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research project ideas for middle school

206 Middle School Research Topics: Original Ideas List

206 Middle School Research Topics

As middle schoolers prepare to go to high school, they are introduced slowly to essay and research writing. They are sometimes given homework that involves picking suitable topics and writing on them. However, it should be noted that i t is not easy to write a research paper for a high grade. Middle schoolers in their preteen age are taught how to be creative, air out their opinions and conduct little research. It helps make them critical thinkers and prepares them for more writing tasks as they advance in their education. This article will help middle schoolers understand what is expected of them when asked to write an essay or research on a topic. It will also expose them to different areas where they can write and many research topics for middle school they can pick from.

What Should Be In A Middle School Research Paper?

Middle school research papers are often not required to be extended. They are in a unique position where they move from writing simple pieces to more detailed essays and research papers. This is the foundation where they learn to write excellent papers as they transcend to high school and eventually college. Writing an essay in middle school is not very different from writing in other stages. Some steps to get you started are

  • Understanding the Assignment :Before you begin, you should understand your teacher’s expectations when turning in your finished work.There will be rules and procedures to follow. Know the format the essay is supposed to be written in, and keep the due dates in mind. If you do not understand any aspect of the assignment, please ask for clarification, as this will help you deliver a clear and concise essay at the end.
  • Do Your Pre-Writing :Start with brainstorming on middle school research topics to determine what you would like your essay to be about. There are many options to pick from and several general subjects to break down into topics you want.

Pick up to three topics when you first brainstorm. From there, you can select the best one to write on. When you find a topic, start writing all you know about it. Create a rough paper where you jot down information from your research that will be useful in your essay. Feel free to write freely, as this will be your first draft, and you have the chance to edit it as you go.

  • Edit Your Work : Editing is essential. It helps give your paper structure. From your rough work, take out parts that are not necessary and add details you think you missed. This is where you should be detailed and try to make your work as neat and correct as possible. You are almost at the end of writing the paper.When you are sure your paper is good, it is time to proofread. Check for spelling and punctuation errors. One expert way to do this is to read the report from the bottom up, and this can help you spot any spelling errors.
  • Citations and References : Your teacher would have given you a format to write references for your work. Ensure that you are following the prescribed format.References will highlight the sources of the information gathered to make your essay.

What Can Middle Schoolers Write About?

There are many general subjects that middle schoolers can write about in their assignments. Streaming from what they have been taught in the classroom or their experiences outside class. Some issues that can create good middle school research paper topics include:

Science : This broad aspect covers earth science, geology, physical science, life science, and genetics. Science research paper topics for middle school will encourage the students to be interested in growth and learning how things work. Social Studies : This will involve learning about their history, other people’s cultures, human interaction, family, etc. This will create fun research topics for 6th graders, learning about life and how relationships work. Literature : This is the best time to learn about books and works of art. The literature will provide many topics to research for middle school students.

There are many more aspects that middle school students can research and write papers on. Discover more than 200 interesting research topics for middle school students below. However don’t worry if the assignment seems too difficult for you. You are only at the beginning of the path and our cheap research writing service will be happy to get you through with your paper.

Good Research Topics For Middle School

Students who have no experience writing papers and are looking for good research topics to work on are in luck. The topics below are suitable for all middle schoolers and can create detailed essays.

  • Should students be compelled to wear a specific uniform?
  • Textbooks or tablets: which is better to read from?
  • Obesity in American youth: Causes and solutions.
  • Should boys and girls be allowed to play on the same athletics team?
  • Should young people be allowed to play violent video games?
  • Impact of continuously playing violent video games.
  • When can we say someone is spending too much time in front of the screen?
  • Listening to music during class: Does it disturb concentration?
  • How to recognize harmful content on the internet?
  • Should all businesses be compelled to recycle?
  • What is the appropriate punishment for students who engage in cyberbullying?
  • Should school hours be adjusted to later in the morning?
  • Should our scientists be allowed to test drugs on animals?
  • Why do people’s behavior change in different settings?
  •  Is sex education important?
  • Different types of poetry and how they came about.
  • What to do if you are being bullied on the internet.
  • How to have healthy self-esteem.
  • Why does the human body need sleep?
  • Insect repellents, are they helpful?
  • Why did dinosaurs go extinct?
  • What is skateboarding?
  • The effects of tobacco on the body.
  • Artificial tanning: Risks and benefits.
  • What is spam email? Where does it come from, and how can we stop it?
  • What is a desert mirage? How does it affect people?
  • What are penguins? Where do they stay, and what do they eat?
  • When and how was America created?
  • Who are some well know and inspirational women?
  • Who are some famous inventors?
  • What famous inventions helped in shaping human existence?
  • Steps you can take to protect yourself from scammers online.
  • What is a cryptocurrency, and why is it so popular?
  • What did the invention of the mobile phone do to change the world?
  • How to handle stress from school.
  • How can issues in the family affect a child?
  • Is your school working hard enough to prevent bullying?
  • Should we use mobile phones and tablets in class?
  • Does technology make you smarter?
  • What is an unhealthy life, and what are the effects?
  • Is there any benefit of doing homework?
  • What is video game addiction, and how to stop it?
  • What is a museum, and what can be found in it?
  • What can we do to reduce climate change?
  • Is soda suitable for children?
  • Does everyone have to go to college?
  • Comparing homework and class assignments.
  • What is physical education?
  • How the internet has changed our life
  • What is peer pressure?
  • What effect has global warming had on the environment?
  • What is racism?
  • What is a healthy diet?
  • Should students be able to pick what they learn?
  • Do movies depict what happens in real life?
  • Is arts a vital part of the school curriculum?
  • What are the challenges students face?
  • How do we conserve energy in our homes?
  • What is pop culture?
  • Should parents monitor their children’s social media?

Fun Research Topics for Middle School

Writing an essay shouldn’t always be stressful or tedious. These topics will make writing papers fun. The topics below can hold the researcher’s attention for a long time as they work on completing their project.

  • How should celebrities who break the law be punished?
  • What is bulletproof clothing made of?
  • All there is to know about hip-hop.
  • What do we know about ninjas?
  • Do lie detector tests work?
  • What are the ingredients contained in a hotdog?
  • Sharks, how do they hunt, and what do they eat?
  • How do search engines work?
  • Some fascinating extinct animals, and what happened to them?
  • How to manage time effectively.
  • How does insufficient sleep affect the brain?
  • How to let go of bad habits?
  •  How do parents help us grow?
  • How to become a better writer.
  • Are dogs and cats enemies?
  • Why do parents punish children for bad behavior?
  • What is the best punishment for naughty kids?
  • Is magic real?
  • How to save money effectively?
  • What is self-development?
  • How to motivate yourself to be a better student?
  • When should you begin to earn money?
  • What’s the secret of having a successful life?
  • How not to become a game addict.

Middle School Research Project Ideas

Research shouldn’t always end as essay writing. Sometimes, you need hands-on projects to keep the middle schooler busy. The list below can serve as an ideal hub for research ideas for middle school students and work as interesting essay topics.

  • Investigating what life is like inside a beehive.
  • Steps in creating a movie.
  • How do our brains store memories and retrieve them when we need them?
  • What is a landform?
  • What are some important holidays around the world, and who celebrates them?
  • What are some significant symbols used in world holidays?
  • Creating an ecosystem: what’s the process involved?
  • Research on some exotic underwater creatures.
  • What is a meteor?
  • How to build a crossword puzzle.
  • What is advertising: create a short advertisement campaign.
  • Write the story of your life.
  • Create a calendar highlighting critical events in your life.
  • Create your family tree.

Science Research Topics for Middle School

Science is an exciting part of our lives. Because of science, the quality of our lives has increased, and there are many more inventions to come. These topics can engage the curious mind of the youngster and introduce them to science-related subjects to work on.

  • Earthquakes: Its causes and effects.
  • Computer viruses. What are they, and how do they spread?
  • Evolution of human beings.
  • Are human beings still evolving?
  • What is alchemy?
  • What is a black hole? How is it formed?
  • What is a submarine? Who uses them, and how do they work?
  • What is the cause of tornadoes?
  • What is a sinkhole, and how do they form?
  • Research on one of the planets in the solar system.
  • Understanding glaciers and icebergs.
  • What are volcanoes, and how do they form?
  • The different types of volcanoes and what causes them.
  • Who are the most famous scientists, and what are they famous for?
  • What are the components of airplanes that make them fly?
  • What are fossils, and what do they teach us?
  • How do genetics and DNA affect how we look?
  • Why does the moon change color and shape sometimes?
  • What is a Lunar eclipse?
  • What is pollution?
  • The different types of pollution and what can be done to curb them?
  • Can fruits play a part in medicine?
  • What is flooding?
  • What is an ecosystem?
  • What measures do butterflies take to defend themselves?
  • Different types of butterflies.
  • What is a skeleton, and why is it an essential part of the body?
  • How many bones are in a skeleton? Which are the most important?
  • Who is a marine biologist?
  • What is the connection between a marine biologist and the weather?
  • What are the risks marine biologists face when they dive?
  • Different types of fossils?
  • Are whales still hunted?
  • What is scientific research, and who conducts it?
  • What is the job of the nervous system?
  • Understanding the concept of hibernation?
  • What are the necessities plants need to grow?
  • Who are the people who study dinosaurs?
  • Mammals and reptiles: Similarities and differences.
  • Why don’t human beings float?
  • What is a prism, and what does it do?
  • What gives humans the ability to lift heavy things?
  • What factors can cause earthquakes?
  • How is wind measured?
  • What differentiates a planet from a star?
  • What is a galaxy? What galaxy is the earth?
  • Who is an astronaut, and what is their job?
  • What is a waterfall?
  • Do plants drink water?
  • Why do oil and water not mix?
  • What is microbiology?
  • How can we preserve our natural resources?
  • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of exploring space.
  • What are bacteria, and how useful is it to humans?
  • The similarities between temperature and heat.

Other Topics to Research for Middle School

We cannot run out of topics for middle schoolers, as several aspects are available to look at. Here are some other topics that can jump-start your essay writing process.

  • Is it advisable for students to be with their cell phones all day?
  • Should the minimum age for getting a driving license be raised?
  • The differences between homeschooling and standard schooling: which is better?
  • Does social media have a positive or negative impact on teenagers?
  • Going vegan, is it good for your health?
  • Who is a Monk, and what is his lifestyle/routine?
  • How did humans domesticate cats and dogs, and why?
  • How is America helping endangered animals?
  • How is climate change affecting us?
  • What are the effects of video games on teenagers and children?
  • Do Athletes make good models?
  • Who is to blame for the number of homeless people in America?
  • Should we have shorter school weeks?
  • Should parents monitor websites visited by their children?
  • What is cybercrime?
  • What can we don’t protect our environment?
  • Instant messaging, do they affect literacy?
  • What are the most effective ways of achieving academic excellence?
  • What is a good movie that influenced us in 2023?
  • Are tests a good way of judging a student’s intelligence?
  • How does music help us feel better?
  • How to choose the best research project ideas for middle school students.
  • Why is it important to learn multiple languages?
  • Do learning techniques affect behavior?
  • Bullying and its effects on mental health.
  • All you need to know about distant learning
  • Should prayer be part of school activities?
  • Do we need math formulas in real scenarios?
  • When should students start undergoing leadership training?
  • How to write a good essay.
  • How does night vision work?
  • What is the solar system?
  • What is Nasa, and what do they do?
  • What is a natural disaster, and what can cause one to happen?
  • What is the process of becoming a president of the United States?
  • How many presidents has the United States had?
  • What are some of the responsibilities and privileges of the president?
  • Learning about Vice Presidents and First Ladies of the United States.
  • Is social media dangerous for children?
  • Does the location where you grow up affect who you become?
  • What is a participation trophy? Is it necessary?
  • Should there be a screen time limit for children?
  • What are the responsibilities of a government to its citizens?
  • What is a curfew, and why do kids have them?
  • Is grounding an effective punishment?
  • Should physical education be necessary for everyone?
  • What are some advantages of knowing how to read?
  • How can cell phones be used productively while in class?
  • What are the qualities of a good leader?
  • What are hobbies, and what do they do for us?
  • Should less homework be given to students?
  • What is summer school? Does it help students?
  • What age is appropriate for children to be left alone at home?

