1. Research: Topics & Questions
USASMA Pre-Course Class 66

2. Discuss your topics…
Using the Explore a Topic activity, discuss your possible topics with your classmates.
Consider the following:
Is there an argument to be made within the topic?
Could someone disagree with the argument?
Is the topic too broad? Could you write a book about it?
Is the topic too narrow? Would a paragraph be enough?

3. Research Questions The backbone of research
Research questions should be:
clear
focused
concise
complex
arguable
NOT a thesis statement
May only cover one part of your argument/topic

4. Research Questions cont’d
Hypothesize about possible answers. Ask yourself the following questions.
Where do you think your research will take you?
What kind of argument are you hoping to make/support?
What will it mean if your research disputes your planned argument?

5. Research Questions
Look at the sample questions. Identify the problem and provide a possible revision.
1: Why are social networking sites harmful?
2: What is the effect on the environment from global warming?
3: How are doctors addressing diabetes in the U.S.?

6. Research Questions Write these three things down: Practice!
Look at your 3-5 research questions. How can you revise to make them either more specific or more general?
Write these three things down:
Working thesis statement
3-5 revised research questions
One possible argument against your thesis