“A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.”  – Lao Tzu

The first step of a journey determines your direction. Defining your task will help ensure a successful journey along the Research Road.

What exactly is the assignment?

• Read the assignment carefully and be sure you understand it. Make a timeline for various due dates. If you are unsure about any aspect of the assignment, ask the teacher! There will be some requirements, but you may have options. Here's an example.
• If you choose a topic you care about, you’re more likely to create a better final presentation. What interests you? What are you curious about? Be sure the topic is not too broad (you'll be overwhelmed with information) or too narrow (you won't be able to find enough information). Ask your teacher for guidance.
• Do you know enough about your topic to state the task very clearly in terms of a question or problem? Do some background reading in a print encyclopedia, Britannica Online or Grolier Online. This will help you write an essential question or thesis statement (see below).
• Find out how your project will be assessed. If your teacher uses a rubric, be sure you refer to it during the research process to know you're on track to succeed.

Time to Brainstorm

• What are the major concepts?
• Write down everything you already know about your task.
• Write down what you need to find out. It will be helpful to write questions.
• Transfer the things you know and what you want to find out to a concept map (Inspiration™ software is great for this!), an outline, or a tree diagram.
• You may find a KWL chart useful for planning. Use this table to record what you Know, what you Want to know and what you've Learned. Here's a KWL chart you can print out and use.

Essential Question or Thesis Statement
If you don't know the question, you'll never know if you have the answer!

An ESSENTIAL QUESTION clearly presents what you want to discover about your topic in the form of a question. To develop an essential question, first write down everything you already know about your topic. Think about what you'd like to know, and use that to create your essential question.

Example: Do violent television programs and video games affect teenage behavior?

A THESIS STATEMENT is YOUR answer to the essential question. It is an opinion statement for which you will present supporting evidence. It should clearly express your viewpoint.

Example: Violence in television programs and video games is responsible for increased violent behavior in teenagers.

A thesis statement and an essential question accomplish the same purpose: directing your research and leading to original thought. Step-by step instructions for creating YOUR OWN thesis statment.