If You Need Paper Writing Help

There are many ways to brainstorm ideas for your middle school homework. The research project ideas for middle school and the topics listed above will make it easier to begin. After picking a suitable topic, the next step is writing the entire paper. This will involve a lot of research and fact-finding to get accurate information for your paper. It doesn’t end at research, as you still have to write a great essay to score high marks. This could be a daunting task for many students. Don’t be afraid to get research paper help from our professional writers. After attending class, you may not have adequate time to write your essay yourself, if this is your situation, it’s okay to search for help on the internet. A quick google search for “write my paper” will result in several websites promising to write the best essay for you. However, you need to make your research before hiring an online writer for your assignment. If you need someone to write your assignment, we can be of help. We provide fast, reliable, custom paper writing services that can be completed online. Our services are available to every student, including university, middle school, high school, and college students. Our team of writers consists of professionals and teachers who are always available to ensure that you meet your deadlines. Contact us with a message “ do my research paper for me ” and enjoy the perfect result!

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research topics for middle schoolers

Middle school is a time of burgeoning curiosity and the perfect opportunity for students to engage in research that not only educates them academically but also cultivates skills for the future. By encouraging young learners to explore topics they are passionate about, educators and parents play a pivotal role in their intellectual development and the growth of their intrinsic motivation. This blog post outlines a diverse range of research topics suited to the inquiring minds of middle school students, giving them the freedom to deepen their understanding of various subjects while honing critical thinking and independent study skills.

Uncovering the Mysteries of History

Middle schoolers often find history fascinating, particularly when learning about the past from distinct perspectives. Here are some intriguing historical research topics to consider:

  • The Unsung Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement: Apart from the well-known leaders, students can explore the contributions of lesser-known figures who played a significant role in the struggle for equality.
  • The Impact of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Society: Researching the ways in which the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, or other ancient societies have influenced contemporary culture, politics, and technology offers a broad canvas for exploration.
  • Everyday Life in Different Historical Periods: Focusing on the routines, customs, and technologies that shaped people’s daily lives in times gone by can provide valuable insights into societal norms and individual experiences.

Science and the Natural World

The sciences are a playground of wonder, with an infinity of topics waiting to be explored. Here are some research ideas that can nurture a love for discovery and experimentation:

  • Climate Change: Effects and Solutions: Investigating the causes and potential solutions to this global challenge can make students aware of their role in protecting the planet.
  • The Wonders of the Solar System: Encouraging a study of the planets, their moons, and the vast expanse of space they inhabit can ignite dreams of interstellar exploration.
  • Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation: Researching the variety of life on Earth and strategies to protect and sustain ecosystems can foster a sense of environmental stewardship.

Literature, Language, and Creative Expression

Language and literature are potent forms of human expression, allowing students to explore complex ideas and emotions. Here are some topics that bridge the gap between art and academia:

  • Interpreting Classic Literature for Modern Relevance: Encouraging the study of timeless works can lead to discussions on their contemporary significance and the evolution of societal values.
  • The Structure and Evolution of Language: Investigating the origins and changes in language over time can be a rich area of study, especially when paired with the examination of cultural shifts.
  • The Intersection of Art and Literature: Exploring how visual arts and writing intersect to convey messages and emotions can be a fertile ground for interdisciplinary research.

Mathematics and Logic Puzzles

The precision and patterns found in mathematics can be both satisfying and thought-provoking. Middle school students often enjoy the thrill of solving problems and unraveling puzzles. Here are some mathematical research topics that can engage students’ analytical minds:

  • Famous Mathematical Conjectures: Researching unsolved problems, such as the Goldbach conjecture or the Riemann hypothesis, can introduce students to the excitement of open questions in mathematics.
  • The Application of Math in Various Industries: Investigating how mathematical principles underpin fields like music, art, sports, and technology can illuminate the subject’s real-world utility.
  • The History of Mathematical Discoveries: Tracing the lineage of mathematical concepts through different cultures and periods can showcase the universality and timelessness of mathematics.

Social Sciences and Human Interaction

Studying human behavior and society can help students develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Here are some social science research ideas to explore:

  • The Impact of Social Media on Friendships and Relationships: Research could focus on positive and negative effects, trends, and the future of social interaction.
  • Cultural Traditions and Their Meanings: Investigating the origins and contemporary significance of customs from various cultures can foster respect for diversity and a global perspective.
  • The Psychology of Decision Making: Exploring the factors that influence human choices, from cognitive biases to social pressures, can provide insights into individual and collective behavior.

Technology and Innovation

A focused individual working at a desk with a laptop and a pen, engrossed in their work.

Middle schoolers are often tech-savvy and interested in the latest gadgets and advancements. Here are some technology and innovation research topics to tap into that curiosity:

  • The Impact of Gaming on Society: Research could examine how video games influence education, social issues, or even career choices.
  • Emerging Technologies and Their Ethical Implications: Encouraging students to study technologies like artificial intelligence, gene editing, or wearable tech can lead to discussions on the ethical considerations of their use and development.
  • Inventions That Changed the World: Chronicling the history and influence of significant inventions, from the wheel to the internet, can provide a lens through which to view human progress.

By providing middle schoolers with the opportunity to conduct meaningful research in a topic of their choosing, we not only deepen their education but also equip them with the skills and passion for a lifetime of learning. This list is just the beginning; the key is to foster curiosity and guide young minds toward engaging, challenging, and diverse research experiences. Through such explorations, we empower the next generation to think critically, communicate effectively, and, most importantly, to nurture their innate curiosity about the world.

Implementing Research Projects in the Classroom

Encouraging middle school students to undertake research projects requires a strategic approach to ensure sustained interest and meaningful outcomes. Here are some methods educators can employ:

  • Mentorship and Support: Pairing students with teacher mentors who can guide them through the research process, provide feedback, and encourage critical thinking is essential for a fruitful research experience.
  • Cross-Curricular Integration: Linking research topics to content from different subjects helps students appreciate the interconnectedness of knowledge and develop versatile learning skills.
  • Use of Technology and Media: Incorporating digital tools for research, presentation, and collaboration can enhance engagement and teach essential 21st-century skills.
  • Presentation and Reflection: Allocating time for students to present their findings nurtures communication skills and confidence, while self-reflection activities help them internalize their learning journey.

These strategies can create a robust framework within which students can pursue their curiosities, leading to a more personalized and impactful educational experience.

What is a good topic to research for middle school?

A good topic for middle school research could delve into the Role of Robotics in the Future of Society . Students can explore how robotics may transform jobs, healthcare, and everyday life. They can examine the balance between automation and human work, predict how robots could augment human abilities, and discuss the ethical dimensions of a robotic future. This inquiry not only captivates the imagination but also encourages critical thinking about technology’s impact on tomorrow’s world.

What are the 10 research titles examples?

  • The Evolution of Renewable Energy and Its Future Prospects
  • Investigating the Effects of Microplastics on Marine Ecosystems
  • The Influence of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Democracy
  • Understanding Black Holes: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Cosmos
  • The Impact of Augmented Reality on Education and Training
  • Climate Change and Its Consequences on Coastal Cities
  • The Psychological Effects of Social Media on Teenagers
  • Genetic Engineering: The Possibilities and Pitfalls
  • Smart Cities: How Technology is Shaping Urban Living
  • The Role of Nanotechnology in Medicine: Current Applications and Future Potential

Fascinating Facts About Middle School Research Topics

  • Interdisciplinary Impact : Research projects in middle school often blend subjects, such as the integration of art and mathematics when exploring patterns and symmetry, which helps students discover the interconnectivity of different fields of knowledge.
  • Skill Building : Engaging in research equips middle schoolers with advanced skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management, which are beneficial across their academic journey and beyond.
  • Diversity in Content : Middle school research topics are notably diverse, ranging from examining the role of robotics in society to exploring the psychological effects of social media, catering to a wide array of student interests and strengths.
  • Tech Savvy Learning : Technology-based research topics, such as the influence of smart cities or the impact of augmented reality in education, are deeply relevant to tech-savvy middle school students, making learning more engaging and relatable.
  • Cultural Relevance : Researching topics like cultural traditions and their meanings encourages middle schoolers to develop a global perspective and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity within their own school community and the world at large.

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Exploring Exciting Research Topics for Middle School Students

Are you searching for the best research topics for middle school? If yes, then your search ends here with the best ever research topics for middle school.

Research is an essential aspect of learning, and it is never too early to introduce it to students. Middle school is an excellent time for students to start learning how to conduct research and develop critical thinking skills. By engaging in research projects, students can explore various topics in-depth and develop a deeper understanding of them.

Additionally, research projects can help students develop crucial skills such as time management, organization, and communication. This guide will provide examples of research topics for middle school students and offer tips on how to identify research topics and access scholarly sources. With this guide, students can discover the exciting world of research and the many benefits it offers.

Importance of research topics for middle school students

Table of Contents

Have a close look at the importance of research topics for middle school students.

Develop critical thinking skills

Research topics encourage students to analyze information, think critically about issues and topics, and make informed decisions. This helps them develop their ability to assess evidence and draw conclusions.

Enhance academic skills

Research projects help students develop essential academic skills such as reading, writing, and critical thinking. These skills are critical for success in high school, college, and beyond.

Prepare for high school and beyond

Research projects prepare students for the more in-depth research assignments they will encounter in high school and beyond. It also prepares them for the rigors of college-level research.

Foster creativity

Research projects can provide students with opportunities to explore creative ways of presenting information and engaging with their topic. This can include using technology, art, or multimedia presentations to showcase their findings.

Encourage curiosity

Research projects can encourage students to ask questions, investigate, and discover new information about topics that interest them. This helps them develop a love of learning and become lifelong learners.

Develop time management skills

Research projects require planning and organization, and can help students develop time management skills. This prepares them for managing their time and workload in high school, college, and beyond.

Promote collaboration

Research projects can be done individually or in groups, allowing students to collaborate, share ideas, and learn from one another. This helps them develop teamwork skills and learn to appreciate diverse perspectives.

Increase engagement

Research topics that are relevant and interesting to students can increase engagement and motivation in learning. This can help students become more invested in their education and develop a deeper understanding of the topic.

Improve communication skills

Research projects can help students develop communication skills, such as presenting findings and participating in discussions. This helps them become better communicators and prepares them for future academic and professional pursuits.

Encourage lifelong learning

Research projects can foster a love of learning and encourage students to continue exploring new topics throughout their lives. It helps them develop a sense of intellectual curiosity and a desire for continued personal growth.

Benefits of engaging in research projects

Have a close look at the benefits of engaging in research projects.

Enhances critical thinking skills

Research projects not only require students to gather information but also to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate it from various sources. These skills are essential for developing critical thinking skills, which are crucial for academic and real-life situations.

Promotes problem-solving skills

By engaging in research projects, students learn to identify problems, develop hypotheses, and test them. Through this process, they acquire problem-solving skills, which are essential for academic success and life beyond school.

Develops creativity

Research projects often require students to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. This encourages creativity, which is a valuable skill for success in many areas of life, from science to the arts.

Improves communication skills

Research projects often require students to present their findings in written or oral form, which helps improve their communication skills. The ability to communicate effectively is crucial for academic and professional success.

Boosts confidence

Successfully completing a research project can give students a sense of accomplishment and boost their confidence in their abilities. This, in turn, can lead to greater motivation and engagement in learning.

Provides hands-on learning experiences

Research projects allow students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations, providing hands-on learning experiences. This can help students connect what they learn in school to the world around them.

Encourages independent learning

Research projects require students to work independently and take ownership of their learning, which encourages self-directed learning. This is a valuable skill that can help students become lifelong learners.

Builds research skills

Engaging in research projects helps students build research skills, such as conducting literature reviews, designing research studies, and analyzing data. These skills are essential for success in college and many careers.

Prepares for college and career

Research projects provide valuable experience that can prepare students for college and careers that require research and critical thinking skills. These skills are highly valued by colleges and employers.

Fosters a love of learning

Engaging in research projects can foster a love of learning and curiosity about the world around us. This can lead to a lifelong passion for learning and exploration.

Research Topics for Middle School

Have a close look at research topics for middle school.

STEM Research Topics

Here are some STEM research topics that middle school students can explore:

  • Renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment
  • The effects of pollution on local ecosystems
  • Investigating the properties of different types of soils
  • Building and testing a simple machine or robot
  • The effects of different types of fertilizers on plant growth
  • The relationship between exercise and heart rate
  • The chemistry of food preservation
  • The physics of roller coasters and amusement park rides
  • Investigating the efficiency of different types of insulation materials
  • The effects of music on the brain and body

How to Identify a STEM Research Topic

Have a close look at how to identify a stem research topic.

Identify your interests

Think about what subjects interest you in STEM, such as biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, or computer science.

Explore current events

Look at recent news articles or scientific journals to see what topics are currently being researched and discussed in STEM fields.

Consider problems and challenges

Think about problems or challenges in the world that could be addressed with STEM research, such as climate change, renewable energy, or medical advancements.

