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research topics for junior high school

100 Interesting Research Paper Topics for High Schoolers

What’s covered:, how to pick the right research topic, elements of a strong research paper.

  • Interesting Research Paper Topics

Composing a research paper can be a daunting task for first-time writers. In addition to making sure you’re using concise language and your thoughts are organized clearly, you need to find a topic that draws the reader in.

CollegeVine is here to help you brainstorm creative topics! Below are 100 interesting research paper topics that will help you engage with your project and keep you motivated until you’ve typed the final period. 

A research paper is similar to an academic essay but more lengthy and requires more research. This added length and depth is bittersweet: although a research paper is more work, you can create a more nuanced argument, and learn more about your topic. Research papers are a demonstration of your research ability and your ability to formulate a convincing argument. How well you’re able to engage with the sources and make original contributions will determine the strength of your paper. 

You can’t have a good research paper without a good research paper topic. “Good” is subjective, and different students will find different topics interesting. What’s important is that you find a topic that makes you want to find out more and make a convincing argument. Maybe you’ll be so interested that you’ll want to take it further and investigate some detail in even greater depth!

For example, last year over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a rigorous research program founded by Harvard researchers. The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . The program actually does not require you to have a research topic in mind when you apply, but pro tip: the more specific you can be the more likely you are to get in!

Introduction

The introduction to a research paper serves two critical functions: it conveys the topic of the paper and illustrates how you will address it. A strong introduction will also pique the interest of the reader and make them excited to read more. Selecting a research paper topic that is meaningful, interesting, and fascinates you is an excellent first step toward creating an engaging paper that people will want to read.

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is technically part of the introduction—generally the last sentence of it—but is so important that it merits a section of its own. The thesis statement is a declarative sentence that tells the reader what the paper is about. A strong thesis statement serves three purposes: present the topic of the paper, deliver a clear opinion on the topic, and summarize the points the paper will cover.

An example of a good thesis statement of diversity in the workforce is:

Diversity in the workplace is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage for businesses, as it fosters innovation, enhances creativity, improves decision-making, and enables companies to better understand and connect with a diverse customer base.

The body is the largest section of a research paper. It’s here where you support your thesis, present your facts and research, and persuade the reader.

Each paragraph in the body of a research paper should have its own idea. The idea is presented, generally in the first sentence of the paragraph, by a topic sentence. The topic sentence acts similarly to the thesis statement, only on a smaller scale, and every sentence in the paragraph with it supports the idea it conveys.

An example of a topic sentence on how diversity in the workplace fosters innovation is:

Diversity in the workplace fosters innovation by bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, which stimulates creativity, encourages new ideas, and leads to the development of innovative solutions to complex problems.

The body of an engaging research paper flows smoothly from one idea to the next. Create an outline before writing and order your ideas so that each idea logically leads to another.

The conclusion of a research paper should summarize your thesis and reinforce your argument. It’s common to restate the thesis in the conclusion of a research paper.

For example, a conclusion for a paper about diversity in the workforce is:

In conclusion, diversity in the workplace is vital to success in the modern business world. By embracing diversity, companies can tap into the full potential of their workforce, promote creativity and innovation, and better connect with a diverse customer base, ultimately leading to greater success and a more prosperous future for all.

Reference Page

The reference page is normally found at the end of a research paper. It provides proof that you did research using credible sources, properly credits the originators of information, and prevents plagiarism.

There are a number of different formats of reference pages, including APA, MLA, and Chicago. Make sure to format your reference page in your teacher’s preferred style.

