DEFINING

Defining your task

When you are first given your research task it is important that you GET CLEAR about what is expected / required.
Here are some questions to ask before you start your research task.

Do I understand what I am being asked to do in my assignment?
What do I already know about the topic?
What do I need to find out?
Can I choose my presentation format?
If so, what is the best way to present my information?
Who will be the audience for my assignment?
How long have I got for this assignment?
How am I going to be assessed?

What do I already know about my topic?
There are a number of ways you can brainstorm what you know about a topic.
You can:

Create a mindmap
Do some Starburst brainstorming
Complete a KWL chart or use some other Graphic Organiser
Brainstorm with others using a tool like Padlet

What do I want to find out?

What are some of the things you want to find out about your topic?
Make a list on your KWL Chart or why not use a mind map to write down your focus questions?
Develop some KEY WORD headings to help you organise your thinking about the main concepts in your topic.
Use a Questioning Framework to help you think more deeply about what you want to find out.

TOOLBOX

Other useful resources to help you with your research and study

Studyvibe is a rich repository of great resources for middle school, and high school students. Why not check it out.

The Knowledge Compass will help you create effective research questions for your inquiry.

If you are doing research around the United nations Sustainable Development Goals then this website will give you a head start with your research.