Brainstorm ideas

Write down any ideas that come to mind based on your interests and the topics you have explored. Consider how you could approach these topics from a STEM perspective.

Research existing studies

Look at existing research studies in your area of interest to see what has already been done and what gaps still exist that you could explore.

Consult with experts

Seek guidance from teachers, professors, or professionals in STEM fields to help you identify potential research topics and provide resources.

By following these steps, you can identify a STEM research topic that aligns with your interests and has the potential to contribute to the field.

Benefits of STEM Research Projects

Engaging in STEM research projects can offer a variety of benefits for middle school students, including:

Development of critical thinking skills

STEM research projects require students to analyze data, identify patterns, and draw conclusions, which enhances their critical thinking abilities.

Hands-on learning experiences

STEM research projects provide opportunities for students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations, which offers hands-on learning experiences.

Preparation for future careers

STEM research projects can prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math, as they develop skills relevant to these fields.

Fostering creativity

STEM research projects often require students to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions, which fosters creativity.

Development of research skills

Engaging in STEM research projects helps students build research skills, such as designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

Collaboration

STEM research projects can be done individually or in groups, allowing students to collaborate, share ideas, and learn from one another.

Improvement of communication skills

STEM research projects often require students to present their findings in written or oral form, which helps improve their communication skills.

Boosting self-confidence

Successfully completing a STEM research project can give students a sense of accomplishment and boost their self-confidence in their abilities.

Encouragement of lifelong learning

STEM research projects can foster a love of learning and encourage students to continue exploring new topics throughout their lives.

Social Science Research Topics

Examples of social science research topics for middle school students:

  • The impact of social media on mental health.
  • Gender inequality in education and the workplace.
  • The effects of poverty on child development.
  • The relationship between stress and physical health.
  • The role of parenting styles in child behavior.
  • The effects of bullying on mental health and social relationships.
  • The impact of immigration policies on families.
  • The influence of media on body image and self-esteem.
  • The relationship between personality and academic achievement.
  • The effects of technology on social relationships.

How to identify a social science research topic:

To identify a social science research topic, you can follow these steps:

Identify a broad area of interest

Begin by thinking about the general field of social science that interests you the most. This could be psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, or any other related field.

Narrow down the focus

Once you have identified a broad area of interest, narrow down your focus to a specific topic or issue within that field. For example, if you are interested in psychology, you might focus on a specific mental health condition or treatment.

Consider current events

Look at current events or issues that are receiving a lot of attention in the news or media. Consider how you can apply social science research methods to study these topics in more depth.

Talk to your teachers, professors, or other experts in the field to get ideas for research topics. They may be able to provide you with valuable insights and suggestions.

Conduct a literature review

Conducting a literature review involves reading published research studies, articles, and books related to your topic. This will help you understand what research has already been done in the field and identify any gaps or areas that need further exploration.

Refine your research question

Once you have identified a topic of interest, refine your research question by making it more specific and focused. This will help you to develop a clear research plan and stay on track during your project.

Benefits of social science research projects

Have a close look the benefits of social science research topics.

Improved critical thinking skills

Social science research projects require students to analyze and evaluate information from various sources, which helps develop their critical thinking skills.

Enhance problem-solving skills

Through research, students can identify problems and find solutions by gathering and analyzing data, developing hypotheses, and testing them.

Develop empathy

Social science research projects often require students to explore topics related to human behavior and interactions, which can help them develop empathy and understanding for others.

Foster a love of learning

Engaging in social science research projects can foster a love of learning and curiosity about the world around us.

Develop research skills

Social science research projects allow students to develop important research skills such as conducting literature reviews, designing research studies, and analyzing data.

Enhance communication skills

Social science research projects often require students to present their findings in written or oral form, which can help improve their communication skills.

Promote civic engagement

Social science research projects can encourage students to become active and engaged citizens by exploring issues related to society and government.

Expand cultural awareness

Social science research projects can help students understand and appreciate different cultures, beliefs , and perspectives.

Prepare for college and career

Social science research projects provide valuable experience that can prepare students for college and careers that require research, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Humanities Research Topics

Examples of humanities research topics for middle school students:

  • The impact of art and music on society
  • The history and cultural significance of traditional dress
  • The role of religion in shaping world events
  • The influence of ancient civilizations on modern society
  • The significance of oral history in preserving cultural traditions
  • The portrayal of gender roles in literature and media
  • The impact of social media on interpersonal communication
  • The role of government in promoting human rights
  • The significance of historical landmarks in shaping national identity
  • The portrayal of mental health in literature and media.

How to identify a humanities research topic

Have a close look at how to identify a humanities research topics.

Brainstorm topics

Begin by brainstorming ideas that interest you or your students. This can include topics related to literature, history, art, philosophy, or culture.

Narrow down the ideas

Once you have a list of potential topics, start narrowing them down by considering the available resources, the level of complexity, and the relevance to current events or personal interests.

Conduct preliminary research on the narrowed-down topics to ensure that there is enough information available and that the topic is suitable for a research project.

Consider different perspectives

Humanities topics often involve multiple perspectives and interpretations, so it’s essential to consider different viewpoints and debates related to the topic.

Consult with teachers or librarians

Ask for input from teachers or librarians who specialize in humanities subjects. They may have ideas for topics, recommended resources, or can help guide students towards a suitable topic.

Refine the topic

Once a suitable topic has been identified, refine it further by clarifying the research question, determining the scope of the project, and outlining the research methodology.

Benefits of humanities research projects

Have a close look at the benefits of humanities research projects.

Developing critical thinking skills

Humanities research projects require students to analyze information, form opinions, and develop arguments, which helps them to think critically.

Enhancing creativity

Humanities research projects often require students to think creatively about how they present their findings and engage with their topic.

Improving communication skills

Humanities research projects often involve written or oral presentations, which help students to develop their communication skills.

Encouraging curiosity

Humanities research projects can encourage students to ask questions and explore new topics, fostering their curiosity.

Developing empathy

Humanities research projects often involve examining different perspectives and cultures, which can help students to develop empathy and understanding for others.

Preparing for higher education

Humanities research projects provide students with valuable research skills and a foundation for more advanced research projects in high school and college.

Increasing engagement

Research topics that are relevant and interesting to students can increase engagement and motivation in learning.

Encouraging lifelong learning

Humanities research projects can foster a love of learning and encourage students to continue exploring new topics throughout their lives.

Interdisciplinary Research Topics

Examples of interdisciplinary research topics for middle school students:

  • How does climate change affect biodiversity?
  • The impact of technology on society and culture.
  • The role of music in mental health.
  • How do food and nutrition affect brain development and academic performance?
  • The history and science of flight.
  • How does social media influence body image and self-esteem?
  • The connection between art and science in creating visual illusions.
  • The impact of sports on physical and mental health.
  • The psychology and biology of addiction.
  • The history and science of ancient civilizations.

How to identify an interdisciplinary research topic

Have a close look at how to identify an interdisciplinary research topic.

Look for common themes or issues

Think about topics that overlap between different subjects. For example, climate change is a topic that can be explored in science, social studies, and literature.

Identify the questions

Once you have identified a common theme or issue, think about the questions that arise from it. What do you want to learn or investigate about this topic?

When exploring interdisciplinary topics, it’s important to consider different perspectives from different subjects. For example, if you’re researching climate change, you might want to explore the scientific causes and effects, the social and economic impacts, and the ethical and moral considerations.

Brainstorm possible connections

Consider how the different subjects you’re interested in can connect to the topic you want to explore. For example, if you’re interested in exploring the history of music, you might look at how different historical events influenced music and how music, in turn, influenced history.

Refine your topic

Once you have some possible connections, refine your topic by focusing on a specific aspect or question. This will help you narrow your focus and make your research more manageable.

If you’re having trouble identifying an interdisciplinary research topic, consider consulting with your teachers or librarians. They may be able to offer guidance or suggest resources that can help you identify a topic.

Benefits of interdisciplinary research projects

Have a close look at the benefits of interdisciplinary research projects.

Encouraging creativity and innovation

Interdisciplinary research topics often require students to approach problems from different angles and find creative solutions by combining knowledge from different fields.

Enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Interdisciplinary research requires students to analyze and synthesize information from various sources, think critically, and solve complex problems.

Promoting collaboration and teamwork

Interdisciplinary research often involves working in teams, which fosters collaboration, communication, and teamwork skills.

Providing a broader perspective

Interdisciplinary research allows students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a topic by examining it from multiple perspectives.

Developing research skills

Interdisciplinary research projects help students develop research skills, such as conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings.

Preparing for future academic and career opportunities

Interdisciplinary research projects provide students with valuable experience and skills that can prepare them for future academic and career opportunities that require interdisciplinary approaches.

Resources for Conducting Research

There are various resources available for middle school students to conduct research. Here are some examples:

School Library

The school library is a great resource for finding books, academic journals, and other resources on a wide range of topics. Librarians can also provide guidance on how to find and evaluate sources.

Online Databases

There are several online databases that provide access to academic journals, magazines, and other scholarly sources. Examples include JSTOR, Project MUSE, and Academic Search Premier.

Google Scholar

Google Scholar is a search engine that allows you to find scholarly articles, books, and conference papers. It can be a useful tool for finding academic sources on specific topics.

Public Library

Public libraries also offer access to a wide range of resources, including books, databases, and other materials. They may also offer research assistance and guidance.

Government Websites

Government websites can be a great resource for research on topics such as history, social studies, and science. Examples include the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the National Science Foundation.

Online Archives

Many organizations and institutions maintain online archives of historical documents, images, and other resources. Examples include the Smithsonian Institution, the National Archives, and the Digital Public Library of America.

Interviews and Surveys

Conducting interviews and surveys can be a valuable way to gather information for research projects. This can involve reaching out to experts in a particular field or surveying individuals to gather data.

Online Learning Platforms

Online learning platforms, such as Coursera and edX, offer courses on a wide range of topics. These courses often provide access to readings, videos, and other resources that can be useful for research projects.

How to access scholarly sources

Accessing scholarly sources can be done through various means, including:

Using academic search engines

There are several academic search engines available that provide access to scholarly sources. Some popular examples include Google Scholar, JSTOR, and PubMed. These search engines allow users to search for academic articles, journals, and other research papers.

Using academic databases

Many universities and libraries offer access to academic databases, such as EBSCO and ProQuest, which contain a vast collection of scholarly sources. Students can check with their school or local library to see if they have access to such databases.

Checking library catalogs

Most libraries have a catalog that contains information about the books and other materials they have available. Students can use these catalogs to search for scholarly sources, such as books, journals, and other publications.

Contacting experts

Students can contact experts in their field of study or a related field to ask for recommendations for scholarly sources. Experts may be able to suggest relevant academic articles, books, or other resources.

Using interlibrary loan services

If a student cannot find a specific scholarly source at their own library, they can use interlibrary loan services to request the material from another library. This service allows libraries to share materials with one another, giving students access to a wider range of scholarly sources.

It is important to note that some scholarly sources may require payment or subscription access. However, many sources are available for free or can be accessed through a library’s subscription.

In conclusion, research projects provide middle school students with an opportunity to explore various subjects in depth, develop their critical thinking skills, and gain a better understanding of the world around them.

STEM, social sciences, humanities, and interdisciplinary research topics offer a broad range of options for students to choose from, and there are various resources available for conducting research, including online databases and access to scholarly sources.

By engaging in research projects, students can improve their academic performance, enhance their problem-solving abilities, and gain valuable experience that will benefit them in the future.

Therefore, we encourage all middle school students to take advantage of these opportunities and engage in research projects that interest them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of research topics for middle school students.

The purpose of research topics for middle school students is to encourage students to explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills, and learn how to conduct research. It also helps them to understand the importance of research in various fields and how it can contribute to solving real-world problems.

How do I choose a research topic for middle school?

Choosing a research topic for middle school involves identifying your interests, brainstorming ideas, and considering the resources available to you. You can start by thinking about a subject that you are curious about or passionate about, and then narrowing down your focus to a specific aspect or question you want to investigate.

What are some tips for conducting research as a middle school student?

Some tips for conducting research as a middle school student include developing a research question, finding reliable sources, taking thorough notes, organizing your information, and citing your sources properly. It’s also important to plan your time wisely and seek help from teachers or librarians if you need assistance.

Can middle school students access scholarly sources online?

Yes, many scholarly sources are available online and can be accessed by middle school students through databases provided by their school or public libraries. Some popular databases for middle school students include JSTOR, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost.

How can research projects benefit middle school students in the long term?

