1. Research Question
Why write one?

2. Why write a research question?
A focused question provides structure to the search for information
A well-crafted research question helps avoid aimless searching and wasted time

3. How to write a research question?
Start with a general topic
Dogs
Michigan
Middle School Students
Then ask . . .
What do I want to know about the topic

4. Use “Question words”
Why
How
Who
What
Where
when

5. Don’t use these kinds of questions
Can be answered Yes or no
Recall questions
One word answers
Require little or no research

6. use these kinds of questions
Comprehension Questions
Requires you to read and find an answer
Like . . .
How did the original 13 colonies became the united states?
How was the Mississippi delta formed?
synthesis questions
Requires looking for the answer from a variety of sources
Like . . .
How does Hawaii’s location affect its economy
How would our history be different if George Washington had not been our first President

7. What makes a good research question?
Is it interesting?
Which breeds of dog make good hunters?
Is it significant?
What are some different ways of funding public schools?
Can it be researched?
What are Michigan’s top vacation spots and why?
Is it manageable?
Who were three of the most important people in Idaho’s history?