  • Analyze the benefits of diversity in education.
  • Are charter schools useful for the national education system?
  • How has modern technology changed teaching?
  • Discuss the pros and cons of standardized testing.
  • What are the benefits of a gap year between high school and college?
  • What funding allocations give the most benefit to students?
  • Does homeschooling set students up for success?
  • Should universities/high schools require students to be vaccinated?
  • What effect does rising college tuition have on high schoolers?
  • Do students perform better in same-sex schools?
  • Discuss and analyze the impacts of a famous musician on pop music.
  • How has pop music evolved over the past decade?
  • How has the portrayal of women in music changed in the media over the past decade?
  • How does a synthesizer work?
  • How has music evolved to feature different instruments/voices?
  • How has sound effect technology changed the music industry?
  • Analyze the benefits of music education in high schools.
  • Are rehabilitation centers more effective than prisons?
  • Are congestion taxes useful?
  • Does affirmative action help minorities?
  • Can a capitalist system effectively reduce inequality?
  • Is a three-branch government system effective?
  • What causes polarization in today’s politics?
  • Is the U.S. government racially unbiased?
  • Choose a historical invention and discuss its impact on society today.
  • Choose a famous historical leader who lost power—what led to their eventual downfall?
  • How has your country evolved over the past century?
  • What historical event has had the largest effect on the U.S.?
  • Has the government’s response to national disasters improved or declined throughout history?
  • Discuss the history of the American occupation of Iraq.
  • Explain the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  • Is literature relevant in modern society?
  • Discuss how fiction can be used for propaganda.
  • How does literature teach and inform about society?
  • Explain the influence of children’s literature on adulthood.
  • How has literature addressed homosexuality?
  • Does the media portray minorities realistically?
  • Does the media reinforce stereotypes?
  • Why have podcasts become so popular?
  • Will streaming end traditional television?
  • What is a patriot?
  • What are the pros and cons of global citizenship?
  • What are the causes and effects of bullying?
  • Why has the divorce rate in the U.S. been declining in recent years?
  • Is it more important to follow social norms or religion?
  • What are the responsible limits on abortion, if any?
  • How does an MRI machine work?
  • Would the U.S. benefit from socialized healthcare?
  • Elderly populations
  • The education system
  • State tax bases
  • How do anti-vaxxers affect the health of the country?
  • Analyze the costs and benefits of diet culture.
  • Should companies allow employees to exercise on company time?
  • What is an adequate amount of exercise for an adult per week/per month/per day?
  • Discuss the effects of the obesity epidemic on American society.
  • Are students smarter since the advent of the internet?
  • What departures has the internet made from its original design?
  • Has digital downloading helped the music industry?
  • Discuss the benefits and costs of stricter internet censorship.
  • Analyze the effects of the internet on the paper news industry.
  • What would happen if the internet went out?
  • How will artificial intelligence (AI) change our lives?
  • What are the pros and cons of cryptocurrency?
  • How has social media affected the way people relate with each other?
  • Should social media have an age restriction?
  • Discuss the importance of source software.
  • What is more relevant in today’s world: mobile apps or websites?
  • How will fully autonomous vehicles change our lives?
  • How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?

Mental Health

  • What are the benefits of daily exercise?
  • How has social media affected people’s mental health?
  • What things contribute to poor mental and physical health?
  • Analyze how mental health is talked about in pop culture.
  • Discuss the pros and cons of more counselors in high schools.
  • How does stress affect the body?
  • How do emotional support animals help people?
  • What are black holes?
  • Discuss the biggest successes and failures of the EPA.
  • How has the Flint water crisis affected life in Michigan?
  • Can science help save endangered species?
  • Is the development of an anti-cancer vaccine possible?

Environment

  • What are the effects of deforestation on climate change?
  • Is climate change reversible?
  • How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect global warming and climate change?
  • Are carbon credits effective for offsetting emissions or just marketing?
  • Is nuclear power a safe alternative to fossil fuels?
  • Are hybrid vehicles helping to control pollution in the atmosphere?
  • How is plastic waste harming the environment?
  • Is entrepreneurism a trait people are born with or something they learn?
  • How much more should CEOs make than their average employee?
  • Can you start a business without money?
  • Should the U.S. raise the minimum wage?
  • Discuss how happy employees benefit businesses.
  • How important is branding for a business?
  • Discuss the ease, or difficulty, of landing a job today.
  • What is the economic impact of sporting events?
  • Are professional athletes overpaid?
  • Should male and female athletes receive equal pay?
  • What is a fair and equitable way for transgender athletes to compete in high school sports?
  • What are the benefits of playing team sports?
  • What is the most corrupt professional sport?

