premier.

Google Scholar

Google Scholar is a search engine that allows you to find scholarly articles, books, and conference papers. It can be a useful tool for finding academic sources on specific topics.

Public Library

Public libraries also offer access to a wide range of resources, including books, databases, and other materials. They may also offer research assistance and guidance.

Government Websites

Government websites can be a great resource for research on topics such as history, social studies, and science. Examples include the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the National Science Foundation.

Online Archives

Many organizations and institutions maintain online archives of historical documents, images, and other resources. Examples include the Smithsonian Institution, the National Archives, and the Digital Public Library of America.

Interviews and Surveys

Conducting interviews and surveys can be a valuable way to gather information for research projects. This can involve reaching out to experts in a particular field or surveying individuals to gather data.

Online Learning Platforms

Online learning platforms, such as Coursera and edX, offer courses on a wide range of topics. These courses often provide access to readings, videos, and other resources that can be useful for research projects.

How to access scholarly sources

Accessing scholarly sources can be done through various means, including:

Using academic search engines

There are several academic search engines available that provide access to scholarly sources. Some popular examples include Google Scholar, JSTOR, and PubMed. These search engines allow users to search for academic articles, journals, and other research papers.

Using academic databases

Many universities and libraries offer access to academic databases, such as EBSCO and ProQuest, which contain a vast collection of scholarly sources. Students can check with their school or local library to see if they have access to such databases.

Checking library catalogs

Most libraries have a catalog that contains information about the books and other materials they have available. Students can use these catalogs to search for scholarly sources, such as books, journals, and other publications.

Contacting experts

Students can contact experts in their field of study or a related field to ask for recommendations for scholarly sources. Experts may be able to suggest relevant academic articles, books, or other resources.

Using interlibrary loan services

If a student cannot find a specific scholarly source at their own library, they can use interlibrary loan services to request the material from another library. This service allows libraries to share materials with one another, giving students access to a wider range of scholarly sources.

It is important to note that some scholarly sources may require payment or subscription access. However, many sources are available for free or can be accessed through a library’s subscription.

In conclusion, research projects provide middle school students with an opportunity to explore various subjects in depth, develop their critical thinking skills, and gain a better understanding of the world around them.

STEM, social sciences, humanities, and interdisciplinary research topics offer a broad range of options for students to choose from, and there are various resources available for conducting research, including online databases and access to scholarly sources.

By engaging in research projects, students can improve their academic performance, enhance their problem-solving abilities, and gain valuable experience that will benefit them in the future.

Therefore, we encourage all middle school students to take advantage of these opportunities and engage in research projects that interest them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of research topics for middle school students.

The purpose of research topics for middle school students is to encourage students to explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills, and learn how to conduct research. It also helps them to understand the importance of research in various fields and how it can contribute to solving real-world problems.

How do I choose a research topic for middle school?

Choosing a research topic for middle school involves identifying your interests, brainstorming ideas, and considering the resources available to you. You can start by thinking about a subject that you are curious about or passionate about, and then narrowing down your focus to a specific aspect or question you want to investigate.

What are some tips for conducting research as a middle school student?

Some tips for conducting research as a middle school student include developing a research question, finding reliable sources, taking thorough notes, organizing your information, and citing your sources properly. It’s also important to plan your time wisely and seek help from teachers or librarians if you need assistance.

Can middle school students access scholarly sources online?

Yes, many scholarly sources are available online and can be accessed by middle school students through databases provided by their school or public libraries. Some popular databases for middle school students include JSTOR, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost.

How can research projects benefit middle school students in the long term?

Research projects can benefit middle school students in the long term by developing important skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and time management. It also prepares them for future academic endeavors, and exposes them to potential career paths or fields of interest.

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101 research paper topics.

Why do we sleep ?
How do GPS systems work?
Who was the first person to reach the North Pole ?
Did anybody ever escape Alcatraz ?
What was life like for a gladiator ?
What are the effects of prolonged steroid use on the human body?
What happened during the Salem witch trials ?
Are there any effective means of repelling insects ?
How did trains and railroads change life in America?
What may have occurred during the Roswell UFO incident of 1947?
How is bulletproof clothing made?
What Olympic events were practiced in ancient Greece?
What are the major theories explaining the disappearance of the dinosaurs ?
How was the skateboard invented and how has it changed over the years?
How did the long bow contribute to English military dominance?
What caused the stock market crash of 2008?
How did Cleopatra come to power in Egypt what did she do during her reign?
How has airport security intensified since September 11 th , 2001?
What is life like inside of a beehive ?
Where did hip hop originate and who were its founders?
What makes the platypus a unique and interesting mammal?
How does tobacco use affect the human body?
How do computer viruses spread and in what ways do they affect computers?
What is daily life like for a Buddhist monk ?
What are the origins of the conflict in Darfur ?
How did gunpowder change warfare?
In what ways do Wal-Mart stores affect local economies?
How were cats and dogs domesticated and for what purposes?
What do historians know about ninjas ?
How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?
What were the circumstances surrounding the death of Osama Bin Laden ?
What was the women’s suffrage movement and how did it change America?
What efforts are being taken to protect endangered wildlife ?
How much does the war on drugs cost Americans each year?
How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
Are humans still evolving ?
What technologies are available to home owners to help them conserve energy ?
How have oil spills affected the planet and what steps are being taken to prevent them?
What was the Magna Carta and how did it change England?
What is the curse of the pharaohs?
Why was Socrates executed?
What nonlethal weapons are used by police to subdue rioters?
How does the prison population in America compare to other nations?
How did ancient sailors navigate the globe?
Can gamblers ever acquire a statistical advantage over the house in casino games?
What is alchemy and how has it been attempted?
How are black holes formed?
How was the assassination of Abraham Lincoln plotted and executed?
Do the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks?
How do submarines work?
Do lie detector tests accurately determine truthful statements?
How did Cold War tension affect the US and the world?
What happened to the lost settlers at Roanoke ?
How does a hybrid car save energy?
What ingredients can be found inside of a hotdog ?
How did Julius Caesar affect Rome?
What are some common sleep disorders and how are they treated?
How did the Freedom Riders change society?
How is internet censorship used in China and around the world?
What was the code of the Bushido and how did it affect samurai warriors ?
What are the risks of artificial tanning or prolonged exposure to the sun?
What programs are available to help war veterans get back into society?
What steps are involved in creating a movie or television show?
How have the film and music industries dealt with piracy ?
How did Joan of Arc change history?
What responsibilities do secret service agents have?
How does a shark hunt?
What dangers and hardships did Lewis and Clark face when exploring the Midwest?
Has the Patriot Act prevented or stopped terrorist acts in America?
Do states that allow citizens to carry guns have higher or lower crime rates?
How are the Great Depression and the Great Recession similar and different?
What are the dangers of scuba diving and underwater exploration?
How does the human brain store and retrieve memories ?
What was the Manhattan Project and what impact did it have on the world?
How does stealth technology shield aircraft from radar?
What causes tornadoes ?
Why did Martin Luther protest against the Catholic Church?
How does a search engine work?
What are the current capabilities and future goals of genetic engineers ?
How did the Roman Empire fall?
What obstacles faced scientists in breaking the sound barrier ?
How did the black plague affect Europe?
What happened to Amelia Earhart ?
What are the dangers and hazards of using nuclear power ?
How did Genghis Khan conquer Persia?
What architectural marvels were found in Tenochtitlan, capital of the Aztec Empire ?
From where does spam email come and can we stop it?
How does night vision work?
How did journalists influence US war efforts in Vietnam ?
What are the benefits and hazards of medical marijuana ?
What causes desert mirages and how do they affect wanderers?
What was the cultural significance of the first moon landing ?
What are sinkholes and how are they formed?
Have any psychics ever solved crimes or prevented them from occurring?
Who is Vlad the Impaler and what is his connection to Count Dracula ?
What are the risks of climate change and global warming ?
What treatments are available to people infected with HIV and are they effective?
Who was a greater inventor, Leonardo di Vinci or Thomas Edison ?
How are the Chinese and American economies similar and different?
Why was communism unsuccessful in so many countries?
In what ways do video games affect children and teenagers?

This is an image of a young woman in a library. She is sitting at a desk with a pile of books and looking toward the ceiling. She appears to be in deep thought.

923 Comments

I like using this website when I assist kids with learning as a lot of these topics are quickly covered in the school systems. Thankyou

Mackenah Nicole Molina

Wow! I always have trouble deiciding what to do a research project on but this list has totally solved that. Now my only problem is choosing what idea on this list I should do first!

Most of these my teacher rejected because apparently ‘these aren’t grade level topics, and I doubt they interest you”

I’m sorry to hear that. Sounds like you will have a potentially valuable character-building experience in the short-term.

Edwin Augusto Galindo Cuba

THIS SITE IS AWESOME, THERE ARE LOTS OF TOPICS TO LEARN AND MASTER OUR SKILLS!

research kid

I need one about animals, please. I have been challenged to a animal research project, Due Friday. I have no clue what to research! somebody help, thanks for reading!

You can do one on bats

For international studies you can do Defense and Security.

This was very helpful.

Research on Ben Franklin? I think THAT will get a real charge out of everyone (hehehehegetit)

Mandy Maher

“Is it possible to colonize Mars?”

maddy burney

these are silly topics

thx for making this real.

Mary Nnamani

Please I need project topics on Language Literature

Marcella Vallarino

I would appreciate a list of survey questions for middle school grades 6-8

I need a research topics about public sector management

I NEED FIVE EXAMPLES EACH ON QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH (EDUCATION, HEALTH, TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMY AND ENGINEERING)

publish research that are interesting please……

hey can you do one on the burmiueda triangle

Anybody know video games effect kids,and,teens. There Fun!!

they’re

I need a topic about woman history if any of u can find 1 please that would be great!

