The Research Paper
Grade 8•45 minutes•RL.9-10.1 Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Writing
W.9-10.1 Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
a. Establish a clear and thorough thesis to present an argument.
b. Introduce precise claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that establishes clear relationships among claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
c. Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly, supplying evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both in a manner that anticipates the audience’s knowledge level and concerns. d. Use words, phrases, and clauses to link the major sections of the text, create cohesion, and clarify the relationships between claim(s) and reasons, between reasons and evidence, and between claim(s) and counterclaims.
e. Establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.
f. Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented.
W.9-10.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
W.9-10.8 Gather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively; assess the usefulness of each source in answering the research question; integrate information into the text selectively to maintain the flow of ideas, avoiding plagiarism and following a standard format for citation.
Learning Objective
I can construct a well-organized research paper with a clear thesis, supporting evidence, and proper citations to avoid plagiarism.
Practice Questions
This lesson includes 7 practice questions to reinforce learning.
View questions preview
1. Explain the "two-step method" for writing a research paper, as described in the video. Why is it important to follow this method?
2. According to the video, what section of a research paper should you write first, and why?
3. Describe the "PEER" system for writing paragraphs in a research paper. What does each letter stand for, and how does it help organize your ideas?
...and 4 more questions
Educational Video
How To Write a Research Paper Fast and Easy (3 Tips by Prof. David Stuckler)
Prof. David Stuckler