Research projects can benefit middle school students in the long term by developing important skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and time management. It also prepares them for future academic endeavors, and exposes them to potential career paths or fields of interest.

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Exploring Ideas: Research Topics for Middle Schoolers

The exploration of ideas and research topics for middle schoolers is an increasingly important area to investigate in the modern classroom. Middle school students often have a broad range of interests, yet limited resources with which to explore these interests on their own. This article provides insight into how educators can effectively guide middle schoolers through the process of discovering suitable research topics that meet both student needs and educational standards. By taking proactive steps such as providing guidance, scaffolding instruction, and offering appropriate resources, teachers can enable middle schoolers to become actively engaged in exploring new ideas while developing valuable skills needed for success at higher levels of study.

I. Introduction to Exploring Ideas: Research Topics for Middle Schoolers

Ii. types of research assignments suitable for middle school students, iii. factors to consider when choosing a research topic, iv. strategies for identifying appropriate resources and material, v. how to present information in an interesting way, vi. evaluating the quality of sources used for research projects, vii. conclusion.

A World of Possibilities

Middle school students have the opportunity to explore a variety of topics with research papers. From science and technology to history and social studies, there is no limit to what can be studied. With thoughtful guidance from teachers or parents, students can select a research topic that will challenge their thinking while also introducing them to new concepts. Here are just some examples of interesting research paper topics for middle schoolers:

  • The History & Impact Of Women’s Rights Movements In The 20th Century
  • Exploring Cybersecurity Issues And How It Affects Our Daily Lives
  • Analyzing The Role Of Social Media In Shaping Modern Society

                                                                                                        ​

                 ​

Investigating Climate Change And Its Impacts On Our Environment..                                                                                                              .”Data Science Applications in Business” – Exploring Real-world Examples. Through careful selection , researching these projects offers an engaging way for middle schoolers to discover something new about themselves and the world around them . By learning more about different areas of study , they may even uncover ideas on possible career paths or further exploration into subject matter as they advance in education .

Exploring the Potential Middle school students are capable of conducting meaningful research and grasping complex ideas. When selecting appropriate assignments, educators should consider not only how to capture student interest but also challenge their capabilities. Research projects can range from simple book reports to more in-depth studies that involve interviews or surveys.

  • Data collection such as historical timelines.
  • Inquiry projects including experiments with clear parameters.

Additionally, teachers may assign students a research paper topics for middle school which require them to analyze an issue at greater depth. For example, students might explore relationships between poverty and education in various countries or investigate differing opinions on climate change across the US population. Whichever project is chosen it must be age-appropriate while still offering opportunities for personal growth so learners take ownership over their work.

Alternative Approaches Group research efforts are a great way for middle schoolers to collaborate together as they learn new skills like communication and problem solving through teamwork. A class could pick one major topic such as the history of voting rights in America then have each group select a subtopic related to this main idea like suffrage laws specific state by state or focus on changes throughout different decades. Another option would be having multiple groups working concurrently towards tackling one collective assignment, where each team’s output builds upon another’s input creating layers of complexity within investigation process . Ultimately these approaches allow young researchers insight into how pieces fit together providing potential solutions no single individual could see alone!

Selecting a research topic can be intimidating for middle school students. With so many topics to choose from, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • Passion – Students should pick something they have an interest in and feel passionate about learning more.
  • Accessibility – The chosen topic should provide enough information that supports their claims. Additionally, research papers are not all about summarizing facts; therefore students must ensure there’s enough material available to form substantial arguments.

>Length Requirements – When choosing a topic, remember that length requirements must be met which may limit some options. It’s also beneficial if you already know what kind of grade your student needs/wants at completion as this can help guide them in selecting a suitable topic. Some examples of manageable yet intriguing subjects include:                                                                                                    

In order to locate and identify appropriate resources for research papers, a few strategies can be implemented. It’s important to explore all potential sources in order to best capture the necessary information.

  • Online Databases : Utilizing online databases such as JSTOR , Project Muse , and LexisNexis Academic Universe , is an effective way of finding material related to your topic. Many school libraries provide access free-of-charge, so make sure you ask about it!

Additionally, there are plenty of materials available specifically tailored towards middle school students conducting research projects. Exploring topics that are meaningful or interesting to students like space exploration or endangered animals could yield great results when utilizing sources such as books from public library systems or trusted websites dedicated specifically toward educational content for young researchers.

Varying Your Delivery The key to presenting information in an interesting way is to vary your delivery. There are many tools at your disposal when it comes to sharing facts and data with others. Use different methods of communication such as storytelling, visual presentations, diagrams, videos or infographics for a more engaging experience.

You can also encourage active participation by posing open-ended questions about the material you have presented. This will help keep students engaged during class time while inspiring curiosity around complex topics.

Additionally, try selecting research paper topics that appeal to middle schoolers’ interests like “How Social Media Affects Teen Mental Health” or “What Are Some Ways We Can Help End Global Warming?” Doing so not only provides valuable life skills but helps create enthusiasm and excitement around learning!

Finding reliable sources for research projects can be a daunting task, especially when working with topics relevant to middle school. It’s essential that the resources used are of high quality so that your students have accurate and up-to-date information available. Here we present some tips on how to evaluate the materials they find:

  • Authenticity: Are you sure the source is genuine? Checking out reviews or seeing if other experts in the field mention it could help.
  • Timely Information: Is what you’re reading recent enough to be considered current knowledge? Research paper topics for middle school should draw from modern discoveries.
  • Accuracy : Does this resource back its claims with evidence and links to more reputable sources? Evaluating facts offered by each material will guide decision making.

Drawing to a Close In this paper, we have discussed the importance of engaging in research-based writing exercises at the middle school level. We began by introducing how project-based learning is used to encourage students to think deeply and challenge themselves through critical inquiry. From there, we explored various ways that teachers can implement research into their lesson plans while providing meaningful support for learners so they are more successful in such endeavors. Finally, we identified several potential topics suitable for academic exploration by students attending middle school.

Topics suitable for student research might include:

  • The pros and cons of using technology as an educational tool.
  • Different approaches taken when teaching world history.
  • How different types of music influence emotions.

Upcoming Summer 2024 Application Deadline is May 12, 2024.  

Click here to apply.

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10 Research Opportunities for Middle School Students

If you're aiming to lay a strong foundation for your academic journey, starting early can make all the difference. Engaging in research-based programs during these formative years can ignite a passion for learning, shape future interests, and set the stage for success in high school and beyond. 

That's why we've curated a list of ten research opportunities for middle school students which offer a chance to delve into diverse fields of study, from science and technology to mathematics and beyond.  Many of them provide financial aid and scholarships as well.

1.  Lumiere Junior Explorer Program

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is an 8-week program for middle school students to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore their academic interests and build a project they are passionate about . Our mentors are scholars from top research universities such as Harvard, MIT,  Stanford, Yale, Duke and LSE . 

During this program, spanning weeks 1 to 4, participants will delve into four distinct topics within their selected track. In weeks 5 to 6, the focus intensifies as participants embark on a deep dive into one specific topic area and finally, weeks 7 to 8 are dedicated to project implementation, with participants receiving guidance and support from their mentors as they bring their projects to life.

You can find the application form  here. 

Location: Fully Virtual

Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year

Cost: $1990

Age requirements: Grade 6 - 8

Deadline: Multiple rolling deadlines for JEP cohorts across the year, you can apply using this application   link !  If you'd like to take a look at the cohorts + deadlines for 2024, you can refer to   this   page!

2. Junior Scientist Training Program at Scripps Research

Throughout the process of designing and executing a research project, students will acquire invaluable practical skills. They will have the opportunity to participate in laboratory tours and engage in various STEM activities . By the end of the week, students will showcase their findings to their peers through presentations.  Additionally, participants will receive a certificate of completion from Scripps Research, recognizing their successful participation in the program.

To begin the application process for the Junior Scientist Training Program for your middle school child or children, the first step is to create a login using your personal information. After completing the login process, you'll have the opportunity to register your child and any additional middle school children through the provided link .

Location : La Jolla, California

Dates : TBD

Cost : $300

Age requirements : Rising 6-8th graders

Deadline : Rolling, registration ends on May 13th. 

3. Summer Teen Research Program  

The Lawrence program at UC Berkeley is a unique research opportunity for middle school students to explore the wonders of science firsthand! 

This one-week research program offers immersive experiences, hands-on experiments, and exciting campus tours designed to spark curiosity and ignite a passion for STEM . With engaging lab sessions, interactions with faculty and students, and exposure to diverse STEM career paths, The Lawrence program provides a dynamic learning environment where students can thrive and grow. 

There are four programs available for middle school students. All these programs have a research component in them. 

Body Systems and Biomedical Innovations

Coding and Engineering Nano-Satellites

Solar Energy and Electrical Engineering

Designing and Engineering Bridges

Note: Optional Residential Add-on can only be purchased in conjunction with a daytime Teen Research Program offered during the same week. Additionally financial aid is available for this program. 

Find the registration link  here. 

Location : UC Berkeley Campus

Dates : Sunday, June 23, at 4:00 p.m. and ends Friday, June 28, at 5:00 p.m.

Age requirements : Rising 7th-9th graders

Deadline : May 15th, 2024. 

4. Sounds of New York City (SONYC)

The SONYC program is an innovative platform designed to ignite and enrich students' passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through a dynamic curriculum crafted to delve deep into the realms of engineering, physical and computer sciences, as well as natural phenomena such as waves and sound, SONYC fosters a profound understanding and appreciation for these disciplines.

This program is about active engagement and exploration where students delve into the research work of intricate workings of microcontrollers, sensors, and various hardware components, unravel the mysteries of circuitry, electronics, and coding, and gain invaluable insights into how scientists and engineers apply fundamental principles to tackle real-world challenges.

To apply, submit the online application which includes questions about your personal and academic history and two short essay responses. Find the application link  here. 

Note : Students who live in New York City are only eligible. Students should also have a strong academic record and demonstrated interest in science.

Location : New York University

Dates : July 8 - August 4 Orientation: June 28 (via Zoom 1:00 - 4:00 PM ET)

Cost : Full Scholarship

Age requirements : 12- 14 years.

Deadline : April, 14th. 

5. Science of Smart Cities (SoSC)

The School of Sustainable Cities (SoSC) is a three-week education program where students get invaluable opportunities to research about the developments in energy, engineering, computer science, and urban/environmental science.

The program's focus on research extends across various disciplines, from understanding the intricacies of energy systems to analyzing the impact of urbanization on the environment. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, enabling them to conduct experiments, gather data, and draw informed conclusions.

Students are encouraged to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and pursue their interests through independent research projects. SoSC also emphasizes the importance of community-engaged research, where students collaborate with local organizations and stakeholders to address pressing issues facing their communities. 

To apply, submit the online application which includes questions about your personal and academic history and two short essay responses.

Dates : July 8 - August 2 Orientation: June 28 (via Zoom 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM ET)

6. Science and Technology Entry Program(STEP)

NYU's Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP), where students embark on a journey of research and discovery. L ed by NYU faculty and students, STEP offers immersive STEM courses, research opportunities, and mentorship, preparing students for academic and career success.  Through STEP, students increase their college readiness and diversity in STEM fields, all while fostering a passion for research and innovation.

Students are afforded the chance to engage in STEM research within an NYU facility, where they  receive guidance from faculty and researchers . Subsequently, these students showcase their research outcomes at the yearly STEP State Conference held in Albany, NY.

To apply, complete the online application, which requires you to provide basic information about yourself, your academic history, a transcript or report card, and a 500-word essay that describes your interest in STEM. 

Dates : July 5-August 4

Cost : $350

Age requirements : 6th -8th

Deadline : March 24th. 

7. Everyday Engineering

Everyday Engineering is  a unique program tailored by Carnegie Mellon University College of Engineering for students in grades 6th through 8th, with a distinct focus on fostering a research-oriented perspective towards engineering.  Unlike traditional approaches, this program transcends the boundaries of mere observation by encouraging middle school students to delve deeper into the intricacies of their everyday environments through a research perspective.

Everyday Engineering aims to instill in students a heightened sense of curiosity and a research-driven mindset. Through exploration of recognizable examples, exposure to online exhibits, and interaction with CMU engineering students, participants not only gain insight into various engineering disciplines but also learn to approach everyday phenomena through a rigorous research framework. 

Please find the registration link  here. 

Location : Virtual     

Dates : February 24th from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Deadline : TBA

8. North Carolina State University's Summer Ventures

North Carolina State University's Summer Ventures in Science and Mathematics is a four-week immersive summer program designed to provide exceptional middle and high school students with advanced learning opportunities in STEM fields.