You could research about the history of the astronauts, and of human past (WWI, WWII, etc.)

so about women? Manitoba Women Win the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections, The First Women, January 23, 1849: Elizabeth Blackwell becomes the first woman to graduate from medical school and become a doctor in the United States, Rosa Parks Civil Rights Equal Pay. I have way more. so if you need more just ask.

communism is good

what are you a communist?!?!

Did FDR know about the upcoming attack on Pearl Harbor on 07 DEC 1941.

do you know how babies are born

Christine Singu

kindly assist with a research topic in the field of accounting or auditing

need more about US army

Please can yiu give me a topic in education

I think one should be how can music/Video games can affect the life for people

or How Do Video Games Affect Teenagers?

zimbabwe leader

I think a good topic is supporting the confederate flag!

Need a research topic within the context of students union government and dues payments

do more weird ones plz

joyce alcantara

Hi pls po can you give me a topic relate for humanities pls thank u.

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94 Argumentative Essay Topics For Middle School: Protocols, Health, Politics, And More

January 4, 2024 // by Brittany Ray

Middle schoolers are always ready for a feisty debate and to argue their points! This list of excellent argumentative essay topics for middle school is sure to give your students the practice they need in getting their arguments down on paper, in a persuasive way. With a variety of topics ranging from whether or not to outlaw animal testing to debating a 3-day weekend, this curated collection will give your kiddos lots of fun choices to explore! Take a look and see which topics are sure to spark some interest in your classroom!

School Rules and Policies

1. should cell phones be allowed at school.

2. Should gym class (physical education) be a requirement?

3. Explain why or why not: Should students have homework on weekends?

4. Should the school day be extended in exchange for a long weekend?

5. Do you feel the government should dictate what you get for school lunch?

6. Do you believe brick-and-mortar schools are still necessary for today’s post-pandemic society?

7. Is the student-per-class limit too high?

8. Should high school students be required to take a civics exam before graduation?

9. Should school security be improved?

10. Should students be allowed to use smartwatches during examinations?

11. Should there be a limit to the amount of homework a school can assign to students?

12. Is the traditional grading system effective, or does it need an overhaul?

13. Should schools offer more extracurricular activities to cater to diverse interests?

14. Do schools place too much emphasis on sports and athletes at the expense of academic pursuits?

15. Explain your stance as to whether schools should or should not require students to wear uniforms.

16. Do you believe that school field trips are beneficial or merely recreational?

17. Should students be required to learn a second language starting in middle school?

18. Should the government have the ability to ban certain books in the classroom?

19. Should school cafeterias serve exclusively vegetarian meals to promote health?

20. Should schools have mandatory classes on financial literacy?

21. Should schools have strict policies against cyberbullying?

22. Should schools have mandatory mental health classes and counseling sessions?

23. Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?

24. Should schools have mindfulness and meditation sessions as part of the daily routine?

25. Should schools emphasize more on teaching critical thinking skills rather than just memorizing things?

26. Should there be more emphasis on vocational training in middle school?

27. Should students be taught the dangers of misinformation and “fake news” as part of their curriculum?

28. Should schools introduce mandatory community service as part of the curriculum?

29. Should schools allow students to bring their pets to school?

30. Should schools be allowed to monitor students’ online activities?

31. Should education about global warming and environmental conservation be a mandatory part of the curriculum?

32. Should schools introduce more practical skills courses like basic cooking, sewing, or home repair?

33. Do school dress codes infringe on personal expression?

34. Should middle school students be allowed to bring and use laptops in class?

35. Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling for some students?

36. Is learning to write in cursive still a necessary skill in the digital age?

37. Should school libraries invest in more digital resources or in physical books?

38. Should students be taught about controversial historical figures objectively or with a critical lens?

39. Should students have a more significant say in the creation of school rules and policies?

40. Do schools focus too much on college preparation at the expense of life skills?

41. Should parents be held more accountable for their children’s misbehavior at school?

42. Are parent-teacher conferences still effective or have they become outdated?

43. Should middle schools have later start times to accommodate adolescent sleep patterns?

College Admission and Tuition

44. should excellent grades guarantee a scholarship.

45. Should a college degree earned through online education have the same worth as a degree earned at a brick-and-mortar university?

46. Do you feel art courses should be a required part of earning a college degree?

47. Should college admission criteria be less stringent?

48. Should college athletes be paid?

49. Do you believe that a college education is necessary for everyone?

50. Should public education at the college level be tuition-free?

Health and Wellbeing

51. do parents put too much pressure on their children to excel academically.

52. Should cigarettes be illegal?

53. Should employers have the right to require a Covid-19 vaccine?

54. Is milk beneficial to a person’s health?

55. Are hot dogs bad for you?

56. Do you agree or disagree that parents should be held responsible for childhood obesity?

57. Should the FDA allow GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) in our food?

58. Does the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) do a good job of regulating the production of food?

59. Should junk food advertisements be banned during children’s TV shows?

60. Should students be allowed to take “mental health days” off from school?

Government, Politics, and Civic Responsibilities

61. do you think electronic voting machines make the election procedure fair or unfair.

62. Explain whether or not the Electoral College should be eliminated.

63. Should the government have more say in what is or is not “fake news”?

64. Should a felon have the right to vote?

65. Should all political offices have term limits?

66. Should the voting age be lowered?

67. The moral stain of the slavery of African American people in early American History is undoubtedly present. Do you feel the government promotes hate or love with the way it currently speaks about racism?

68. Should the minimum wage be raised to $15 an hour?

69. Should the government have more strict gun control policies?

70. With the separation of church and state, should churches be exempt from paying taxes?

71. Do you feel undocumented immigrants should be granted all the same rights as naturalized citizens?

72. Have Native American communities been given proper reparations for the United States’ long history of seizing land?

73. Do you think that the government should do more to fight against human trafficking?

Environmental and Moral Issues

74. is climate change something we can truly make a difference with.

75. If protecting the environment is of utmost importance, should bottled water be banned?

76. Should exotic animals be kept in captivity?

77. Explain your stance on whether wind farms are a good or bad idea.

78. Do “participation trophies” diminish the value of real achievement?

79. Should there be harsher punishments for bullying?

80. Explain whether or not animal testing should be outlawed.

81. Should the death penalty exist?

82. Should an individual be able to keep wild animals as pets if they have the means to care for them?

83. Do curfews for teenagers prevent them from getting in trouble or infringe on personal freedom?

84. Is scientific research on cloning DNA ethical?

85. Is daylight saving something the U.S. should keep, or should it be abolished?

86. Should schools ban single-use plastics?

Digital and Media

87. do children currently have too much screen time, and is it harmful.

88. Do you believe that the media and/or social media negatively impact body image among teens?

89. Do social media platforms need stricter age verification processes?

90. Should parents have access to their children’s social media accounts for monitoring purposes?

91. Should parents limit the time their children spend on video games?

92. Should violent video games be banned in the United States?

93. Do violent cartoons and animations impact a child’s behavior negatively?

94. Do video games have educational potential or are they merely distractions?

Writing Research Papers

This research writing unit of study is designed to guide your students through the research writing process.

This is a free writing unit of study from the curriculum corner..

This research writing collection includes mini lessons, anchor charts and more.

Mention the words “research writing” in an intermediate classroom and you might be met with moans & groans or perhaps even see fear in the eyes of some students.

In all seriousness though, writing can be intimidating for many children in our classrooms.

Guided and focused your mini-lessons can be helpful for students. Also, the more examples you can get students to interact with, the more they will understand the expectations. Finally, the more modeling that you do for them, the more they can view writing as less overwhelming.

Download the free resources to accompany this unit of study at the bottom of this post.

Lesson Ideas for Writing Research Papers:

Lesson 1: Noticings

Begin by getting your students familiar with what research writing looks like.
Have them work in pairs or small groups to read pieces of research writing. They will record their “noticings” about the writing.
Then, come together in a community circle to discuss and create a class anchor chart.
You will find a blank anchor chart and one with noticings already recorded.
Here is a link we found that contains some student-created examples of research writing: Student Writing Models . Simply scroll through the grade levels for different samples.

Lesson 2: Opinion vs. Facts

Begin with a brief review of opinions vs. facts.
Use the six paragraphs we share in our resources to give your students some practice differentiating between the two.
Each of the paragraphs contains both opinions and facts.
Students will read the paragraphs and record the facts and opinions from their paragraph onto the recording page.

FREEBIE! Research Writing Unit of Study FREE from The Curriculum Corner - mini lessons, anchor charts, graphic organizers & more!

Lesson 3: Choosing a Topic

We know that providing choice will allow for greater engagement and success. We want to help students to narrow their choices by giving them some guidance.
Gather students and begin a discussion about choosing a research topic.
Ask them to think of topics they already know a little about, have interest in or is important/relevant to their lives.
You might pose the question “Why is that important in research writing?” and discuss their thoughts.
For this lesson we have provided a page where students can individually brainstorm topics. You can circulate the room during this process to help students to narrow their topic.
If you feel your class may need help to narrow their choices, think about giving them a broad topic, such as animals, and then have them choose a sub-topics from the bigger umbrella topic.
If you feel like your students need an added level of support you might think about creating an anchor chart from a class brainstorming session about possible appropriate topics and then display this in your room.

Lesson 4: Where to Find Accurate Information about a Topic

Help students to begin to understand where they might find accurate information about their topics.
Where are the places you can begin to look for information about your topic?
Why would the copyright date on a book be important in doing research?
Is everything on the internet true?
Why is it important for your research to contain accurate information?
Where do you begin to look for information that will accurate
One way to help students think through appropriate sites on the internet is to pass out the ten cards provided in our resources.
Have students read the cards and discuss what kind of a website it is.
Talk about whether they know or have heard of the sites. Would they consider the sites “trusted” enough to gain knowledge about their topics. Then have them talk about why or why not these sites would be trusted.

Research Writing Unit of Study FREE from The Curriculum Corner - mini lessons, anchor charts, graphic organizers & more! Completely free!!!