Where to Get More Research Paper Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original research topic ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

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Research Paper

129 Most Insightful Research Topics For High School

Discover engaging research topics for high school. Spark curiosity with diverse subjects. Find the perfect topic for your academic exploration!

Feb 13, 2024

students adding topic on wall - Research Topics For High School

High school can be an exciting time for students, as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and academic exploration. One aspect of this journey is the infamous research paper. While it may seem daunting at first, choosing the right research topic can make all the difference.  In this blog, we will delve into the realm of Research Topics For High School, providing you with a curated list of engaging and thought-provoking subjects that will surely captivate your interest. From the wonders of astrophysics to the mysteries of ancient civilizations, we will explore a wide range of topics that will not only impress your teachers but also fuel your curiosity. So, let's dive into the world of research and uncover the secrets of Research Paper Structure together!

Table of Contents

What makes a great research topic, otio: the ultimate ai research and writing partner for efficient workflows, benefits of engaging in research projects during high school, challenges you may encounter during the research process & how to overcome them, how to effectively manage your time while conducting research, supercharge your researching ability with otio — try otio for free today.

man writing down new Research Topics For High School

A great research essay topic possesses certain characteristics that make it engaging, relevant, and impactful. Here are the key characteristics that make a research essay topic great:

1. Relevance

A great research essay topic is one that is relevant to the subject or field of study. It should address a current issue or explore a significant concept or idea within the chosen discipline.

2. Originality

A great research essay topic should be original and unique. It should offer a fresh perspective or approach to the subject matter, avoiding overused or clichéd themes .

3. Depth and Complexity

A great research essay topic delves into the complexity of a subject, allowing for an in-depth analysis and exploration. It should provide ample opportunities for critical thinking and analysis.

4. Feasibility

A great research essay topic is one that is feasible to research and write about within the given time and resource constraints. It should have accessible sources and available data for investigation.

5. Controversy or Debate

A great research essay topic sparks controversy or debate within the field of study. It addresses a topic that has multiple viewpoints or conflicting perspectives, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of different arguments.

6. Interest and Engagement

A great research essay topic captivates the interest of the reader and the researcher. It should evoke curiosity and enthusiasm, motivating the researcher to explore the topic in depth and engage the reader throughout the essay. By incorporating these characteristics into the selection of a research essay topic, students can ensure that their writing is impactful, meaningful, and contributes to the body of knowledge in their chosen field of study.

Otio: Revolutionizing Research Workflows with AI-Native Workspace and Content Management

Knowledge workers, researchers, and students today suffer from content overload and are left to deal with it using fragmented, complex, and manual tooling. Too many of them settle for stitching together complicated bookmarking, read-it-later, and note-taking apps to get through their workflows.  Now that anyone can create content with the click of a button - this problem is only going to get worse. Otio solves this problem by providing one AI-native workspace for researchers. It helps them: 

A wide range of data sources, from bookmarks, tweets, and extensive books to YouTube videos. 

2. Extract key takeaways

With detailed AI-generated notes and source-grounded Q&A chat. 

Draft outputs using the sources you’ve collected. Otio helps you go from a reading list to a first draft faster. Along with this, Otio also helps you write research papers/essays faster.  Here are our top features that are loved by researchers: AI-generated notes on all bookmarks (YouTube videos, PDFs, articles, etc.), Otio enables you to chat with individual links or entire knowledge bases, just like you chat with ChatGPT, as well as AI-assisted writing.  Let Otio be your AI research and writing partner — try Otio for free today!

