Research Questions - Over arching umbrella questions that address your topic.
- Include KEY TERMS that you can use to help you research your topic.
- Generally, research questions are questions you do not know the answer to. The idea is you are using your research to gain new knowledge.
Research Questions Cont’d - Research Questions should be Well Grounded.
- Well Grounded means that they are searchable questions, that include Key Terms, you can enter into a search engine that will help guide your research.
- Well Grounded are not too narrow, too broad, nor too challenging.
Example of a Good Research Question Problem Questions - Too Narrow:
- Does Sweden have a nationalized health care system?
- When did D-Day begin during WWII?
- These questions have a “Yes” or “No” answer, or can be answered by a one word answer.
- Too Broad: What is the history of Christianity?
- This question cannot be covered in the scope of an essay.
- Too Challenging: Why is hip hop dancing so raunchy?
- This question is too opinionated and is based upon people’s feeling rather than research.
Subquestions - Subquestions are narrower questions that answer research questions.
- Example:
- Research Question: What are the health benefits of physical education in elementary, middle school, and high school in public education?
- Subquestions:
- What are the standards for physical education in Washington State?
- Is there a difference between the amount time devoted to physical education in elementary, middle school, or high school?
- Does physical education emphasize a certain type of exercise?
Your task… - Develop a research question that answers a broad question on your topic.
- Create three subquestions that will help you answer your research question.
- Use your research question and subquestions to guide your research.
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