Lesson 5: Double Check Your Facts

We want our students to get into the habit of double checking their facts. This will help ensure what they are learning is correct.
To do this, you might want them to practice this skill. In this lesson use the page provided to have each student find and record a fact about a topic of their choice on the internet.
The page then has students write where they found the fact, and also has them list a corresponding fact from a different source.
Finally they determine if the facts are the same or different. You may have to further the lesson by discussing approximations. For example one site might say that an animal can weigh up to 1,500 pounds, while another might state that the animal weighs between 1,200 and 1,500 pounds.
You will need to talk about how those facts might both be accurate even though they are stated differently. If they seem to check out, then help students generalize the information for a research paper.

Research Writing Unit of Study FREE from The Curriculum Corner - mini lessons, anchor charts, graphic organizers & more! FREEBIE UNIT!

Lesson 6: Taking Notes

Sometimes giving students resources and a blank sheet of notebook paper can be too overwhelming. You have students who simply copy everything from the text or you have others who have no idea where to start.
We need to guide them to read to pull out facts & relevant information.
For this lesson we have provided various templates for note-taking. Whatever method or template you choose for helping your students learn to take notes, model it several times in front of the class Demonstrating for them how to write the notes as they read about a topic will be helpful.
After initial teaching, you may find that you need to pull small groups for extra practice. Some might need a one-on-one conference.

Lesson 7: Paraphrasing vs. Plagiarism

Students will need to learn how to paraphrase their research. This will help them avoid plagiarizing words from their resources.
Discuss why plagiarizing is something that they shouldn’t do in their writing because it is “stealing” another’s words.
Tell the students that there is a way to use another author’s ideas in an appropriate way without copying their words. First, they need to paraphrase and then they need to cite the source where they found the information.
Display the anchor chart “What is Paraphrasing” and discuss the definition.
Next, pass out copies of “My Own Words” to pairs of students. Explain that their task will be to find a paragraph or passage in a nonfiction book. They will paraphrase the author’s words, keeping the same ideas.
Finally, gather students together to share their paraphrasing efforts. Each pair of students can read the paragraph/passage from the book and then the paraphrasing that they wrote. Discuss the words and decisions the students made in their paraphrasing.

Lesson 8: Word Choice in Research Writing

To help students think about making their writing more interesting, have them brainstorm words that could add voice to their writing.
After working independently on the word choice page provided, have them meet with partners. They can talk about nouns, verbs and adjectives that relate to their topic.

Lesson 9: Writing Sketch

This graphic organizer can be used for students to plan their writing.
If your writers are more advanced you might choose to skip this step, It could be a big help for students who have taken notes and have too many facts.
Be sure to model how to write the facts & ideas from your notes onto your planner. Students will see first hand how to make sure to only add what is relevant and important to their writing.
Some questions you can pose: What will be the focus of each paragraph in your research writing? What do you want to include from your notes? Why is it important to the research? What facts don’t quite fit into the paragraphs you’ve decided upon? Should you change some of the paragraphs so that they better support the research and what you want your readers to learn?
Once the planner is finished, they can use it as a guide to help their writing stay focused.

Lesson 10: Writing Introductions to Research

Teach students how to think about their introduction as a way to grab their readers’ attention.
Our anchor chart has some ideas to get writers started. You might also extend the anchor chart to include ideas from your students. (We have included some blank anchor charts at the very bottom of the download.)
Discuss the parts that need to be included in the introductory paragraph first. Then, move on to some of the ways that might engage readers. As always be sure to model how you would go about writing an introductory paragraph using your Writing Sketch.

Lesson 11: Developing Your Paragraphs

Next, help students stay focused and develop complete paragraphs.The next graphic organizer will get them to think through the specifics of each paragraph.
Again, this may not be needed for all of the students in your classroom, but it might be something to think about using with all of them for at least their very first attempts at writing research papers.
Model how to use the Writing Sketch planner to develop their paragraphs more fully on this organizer.

Lesson 12: Writing a Conclusion to Research

Providing a solid concluding paragraph is also something that needs modeled for your students.

Use the anchor chart with ideas to get you started with the modeling of this as well.

***If you would like for your students to write their first drafts on something that continues to support organization for them, you will find guided lined paper.

Lesson 13: Research Rendezvous Celebration

We love ending a unit of study with a celebration.

For this particular celebration, you might invite students to bring in a visual to help illustrate their topic.

Invite parents and other special adults from your building to the celebration and think about providing a snack.

You can also print out our “Congrats Author!” certificates to give to each student during the celebration.

Free unit! Research Writing Unit of Study FREE from The Curriculum Corner - mini lessons, anchor charts, graphic organizers & more!

All the research writing resources described above can be found in one download here:

Writing a Research Paper Resources

As with all of our resources, The Curriculum Corner creates these for free classroom use. Our products may not be sold. You may print and copy for your personal classroom use. These are also great for home school families!

You may not modify and resell in any form. Please let us know if you have any questions.

Dulce Hernandez

Thursday 8th of April 2021

Thank you so much. I tutor non-English speakers from K-9th grade. These resources are a God send!!

Monday 25th of May 2020

I cant download it, where do you download it?

Jill & Cathy

Wednesday 2nd of September 2020

Here is the link: https://www.thecurriculumcorner.com/thecurriculumcorner456/wp-content/pdf/writing/research/researchwriting.pdf

Graphic Organizer for Research Papers - The Curriculum Corner 4-5-6

Tuesday 19th of November 2019

[…] You might also like our unit of study for writing research papers:How to Write a Research Paper […]

Planning a Dynamic Writing Workshop - The Curriculum Corner 123

Thursday 14th of November 2019

[…] Writing Research Papers […]

Language Arts in the Middle School and High School Years

Thursday 11th of May 2017

[…] The middle school years can also be a good time to introduce writing a short research paper if your student is ready. Introduce how to do research, how to make an outline, and how to write a short research paper, including how to cite sources. Here’s a website that has a free introduction to writing research papers: https://www.thecurriculumcorner.com/thecurriculumcorner456/writing-research-papers/. […]

CommonLit 360 How to Teach a CommonLit 360 Research Unit

Olivia Franklin

Engage students with interesting research topics, teach them skills to become adept independent researchers, and help them craft their end-of-unit research papers.

CommonLit 360 is a comprehensive ELA curriculum for grades 6-12. Our standards-aligned units are highly engaging and develop core reading and writing skills.

Want to engage students in independent research? Looking to hook students with interesting research questions and informational texts? CommonLit has your back.

CommonLit’s 360 curriculum provides research units for grades 6-10 that will help students complete independent research and craft evidence-based research papers.

Get students excited about their research with Essential Questions designed around timely topics

Each research unit has an Essential Question that students analyze and discuss throughout the unit. The topics for each research unit are designed to be interesting, timely, and relevant to students’ lives.

Students will learn about the status of the world’s oceans, discuss if social media is beneficial or risky, argue if contact sports are worth the risk, research how branding influences purchasing behavior, and learn about the human costs of clothing.

Here are the research units and their Essential Questions:

Grade	Unit Title	Essential Question
6th	Our Changing Oceans	How are changes in the world’s oceans affecting people and animals? How can we be better stewards of our oceans and waterways?
7th	Social Media: Risks and Rewards	Is social media more beneficial or more risky for teens? How can we promote the benefits of social media over the drawbacks?
8th	Contact Sports: Worth the Risk?	Are contact sports worth the risks? How can we provide a clearer picture of the benefits and risks of contact sports to prospective players and their parents?
9th	The Science of Branding: Why We Buy	How do brands use different tactics to influence our purchasing behavior? How can we make branding tactics and messaging more visible to potential consumers?
10th	The Fashion Industry: Past to Present	What are the true human costs of the clothes we buy?

Get students excited about the research topic with introductory slide decks

Each unit comes with introductory slide decks that preview what students will be learning about over the course of the unit. The slide decks spark classroom discussion, hooking students from the very first lesson.

In Our Changing Oceans (6th grade), students discuss what it would be like to be an oceanographer, preview the texts they will be reading about issues facing our oceans, and hear about the key skills they will be learning throughout the unit.

Informational texts anchor each research unit

CommonLit’s research units are centered around informational texts that provide students with key background information and research to eventually support their end-of-unit essay.

Four core texts make up the Essential Reading Lessons for 6th grade. These texts teach students about the need to protect Antarctica and how plastic debris, sea level rise, and overfishing are affecting the world’s oceans. These texts teach students important facts they will need to cite in their end-of-unit research papers.

A list of the unit texts for 6th Grade Unit 4.

Supplemental texts allow students to dig deeply into independent research

Each unit comes with a large selection of supplemental texts to provide students with more facts and information to use in their research paper.

In middle school, students use the provided supplemental texts to further inform their research. In high school, students learn about finding reliable sources and can use both provided supplemental texts on CommonLit and texts from additional sources in their research.

For example, in Our Changing Oceans, 6th graders choose to research one of three topics related to ocean changes.

A list of the supplemental texts 6th graders are given.

In high school, students are taught about the beginning of the research process, including developing a research question, finding reliable sources, and reading and taking notes. Students in 9th and 10th grade can use the supplemental texts as well as texts found in books or on other online learning platforms.

A screenshot of an independent research lesson for 9th graders.

Students learn about the research process and how to craft research papers throughout the unit

Each unit includes lessons about conducting research so students can be prepared for the end-of-unit research paper. Scaffolded supports help students move through the research process. In lower grades, certain steps in the process, like developing a research question and finding reliable sources, are provided for students.

Students learn about writing research papers during writing lessons. In 8th Grade, students learn how to discuss and outline research papers. Then, they learn how to write a counterclaim, format a Works Cited page, and use in-text citations properly. Each of these research-paper focused writing lessons will prepare students to answer the end-of-unit essay.

A screenshot of the arc of writing instruction for 8th grade.

Students also explore how to conduct independent research in research-specific lessons. In 8th Grade, teachers explain that they have provided the first two steps of the research process for students: developing a research question and finding reliable sources.