While primarily targeted at high school students, Summer Ventures also offers research opportunities for outstanding middle school students who demonstrate a strong interest and aptitude in science and mathematics.

The program typically runs for four to five weeks during the summer and takes place on NC State University's campus. Students have the opportunity to work alongside older peers and university professors on research projects in various STEM disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering . These projects may involve conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting findings, allowing middle schoolers to gain hands-on experience in scientific inquiry and exploration.

Location : North Carolina State University

Dates : TBA

Cost : None

Age requirements : Middle and high school students 

9. Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development's Summer Camp

Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development's Summer Camp is an esteemed initiative designed to provide students with  immersive research experiences under the guidance of university faculty mentors. 

It engages students in research-oriented learning experiences. Tailored for high-achieving and motivated individuals, these camps offer opportunities to delve into high school, college-level, and pre-professional instruction under the guidance of master teachers and industry leaders .

Participants are exposed to fast-paced, intensive courses that delve into advanced concepts across various disciplines, including math, science, writing, technology, leadership, and service learning. Through rigorous coursework, students are encouraged to grapple with complex problems and develop critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills.

Note: Financial aid is available for the qualified students. 

Location : Northwestern University

Dates : June 23 - July 12, 2024 (Other sessions available as well)

Cost : $4650 (Residential camp)

Deadline : June 5th for session 1. 

10.  California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

COSMOS stands as an intensive four-week summer residential Pre-College Program tailored for high school students who showcase a proclivity for academic and professional pursuits within the realm of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

Catering to motivated and gifted students in grades 8 through 12, COSMOS provides an unparalleled opportunity to collaborate with esteemed faculty, researchers, and scientists within cutting-edge facilities,  delving into advanced STEM topics that extend beyond the scope of typical high school courses in California. Through a blend of hands-on activities and laboratory-intensive curricula, COSMOS not only nurtures students' interests and skills but also broadens their awareness of educational and career pathways within STEM fields.

Note: Students apply to ONE of the five University of California’s COSMOS campuses — UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Los Angeles, UC San Diego, and UC Santa Cruz. Each campus can only accommodate about 160-200 participants. The selection is competitive. 

Location : University of California’s COSMOS campuses

Deadline : Feb 9th. 

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a Ph.D. student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

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101 research paper topics.

  • Why do we sleep ?
  • How do GPS systems work?
  • Who was the first person to reach the North Pole ?
  • Did anybody ever escape Alcatraz ?
  • What was life like for a gladiator ?
  • What are the effects of prolonged steroid use on the human body?
  • What happened during the Salem witch trials ?
  • Are there any effective means of repelling insects ?
  • How did trains and railroads change life in America?
  • What may have occurred during the Roswell  UFO incident of 1947?
  • How is bulletproof clothing made?
  • What Olympic events were practiced in ancient Greece?
  • What are the major theories explaining the disappearance of the dinosaurs ?
  • How was the skateboard invented and how has it changed over the years?
  • How did the long bow contribute to English military dominance?
  • What caused the stock market crash of 2008?
  • How did Cleopatra come to power in Egypt what did she do during her reign?
  • How has airport security intensified since September 11 th , 2001?
  • What is life like inside of a beehive ?
  • Where did hip hop originate and who were its founders?
  • What makes the platypus a unique and interesting mammal?
  • How does tobacco use affect the human body?
  • How do computer viruses spread and in what ways do they affect computers?
  • What is daily life like for a Buddhist monk ?
  • What are the origins of the conflict in Darfur ?
  • How did gunpowder change warfare?
  • In what ways do Wal-Mart stores affect local economies?
  • How were cats and dogs domesticated and for what purposes?
  • What do historians know about ninjas ?
  • How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?
  • What were the circumstances surrounding the death of Osama Bin Laden ?
  • What was the women’s suffrage movement and how did it change America?
  • What efforts are being taken to protect endangered wildlife ?
  • How much does the war on drugs cost Americans each year?
  • How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
  • Are humans still evolving ?
  • What technologies are available to home owners to help them conserve energy ?
  • How have oil spills affected the planet and what steps are being taken to prevent them?
  • What was the Magna Carta and how did it change England?
  • What is the curse of the pharaohs?
  • Why was Socrates executed?
  • What nonlethal weapons are used by police to subdue rioters?
  • How does the prison population in America compare to other nations?
  • How did ancient sailors navigate the globe?
  • Can gamblers ever acquire a statistical advantage over the house in casino games?
  • What is alchemy and how has it been attempted?
  • How are black holes formed?
  • How was the assassination of Abraham Lincoln plotted and executed?
  • Do the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks?
  • How do submarines work?
  • Do lie detector tests accurately determine truthful statements?
  • How did Cold War tension affect the US and the world?
  • What happened to the lost settlers at Roanoke ?
  • How does a hybrid car save energy?
  • What ingredients can be found inside of a hotdog ?
  • How did Julius Caesar affect Rome?
  • What are some common sleep disorders and how are they treated?
  • How did the Freedom Riders change society?
  • How is internet censorship used in China and around the world?
  • What was the code of the Bushido and how did it affect samurai warriors ?
  • What are the risks of artificial tanning or prolonged exposure to the sun?
  • What programs are available to help war veterans get back into society?
  • What steps are involved in creating a movie or television show?
  • How have the film and music industries dealt with piracy ?
  • How did Joan of Arc change history?
  • What responsibilities do secret service agents have?
  • How does a shark hunt?
  • What dangers and hardships did Lewis and Clark face when exploring the Midwest?
  • Has the Patriot Act prevented or stopped terrorist acts in America?
  • Do states that allow citizens to carry guns have higher or lower crime rates?
  • How are the Great Depression and the Great Recession similar and different?
  • What are the dangers of scuba diving and underwater exploration?
  • How does the human brain store and retrieve memories ?
  • What was the Manhattan Project and what impact did it have on the world?
  • How does stealth technology shield aircraft from radar?
  • What causes tornadoes ?
  • Why did Martin Luther protest against the Catholic Church?
  • How does a search engine work?
  • What are the current capabilities and future goals of genetic engineers ?
  • How did the Roman Empire fall?
  • What obstacles faced scientists in breaking the sound barrier ?
  • How did the black plague affect Europe?
  • What happened to Amelia Earhart ?
  • What are the dangers and hazards of using nuclear power ?
  • How did Genghis Khan conquer Persia?
  • What architectural marvels were found in Tenochtitlan, capital of the Aztec Empire ?
  • From where does spam email come and can we stop it?
  • How does night vision work?
  • How did journalists influence US war efforts in Vietnam ?
  • What are the benefits and hazards of medical marijuana ?
  • What causes desert mirages and how do they affect wanderers?
  • What was the cultural significance of the first moon landing ?
  • What are sinkholes and how are they formed?
  • Have any psychics ever solved crimes or prevented them from occurring?
  • Who is Vlad the Impaler and what is his connection to Count Dracula ?
  • What are the risks of climate change and global warming ?
  • What treatments are available to people infected with HIV and are they effective?
  • Who was a greater inventor, Leonardo di Vinci or Thomas Edison ?
  • How are the Chinese and American economies similar and different?
  • Why was communism unsuccessful in so many countries?
  • In what ways do video games affect children and teenagers?

This is an image of a young woman in a library. She is sitting at a desk with a pile of books and looking toward the ceiling. She appears to be in deep thought.

923 Comments

I like using this website when I assist kids with learning as a lot of these topics are quickly covered in the school systems. Thankyou

Mackenah Nicole Molina

Wow! I always have trouble deiciding what to do a research project on but this list has totally solved that. Now my only problem is choosing what idea on this list I should do first!

Most of these my teacher rejected because apparently ‘these aren’t grade level topics, and I doubt they interest you”

I’m sorry to hear that. Sounds like you will have a potentially valuable character-building experience in the short-term.

Edwin Augusto Galindo Cuba

THIS SITE IS AWESOME, THERE ARE LOTS OF TOPICS TO LEARN AND MASTER OUR SKILLS!

research kid

I need one about animals, please. I have been challenged to a animal research project, Due Friday. I have no clue what to research! somebody help, thanks for reading!

You can do one on bats

For international studies you can do Defense and Security.

This was very helpful.

Research on Ben Franklin? I think THAT will get a real charge out of everyone (hehehehegetit)

Mandy Maher

“Is it possible to colonize Mars?”

maddy burney

these are silly topics

thx for making this real.

more gaming questions!!!!!!

Is it still considered stealing if you don’t get caught?

Yes, yes it is still considered stealing.

I need topics on memes

Mary Nnamani

Please I need project topics on Language Literature

Marcella Vallarino

I would appreciate a list of survey questions for middle school grades 6-8

I need a research topics about public sector management

I NEED FIVE EXAMPLES EACH ON QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH (EDUCATION, HEALTH, TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMY AND ENGINEERING)

publish research that are interesting please……

hey can you do one on the burmiueda triangle

Anybody know video games effect kids,and,teens. There Fun!!

they’re

I need a topic about woman history if any of u can find 1 please that would be great!

You could research about the history of the astronauts, and of human past (WWI, WWII, etc.)

so about women? Manitoba Women Win the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections, The First Women, January 23, 1849: Elizabeth Blackwell becomes the first woman to graduate from medical school and become a doctor in the United States, Rosa Parks Civil Rights Equal Pay. I have way more. so if you need more just ask.

communism is good

what are you a communist?!?!

Did FDR know about the upcoming attack on Pearl Harbor on 07 DEC 1941.

do you know how babies are born

Christine Singu

kindly assist with a research topic in the field of accounting or auditing

need more about US army

Please can yiu give me a topic in education

I think one should be how can music/Video games can affect the life for people

or How Do Video Games Affect Teenagers?

zimbabwe leader

I think a good topic is supporting the confederate flag!

Need a research topic within the context of students union government and dues payments

do more weird ones plz

joyce alcantara

Hi pls po can you give me a topic relate for humanities pls thank u.

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Twenty Ideas for Engaging Projects

Twenty ideas for getting engaging projects going in your classroom.

research project ideas for middle school

The start of the school year offers an ideal time to introduce students to project-based learning. By starting with engaging projects, you'll grab their interest while establishing a solid foundation of important skills, such as knowing how to conduct research, engage experts, and collaborate with peers. In honor of Edutopia's 20th anniversary, here are 20 project ideas to get learning off to a good start.

1. Flat Stanley Refresh: Flat Stanley literacy projects are perennial favorites for inspiring students to communicate and connect, often across great distances. Now Flat Stanley has his own apps for iPhone and iPad, along with new online resources. Project founder Dale Hubert is recently retired from the classroom, but he's still generating fresh ideas to bring learning alive in the "flatlands."

2. PBL is No Accident: In West Virginia, project-based learning has been adopted as a statewide strategy for improving teaching and learning. Teachers don't have to look far to find good project ideas. In this CNN story about the state's educational approach, read about a project that grew out of a fender-bender in a school parking lot. When students were asked to come up with a better design for the lot, they applied their understanding of geometry, civics, law, engineering, and public speaking. Find more good ideas in West Virginia's Teach21 project library.

3. Defy Gravity: Give your students a chance to investigate what happens near zero gravity by challenging them to design an experiment for NASA to conduct at its 2.2 second drop tower in Brookpark, Ohio. Separate NASA programs are offered for middle school and high school. Or, propose a project that may land you a seat on the ultimate roller coaster (aka: the "vomit comet"), NASA aircraft that produces periods of micro and hyper gravity ranging from 0 to 2 g's. Proposal deadline is Sept. 21, and flight week takes place in February 2012.

4. Connect Across Disciplines: When students design and build kinetic sculptures, they expand their understanding of art, history, engineering, language arts, and technology. Get some interdisciplinary project insights from the Edutopia video, Kinetic Conundrum . Click on the accompanying links for more tips about how you can do it, too.

5. Honor Home Languages: English language learners can feel pressured to master English fast, with class time spent correcting errors instead of using language in meaningful ways. Digital IS, a site published by the National Writing Project, shares plans for three projects that take time to honor students' home languages and cultures, engaging them in critical thinking, collaboration, and use of digital tools. Anne Herrington and Charlie Moran curate the project collection, "English Language Learners, Digital Tools, and Authentic Audiences."

6. Rethink Lunch: Make lunch into a learning opportunity with a project that gets students thinking more critically about their mid-day meal. Center for Ecoliteracy offers materials to help you start,  including informative essays and downloadable planning guides . Get more ideas from this video about a middle-school nutrition project, "A Healthy School Lunch."

7. Take a Learning Expedition: Expeditionary Learning schools take students on authentic learning expeditions, often in neighborhoods close to home. Check out the gallery for project ideas.