Related Reading

• Research Paper Thesis Examples • Best Research Paper Topics • How To Write A Research Paper Outline • History Research Paper Topics • Examples Of Research Topics • Us History Research Paper Topics • How To Write A Research Report • Topics For History Research Paper • How To Choose A Research Topic • Controversial Research Paper Topics • How To Write A Research Paper Fast • English Research Paper Topics • Tips For Writing A Research Paper • Best Topics For Research Paper • Scientific Research Paper Topics • Research Paper Ideas For English • What To Include In Introduction Of Research Paper • Research Paper Draft

students arranging topics - Research Topics For High School

1. The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers' Mental Health

2. The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Healthcare

3. The Effects of Climate Change on Global Food Security

4. The History and Significance of the Civil Rights Movement

5. The Pros and Cons of Genetic Engineering in Agriculture

6. The Influence of Music on Mood and Emotions

7. The Origins of the Universe: The Big Bang Theory vs. Creationism

8. The Impact of Video Games on Adolescent Behavior and Cognition

9. The Role of Women in World War II

10. The Effects of Air Pollution on Human Health

11. The Benefits and Risks of Vaccinations: Debunking Myths

12. The History and Impact of the Industrial Revolution

13. The Role of Social Media in Political Movements and Activism

14. The Psychology of Dreams: Interpretation and Meaning

15. The Impact of Cyberbullying on Adolescent Well-being

16. The History and Cultural Significance of Hip Hop Music

17. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on the Job Market

18. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Substance Abuse

19. The Role of Education in Combating Poverty

20. The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Academic Performance

21. The Influence of Advertising on Consumer Behavior

22. The Impact of Globalization on Cultural Identity

23. The History and Significance of the Women's Suffrage Movement

24. The Role of Technology in Education: Enhancing Learning Experiences

25. The Effects of Fast Food Consumption on Obesity Rates

26. The Importance of Mental Health Education in Schools

27. The Role of Mass Media in Shaping Public Opinion

28. The Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife and Ecosystems

29. The History and Evolution of the English Language

30. The Benefits and Risks of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

31. The Influence of Advertising on Body Image and Self-Esteem

32. The Role of Youth Activism in Social Change

33. The Effects of Screen Time on Child Development

34. The History and Legacy of the Civil War

35. The Impact of Renewable Energy Sources on the Environment

36. The Psychology of Addiction: Understanding Substance Abuse

37. The Role of Art in Society: Expressing Identity and Emotions

38. The Effects of Parental Divorce on Children's Well-being

39. The History and Impact of the Women's Rights Movement

40. The Benefits and Limitations of Online Learning

41. The Influence of Pop Culture on Teenagers' Values and Behaviors

42. The Impact of Social Media on Political Participation

43. The Causes and Consequences of Bullying in Schools

44. The Role of Media in Shaping Beauty Standards

45. The Effects of Exercise on Mental Health and Well-being

46. The History and Significance of the Harlem Renaissance

47. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Privacy and Security

48. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Pregnancy

49. The Role of Literature in Promoting Empathy and Understanding

50. The Impact of Immigration on Cultural Diversity and Social Cohesion

51. The Effects of Air Pollution on Climate Change

52. The Importance of Financial Literacy Education for High School Students

53. The Role of Religion in Politics and Governance

54. The History and Influence of Ancient Greek Philosophy

55. The Benefits and Risks of Nuclear Energy

56. The Influence of Media Violence on Aggressive Behavior

57. The Impact of Poverty on Child Development and Academic Achievement

58. The Role of Gender Stereotypes in Career Choices

59. The Effects of Technology on Human Interaction and Relationships

60. The History and Impact of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

61. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Ethical Decision Making

62. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Depression

63. The Role of Music Education in Cognitive Development

64. The Effects of Social Media on Body Image and Eating Disorders

65. The History and Cultural Significance of Classical Music

66. The Benefits and Risks of Nuclear Weapons

67. The Influence of Television on Children's Behavior and Attitudes

68. The Impact of Poverty on Mental Health and Well-being

69. The Role of Gender Equality in Achieving Sustainable Development

70. The Effects of Technology on Sleep Patterns and Quality

71. The History and Influence of Ancient Egyptian Civilization

72. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Human Rights

73. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Suicide