In the lesson, students are taught how to use a graphic organizer to take notes on each text they read in preparation for their research paper. Students also engage in an Introduction to Independent Research lesson, where they learn about steps of the research process and begin reading and taking notes on supplemental texts. Later, students engage in a discussion lesson that will help them synthesize all the information they have learned throughout the unit by discussing the research question with classmates.

Related Media Explorations provide even more background information for students

Related Media Explorations are a unique cornerstone of our ELA curriculum. These interactive tasks bring our research units to life and provide background information for students to use in their research.

In 8th Grade, students learn about the way football culture has changed over the past few decades as scientists learn more about the long-term effects of repeated concussions. Students watch three videos that explain the culture of football in the past and present, and analyze statistics about concussions before discussing the question: “Who is most responsible for shaping mindsets about tackling in football: players, coaches, parents, or fans?”

Discussion lessons help students synthesize information in preparation for their research paper

Discussion lessons in each research unit provide students with the opportunity to practice citing evidence from sources, explain their evidence to classmates, and practice synthesizing information. These conversations give students the chance to gain new perspectives, receive feedback on their ideas, and boost their confidence before delving into the research paper.

In 8th Grade, students synthesize their ideas about the research question through a class discussion. After the discussion, students have an opportunity to outline their research paper using both their discussion notes and the note-taking graphic organizer they have used throughout the unit.

Participate in an optional final project that fosters creative thinking and collaboration

Each research unit comes with an optional end-of-unit project to further engage students through project based learning. These optional projects help foster student creativity and collaboration. Students can work with a partner or group to complete the task.

In 8th grade, students must make a brochure providing prospective parents and student athletes with factual information about the benefits and risks about contact sports so families can make an informed decision about participating. Students must work with a peer with an opposing view on the topic so the brochure is factual and unbiased. This task encourages teamwork and collaboration between peers with differing views.

Grade	Unit Title	Optional Final Project
6th	Our Changing Oceans	Create 1-3 mock social media posts about ocean conservation
7th	Social Media: Risks and Rewards	Create 2-3 mock social media posts that promote positive usage of social media
8th	Contact Sports: Worth the Risk?	Create a brochure to provide prospective parents and student athletes with factual information about the benefits and risks of contact sports
9th	The Science of Branding: Why We Buy	Make a Brand Strategy and Messaging Video Blog to help prospective buyers of a brand make informed decisions about the company they are putting their money behind
10th	The Fashion Industry: Past to Present	Put together a presentation about the humaneness of a chosen clothing brand for an audience of potential consumers

Vocabulary and grammar lessons build student comprehension and writing skills

Each 360 unit comes with vocabulary and grammar lessons. Vocabulary activities help students internalize high-impact academic vocabulary words they will see in the texts they are reading. Grammar activities help students improve their writing skills, teaching students valuable skills to construct carefully crafted, grammatically correct paragraphs.

Want to learn more about research units and CommonLit 360? Register for a free, 30-minute webinar today!

Interested in learning about our affordable support packages? For just $6,500 per school, School Essentials PRO Plus provides teachers with three benchmark assessments, two unit skill assessments per 360 unit, personalized professional development, school-wide data reports, LMS integrations, and more.

We are eager to support your team!

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by Michelle Boyd Waters, M.Ed.

28 Expository Writing Prompts for Middle School

October 12, 2014 in Pedagogy

Expository Writing Prompts Middle School

The ability to provide information in different contexts is essential to effective communication. Students must practice expository writing throughout their academic careers. The sooner they start, the better. Below are some descriptive, sequential, compare and contrast, cause and effect, and problem/solution writing prompts to help you give your students the practice they need.

Descriptive

Write an essay describing your school to a potentially new student.
Write an essay describing the appeal of reality TV shows.
Write an essay describing a rainy night.
Write an essay describing your first pet.
Write an essay describing your first memory.
It’s Christmas morning and there is a package under the tree containing exactly what you requested. Describe the contents of your package..
Write an essay describing how you feel when you wake up and discover snow on the ground outside — and school has been cancelled.
Writing an essay explaining the process you use to style your hair in the morning.
You have invited your two best friends to spend the afternoon at your home. Write an essay telling how your prepare for their visit.
Everyone has lost something at one time or another. Write an essay telling what you did to find what you had lost.
Describe how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
Tell how you wash your hair.
Describe the plot of your favorite book.

Compare and Contrast

Write an essay comparing and contrasting ownership of cats and dogs.
Compare and contrast this year in school to last year.
Compare and contrast your two favorite characters.
Compare and contrast your family’s home and the home of your dreams.
Compare and contrast a typical day in your life today and what you think a typical day in your life will be like when you are 25.
Compare and contrast your two favorite teachers.

Cause and Effect

Write an essay telling how peer pressure has affected you this year.
Write an essay explaining what causes students to drop out of high school.
Discuss the causes and effects of bullying in schools.
Discuss the causes and effects of poverty in rural (urban) areas.
Discuss the causes and effects of drug or alcohol use on families.

Problem/Solution

Most students do not read or watch news, resulting in a lack of knowledge about the world outside of their immediate neighborhood. Write an essay describing why this is a problem and telling how this problem might be solved.
Think about the community in which you live. What could you do to make it a better place? Choose one problem that needs to be solved to make your community a better place to live. Write a letter to the editor describing how solving this problem would make your community a better place, and tell what you would do. Give reasons why you think your plan would work.
Think about what you could do to make your school more beautiful. Think about how you would do this. How could you persuade the people in your school that your idea is a good one? Write a letter to the principal of your school asking for support for your plan for making your school more beautiful. Tell what you would do and how you would do it. Explain why you think your plan is important and why it would work.
Think about animal abuse. Some people abuse animals by being intentionally cruel to them or neglecting their basic needs; others abuse animals out of ignorance. Think about what could be done to prevent both kinds of animal abuse. Write a letter to leaders in your community describing how you would solve this problem, and how treating animals better would improve the lives of animals and people. Explain why you think your plan will work.

Related topics: Informative Writing , Quickwriting

About the author

Michelle Boyd Waters, M.Ed.

I am a secondary English Language Arts teacher, a University of Oklahoma student working on my doctorate in Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum with an concentration in English Education and co-Editor of the Oklahoma English Journal. I am constantly seeking ways to amplify students' voices and choices.

Pingback: Writing in the Middle School-Thoughts and Ideas | Teachers Pondering

the prompt should be harder,and including a think about and quote.

Thank you very much for your input, Amelia!

this info is very helpful and all but right now at school (i am in middle school) i have to write an expisitory essay on any topic i am really having trouble finding a topic but it has to be something u can argue like for example: football: people think it is a dangerous sport but the rules have changed more saftey… yeah stuff like that something u can argue ur opinion and so far i have nothing i was really hoping this would help but no but thx anyways i am gonna go to another website but in the future this could really help thx!!!!

But it makes your teacher happy to know what your input is for example what your input is about bullying and drugs.

Thank you so much for this. I need to give my 8th-grader, reluctant writer, some options for what he writes as practice on spring break. This is a great list. I added one about describing the appeal of the YouTube videos he watches, and another about the cause-and-effect of DOnald Trump’s candidacy, since my son is very interested in Trump.

Thank you this helped a lot when I didn’t know what to write for my essay.

I really like this website because i like writing essays for practice and these are a little difficult but It is good for it to be a little diffcult because it is more challenging.

These are great! I will be using these suggestions with my 6th graders! I love expository writing!!!! 🙂

Comments are closed.

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Research Paper Ideas for Middle Schoolers

In recent years, an increased focus on inquiry-based learning in the middle school classroom has made research paper assignments a common part of many educational curriculums. This article examines how teachers can effectively present research paper topics to students that are both meaningful and engaging for young learners. It investigates various strategies for assisting with brainstorming, exploring ideas related to curriculum themes, finding reliable sources, and forming strong thesis statements from the student’s research. Additionally, this article will discuss potential resources available to middle schoolers as they develop their critical thinking skills through writing projects.

I. Introduction to Research Paper Ideas for Middle Schoolers

Getting Started When it comes to writing a research paper, middle schoolers have numerous topics available to choose from that are both educational and engaging. Research projects for this age group should be based on an idea the student is genuinely interested in, as well as focus on developing skills needed in later education such as organization of ideas and citing sources properly.

A strong foundation starts with understanding how best to approach research paper ideas for middle schoolers by breaking down each step of the process into manageable tasks: topic selection, researching & gathering information, outlining key points & arguments, and finally crafting the final essay itself. Here are some tips for success:

Be sure you pick a good topic that can realistically be covered within time constraints.
Start early—allow enough time between selecting your project and its due date so there’s ample opportunity for reviewing what has been written.

Once these basics have been mastered it is important to understand different types of approaches when tackling research paper ideas for middle school students. Depending on the course expectations (i.e., history class vs English language arts), various strategies may need to be employed including comparison/contrast essays or close reading analysis pieces which require detailed examination over short passages.

Analyze primary source material whenever possible; having access to first-hand accounts will help bring more depth and complexity than summarizing secondary sources alone would provide.

II. The Benefits of Writing a Research Paper in Middle School

Research papers offer middle school students the opportunity to expand their writing skills and explore topics in a more extensive manner than other assignments allow. By researching various aspects of an issue or topic, organizing research data into a formal paper, and presenting the results with proper citations, middle schoolers gain valuable experience that will prepare them for future academic work.

Research Paper Ideas For Middle School:
Comparing types of literature (e.g., compare novels written by different authors).
Exploring causes and effects of historical events.

Writing a research paper helps develop critical thinking skills as well as literacy development. Students must read scholarly texts, organize relevant information from those sources, analyze it using valid methods, synthesize what they’ve learned from those materials and form conclusions based on evidence-based reasoning rather than opinionated thought processes. Additionally Research Paper Ideas For Middle School such as analyzing potential solutions to local/national environmental issues can help cultivate analytical problem solving strategies . Doing so enables students to apply such techniques when considering challenges in any context – academic , social or professional alike – throughout their lives .