8. Find a Pal: If PBL is new to you, consider joining an existing project. You'll benefit from a veteran colleague's insights, and your students will get a chance to collaborate with classmates from other communities or even other countries. Get connected at ePals , a global learning community for educators from more than 200 countries.

9. Get Minds Inquiring: What's under foot? What are things made of? Science projects that emphasize inquiry help students make sense of their world and build a solid foundation for future understanding. The Inquiry Project supports teachers in third to fifth grades as they guide students in hands-on investigations about matter. Students develop the habits of scientists as they make observations, offer predictions, and gather evidence. Companion videos show how scientists use the same methods to explore the world. Connect inquiry activities to longer-term projects, such as creating a classroom museum that showcases students' investigations.

10. Learn through Service: When cases of the West Nile virus were reported in their area, Minnesota students sprang into action with a project that focused on preventing the disease through public education. Their project  (PDF) demonstrates what can happen when service-learning principles are built into PBL. Find more ideas for service-learning projects from the National Youth Leadership Council .

11. Locate Experts: When students are learning through authentic projects, they often need to connect with experts from the world outside the classroom. Find the knowledgeable experts you need for STEM projects through the National Lab Network . It's an online network where K-12 educators can locate experts from the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

12. Build Empathy: Projects that help students see the world from another person's perspective build empathy along with academic outcomes. The Edutopia video, "Give Me Shelter" , shows what compassionate learning looks like in action. Click on the companion links for more suggestions about how you can do it, too.

13. Investigate Climate Science: Take students on an investigation of climate science by joining the newest collaborative project hosted by GLOBE , Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment. The Student Climate Research Campaign includes three components: introductory activities to build a foundation of understanding, intensive observing periods when students around the world gather and report data, and research investigations that students design and conduct. Climate project kicks off Sept. 12.

14. Problem-Solvers Unite: Math fairs take mathematics out of the classroom and into the community, where everyone gets a chance to try their hand at problem solving. Galileo Educational Network explains how to host a math fair . In a nutshell, students set up displays of their math problems but not the solutions. Then they entice their parents and invited guests to work on solutions. Make the event even more engaging by inviting mathematicians to respond to students' problems.

15. Harvest Pennies: Can small things really add up to big results? It seems so, based on results of the Penny Harvest . Since the project started in New York in 1991, young philanthropists nationwide have raised and donated more than $8 million to charitable causes, all through penny drives. The project website explains how to organize students in philanthropy roundtables to study community issues and decide which causes they want to support.

16. Gather Stories: Instead of teaching history from textbooks, put students in the role of historian and help them make sense of the past. Learn more about how to plan oral history projects in the Edutopia story, "Living Legends." Teach students about the value of listening by having them gather stories for StoryCorps .

17. Angry Bird Physics: Here's a driving question to kickstart a science project: "What are the laws of physics in Angry Birds world?" Read how physics teachers like Frank Noschese and John Burk are using the web version of the popular mobile game in their classrooms.

18. Place-Based Projects: Make local heritage, landscapes, and culture the jumping-off point for compelling projects. That's the idea behind place-based education, which encourages students to look closely at their communities. Often, they wind up making significant contributions to their communities, as seen in the City of Stories project .

19. News They Can Use: Students don't have to wait until they're grown-ups to start publishing. Student newspapers, radio stations, and other journalism projects give them real-life experiences now. Award-winning journalism teacher Esther Wojcicki outlines the benefits this post on the New York Times Learning Network . Get more ideas about digital-age citizen journalism projects at MediaShift Idea Lab .

20. The Heroes They Know: To get acquainted with students at the start of the year and also introduce students to PBL processes, High Tech High teacher Diana Sanchez asked students to create a visual and textual representation of a hero in their own life. Their black-and-white exhibits were a source of pride to students, as Sanchez explains in her project reflection . Get more ideas from the project gallery at High Tech High , a network of 11 schools in San Diego County that emphasize PBL. To learn more, watch this Edutopia video interview with High Tech High founding principal Larry Rosenstock.

Please tell us about the projects you are planning for this school year.

15 Arts and Humanities Research and Passion Project Ideas For Middle and High School Students

research project ideas for middle school

By Alex Yang

Graduate student at Southern Methodist University

8 minute read

The arts and humanities are extremely diverse fields that offer a lot of opportunities for creative passion projects. Through these projects, middle and high school students can share their unique stories and experiences with the world. Students can also dive into the richness of human history, traditions, and cultures, and begin to develop an appreciation for the diversity of human experiences.

In this article, we’ll dive into 15 arts and humanities passion project ideas that you can either try to execute on your own or use as inspiration for a project you design. We’ll also cover how you can decide which project or topic to focus on, and navigate the diverse range of ideas in the arts and humanities.

Finding Your Arts and Humanities Project Focus

There are a million different directions you can take with your arts and humanities research or passion project, so first it’s important to sit down with yourself and think through what personal interests you have. Maybe there’s a specific kind of art, music, dance, author, or culture that you’re already interested in. If you find yourself in that position, great! You can choose to dive deeper into any of those interests. If you’re not entirely sure what you’re interested in, do some exploring to find inspiration (e.g., go to museums or exhibitions in your area and see if anything catches your eye, utilize brainstorming steps and methods to generate project ideas).

After you’ve found some initial passion project ideas , the easiest step from there is just to Google or YouTube those topics and start learning more about them. You’ll find that as you start to conduct preliminary research into a few ideas, one will probably start to stand out to you more than the others.

As you explore different ideas, also be open to the possibility of pursuing a project that combines the arts or humanities with other disciplines. For example, maybe you start to learn interesting concepts about philosophy and ethics, and you’re simultaneously interested in genetic engineering. Those two concepts combined could make for a pretty compelling project, so always think outside of the box!

Also remember that the end product of your project is totally up to you as well. Don’t feel like the end product always has to be a research paper or presentation. You could create a website to share your learnings, do a TED Talk or podcast, and try many other ways to present your work .

15 Creative Arts and Humanities Project Ideas

1. how does aristotle inform decision-making at the end of life in the u.s. healthcare system .

All medical decisions are grounded in moral values, and clinicians should have an ethical framework to guide their decision-making process when people are near the end of their lives. This project can apply principles of Aristotle's seminal work, Nicomachean Ethics, to topics of end-of-life decision-making such as artificial nutrition, code status changes, and brain death.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Avery

2. Music Evolution Through The Decades: Analyzing The History of Your Favorite Music Genre 

Middle or high school students can pick their favorite genre of music and research the history of this genre, including key artists who influenced the genre, cities where the genre was developed, and different styles and phases the genre went through. You could also analyze different societal factors, like political climate, racial tension and community structures that impacted music production during each time period.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Mimi

3. Riots, Parties, and Protests

How can theater and performance help us understand the politics of protest? You can use theater performance as a lens for digging into the strategies of political and social movements. Analyze how groups and individuals articulate their goals and use their bodies to disrupt and reimagine everyday spaces.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Kelly

4. Is a Portrait of the King Propaganda? 

In 16th century Europe, artists like Hans Holbein the Younger worked for royal courts, creating portraits for wealthy and affluent citizens. A student could do a research project about how the art created by painters like Hans Holbein relates to propaganda as we now understand it, and how the portraits actually may have served a political purpose.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Sarah

5. Scoring a Film Scene

If you’re a teen who’s into music making and also have a passion for movies, this project is perfect for you! Select a sample scene from a film (preferably one that doesn’t already have a score in the background) and come up with an initial idea for a score for that scene. Think about how you want the audience to feel in the moment and how it complements the visual aspects of the scene.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Cody

6. Poetry and Social Media 

The rise of social media networks, particularly Instagram, have created a boom in the poetry world because of the quick and widespread way these short, imagistic poems can circulate. How has social media impacted the study of poetry as we know it? Have more people been interested in poetry because of these " instapoets "?

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Leela

7. Segregation and Colonialism in an East African City 

For this project, middle or high school students can write a research paper, visual essay, or interactive blog post about the history of segregation and colonialism in an East African city of their choice, for example Kampala or Nairobi. Drawing on colonial archives, newspapers, urban town plans, research papers, and more, students will examine how, under colonialism, East Africa's cities were designed to segregate communities along racial lines. Analyze the construction of neighborhoods, laws, and urban infrastructure to understand how and why the city was segregated.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Kristen

8. Studying Peace and Violence 

Research topics about peace and violence from a theoretical standpoint and try to develop an understanding of why different types of wars and conflicts continue to happen around the world? Depending on your individual interests, this could culminate in a traditional research paper or op-ed, or, alternatively, an educational video or podcast.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Shauna

9. Photo Ethnography of a Place 

In this middle or high school student project, you will be able to tell the story of a place in your own city or town - a museum, a zoo, a park, a cafe, a music store, a forest, a library, etc, relying only on the pictures you take of that place. You will try to tell others about why this location is important for you or your community.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Magdalena

10. Curate an Exhibition

This project will enable you to research a specific art historical topic while also learning the skills involved in curating a museum-based exhibition. You can start by selecting a general topic in art history. This could be an artistic movement (e.gImpressionism, Abstract Expressionism, The Harlem Renaissance), a specific artist (e.g., Claude Monet, Helen Frankenthaler, James Van Der Zee), or another theme of your choosing. After some preliminary research, you will decide on a title and thesis for your exhibition, then generate three “deliverables”: You will create a “checklist” of artworks to include, “wall labels” for each of these objects (i.e., a very short paragraph that explains the artwork to a viewer), and then a short brochure for potential museum visitors!

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Izabel

11. Why is America So Polarized?

Why does political polarization matter ? And can we do anything about it? This project could involve reviewing scholarly literature, gathering and analyzing data, and presenting results in the form of a scientific research paper, blog, social media account, or other platform of your choosing. You might identify potential interventions that could help decrease polarization in your school or local community. If interested, you could use research methods such as data visualization, text analysis, questionnaire design, or interviews.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Alexandra

12. Literary Magazine Concept Design

In this project, you will design an idea for a new literary magazine. First, learn about the variety of literary magazines that exist today, what their creative and practical models are, what their aesthetic is, and how they are run and funded. You will then apply this knowledge to creating a custom idea for your own literary magazine! If you are passionate about great writing and literary publishing, this is a great project for you.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Margarita

13. How to Write an Argument

Throughout our lives, we encounter arguments. They are designed to provide reasons for us to come to conclusions about the world, and are necessary to convince anyone of anything. However, arguments are often difficult to articulate and complex. The goal of this project is to learn how to become better at making arguments . Learn more about the logical structure of arguments, common fallacies, examples of strong arguments, and examples of bad arguments.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Will

14. History is Written by The Victors

Choose one event in history that you are interested in. Research three different memorials, monuments, or museums dedicated to this event. This is a good opportunity to examine bias in historical records and public memory—what gets remembered and what is lost over time? Which aspects of the event are emphasized and which are not mentioned? What is important to people now versus what was important to people in the past? 

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Rebecca

15. Costume Design Research & Sketching For Period Accuracy 

With shows like The Queen's Gambit, Downton Abbey, Mad Men, The Crown, Outlander, and Stranger Things, we are given the gift of time travel. We almost feel like we are in those times with the details and idiosyncrasies some shows and movies bring to us. But how do costume designers, production designers and fashion historians do their research? Learn more about historical fashion research and see if you can gain an understanding of how it works. If you want to take the project a step further, brainstorm your own idea for a TV show or movie set in a certain time period and think through what costumes your characters would wear to reflect that era.

Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Desira

Examples of Arts and Humanities Passion Projects Completed by Polygence Students

At Polygence, we’ve had numerous students explore arts and humanities projects with the help of a Polygence research mentor .

For example, Israel’s project focused on studying Leonardo Da Vinci and his legacy, before creating his own conceptual drawing that incorporated different facets of Da Vinci.

Hannah’s project was a five-act play that she created after studying 16th century Haarlem, a city in the Netherlands. The play incorporates accurate historical details and explores the roles of men and women in and out of wartime.

In this article, we covered how to find an arts and humanities project that interests you and shared 15 different passion project ideas from our extensive network of research mentors. Of course, these are just a few of many different potential project ideas, and we encourage you to be curious and explore arts and humanities project ideas beyond this list.

If you’re interested in pursuing an arts and humanities passion project, Polygence’s programs are a great place to start and offer excellent mentorship along the way.

Related Content

Passion projects for high school students: why they’re important and how to get started

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New Findings from AMLE Successful Middle School Research Project Presented at AERA

research project ideas for middle school

The research compares perceptions of how middle schools meet young adolescent needs across community groups

For immediate release.

