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Lecture

The lecture outlines the process of writing a research paper, focusing on understanding research, selecting a topic, and identifying the type of paper needed. It emphasizes the importance of a relevant, specific, interesting, feasible, and original topic, and describes three common types of research papers: analytical, argumentative, and expository. An activity is included to help students practice researching their chosen topic and presenting their findings.

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6 views3 pages

Lecture

The lecture outlines the process of writing a research paper, focusing on understanding research, selecting a topic, and identifying the type of paper needed. It emphasizes the importance of a relevant, specific, interesting, feasible, and original topic, and describes three common types of research papers: analytical, argumentative, and expository. An activity is included to help students practice researching their chosen topic and presenting their findings.

Uploaded by

jun
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Lecture: Writing a Research Paper - Phase 1: Understanding Research and Choosing a Topic

I. Introduction to Research and Research Papers Research is a systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and
interpreting information to answer a question or solve a problem. Writing a research paper allows students to explore
ideas, analyze various sources, and present their findings in a structured manner.

A research paper is more than just a collection of facts. It requires critical thinking, organization, and clarity. The first
phase of writing a research paper involves understanding what research is, selecting an appropriate topic, and
identifying the type of research paper needed.

II. Understanding Research

1. Why Do We Conduct Research?

o To gain knowledge and insights on a subject.

o To explore different perspectives and ideas.

o To develop and support arguments with credible evidence.

o To contribute to academic and professional discussions.

o To solve problems and propose new solutions.

2. What Makes a Good Research Topic?

o Relevant: The topic should be significant and meaningful to the field of study or society.

o Specific: A well-defined topic prevents the research from being too broad or unfocused.

o Interesting: Choose a topic you are genuinely curious about to maintain motivation.

o Feasible: Ensure there are enough sources available and that the research can be completed within the
given timeframe.

o Original: Aim to explore new ideas or provide a fresh perspective on an existing topic.

III. Choosing a Research Topic To choose a strong research topic, follow these steps:

1. Brainstorm Ideas - Create a list of topics that interest you and align with your course or academic field.

2. Do Preliminary Research - Look at existing studies, books, and articles to see what has been written about your
topic.

3. Narrow Down Your Topic - Focus on a specific aspect or question rather than a broad subject.

4. Formulate a Research Question - A strong research question should be clear, focused, and researchable.

5. Seek Feedback - Discuss your topic ideas with your teacher or peers to refine your approach.

IV. Types of Research Papers There are several types of research papers, but three common ones are:

1. Analytical Research Paper

o Purpose: To analyze different viewpoints on a topic without taking a stance.


o Structure: It includes an introduction, a thorough analysis of different perspectives, and a conclusion
that synthesizes findings.

o Example: "The Effects of Social Media on Mental Health: A Comparative Analysis."

o Key Characteristics:

 Presents different viewpoints objectively.

 Uses credible sources to support the analysis.

 Does not argue for a specific position but rather provides a balanced evaluation.

2. Argumentative Research Paper

o Purpose: To take a clear stance on an issue and support it with evidence.

o Structure: It includes a thesis statement, supporting arguments, counterarguments, and a conclusion.

o Example: "Should College Education Be Free? An Argument for Universal Access."

o Key Characteristics:

 Presents a debatable claim.

 Uses evidence such as statistics, expert opinions, and real-world examples.

 Addresses counterarguments to strengthen its position.

3. Expository Research Paper

o Purpose: To explain a topic in a neutral and informative manner.

o Structure: It includes an introduction, detailed explanations of key concepts, and a conclusion.

o Example: "The Process of Photosynthesis and Its Importance to the Ecosystem."

o Key Characteristics:

 Provides clear and factual information.

 Avoids personal opinions or arguments.

 Uses examples and explanations to educate the reader.

V. Activity: Conducting Research on a Chosen Topic Objective: To help students practice researching a topic and
identifying relevant sources.

1. Each student will choose a research topic based on their interests.

2. Conduct preliminary research using books, academic journals, and credible online sources.

3. Identify the type of research paper that best suits the topic (Analytical, Argumentative, or Expository).

4. Find at least three credible sources and take notes on key points.

5. Write a one-page summary of the research findings, including:

o The chosen topic and why it is relevant.


o The type of research paper selected and its justification.

o A summary of the three sources and their key findings.

6. Students will present their findings to the class, discussing how their research supports their topic and type of
paper.

Discussion Questions:

 What challenges did you encounter during your research?

 How did you determine whether a source was credible?

 How did your findings shape your understanding of your topic?

 What strategies can be used to organize research effectively?

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