III. Establishing an Appropriate Topic for a Middle Schooler’s Research Paper

Once the student has been exposed to basic research concepts and library resources, it is important for them to develop an appropriate topic for their research paper. In general, topics should be broad enough to allow for adequate exploration of ideas but narrow enough that a focus can be developed. To begin narrowing down potential topics, teachers may suggest providing students with “research paper ideas for middle school” which they can then refine or combine into something more specific as they conduct their own initial investigations. Additionally, books on writing strategies will often have recommended lists of sources from which students can draw upon during the brainstorming process. If a particular topic sparks interest in the student’s mind then this could provide great motivation and enthusiasm when undertaking the task ahead.

Encourage students to think about what interests them personally
Provide examples of acceptable “research paper ideas for middle school”

The overall goal is helping each individual student arrive at an idea that captures their attention while also allowing ample opportunity to investigate information through interviews or surveys if needed without becoming overly complex or mundane in nature. Once both teacher and student are satisfied with a suggested title/topic after exploring all avenues provided by various resources including those already mentioned above (interviews etc.) then further steps such as creating a working outline followed by actual text composition should follow swiftly afterward.

IV. Brainstorming Techniques and Resources For Generating Good Topics

When it comes to coming up with good research paper ideas for middle school, brainstorming techniques and resources are essential. Brainstorming is an effective way of generating different topics which can be explored further through research or investigation.

Freewriting: Freewriting involves writing on any topic without pausing to make corrections or edit the text in any way. The idea behind this technique is that by letting go of inhibitions and allowing your mind to wander freely, you may come across interesting ideas for potential research paper topics for middle school.
Mind Mapping: Mind mapping is a visual thinking tool used by students when trying to generate new thoughts and connections between related topics or concepts. To do a mind map, start with one central concept – such as “research paper ideas” – then draw lines outward from that central point while adding other related words (i.e., “middle school”). This method allows multiple angles and directions of thought-flow associated with the initial seed thought.

Other useful brainstorming resources include searching online databases like Google Scholar; utilizing web search engines such as Bing; talking to knowledgeable people in various fields; reading journals relevant specifically to your field/topic area; exploring books at the library which could relate directly or indirectly to your subject matter; joining discussion forums devoted specifically towards generating fresh research paper ideas for middle school ; creating questionnaires/surveys about certain issues or themes important within particular academic disciplines

V. Organizing the Stages of Completing a Successful Research Project

Establishing a Timeline for the Research Paper One of the most important steps to ensure that a successful research project is completed on time is establishing a timeline with detailed deadlines and expectations. A researcher should consider factors such as the length of their paper, research methodology, resources available (e.g., library materials or online databases), availability of any needed personnel, and other constraints when organizing his/her schedule accordingly.

In general terms, middle school students should anticipate anywhere from two to four weeks being required for researching and completing an effective paper depending on how much complexity exists within one’s chosen topic; “research paper ideas for middle school” could include comparisons between animal species behavior in different environments or examining changes over time in technology use among adolescents.

Begin by identifying all individual elements necessary to create an entire document.
Then prioritize each task based on urgency.

For example: writing notes needs to be done before developing citations which need preceded creating figures if applicable.

VI. Strategies to Ensure Quality and Engagement with Your Process VII. Conclusion: How This Can Help Prepare Students as They Move Up Through High School

Strategies to Ensure Quality and Engagement with Your Process

One way to ensure quality in the process of developing research paper ideas for middle school is by encouraging students to collaborate on their work. This can help them understand the thought processes involved in researching a topic, which will be beneficial as they move up through high school. Additionally, having peers review each other’s work gives students an additional opportunity to learn from one another and provide feedback. Furthermore, providing guidance during collaboration helps set expectations regarding quality outcomes.

Instructors should also take advantage of digital tools when possible; these platforms often contain features such as tracking revisions or real-time commenting that can engage student learning more than traditional methods such as pen-and-paper note taking. For example, using cloud storage services like Google Drive allows multiple users access simultaneously so classmates can support each other’s efforts while working on their research paper ideas for middle school projects at home or elsewhere outside of class hours. Finally , instructors should integrate formative assessments throughout the process–this will enable them check understanding and make adjustments accordingly if needed before assignments are due.

In conclusion, this article has provided a thorough overview of research paper ideas for middle schoolers. While the list is not exhaustive, it offers a wide range of topic possibilities that will enable middle school students to explore their interests while learning important skills in researching and writing. With guidance from teachers and parents, these young learners can use the topics presented as springboards into more detailed research papers that are sure to challenge them academically. As such, providing exposure to various ideas is essential for aiding student growth and exploration within the realm of academic scholarship at all levels.

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Using Variety to Support Writing in Middle School

Middle school students may get inspired about writing if they’re offered exercises that support different methods of expression.

Photo of middle school student taking notes

Teachers and students might have a range of feelings about writing instruction, from excitement to anxiety. The purpose of this post is to share how I’ve approached writing across contexts and found joy in using writing as a regular part of classroom instruction. Hopefully, these ideas will help middle school teachers find more and more opportunities to have students respond, naturally building writing as part of instruction and lessening the feeling of burden that sometimes comes with composing.

We know that reading is an invisible process unless we have students share out loud from the page. So, how do we know what they’re thinking and how they’re processing what they’re reading about in class? Aside from discussion, which can often allow students to fly under the radar, writing is the only way I know to make this process visible.

In my class, we use writing and composing to talk about how students can explore ideas and use language to build toward deeper thinking.

Drawings and Digital Composing With Adolescent Readers

Often, definitions come first. What do I mean when I say the word writing ? Some might automatically think of the essay form—the routine five-paragraph (or more) approach. While essays can be fruitful expressions of thought, they aren’t necessarily the highest form of communication.

So, what is? Maybe writing that fits the contexts and circumstances that the author needs. Maybe we should first broaden composition by thinking about how writing can be redefined and used with middle school students. This way of writing means that a variety of exercises—short jotting or a long-form response, a brief sketch note or a full digital presentation—can be part of writing and composing.

When it comes to writing, approximations do indeed count in terms of literacy. The first draft is still a draft, and brainstorming or forming ideas is a key part of the process. If we only valued writing that existed perfectly from the first pen stroke or keystroke, not many texts would exist.

I have tried a fairly simple way of connecting reading and writing instruction through the use of illustration and visualizing. First, I introduce three to five vocabulary words to my students. Next, we define these words together and talk about them. Then, I ask students to do something creative.

Since we’ve talked about the vocabulary words and what they mean, I ask students to draw or describe a character who might use this word as their namesake. (Pixar’s Inside Out does this quite well with emotions.)

For students who crave opportunities to express their ideas in art, this is ideal. It’s also an invitation for students who want to write and compose using words—and they often find more words to explain the character they have in mind as they explore the concept related to the vocabulary word they choose.

Sentence Stems and Mentor Texts with Middle Grades

From print to digital, a writing-centered curriculum for the middle years can include expanding on how students begin to build complex texts and write for a variety of audiences. In fact, I believe it really should. The first time I wrote a dissertation (which is also, according to my plans, the only time I’ll write one ), I looked at several examples of dissertations, and I read the work of my doctoral committee members.

Mentor texts are essential for helping writers find their way through a new kind of writing and expand their strengths. When I use sentence stems and mentor texts, it’s an opportunity to read and analyze with students, and it’s a chance to get so creative with my own response that students would be hard-pressed to use it exactly in their own work. The mentor text is a guide and a model, after all, and not something that should be replicated word for word.

For more on mentor texts, I highly recommend Write Like This , by Kelly Gallagher. Gallagher has a variety of resources for reading and writing on his website, and I also had the chance to talk with him last year on a podcast about the value of mentor texts .

By helping students expand their writing repertoires, teachers demonstrate the “why” of writing along with the “how.” Writing doesn’t exist in a vacuum and isn’t simply something done at school just because—it’s a vital practice and is part of professional and personal purpose. Exploring our voice and story helps us remember what is important and true, and it also helps us process difficult questions and experiences.

Moving to Sophistication

From this initial work with illustrations and digital tools, as well as mentor texts, students can engage in sophistication—a more detailed mentorship practice with developing complex ideas, evaluating perspectives, and exploring nuances. In a recent lesson, I worked with students to explore what sophistication means.

This was no easy task. We spent months reading a variety of written works, from poems to essays. We wrote and practiced together. As a final exercise, we worked together to compose a fairly simple definition of democracy. We did this using knowledge from social studies classes that the students were taking at the same time ( especially civic literacy ) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools. We co-composed this basic definition, and then I asked students to think of examples from history and from their lives to add to the definition.

What was it about democracy that stood out to my students? As we crafted together, we discovered that the worldviews that my students carried with them could not easily be replicated by AI. My students saw that their understanding of government and liberty went beyond the definition and included personal examples. By building upon student approximations, using a variety of tools, and continuing to center writing as a regular and expected part of the classroom experience across content areas, we can help students explore these nuances and practice part of the joy of craft—writing and composing with meaningful purposes.

Research Paper Guides
Research Paper Topics

Research Paper Topics: 350+ Ideas for Students to Choose From

Speech Topics
Basics of Essay Writing
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Basics of Research Paper Writing
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Data & Statistics
Methodology
Admission Writing Tips
Admission Advice
Other Guides
Student Life
Studying Tips
Understanding Plagiarism
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125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students

Teach students to make effective arguments.

When students learn to debate, they gain valuable life skills. Debates teach kids to research their topic, make informed choices, and argue effectively using facts instead of emotion. This list of middle school debate topics encompasses both serious and lighthearted ideas for kids ages 10 to 14. Each topic includes a link to an article from a reliable source that provides pros and/or cons to help kids make their arguments.

School and Education Debate Topics

Technology and entertainment debate topics, life and ethics debate topics, fun and funny debate topics.

Controversial Debate Topics
It’s better to be good at academics than to be good at sports.
Homework should be banned.
Schools should require all students to wear uniforms.
We should punish students for using curse words.
Year-round school is better for students.

