Research Questions and Subquestions

Research Questions Over arching umbrella questions that address your topic. Include KEY TERMS that you can use to help you research your topic. Generally, research questions are questions you do not know the answer to. The idea is you are using your research to gain new knowledge.

Research Questions Cont’d Research Questions should be Well Grounded. Well Grounded means that they are searchable questions, that include Key Terms, you can enter into a search engine that will help guide your research. Well Grounded are not too narrow, too broad, nor too challenging.

Example of a Good Research Question Topic: Physical Education in the Schools Research Question: What are the health benefits of physical education in elementary, middle school, and high school in public education?

Problem Questions Too Narrow: Does Sweden have a nationalized health care system? When did D-Day begin during WWII? These questions have a “Yes” or “No” answer, or can be answered by a one word answer. Too Broad: What is the history of Christianity? This question cannot be covered in the scope of an essay. Too Challenging: Why is hip hop dancing so raunchy? This question is too opinionated and is based upon people’s feeling rather than research.

Subquestions Subquestions are narrower questions that answer research questions. Example: Research Question: What are the health benefits of physical education in elementary, middle school, and high school in public education? Subquestions: What are the standards for physical education in Washington State? Is there a difference between the amount time devoted to physical education in elementary, middle school, or high school? Does physical education emphasize a certain type of exercise?

Your task… Develop a research question that answers a broad question on your topic. Create three subquestions that will help you answer your research question. Use your research question and subquestions to guide your research.