74. The Role of Sports in Promoting Physical and Mental Health

75. The Effects of Social Media on Academic Performance

76. The History and Cultural Significance of Jazz Music

77. The Benefits and Risks of Nuclear Power Plants

78. The Influence of Advertising on Children's Behavior and Values

79. The Impact of Poverty on Access to Education

80. The Role of Gender Stereotypes in Relationship Dynamics

81. The Effects of Technology on Attention Span and Concentration

82. The History and Influence of Ancient Roman Civilization

83. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Human Morality

84. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Substance Addiction

85. The Role of Exercise in Preventing Chronic Diseases

86. The Effects of Social Media on Interpersonal Relationships

87. The History and Cultural Significance of Rock and Roll Music

88. The Benefits and Risks of Solar Energy

89. The Influence of Media on Adolescent Body Image Dissatisfaction

90. The Impact of Poverty on Crime Rates

91. The Role of Environmental Education in Promoting Sustainability

92. The Effects of Technology on Academic Integrity

93. The History and Influence of Ancient Chinese Civilization

94. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Employment Opportunities

95. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Anxiety Disorders

96. The Role of Nutrition in Cognitive Functioning

97. The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers' Self-esteem

98. The History and Cultural Significance of Romantic Literature

99. The Benefits and Risks of Wind Energy

100. The Influence of Media on Teenagers' Body Image Perception

101. The Impact of Poverty on Mental Health Stigma

102. The Role of Youth Entrepreneurship in Economic Development

103. The Effects of Technology on Physical Fitness Levels

104. The History and Influence of Ancient Mayan Civilization

105. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Social Equality

106. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Eating Disorders

107. The Role of Sleep in Learning and Memory Consolidation

108. The Effects of Social Media on Cyberbullying

109. The History and Cultural Significance of Renaissance Art

110. The Benefits and Risks of Hydroelectric Power

111. The Influence of Media on Teenagers' Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors

112. The Impact of Poverty on Access to Healthcare

113. The Role of Youth Volunteerism in Community Development

114. The Effects of Technology on Mental Health and Well-being

115. The History and Influence of Ancient Aztec Civilization

116. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Criminal Justice

117. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Internet Addiction

118. The Role of Mindfulness in Stress Reduction

119. The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers' Academic Motivation

120. The History and Cultural Significance of Impressionist Art

121. The Benefits and Risks of Geothermal Energy

122. The Influence of Media on Teenagers' Substance Use Behaviors

123. The Impact of Poverty on Children's Educational Attainment

124. The Role of Youth Leadership in Social Change

125. The Effects of Technology on Youth Loneliness and Isolation

126. The History and Influence of Ancient Mesopotamian Civilization

127. The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Privacy Rights

128. The Causes and Consequences of Teenage Gambling Addiction

129. The Role of Mind-Body Practices in Promoting Well-being.

woman on keyboard working with otio - Research Topics For High School

AI research and writing partner: Knowledge workers, researchers and students today suffer from content overload and are left to deal with it using fragmented, complex and manual tooling. Too many of them settle for stitching together complicated bookmarking, read-it-later and note-taking apps to get through their workflows.  Now that anyone can create content with the click of a button - this problem is only going to get worse. Otio solves this problem by providing one AI-native workspace for researchers. It helps them: 

with detailed AI-generated notes and source-grounded Q&A chat. 

Draft outputs using the sources you’ve collected. Otio helps you to go from reading list to first draft faster. Along with this, Otio also helps you write research papers/essays faster. Here are our top features that are loved by researchers: AI-generated notes on all bookmarks (Youtube videos, PDFs, articles, etc.), Otio enables you to chat with individual links or entire knowledge bases, just like you chat with ChatGPT, as well as AI assisted writing.  Let Otio be your AI research and writing partner — try Otio for free today!

high school students in class - Research Topics For High School

Engaging in research projects during high school can have numerous benefits for future academic and professional development. Research allows students to develop critical thinking skills , enhance their understanding of various subjects, and gain valuable experience in conducting in-depth investigations. We will discuss the specific benefits of engaging in research projects during high school and how they contribute to students' future success.