Year-round school is better for students.- middle school debate topics

Schools should require physical education (gym class) through 12th grade.
All students should be required to volunteer in their community.
Junk food should be banned in schools.
All middle school students should learn a foreign language.
Single-gender schools are better for students.
Math is the most important school subject.
Letter grades should be abolished.
Teachers should be replaced by computers.
Students should be graded on their handwriting.
Kids who get better grades in school will be more successful in life.
Sometimes it’s OK to cheat on homework or a test.
Students who fail a test should be given the chance to take it again.
Students should be allowed to grade teachers.
Kids should be able to bring their pets to school.
Schools should give middle school students more recess time.

Schools should give middle school students more recess time.- middle school debate topics

The school day should be shorter.
Schools should eliminate dress codes.
College should be free for everyone who wants to attend.
Schools should be allowed to ban some books from their libraries.
Book smarts are better than street smarts.
All people should have free internet access.
Playing violent video games makes people more likely to be violent in real life.
Reality television depicts real life.
The minimum age to own a smartphone should be 16.

The minimum age to own a smartphone should be 16.

Students should be allowed to use phones in class.
Macs are better than PCs.
Androids are better than iPhones.
Kids under 13 should be allowed to use social media sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.
Students should not be allowed to watch TV on school nights.
Social media does more harm than good.
Video games are better than board games.
Reading books is better than watching TV.
All paper documents should be replaced with electronic versions.
Books are always better than the movies that are made from them.
Parents should use their kids’ cell phones to track where they are.
Playing video games makes you smarter.

Playing video games makes you smarter.- middle school debate topics

Scientists should try to develop a way for everyone to live forever.
Paper books are better than e-books.
Schools should have surveillance cameras in classrooms and hallways.
Movie ratings (G, PG, PG-13, and R) should be done away with.
Professional athletes and celebrities deserve to make more money than the average person.
People have a responsibility to help one another out.
No one should ever tell a lie.
Girls face more peer pressure than boys.
We should lower the voting age to 12.
Every member of a family should have daily chores.
All museums and zoos should be free to everyone.
All people should be vegetarians.

Democracy is the best form of government.
All Americans should be required to vote.
Cigarette smoking and vaping should be banned entirely.
Parents should be allowed to read their children’s private diaries.
Giving is better than receiving.
Receiving a regular allowance is good for kids.
Parents should be punished for their children’s mistakes.
Real Christmas trees are better than artificial ones.
We should not keep animals in zoos.
All kids should play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender.
It is better to save some of your allowance than to spend it all.
Kids should be allowed to stay up as late as they want.
Happiness is more important than success.
The driving age should be lowered to 14.

The driving age should be lowered to 14.- middle school debate topics

We should completely ban plastic bottles.
Parents should have to take a parenting class before having a child.
If you find money on the ground, it’s automatically yours to keep.
It is better to be kind than to be truthful.
All kids should have a playground or park within walking distance of their home.
Kids should be allowed to have credit cards.
It’s important to spend money exploring space.
All families should have a pet.
Dogs are better pets than cats.
Summer is better than winter.
Pepperoni is the best pizza topping.
Teachers shouldn’t give rewards and prizes in the classroom.
Clowns are more scary than funny.
Every home should have a robot.
There is intelligent life on other planets.

There is intelligent life on other planets.

The egg came before the chicken.
Pop music is better than classical music.
Xbox is better than PlayStation.
Peanut butter is better than Nutella.
Football is better than soccer.
Everyone should make their bed every day.
It would be better to be able to fly than to be able to turn invisible.
Harry Potter is better than The Lord of the Rings .
Pluto should still be considered a planet.
Santa Claus’ elves should be paid minimum wage.
Hot chocolate is better than a chocolate milkshake.
Fruit counts as dessert.
People should be allowed to go barefoot anywhere if they want to.
Fiction is better than nonfiction.

Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
Werewolves are more dangerous than vampires.
Kids shouldn’t have to go to school on their birthdays.

Controversial Middle School Debate Topics

These middle school debate topics are pretty contentious and might not be appropriate for all students or every classroom. But if your middle schoolers are ready to take on more serious debates, try these important questions.

We should abolish the death penalty.
Stricter gun control laws help stop mass shootings.
It’s necessary to continue building a wall between the United States and Mexico.
Segregation still exist in the United States.
Religion does more harm than good.
We will never achieve world peace.
We shouldn’t allow young children to play contact sports like football.

We shouldn't allow young children to play contact sports like football.

Parents shouldn’t be allowed to pierce a baby’s ears.
Beauty pageants are sexist.
Kids shouldn’t get participation trophies for sports.
It’s possible to be an ethical hunter.
Some stereotypes are accurate.
People have a responsibility to step in when they see a crime in action.
War is sometimes necessary.
There are times when we must limit freedom of speech.
Security is more important than freedom.
We should do away with gender-specific public bathrooms.
Anyone over age 12 should be tried as an adult in court.
Electric vehicles are better than gas-powered ones.

Electric vehicles are better than gas-powered ones.

Our society has a harmful “diet culture.”
All countries should have to give up their nuclear weapons.
We should ban testing on animals.
We should ban the use of fossil fuels.
Human cloning should be legal.
Vaccines should be mandatory.

What are your favorite middle school debate topics? Come share in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out 75 funny debate topics for kids of all ages ..

Looking for debate topics for middle school and junior high students? This roundup ranges from lighthearted to serious, ideal for any class.

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Teaching ELA with Joy

Middle School ELA Resources

10 Ideas to Make Teaching RESEARCH Easier

By Joy Sexton 1 Comment

Need teaching ideas to help students succeed on research assignments? Read about 10 ideas that will make teaching research easier and more manageable. TeachingELAwithJoy.com #research #researchprojects #middleschoolenglish

I enjoy diving into research units with my students because they get to learn new things, and I do, too! But teaching research skills is a gigantic task! And one thing’s for certain: I’ll have to break the research process into steps to keep my middle school students from feeling overwhelmed. I want them to have that “I’ve got this” attitude from the moment I introduce the project.

Of course, as teachers, we need to be prepared and have our research assignments clearly-designed. But a big key to making the process easier for me and my students, what makes the most impact I think, is modeling . If you can model what you want students to do (as opposed to just telling them), your expectations become clearer. Not everything can be modeled, but whenever the opportunity arises, it’s powerful!

Here are 10 ideas to make teaching research skills manageable and successful:

1. Make sure students start out with more than one topic option . What I mean is, it helps for each student to have “back up” topics ready to go in case the first choice isn’t panning out. For example, I’ve had students who chose a topic they were very passionate about. But it turned out that once they got searching, not enough information was turning up. In most cases, these students had decided to research very current topics like a YouTuber or a new version of iPhone or even a specific automobile. They searched and searched, but the few sites they located just repeated the same smattering of facts. It REALLY helped that the assignment required three topic choices, with students prioritizing their choices . Instead of getting all stressed out, the students just went with their second choice, and got right into note-taking. Or let’s say you are assigning topics, for example, for Holocaust research. Once they start researching, students may find a certain topic too complex and would feel more supported if they had other options.

Research Q & A is a motivating short research project based on inquiry! Organizers, mentor text, and an editable template for typing guide students through the process

2. Don’t rule out books and other print sources. Now that so many students carry laptops, we’ve come to expect research to be Internet-based. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with that! With just a few clicks, students have access to SO MUCH information. But some of my students come and ask if they can go to the library for printed sources because they prefer taking notes from books. That reminds me that we all learn differently. It might be to our amazement, but library research is alive and well for a portion of our students. Sometimes it’s my struggling learners who go for the printed sources, but I’ve also had more advanced learners hit the books as well. Even if you’ve got kids on their laptops or in the computer lab, find a way to incorporate different types of sources in their search so you differentiate . FYI, the Common Core Standards for W.8 (the research writing) state “Gather information from multiple print and digital sources . . .” So, it looks like using some print sources is still an expectation (but not for every assignment) if you follow Common Core. Definitely let your librarian in on whatever type of research assignment you have going on. They’re usually very eager to provide support !

3. Emphasize the need to narrow search terms . So often, students just want to plop their main topic into the Google search bar, right? Unfortunately, what comes up is usually current information that is not necessarily going to hit what they need. That’s how time gets wasted. You can quickly model this skill for students with an example using a celebrity. Say you are needing information on a certain celebrity’s life—some facts about their rise to fame. Place just the name in the search bar, and what most likely comes up are articles that have been in the news about the person. Then place the name with the word “biography” in the search bar and have students notice the difference.

4. Explain the connection between research and reading . Once they have a topic, students are so ready to start note-taking! But wait, do your students understand that research starts with careful reading? First, they’ll need to preview several websites before taking any notes. I call it “Ten Minutes, Reading Only.” That’s the least they can do to look for sources that not only match their topic but meet their readability needs . Let’s face it, many websites or even printed sources are written well above some of our students’ reading levels. Let them know that if they are finding long sentences with numerous unfamiliar words, it’s time to move on. Then, once they do locate a few good sources, they still need to read! When they come upon information they understand that really hits the topic, BINGO. That’s when note-taking should begin.

5. Model note-taking using a bulleted list of short phrases . One thing is for sure: we don’t want students to copy full sentences, word for word, when they take notes. So modeling this when you’re teaching research skills is huge. I always tell students that they will create their own complete sentences when they are drafting . Note-taking is for short phrases . Just give them a heads up that they have to be able to understand the shortened information! I’ve had students who wrote phrases too short for the complex information they represented. A problem arose, of course, when trying to draft sentences. The students couldn’t remember what was actually meant by the few words they had copied down.

You can easily model note-taking by choosing a paragraph of nonfiction from a website or online encyclopedia. Project it on your whiteboard or pass out copies to the class. You can have students work with a partner to take notes in short phrases on a bulleted list. Students could then exchange papers several times to see what others came up with, and then share out what they noticed. Or, you may prefer to make the notes on your whiteboard with whole-class participation.

