Fairley English Bulldogs

Introduction: Concepts of research permeate everything we do and how we think. To form an idea or opinion, we need to have background information or experiences to guide us. For example, if you are trying to figure out which of your favorite artists are Illuminati, you first need to know about the artists, about Illuminati, and ways in which the two can fit together! When you want to have an informed opinion on an issue, you must figure out every aspect possible about the issue and use the information to create an intelligent perspective.

Because you are faced with new information and decisions every day, it is important to understand how to take a stand on tough issues. First, through our Webquest, and, then, continuing with the Research Paper, we will explore together the ways to create valid and credible opinions using a variety of resources and techniques.

Task: Each English III student in Tennessee is required to complete a research project (Tennessee Standard 4: Research). Our research project consists of 3 major parts: Research Paper, Presentation, and Research Product. For Think Show! each student will complete the following webquest and use the results to create:
     (a) a project abstract
     (b) 6-10 resource cards
     (c) a research product

Procedure:

I. After choosing a broad category in the classroom Gallery Walk, you will need to narrow and define your topic (3003.4.1) and begin your research for your final paper (3003.3.2, 3003.3.4). You can do this by completing a Webquest. The following links will help you define and narrow your topic, and links B and C have further links to help you gather preliminary information. Make sure you keep track of the websites you use and write them down on your Resource Cards.

A. Research Paper and Argument Topics

B. Social Issues and American Problems

C. Subject Guide for Hot Topics

Let's get started!

II. Create an abstract based on the information you have gathered. Use the following sites to complete your abstract.

A. How to Write an Abstract

B. Writing an Abstract

After your abstract is typed, email it to Mrs. Mahannah (m.t.mahannah@gmail.com) or submit a printed copy to her.

III. Write six to ten Resource Cards using the resources you have accessed to research your project. Turn in your resource cards (with your name on them and in a rubber band)!

Sample Resource Card

Click here for the steps to make a Resource Card!

IV. After your research, Resource Cards, and Abstract are completed, you will need to construct a creative product to coincide with your research. You may choose one of the following options:

A. Creating a Song using Flocabulary terms and beats

B. Giving an extended Persuasive Speech (5-7 minutes)

C. Making a Board Game

D. Painting or Sculpting a relevant piece of art

E. Other projects as approved by Mrs. Mahannah

You will conduct an informal presentation to show the class your product.

Evaluation: The rubric below will be used to evaluate your Think Show! Project (Research Product, Resource Cards, and Abstract).

Conclusion: Now that you have found your essential background information about your topic and have looked at the issue in several ways, aspects of this topic should now be clearer for you and maybe you are noting the personal relevance of your topic. Understanding your topic is essential to any type of meaningful research.

Please answer the following questions in the Comments section at the end of this post:

1. Two things I learned during this project are:

2. One way this project would have been easier is:

3. I am glad that I:

4. I wish I had:

5. My name is:

Congratulations!

You have completed your Think Show! project!

Make sure you invite your family to see your work!

Standards:
CLE 3003.3.2 Employ various prewriting strategies.

CLE 3003.4.1 Define and narrow a problem or research topic.

CLE 3003.4.2 Gather relevant information from a variety of print and electronic sources, as well as from direct observation, interviews, and surveys.

CLE 3003.4.3 Make distinctions about the credibility, reliability, consistency, strengths, and limitations of resources, including information gathered from websites.

CLE 3003.4.5 Use a standard format to arrange text, to cite sources, and to document
quotations, paraphrases, and other information.

Credits:
Standards: http://www.tennessee.gov/education/ci/english/doc/ENG_3003.pdf

Rubistar: http://rubistar.4teachers.org/

If you have any questions, ASK!

TR2 students have constantly increased their writing performance levels. This week we focused on using vocabulary and higher level writing techniques to push the papers from "Good" to "Outstanding."