Research Paper Topic

It is time to start thinking seriously about the topic you will choose for your research paper.  I invite you to pick any topic of interest to research as long as you can generate an inquiry question about this topic.  An inquiry question is one which:

• a question which requires the student to develop a plan or course of action. 
• a question that requires the student to make a decision  (source)

For example, you are free to do a research paper on football but you need to formulate a research question that will lead you to take a stance on an issue.  For example:

• NFL:  
• Possible inquiry question:  Should the NFL issue more severe punishments regarding hits to the head? 
• Possible inquiry question:  Should the NFL do more to protect it's small market teams?
• Possible inquiry question:  What should the NFL do to prevent it's players from taking performance enhancing drugs?
• Possible inquiry question:  What should the NFL do to help rookies and young players assimilate into the league and avoid common pitfalls like embarrassing arrests, etc. 

Here are some more sample essential questions:

• Why is the concept of cloning human beings controversial? (decision-making) 
• What invention of the 20th Century has had the greatest impact? Justify your response (decision-making). 
• Why was _________ the greatest home run hitter in baseball history? (decision-making) 
• Which credit card is best for me? (decision-making). 
• What plan could be developed to reduce the impact of zebra mussels on the Great Lakes ecosystem? Your plan can include three strategies. (developing an action plan)
• What is the best plan for losing 20 pounds? Your plan can include 3 strategies (developing an action plan) 
• What plan could I use to prepare for a 5K run? The plan can include 2 strategies (developing an action plan)