6. Show students the citation generator you want them to use and how it works. Teaching research skills always includes citing sources. So if you approve of students having citations created for them, I’m with you! Just be clear on which citation generator to use. I’ve always preferred www.Bibme.org , but now with all the ads on these sites, and Google Docs’ own generator, there are other options. Again, you can do a quick modeling on your Smartboard using a website. It’s a good idea to walk around during note-taking and check that each student is comfortable using the citation generator. Sometimes students are unsure but might not want to ask.

7. Offer creative formats for students to use as their research product. If you can, let them infuse some of their own passion into the topic. Let’s face it, teaching research skills is easier when students are personally invested. Your standards or district curriculum may require a research-based essay , and that’s fine. With lots of scaffolds and modeling, the results can be awesome! But how about having students report out in a newsletter format? They can break the information down into four short articles and give each one a title. Now the assignment becomes more motivating. Or require a slide presentation, with a paragraph of text on each slide along with visuals.

Another creative format is a Q & A page . My students enjoy a short project called Research Q & A , where they choose a topic they’d like to learn more about and create two questions to research. They report their findings on a Q & A sheet, using a template they type into, along with visuals.

Here's a short, motivating research project where students create a Q & A page! Full research process with step-by-step PowerPoint introduction. Perfect for middle school ELA! www.TeachingELAwithJoy.com #middleschoolresearch #shortresearchprojects #middleschoolela

8. Have students color code their notes . This is an incredibly helpful scaffold to producing an organized draft! Once the research is completed, students should look over their notes and on a sheet of paper, list the “sub-topics” they have covered. For example, if they are writing an informational article about an athlete, their list might include childhood, training, early career steps, and best achievements. Then, with 4-5 colored pencils, they underline each sub-topic with a different color. Students then read through their notes, placing a colored bullet to match as they find content corresponding to the sub-topic.

The color coding helps make drafting each paragraph so much easier! Students just focus on all the green information on their notes pages when drafting the first body paragraph, all the purple information when drafting the second, etc.

A research strategy for organizing notes by color-coding. Great for teaching research skills in middle or high school TeachingELAwithJoy.com

9. Require editing and revising using a different color . As English teachers, we want the revising and editing step to be meaningful. When revisions stand out this way, both students and the teacher get to visibly see a growth process. They understand that they are expected to and can notice weaknesses and make their product better. I always keep red and green pens available. And I sense that kids like using them. Another BIG plus here: individual conferencing becomes quick and easy when you can see by the colored ink which revisions have (or have not!) been made.

10. Work in some peer exchange opportunities . Students benefit from regular check-ins, but you don’t always have the time. So why not have students check in on each other? Decide on a few times in your assignment when students will need to “take stock” of things. That’s when you’ll say, exchange with a partner, and look at x, y, or z. The check can be as simple as the partners write feedback in the margin of each other’s paper, or on a post-it, or have a short discussion. For example, let’s say you allot two periods for research, and you expect three solid pages of notes. When the second class period is drawing to a close, have a partner exchange. Peers have two tasks: rate the quality of the notes on a scale of 1-5 and suggest whether note-taking is complete or more needs to be done as homework.

Students love to read each other’s papers, so work in a peer exchange during revising and editing. Have peers place a question mark in the margin next to any area that doesn’t make clear sense. You could also choose a couple specific topics for their focus, such as capital letters and commas. Students enjoy these roles and checks like these build skills and confidence .

Our goal, of course, is to make research motivating for every one of our students. By using some of these strategies, teaching research skills should become easier! I think your students will experience excitement over all the new learning their efforts bring.

I’ve developed some print-and-go research activities that students enjoy and have success with. They include step-by-step scaffolds and mentor texts to save you time. Just click on the images to have a closer look.

Teach the informative essay with step-by-step guided writing templates for all paragraphs. Students will appreciate mentor texts for all 5 types of essays including research-based. Vivid graphic organizers and rubrics are perfect for middle school ELA!

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Reader Interactions

April 21, 2021 at 11:47 pm

This looks amazing. I’m so glad I found this article. I am guiding my 7th grader through a year-end research project at home and this is exactly what I needed to help guide me through it first!

Best Essay Topics For Middle School

1. How family issues can affect the development of a child 2. The importance culture plays at a workplace 3. Are vegan diets good for a person’s health? 4. How did the invention of the mobile phone change the world? 5. What are the advantages of using technology in class settings? 6. The negative effects of living an unhealthy life 7. What are the consequences of legalizing drugs? 8. What caused the extinction of dinosaurs and could it have been prevented? 9. Does a person’s behavior change when they’re in front of many people? 10. What are the causes and consequences of earthquakes? 11. The impact of technology on a person’s IQ 12. Should be learning a second language be made compulsory in middle school? 13. Should parents keep a close eye on their children’s online activities? 14. How to deal with stress both at home and at work 15. How can one protect themselves from scammers online? 16. What are the dangers of heavy smoking? 17. How the coronavirus outbreak has affected the job market 18. What are the positives and negatives of video games? 19. Should the prison system in America be reformed? 20. Why is cryptocurrency very popular these days? 21. Should men and women receive equal pay for doing the same job? 22. Do schools do enough to prevent bullying? 23. How has social media changed the way we do business in 2020? 24. How to work effectively with people from different cultures 25. Will there be flying cars in the future? 26. What are the major causes of global warming? 27. How to communicate effectively 28. Why competition is very important in sports 29. What was the impact of World War II on women’s rights? 30. What are the 10 things people should be doing to help conserve the environment?

Argumentative Essays Prompts

1. Would a later start to the school day be beneficial? 2. At what age should children get smartphones? 3. What is the best solution to climate change? 4. What is the biggest problem facing your generation? 5. Are magazine covers harmful to kids’ self-esteem? 6. Does the right to free speech include student comments on the Internet? 7. Should your school do more to prevent bullying? 8. Who faces more pressure: boys or girls? 9. Should healthcare be free? 10. Is it easier to learn online or in the classroom? 11. Should the voting age be lowered to 16 in the United States? 12. What is the best way to prevent crime in the community?

Good Persuasive Essay Topics

1. Why should someone vote for you in a mock presidential election? 2. Where is the best location for a vacation? Why should others go there? 3. Should your school have a dress code? 4. Why should you receive a higher allowance? 5. Should students be allowed to eat in class? 6. Is it ethical to test products on animals? 7. Write a letter to the editor about an article in the paper with which you agree or disagree. 8. The worst thing about middle school is… 9. What is the best way to prepare eggs? 10. Is music important in a person’s daily life? 11. Would you rather shrink to the size of a penny or grow to the size of a building? 12. Would you rather have a long summer break or more frequent breaks throughout the year? 13. Should your school reduce the amount of homework? 14. The best thing about middle school is… 15. What is the worst chore to have? 16. Do you believe that smokers should be able to smoke wherever they want? 17. Should users be able to download movies and TV shows for free? 18. Is it more important to be honest or popular?

Writing Prompts for Middle School

Get Help from the Experts with your Middle School Essay Topics Paper

We understand that it can be hard to choose a topic, so we have put together some ideas you may consider. You’ll also find links below for more topics and information on how our writers will help your essay writing process. If you need help choosing a topic or getting started with an outline, please get in touch with us now to get the assistance you deserve from a professional writer. Order Now

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good essay topics.

Most recent travel experience.
Your first time on a plane.
The loss of a pet that changed your life.
The first book you read.
The worst memory you have.
The death of a friend or relative that influenced you.
Your best friend and how you met.
Your favorite childhood memory.

What should I write my middle school essay about?

A funny time in my family.
A great place to go.
A cozy spot at home.
A great treehouse.
A day at the beach.
A great day with a friend.
A helpful person I have met.
A day in the desert.

What are 3 good topics for an essay?

What is a good topic for 7th grade.

1. Do athletes, celebrities, and CEOs deserve to make more money than the average person? 2. Does the average American have a healthy diet? What are the effects of good or bad eating habits on the healthcare system? 3. Do schools do enough to prevent bullying? 4. Is arts education as important as other types of the curriculum? 5. Is it ever fair for minorities to receive special treatment or consideration? 6. What responsibilities do people have to help one another out? 7. Does nature or nurture play a bigger role in who we are? 8. Do people have a right to Internet access? 9. Do girls or boys face more societal pressure—or do they face equal amounts? 10. Do violent video games make people more likely to be violent in real life? 11. Should students have a greater say in what they learn? 12. What one thing should all households be doing to conserve energy? 13. Does reality television accurately depict real life? Do movies? 14. Is Common Core good for students? 15. What is the greatest challenge today’s students face?

What are 5-paragraph essay topics for middle school?

1. How Does Music Influence Student Performance During Homework, Tests or Writing? 2. How Can We Prevent Animal Extinction And Endangerment? What Can We Do As a Country or a State? What Can Individuals Do? 3. Should E-books Or Physical Textbooks Be Used in Schools? Why? 4. Should Middle School Students Be Given Free Time or Recess During the School Day? Would This Improve School Performance or Take Away From Instructional Time? 5. What Should The Curfew Be In The State or at Your Home? Why? 6. Should Middle School Students Be Allowed to See Higher Rated Films? 7. Should Standardized Tests Be Required In Schools? Why or Why Not? 8. Is Fast Food to Blame For the Obesity Problem? 9. Why Should Students Be Allowed to Listen to Music During Tests? 10. Should Movie Ratings Be Changed So That More People Can See Them? 11. Should Cell Phones And Other Electronic Devices Be Allowed At School? If So, at What Times? What Regulations Should Be Put on Them? 12. What Ways Can You Prevent Bullying In Your Community or at School? What Can You Do to Raise Awareness? 13. What Are Some of the Changes That Should Be Made at School? How Can These Changes Be Made? 14. Why Is Or Isn’t Education Important? Does It Contribute to One’s Success? 15. In What Ways Does Peer Pressure Affect Individuals? For Better or For Worse? 16. What Is Important to Have In a Friendship? Why? 17. What Are Some Alternatives To Standardized Testing In Schools? Will They Work As Well? 18. Should Students Have More Freedom at School? In What Areas? 19. Is Too Much Pressure Put On Students to Participate In Extracurricular Activities? 20. Should Students Be Required to Bring Their Own Computers or Tablets to School?