April 23, 2024

In an exciting next step for AMLE’s Successful Middle School Research Project, Dr. Sarah Pennington presented new research findings during this month’s American Educational Research Association (AERA) Annual Meeting. Held this year in Philadelphia, the meeting is one of the world’s largest gatherings of education researchers and policymakers. Dr. Pennington, Education Department Head at Montana State University, leads the AMLE initiative that aims to advance middle level education research utilizing data collected from schools around the world through AMLE’s  Successful Middle School Assessment .

The Successful Middle School Assessment supports schools in measuring implementation of middle grades best practice through a series of research-based exemplars. In addition to staff, schools can also include students and families in their Assessment to gain community-wide picture of how they’re meeting the needs of young adolescents. The school receives a report with a comprehensive data analysis and actionable next steps to support their continued improvement, while their anonymized data also contributes to the research project.

The initial phase of the project centered on validating the Assessment as a reliable statistical tool for schools. Having completed that work, Dr. Pennington and her team’s work progressed to investigating research questions of interest to the field, including:

  • Whether there are significant differences between the perceptions of different groups within the school community (teachers/staff, parents/caregivers, and students) regarding their school’s effectiveness in meeting the needs of young adolescents? and
  • What patterns are evident in comparisons of these perceptions?

Research consistently demonstrates the significant impact of a positive school climate on young adolescents’ educational experience. The perceptions of students, teachers, school staff, and parents/caregivers all play critical roles in shaping the school climate and educational outcomes. Understanding these perceptions and addressing potential discrepancies is therefore vital for creating a supportive, inclusive, and productive learning environment for young adolescents – one of the eighteen characteristics of a successful middle school included in AMLE’s landmark text on best practice in the middle grades.

Using Successful Middle School Assessment data from ten schools, Dr. Pennington and her team found statistically significant differences in perceptions across the three groups (school staff, parents/caregivers, and students). As one example, when assessing whether the school environment is welcoming, inclusive, and affirming for all, parents/caregivers indicated more positive perceptions related to this characteristic than both school staff and students, while students indicated higher perceptions than school staff. Conversely, school staff viewed the school’s counseling services and family engagement more positively than both parents/caregivers and students.

Across the characteristics of successful middle schools included within the study, student perceptions were significantly lower than those of at least one group of adults. Overall, however, participants viewed their schools positively – though with high standard deviations indicating many observations far from the mean.

AMLE expects to publish the full results of the study later this year and to continue the work of the Successful Middle School Research Project by examining the interconnectedness of the characteristics of successful middle schools as well as perform additional qualitative research on promising practices that have emerged from the assessment data.

The Successful Middle School Research Project is supported by member donations to the  AMLE Foundation Fund . Learn more about the AMLE Foundation Fund.

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50 STEM Projects For Middle School: Structures, Experiments, Discussions, Challenges, DIYs, And Games

April 4, 2024 //  by  Stephanie Ledford

STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math! This exciting topic puts your students at the center of learning by encouraging exploration and innovation to solve problems. By doing so, we are creating tomorrow’s cutting-edge leaders, ready to make new discoveries and advances that we couldn’t even dream up! Check out these awesome STEM projects that are perfect for middle school to cultivate the next generation of scientific, technological, engineering, and mathematical innovators!

1. Scaling Up Candy Wrappers

Teach your kids about increasing the scale of an image by using grids. This activity works well with candy wrappers or cartoon characters, as these are things every middle schooler is interested in! You can also use this idea to teach them how to use grids to decrease the size of their drawings.

Learn More: Fast Times Of A Middle School Math Teacher

2. Leaning Tower of Pasta

Have your students practice their engineering skills with this fun activity using pasta and marshmallows! They’ll learn about concepts like compression and tension as they try to build the tallest and strongest structures! Dial up the competitive spirit with a prize for the winning team!

Learn More: Teach Engineering

3. Toothpick Bridge

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Another creative engineering project for your middle schoolers is this toothpick bridge project. Your kiddos will only need glue and toothpicks to design and build some awesome bridges. They’ll earn extra points if their bridges are strong and can hold a lot of weight!

Learn More: Instructables

4. I Breathe What?

If you are looking for an activity that combines engineering and science then look no further! Your kids will build pollution detectors out of card, string, and sticky tape, to put in different areas. They’ll then collect these and use a magnifying glass to examine all of the different particles that have been caught. The results may be surprising!

Learn More: YouTube

5. Backyard Weather Station

Teach your students about how we’re able to measure and predict weather patterns using weather stations. After making their own predictions about what the weather will do, your budding meteorologists will build their own weather stations complete with a weather vane, barometer, rain gauge, and thermometer!!

Learn More: eGFI

6. One Million Dollar Project

Show your middle school students the value of the dollar with this fun math assignment! They’ll delight in planning how they’d spend one million dollars, but it won’t be all about fun and games! They’ll need to take real-life expenses into consideration, such as paying for college and buying a house. They’re sure to appreciate their weekly allowance that much more!

Learn More: 4mula Fun!

7. Protect Your Body, Filter Your Water!

Having access to clean water is a huge concern for many people around the world, so being able to filter dirty water to make it drinkable is invaluable! Put your kiddies’ engineering skills to the test as they work out the best way to create their own water filters using a sieve and some activated charcoal.

8. Paper Roller Coasters

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Who doesn’t love a roller coaster? This fun STEM challenge will have your little engineers use paper, card stock, and tape to build their own roller coasters. Next, they’ll roll a marble along the track and see if it makes its way to the end! They’ll be amazed at what kind of thought goes into their local fun park!

9. Fire Snake

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This is one of those science experiments your students will remember for many years to come! Set up this experiment by lining a bowl with sand, then add sugar and baking soda on top. Next, saturate the mixture with some lighter fluid, then have your kiddies stand back as you light it up! They’ll be amazed by the interactions of the different elements and love the final product!

Learn More: Surviving a Teacher’s Salary

10. Alka Seltzer Lava Lamp

Add this one to your simple STEM projects folder straight away! Have your kiddos combine food coloring, vegetable oil, and water in a clear jar or bottle, then start the show by adding an Alka Seltzer tablet! The way the different elements interact in this fun, simple experiment will be awe-inspiring for your class.

Learn More: Fun Learning for Kids

11. Ice Cream in a Bag

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Who knew there was science involved in making ice cream? Get your learners to combine and seal half and half, sugar, and vanilla in a zip lock bag, then place this into a bigger bag filled with ice and salt. After a good shake, their ice cream is ready for a taste test!

Learn More: The Best Ideas for Kids

12. Paper Airplane Challenge

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There are tons of STEM challenges you can do with your students involving paper airplanes. They’re probably bored of seeing whose airplane will fly the furthest, so why not shake things up by seeing whose can carry the most cargo? They’ll be having so much fun that they won’t even realize they’ve become engineers!

Learn More: Kids Activities

13. Fidget Spinner Challenge

While fidget spinners may have momentarily driven teachers crazy, they can actually be a great learning opportunity!! Use them to teach your class about the engineering design process; from having your kids create their own design to using math concepts for budgeting the cost of building one, they’re sure to have fun with this one!

Learn More: Momgineer

14. Comparing Slime And Other Polymers STEM Activity

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A great STEM activity that’s sure to excite your little scientists is one that involves slime! In this project you can make slime and other polymers and non-Newtonian fluids then compare the properties of each! What a perfect way to get your class talking about and practicing scientific investigative processes!

Learn More: STEAM-Powered Family

15. No Valve in Vain

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Your kids will be inspired to learn that biomedical engineers design things that not only assist people but also keep them alive! In this STEM activity, you’ll teach your class how to create a one-way valve like the ones found in our hearts. They’ll see how this simple concept ensures that our blood continues to pump around our bodies.

16. Balloon Powered Car

Look no further for your next STEM project than the balloon-powered car! Using various crafting or recycled materials, your kiddies will build their cars and learn how an axle allows the wheels to turn as the balloon propels their cars across the room! There are so many different concepts you can cover in this one STEM challenge!

Learn More: Teaching Science

17. Elephant Toothpaste

Let your kiddos discover how some hydrogen peroxide can turn some everyday materials into elephant toothpaste! They’ll combine dish soap and food coloring with the peroxide, then add yeast to kick things off! This exciting chemical reaction isn’t one they’ll forget in a hurry!

Learn More: Fractus Learning

18. Bath Bombs

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In this fun experiment, your kiddos will form hypotheses about how water temperatures will affect the eruptions of bath bombs. After they’ve made their predictions, they can fill up a tub with some water and get to testing! If you have time, you could have them create their own bath bombs for this project!?

Learn More: Argo Food Service

19. Candy Crystals

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Creating these gorgeous lollies with your learners is sure to delight! Who knew that growing your own rock candy was so easy? Have your them create a mixture of sugar, water, and food dye, then submerge their prepared sticks and wait for the magic to happen! They’ll be amazed as they watch their candy crystals grow before their eyes!

Learn More: Better Life Blog

20. Marble Speed Trap

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Toys + science = FUN! Use LEGOs and marbles to review and reinforce the concept of velocity with your kiddies. They’ll build their very own speed trap in this engaging activity using some light sensors which will measure the speed that the marble travels down the track! There’ll be no slowing these scientists’ learning down, that’s for sure!

Learn More: Blog She Wrote

21. Cell Phone Stand

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One thing we all have in our pockets these days is a cell phone. And why not make it the main attraction in this fun STEM activity? Have your kids use the design process to reimagine a common cell phone stand and then have them bring their visions into reality by using various crafting materials from around the classroom.

Learn More: Scientific American

22. Cloud in a Bottle

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Inspire your future meteorologists with this unbelievable experiment! Using just a clear bottle, a few drops of water, and a match they’ll get to see firsthand how water condenses to form a cloud!

Learn More: The Water Project.org

23. Snickers Rock Models

Snickers - Wikipedia

Did you know that a simple Snickers bar can be used to represent three kinds of rock? Have your kiddos explore the layers of this delicious candy bar and experiment with applying pressure and heat to discover the effects these have on sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rock. 

Learn More: Organized Homeschooler

24. Windmill STEM Challenge

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Engage your kids’ engineering mindsets with this windmill construction challenge, based on the story of The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind. They’ll use recyclables to explore, design, test, and refine models of windmills. This is an awesome way for them to explore future careers in STEM.

Learn More: Carly & Adam

25. Layers of The Ocean And Density

STEM activities are a great way to bring abstract scientific concepts, such as the layers of the ocean, to life for your students! This activity uses sand, salt, and water to make a mini-ocean in a glass. Your class will measure the different densities of these materials and discover how this relates to the ocean’s layers. 

Learn More: Homeschool Momgineer

26. Bouncy Naked Eggs

Shell-less eggs are sure to fascinate your students, whatever their age!  Give your learners an unboiled egg to put in some vinegar for about 24 hours; the result is a shell-less bouncy egg! Take this classic experiment a step further by predicting and testing which egg is the bounciest.

Learn More: Science Sparks

27. Glowing Eggs

Let your kiddies take the “naked egg” experiment to the next level with just one more ingredient–the ink from a highlighter! Add the ink pad from a highlighter to vinegar, then add the egg Once the shell has dissolved, take the egg to a dark room and shine a light on it! Talk about a glow-up! 

Learn More: Frugal Coupon Living

28. The Science of Sound Waves

Sound Wave Science Experiment - materials needed to explore science of sound

Visualizing scientific concepts like sound waves can be tricky! However, with just a spoon, some string, and a ruler, your students will start to get the idea. First, have them tie a spoon to the end of two lengths of yarn and hold the yarn to their ears. Next, tap the spoon and watch the “Ah ha!” moment in real-time!

Learn More: KC Edventures

29. How Does a Leaf Breathe?

How does a plant or tree breathe? Easy science experiment for elementary and middle school

No lungs? No problem! Have your kids put a leaf in a bowl of water, set it in the sun, and watch as the magic of photosynthesis happens. Seeing the oxygen bubbles form on the surface of the leaf will show them this process in real-time! 

30. Ping-Pong Ball Launcher

Make a Ping Pong Ball Launcher

Get your kiddos outside with this fun rocket ball launcher experiment! Using a recycled plastic bottle and some rubber bands, your kiddos will learn about a ton of important STEM concepts such as the transfer of energy, inertia, and velocity. Create your basic prototype then let them tinker with the design to make improvements!

Learn More: Frugal Fun 4 Boys

31. Marble Energy Transfer

research project ideas for middle school

Build your kiddos’ understanding of how energy is transferred between objects in this intriguing marble experiment! Using their prior knowledge of potential and kinetic energy, they’ll make predictions about what will happen to the marbles when they collide and how far they will travel.

