Previewing Multi-Genre Research Projects

Before I ask you to create this sort of project, you will work through the pre-research process by taking "baby steps."

This week in class, you will receive the "official rule book" for your project-- the RESEARCH PROJECT GUIDELINES.  It will be a very thick, colorful document that will answer MOST questions that you and your parents might have.  I will tell you what types of resources you will use, what type of finished product is expected from you and how many points this project will be worth.  Most people like to see a sample of a project that SOMEONE has completed in the past in order to get a clear idea of the expectations-- in a visual way.  You can access several multi-genre research projects using the links below.  You will have some time in class to look at these links, but for those of you that like to be "ahead of the game", I am allowing you to have a "sneak preview" of these links!

Write From the Heart-- 10-15 year old writers

A Teacher's Sample

Other Literature-Based Projects (multi-level)

I am posting several different levels of projects because you are at different ability levels in your writing.  Also, you will see a variety of genres represented in the different projects and may get some ideas for your own writing.

Remember, the end goal is STILL to make an assertion about someone that you believe has made some notable impact on society.  This person can be alive or deceased and can be from any field-- medicine, politics, sports, entertainment, education, research, science, mathematics, etc.

I only ask that you choose someone that is "researchable" and has print resources (not just websites) available about him or her.  An official preview of the above links will be part of your 4th research assignment.  Before you do that, you will do the following:

1. Read through the ENTIRE research packet you receive in class with a parent or guardian and list any questions you STILL have ONCE you have read all of the information.

2. Choose 3 possible research topics and try to find information about him or her.  Then brainstorm some "thick" questions (level 2 or 3 questions) that you could ask about each.

3. Firm up your choice of research topic by getting parent/teacher approval & by answering several in-depth questions about your research goals.

All steps are equally important in the end result.  Remember-- good discussions come from asking and answering thick questions.  Your final project is more than just a bunch of facts thrown together;  it is your attempt at answering the questions you have posed about your topic!