What are good argumentative topics in middle school?

1. School uniforms should be required. 2. All students should be required to volunteer in the community. 3. Year-round education is better for students. 4. Corporal punishment should be allowed in schools. 5. Homework should be banned. 6. The internet should be banned from schools. 7. Children should not be allowed to drink soda. 8. Junk food should be banned from schools. 9. All students should have daily chores. 10. All parents should be required to attend parenting classes before having a child. 11. Every home should have a pet. 12. Every student should play a musical instrument. 13. All museums should be free to the public. 14. All students should be required to learn a foreign language in middle school. 15. PE should be required of all students throughout middle and high school.

Expository writing prompts for middle school

1. Are you the oldest, middle, or youngest child in your family? Explain what you like or dislike about your position. 2. Think of something your parents always tell you and explain why it is or isn’t true. 3. Explain why it is so important for kids to attend school. 4. Explain what your favorite thing to do after school is. 5. Think about a time when you did something that you didn’t want to do. Explain why you did it anyway. 6. Explain why you shouldn’t have too many sweets or snacks. 7. Think about a famous person whom you would like to meet and explain why you would want to meet them. 8. Explain three ways that people can do nice things for one another. 9. Explain why it is important to eat healthy foods. 10. Explain what you would do if a friend got mad at you for something that you didn’t do. 11. Think about a time when you couldn’t stop laughing and explain what happened. 12. Think about what you want to be when you grow up and explain why you think that would be the best job. 13. Think of your most valued possession. Explain why it is so important to you. 14. Think of a person whom you consider to be a hero. Explain why other people should admire this person. 15. Choose an important tool that can be found in our classroom. Explain how it has made an impact on teachers and students.

With a passion for education and student empowerment, I create blog content that speaks directly to the needs and interests of students. From study hacks and productivity tips to career exploration and personal development

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Middle School Research Topics
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How to Research and Write a Research Paper for Middle School Students
💋 Research paper ideas for middle school. 30 Middle School Research
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206 Middle School Research Topics
This will create fun research topics for 6th graders, learning about life and how relationships work. Literature: This is the best time to learn about books and works of art. The literature will provide many topics to research for middle school students. There are many more aspects that middle school students can research and write papers on.
30 Middle School Research Paper Topics
30 Tips For Finding Great Research Paper Topics for Middle School. If you get stuck on the stage of choosing the topic of your research paper, we can completely understand you. It is the case when too vivid or too tired imagination can both work against you. The good news are that in the middle school the teachers are usually less strict when ...
100 Unique Middle School Research Topics and Ideas
In the list, we have included amazing interdisciplinary research ideas for middle school students. Explain how climate change affects biodiversity. Analyze the impact of technology on society and culture. Explain the role of music in mental health. Examine the history and science of flight.
33 Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School
Good Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas (and Free, too!) With these 33 new argumentative essay topics for middle school students, you can help your students learn more about what makes a good argument and how to evaluate and decipher so-called "evidence.". As they explore topics like the ways in which schools handle bullying and whether or not ...
Research Topics for Middle Schoolers: Engaging Ideas for Student
Here are some research ideas that can nurture a love for discovery and experimentation: Climate Change: Effects and Solutions: Investigating the causes and potential solutions to this global challenge can make students aware of their role in protecting the planet. The Wonders of the Solar System: Encouraging a study of the planets, their moons ...
Exploring Research Paper Topics for Middle Schoolers
I. Introduction to Exploring Research Paper Topics for Middle Schoolers. II. Benefits of Assigning a Research Project in the Middle School Classroom. III. Identifying Appropriate and Engaging Topics for Younger Students. IV. Strategies for Facilitating Student Learning on Complex Ideas. V. Examining Relevant Sources to Support Claims and Arguments.
10 Great Research Topics for Middle School Students
Begin with a simple prototype, focusing on one core feature, and expand from there. 5. Model rocketry: design, build, and launch! What to do: Dive into the basics of rocket science by designing your own model rocket. Understand the principles of thrust, aerodynamics, and stability as you plan your rocket.
Exploring Ideas: Research Topics for Middle Schoolers
Here are just some examples of interesting research paper topics for middle schoolers: The History & Impact Of Women's Rights Movements In The 20th Century. Exploring Cybersecurity Issues And How It Affects Our Daily Lives. Analyzing The Role Of Social Media In Shaping Modern Society. u000b .
Exploring Ideas for Middle School Research Papers
This article provides an overview of the process involved in developing ideas for research papers suitable for a middle school audience. It examines the importance of selecting topics relevant to a student's age and maturity level, as well as techniques such as brainstorming, freewriting, research-driven inquiry models, and creative problem solving.
Exploring Exciting Research Topics for Middle School Students
Examples of social science research topics for middle school students: The impact of social media on mental health. Gender inequality in education and the workplace. The effects of poverty on child development. The relationship between stress and physical health. The role of parenting styles in child behavior.
101 Research Paper Topics
Use the following list of 101 research paper topics as a starting point for your paper. As you begin learning and writing about your topic, you should revise or amend your research question or thesis statement to better match the information that you are interpreting, analyzing, and expressing. Let your interest guide you.
94 Argumentative Essay Topics For Middle School: Protocols, Health
This list of excellent argumentative essay topics for middle school is sure to give your students the practice they need in getting their arguments down on paper, in a persuasive way. With a variety of topics ranging from whether or not to outlaw animal testing to debating a 3-day weekend, this curated collection will give your kiddos lots of ...
Writing Research Papers
Lesson Ideas for Writing Research Papers: Lesson 1: Noticings. Begin by getting your students familiar with what research writing looks like. ... The middle school years can also be a good time to introduce writing a short research paper if your student is ready. Introduce how to do research, how to make an outline, and how to write a short ...
70+ Fascinating Informative Essay Topics for Kids and Teens
Informative writing can include how-to process essays, biographical writing, an in-depth analysis of a topic, research papers, or compare-and ... check out The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (100+ Ideas)! Share this article ... She holds a B.S. degree in Secondary English Language Arts Education and has taught in both middle and high ...
Teaching a Research Unit
Olivia Franklin. Engage students with interesting research topics, teach them skills to become adept independent researchers, and help them craft their end-of-unit research papers. CommonLit 360 is a comprehensive ELA curriculum for grades 6-12. Our standards-aligned units are highly engaging and develop core reading and writing skills.
28 Expository Writing Prompts for Middle School
28 Expository Writing Prompts for Middle School. October 12, 2014 in Pedagogy. The ability to provide information in different contexts is essential to effective communication. Students must practice expository writing throughout their academic careers. The sooner they start, the better.
Research Paper Ideas for Middle Schoolers
II. The Benefits of Writing a Research Paper in Middle School. . Research papers offer middle school students the opportunity to expand their writing skills and explore topics in a more extensive manner than other assignments allow. By researching various aspects of an issue or topic, organizing research data into a formal paper, and presenting ...
80 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Kids and Teens
Learning to read vs. learning to write. The importance of any two school subjects. Wearing glasses vs. having braces. You and your best friend. Friendship vs. romantic love. Group work and individual work. Only child vs. having siblings. Nature vs. nurture. Anxiety and depression.
PDF 8th Grade Research Packet
1. To foster intellectual curiosity 2. To develop researchable questions 3. To become a discerning reader of information 4. To determine the validity and relevancy of sources 5. To credit sources accurately. In 8thgrade, we will conduct THEMATIC RESEARCH - that is research that is based on an overarching theme.
Inspiring Middle School Students to Write
Hopefully, these ideas will help middle school teachers find more and more opportunities to have students respond, naturally building writing as part of instruction and lessening the feeling of burden that sometimes comes with composing. ... We spent months reading a variety of written works, from poems to essays. We wrote and practiced ...
Research Paper Topics: 350+ Best Ideas for Your Paper
Research Paper Topics for Middle School. Students can begin writing essays as early as middle school. If you are in this category and looking for research paper ideas for middle school, you are lucky because we have you covered. The following are topics to research for middle school: Impacts of online learning on students.
125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students
Junk food should be banned in schools. All middle school students should learn a foreign language. Single-gender schools are better for students. Math is the most important school subject. Letter grades should be abolished. Teachers should be replaced by computers. Students should be graded on their handwriting.
10 Ideas to Make Teaching RESEARCH Easier
Here are 10 ideas to make teaching research skills manageable and successful: 1. Make sure students start out with more than one topic option. What I mean is, it helps for each student to have "back up" topics ready to go in case the first choice isn't panning out. For example, I've had students who chose a topic they were very ...
Top 145 Interesting Middle School Essay Topics For Students
All parents should be required to attend parenting classes before having a child. 11. Every home should have a pet. 12. Every student should play a musical instrument. 13. All museums should be free to the public. 14. All students should be required to learn a foreign language in middle school.

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Exciting Research Topics for Middle Schoolers to Fuel Curiosity

Working on the phonological skills by teaching phonemic awareness to the advanced level

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Uncovering the Mysteries of History

Science and the Natural World

Literature, Language, and Creative Expression

Mathematics and Logic Puzzles

Social Sciences and Human Interaction

Technology and Innovation

Implementing Research Projects in the Classroom

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Summer II 2024 Application Deadline is June 26, 2024.

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10 Great Research Topics for Middle School Students

1. Program your own robot

2. Design a solar-powered oven

3. Assess the health of a local ecosystem

4. Develop an educational app

5. Model rocketry: design, build, and launch!

6. Create a wearable electronic device

7. Explore the science of slime and non-Newtonian fluids

8. Extract DNA at home

9. Investigate the efficiency of different types of solar cells

10. Study ocean acidification and its effects on marine life

One other option – Lumiere’s Junior Explorer Program

Exploring Exciting Research Topics for Middle School Students

Importance of research topics for middle school students

Develop critical thinking skills

Enhance academic skills