32. LEGO Wrecking Ball

Lego Wrecking Ball 4

What’s better than building a LEGO tower? Using it to knock things down! For all your future engineers, it’ll be a hit to build some functional machines during a STEM design challenge! Using just a golf ball, some string, and a few LEGOs, task them with constructing a wrecking ball that’ll knock over anything standing in its way!

Learn More: LEGO Librarian

33. DIY Phone Amplifier

DIY Phone Amplifier and Stand

Check, one, two, three! Your music lovers will love this one. They’ll get to have a dance party in class, but must first they’ve got figure out how to amplify the music from a phone. Using only recyclable materials, have them build a device that’ll turn up the tunes!

Learn More: Mum In The Madhouse

34. Catapult Circuit Challenge

Ready, aim, fire! Have your kiddos engineer catapults from simple materials in this classic STEM activity. You can extend this activity by challenging them to complete several tests and get the perfect collapse! They’ll need to truly follow the engineering design process, revisiting and tweaking their machines in the pursuit of efficiency!

Learn More: Vivify STEM

35. Space Lander Challenge

In this incredible activity for your middle school kids, they’ll integrate physical science concepts and their problem-solving skills. They’ll be tasked with the real-world problem of developing a stable spacecraft that protects the “astronauts” inside upon landing. It’ll only take a few simple materials and some marshmallows to prepare!

36. Index Card Challenge

research project ideas for middle school

This simple activity is the perfect icebreaker for your middle school kids and also incorporates STEM. First, split your learners into groups and give them a couple of minutes to write things they have in common on index cards. Next, they must race against each other to build the tallest card tower possible!

Learn More: Beakers And Ink

37. Saving Sam

research project ideas for middle school

Saving Sam is a STEM challenge for your table groups with a team-building element! Your kiddos have got to work together to save poor Sam, the gummy worm but they’ll only be allowed to use paperclips to flip his capsized boat and get his lifesaver on! This activity highlights the importance of sharing ideas respectfully, as they would in future STEM fields.

38. DIY Smartphone Projector

Smartphone Projectors. Awesome kids science!

Your middle school students will explore concepts of projection and magnification as they work to create a functioning movie projector. After creating the projector from just a magnifying lens and box, your students can vote on which movie to watch as they test out their creation!

Learn More: The STEM Laboratory

39. Pinball Machine Challenge

Are there any pinball wizards in the room? Take your kiddies back to the days of arcades with this super fun pinball machine engineering activity. Have them design a functional pinball machine, complete with flippers, a plunger, and score holes, and prompt them to consider STEM concepts like the laws of motion, force, and velocity!

Learn More: Teach Student Savvy

40. Simple Machine Bird

research project ideas for middle school

Strengthen your learners’ engineering mindset as they build a mechanical bird complete with levers and gears! All you’ll need is some cardboard, popsicle sticks, and some plastic gear sets to challenge them to construct a bird that is able to flap its wings! This cool STEM activity will build an understanding of how simple machines are built.

41. Water Pipelines

Connect your classroom STEM lessons with future career pathways through this introduction to water pipelines! Your kiddies will use their problem-solving abilities to move water from a reservoir through straw pipelines! Can they get the water from A to B without any leaks?

Learn More: Teachers Are Terrific

42. Earthquake Structures

Can your students build an earthquake-proof structure? Guide them as they investigate the properties of stable structures and then use simple materials to create multi-level buildings that can withstand a Jello earthquake! This fun STEM activity is a super hands-on way to shake things up for your middle schoolers!

43. Thaumatrope

thaumatrope | more | Rakka | Flickr

During this STEM lesson, you’ll teach your students the scientific magic behind a classic toy from the old days; the thaumatrope!  First, your kiddos will trace or draw designs on the two sides of a cardstock circle. Then, after learning about “persistence of vision,” they’ll add rubber bands and spin their creations to see them in action as the two images blend together.

Learn More: What We Do All Day

44. Pringles Ring

Pringles Ring STEM Challenge

Amaze your kiddos with this feat of friction and gravity as they work to construct rings of only Pringles chips. By carefully placing the chips in the correct pattern, they’ll be able to form a solid ring that stands without support! Amazing, right? The best part is that their creation becomes an edible reward in the end!

45. Light Painting

research project ideas for middle school

Light painting may seem like just a fun social media trend, but on a deeper level, it is an exploration of camera exposure and light! Turn out the lights, set your camera on a long exposure mode, and show your kiddos what types of images they can create with just a torch or glow stick! 

Learn More: Pink Stripey Socks

46. Video Game Coding

Before delving into your classroom unit on video game engineering,  challenge your kids to complete the same type of tasks in a hands-on way. Encourage them to think through their overall layout, familiarize themselves with commands, and figure out what they’ll need to incorporate into a purposeful game design.

Learn More: Teachers Pay Teachers

47. Design a Video Game

research project ideas for middle school

Introduce your learners to basic game coding concepts with this super offering! The software is right at their fingertips with Google CS First for them to learn how to create simple racing games. and as it meets ISTE standards! What a fun and practical resource to help your middle schoolers meet the STEM curriculum. 

Learn More: Google CS First

48. Lightbot Coding

LightBot

Lightbot is another fantastic online resource for building your students’ understanding of coding. They will get to practice their skills in relaying commands, making loops, and utilizing their critical thinking skills on this interactive platform. This a great choice for a STEM block or as an activity for your early finishers! 

Learn More: Light Bot

49. Printable Debugging Game

Debugging is an important principle of coding that your kiddos should learn early on. Grab this quick and easy debugging practice printable to tap into their critical thinking skills. It’s sure to show your kids the importance of thorough, error-free coding, which is critical for a future career in computer science!

Learn More: iGame Mom

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COMMENTS

  1. 10 Great Research Topics for Middle School Students

    Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring the fascinating world of research, especially if you're passionate about STEM and the humanities. Engaging in research projects now not only feeds your curiosity but also develops critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning.

  2. 206 Middle School Research Topics

    This will create fun research topics for 6th graders, learning about life and how relationships work. Literature: This is the best time to learn about books and works of art. The literature will provide many topics to research for middle school students. There are many more aspects that middle school students can research and write papers on.

  3. Research Topics for Middle Schoolers: Engaging Ideas for Student

    Fascinating Facts About Middle School Research Topics. Interdisciplinary Impact: Research projects in middle school often blend subjects, such as the integration of art and mathematics when exploring patterns and symmetry, which helps students discover the interconnectivity of different fields of knowledge.

  4. 30 Middle School Research Paper Topics

    To get your first ideas you may try the brainstorm technique: just get a sheet of paper and pen and write down anything that comes to mind. Don't worry if mostly it will be something that won't make a good research paper topic. Try to add some words to it: for example turn "candies" into "the production of candies", "the ...

  5. Exploring Exciting Research Topics for Middle School Students

    Examples of social science research topics for middle school students: The impact of social media on mental health. Gender inequality in education and the workplace. The effects of poverty on child development. The relationship between stress and physical health. The role of parenting styles in child behavior.

  6. Research Activities For Middle School: Discussions, Tips, Exploration

    18. Middle School Research Projects Middle School Students Will Love. Here is a list of 30 great research projects for middle schoolers, along with cool examples of each one. It also goes through planning strategies and other so-called soft skills that your middle school-aged students will need in order to complete such projects.

  7. Exploring Research Paper Topics for Middle Schoolers

    I. Introduction to Exploring Research Paper Topics for Middle Schoolers. II. Benefits of Assigning a Research Project in the Middle School Classroom. III. Identifying Appropriate and Engaging Topics for Younger Students. IV. Strategies for Facilitating Student Learning on Complex Ideas. V. Examining Relevant Sources to Support Claims and Arguments.

  8. Ideas for Middle School Research Projects

    Step 1: Selecting A Topic. When deciding on research paper topics for middle school students, pick something with multiple points of view so that there is room for debate. Consider current issues such as gun control or standardized testing in education; any controversial topic can make great fodder for an argumentative essay.

  9. PDF 10 Ways to Make Research-Based Middle Schools

    practitioners across the country, the Middle School Matters Field Guide is a collection of research-based principles, practices, and strategies deemed essential for middle school success. It includes instructional practices derived from the most rigorous research conducted in the middle grades over the past 15 years. Speciically,

  10. Exploring Ideas: Research Topics for Middle Schoolers

    VI. Evaluating the Quality of Sources Used For Research Projects. Finding reliable sources for research projects can be a daunting task, especially when working with topics relevant to middle school. It's essential that the resources used are of high quality so that your students have accurate and up-to-date information available.

  11. Middle School Science Projects

    Middle School Science Projects. (912 results) Science Buddies' middle school science projects are the perfect way for middle school students to have fun exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Our middle school projects are written and tested by scientists and are specifically created for use by students in the middle ...

  12. 11 Amazing 6th Grade Research Topics Students Love

    Final Thoughts On Research Topics for 6th Graders That Engage. Now you have a quality collection of 6th grade research topics to explore. These social studies and science research topics for middle school are sure to spark interest. So include a few of these high-interest 6th grade research topics in your next social studies or science unit.

  13. 10 Research Opportunities for Middle School Students

    1. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program. The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is an 8-week program for middle school students to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore their academic interests and build a project they are passionate about. Our mentors are scholars from top research universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Duke and LSE.

  14. New Guide to Help Middle and High School Students Conduct Research with

    Learn about the online research guide for middle and high school students that will help them locate and use digitized resources, find research inspiration, definitions for primary and secondary sources, strategies for searching primary and secondary sources on the Library's website and beyond, and suggestions on citing resources appropriately.

  15. 101 Research Paper Topics

    Use the following list of 101 research paper topics as a starting point for your paper. As you begin learning and writing about your topic, you should revise or amend your research question or thesis statement to better match the information that you are interpreting, analyzing, and expressing. Let your interest guide you.

  16. Having Choice: Middle School Multigenre Research Projects

    A multi-genre project arises from research, experience, and imagination. It is not an uninterrupted, expository monolog nor a seamless narrative nor a collection of poems. A multi-genre paper is composed of many genres and subgenres, each piece self-contained, making a point of its own, yet connected by theme or topic and sometimes by language ...

  17. Middle School Science Projects

    Our middle school projects are written and tested by scientists and are specifically created for use by students in the middle school grades. Students can choose to follow the science experiment as written or put their own spin on the project. For a personalized list of science projects, middle schoolers can use the Science Buddies Topic ...

  18. Middle School Science Projects (Search: School)

    Our middle school projects are written and tested by scientists and are specifically created for use by students in the middle school grades. Students can choose to follow the science experiment as written or put their own spin on the project. For a personalized list of science projects, middle schoolers can use the Science Buddies Topic ...

  19. Twenty Ideas for Engaging Projects

    3. Defy Gravity: Give your students a chance to investigate what happens near zero gravity by challenging them to design an experiment for NASA to conduct at its 2.2 second drop tower in Brookpark, Ohio. Separate NASA programs are offered for middle school and high school. Or, propose a project that may land you a seat on the ultimate roller coaster (aka: the "vomit comet"), NASA aircraft that ...

  20. Arts & Humanities Research Project Ideas for Students

    A student could do a research project about how the art created by painters like Hans Holbein relates to propaganda as we now understand it, and how the portraits actually may have served a political purpose. Idea by arts and humanities research mentor Sarah. 5. Scoring a Film Scene.

  21. New Findings from AMLE Successful Middle School Research Project

    April 23, 2024. In an exciting next step for AMLE's Successful Middle School Research Project, Dr. Sarah Pennington presented new research findings during this month's American Educational Research Association (AERA) Annual Meeting. Held this year in Philadelphia, the meeting is one of the world's largest gatherings of education ...

  22. Middle School, Genetics & Genomics Science Projects

    This project will help you start learning this new alphabet. Read more. 1. Unlock the building blocks of life with genetics and genomics science experiments. Explore inheritance, DNA, and genetic variation. Discover the perfect middle school science experiment in this huge collection of age-appropriate science investigations.

  23. 50 STEM Projects For Middle School: Structures, Experiments

    This activity highlights the importance of sharing ideas respectfully, as they would in future STEM fields. Learn More: Beakers And Ink. 38. DIY Smartphone Projector. Your middle school students will explore concepts of projection and magnification as they work to create a functioning movie projector.

  24. Middle School, Physics Science Projects

    Science Fair Project Idea. In this engineering challenge, you will build a car powered by nothing but a rubber band. The farther the car goes, and the fewer materials you use to build it, the higher your score. Enter your score in the 2024 Science Buddies Engineering Challenge for a chance to win prizes!