Research Project
Master the complete research process from topic selection through final submission, developing the academic writing skills essential for college success.
What You'll Learn
- Develop a focused research question and craft an arguable thesis statement
- Locate, evaluate, and synthesize diverse credible sources using academic databases
- Apply advanced source evaluation techniques including the SOAPSTONE method
- Construct well-organized arguments using the MEAL paragraph structure
- Integrate sources effectively through quotation, paraphrase, and summary with proper citation
- Revise and edit systematically for clarity, coherence, and correctness
- Reflect on and improve your research and writing process
Before You Start
- Familiarity with basic essay structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion)
- Understanding of MLA, APA, or Chicago citation basics
- Experience with finding sources in library databases or online
- Ability to distinguish between primary and secondary sources
- Completion of earlier ELA units on argument writing and rhetorical analysis is recommended
SAT/ACT Alignment
This unit develops skills tested in the following domains:
- SAT Reading & Writing: Information+Ideas, Expression of Ideas
- ACT Reading: Key Ideas & Details, Craft & Structure, Integration of Knowledge
- ACT Writing: Ideas & Analysis, Development & Support, Organization, Language Use