Subject: Writing a research paper
Grade Level: 6-8 grades
Student Lesson name and URL:
ctap295.ctaponline.org/~uarya

Reading:

1.4  Plan and conduct multiple-step information searches by using computer networks and modems.

1.5 Give credit for both quoted and paraphrased information in bibliography by using a consistent and sanctioned format and methodology for citations.

Writing:

1.1  Create compositions that establish a clear focus, have coherent thesis, and end with a well-supported conclusion.

1.4  Plan and conduct multiple-step information searches by using computer networks.

1.5  Achieve an effective balance between researched information and original ideas.
 
 

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Instructional Objectives 

In this two week long  project, students will learn a simple and effective strategy for finding information, and  for writing a research paper and documenting the sources they find. This lesson is based on the Big 6 model and is divided in the following 6 steps.

1         Define your problem. 
2         Decide what sources of information you can use.
3         Locate those sources.
4         Start reading, taking notes and printing.
5         Organize all the data you have collected and write your paper.
6         Evaluate how well you did and what you could do differently
           next time. 

Student Activity

This unit will take approximately two weeks (including pre-test and post-test) and consists of 6 activities. Students will research different web sites, learn to take notes, and write bibiogrphies. It will culminate in writing a research paper.

Introductory activities:

Students will do a scavenger hunt in the library and also take a pre-test. They will work on choosing a topic.

Connecting activities: 

Students will learn to use search engines, do web research, take notes for their topic and go to a website to learn about bibiographies.
Next they will write their paper according to the guidelines given in the classroom. They will also generate charts, tables and graphs to support their research.

Culminating activity:

This lesson will conclude with the evaluation of the research paper. It will be judged against the rubric.
Next students will take a post-test to assess any improvements.
 

Assessment
 

Rubric for grading library research
 
 

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Results

Result of the pre-test and post-test
spreadsheet
graphs
 

Web Resources & Supplementary Materials

Pre/Post test

Introductory Activity
No web sites

Enabling Activity
Do a scavenger hunt in the library
Which information sources should I use?
Using search engines
Boolean tutorial
Tips for taking notes
Sample bibliography entries
Big 6 model
http://nueschool.org/~debbie/library/research/research.html
http://teachervision.com/tv/curriculum/lessonplans/ILP_research_plan.html

Culminating Activity

Presentation of research papers
Conduct pre/post test

Powerpoint Presentation
 

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Usha Arya
King Middle School, 1290 Ivey Ranch Road,
Oceanside, CA  92057

uarya@hotmail.com
Last Revised: 05/16/2001