1. Development of Critical Thinking Skills

Research projects require students to analyze information, evaluate evidence, and draw conclusions based on their findings. This process enhances critical thinking skills, enabling students to become more discerning and analytical in their approach to problem-solving. By learning to ask meaningful questions and think critically, students develop a valuable skill set that can be applied to any academic or professional field.

2. Enhanced Understanding of Subject Matter

Engaging in research projects allows high school students to delve deeper into a particular subject and gain a comprehensive understanding of it. By conducting extensive research, students can explore different perspectives, theories, and methodologies related to their chosen topic. This deep understanding provides a solid foundation for future academic pursuits and helps students develop a broader knowledge base.

3. Acquisition of Research Skills

Research projects provide an opportunity for high school students to acquire essential research skills. These skills include conducting literature reviews, formulating research questions, designing methodologies, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings. By engaging in research projects, students become familiar with research processes, methodologies, and ethical considerations, which are valuable skills for future academic and professional endeavors.

4. Exposure to the Scientific Method

Research projects often follow the scientific method, which involves formulating hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. By engaging in research projects during high school, students become familiar with this structured approach to problem-solving. This exposure to the scientific method cultivates a systematic and evidence-based approach to decision-making, which is applicable to various academic and professional settings.

5. Development of Presentation and Communication Skills

Engaging in research projects often entails presenting findings to peers, teachers, or at academic conferences. This experience provides high school students with an opportunity to develop their presentation and communication skills. By effectively conveying their research findings, students learn to articulate complex ideas, organize information, and engage with their audience. These skills are valuable for future academic presentations, job interviews, and professional collaborations.

6. Exploration of Personal Interests and Passions

Research projects allow high school students to explore their personal interests and passions in depth. By choosing a research topic that aligns with their interests, students can further develop their knowledge and expertise in a specific area. This exploration not only enriches their academic experience but also helps them discover potential career paths and pursue further studies in a field they are passionate about.

7. Preparation for Higher Education

Engaging in research projects during high school provides valuable preparation for higher education. Research experience enhances college applications and demonstrates a student's commitment to academic excellence. The skills acquired through research projects, such as critical thinking, research methodologies, and effective communication, are highly sought after in college and can contribute to success in higher education. Engaging in research projects during high school offers numerous benefits for future academic and professional development. From the development of critical thinking skills to the acquisition of research methodologies and presentation skills, research projects provide a valuable learning experience. By engaging in research, high school students gain a deeper understanding of subjects, explore personal interests, and prepare themselves for future academic pursuits.

student helping friend to find Research Topics For High School

1. Finding a Suitable Research Topic

Choosing a research topic can be a daunting task for high school students. They may struggle to find a topic that aligns with their interests, is relevant to their academic goals, and has enough available resources for in-depth research.  To overcome this obstacle, students can start by brainstorming their interests, exploring current events, and consulting with their teachers or mentors for guidance. They can also use online resources like topic generators or databases to discover potential research ideas.

2. Limited Access to Resources

High school students often face limitations in accessing reliable and comprehensive resources for their research. School libraries may have limited collections, and online access to scholarly articles and databases may require subscriptions or fees.  To overcome this challenge, students can utilize their school libraries, request interlibrary loans for specific resources, or explore open-access databases and websites. They can also reach out to local universities or community organizations that may offer resources for student research.

3. Developing Effective Research Skills

Many high school students lack the necessary research skills to conduct thorough and efficient investigations. They may struggle with evaluating sources for credibility , organizing information, and synthesizing findings.  To address this obstacle, students can participate in research workshops, seek guidance from their teachers or librarians, and practice using research tools and databases. They can also learn about citation formats and ethical considerations to ensure their research is academically honest.

4. Time Management and Procrastination

Time management is a common challenge for high school students, and it can significantly impact the research process. Students may procrastinate, leaving them with limited time to gather information, analyze data, and write their findings.  To overcome this obstacle, students should create a research plan with specific deadlines for each phase of the project. Breaking the research process into manageable tasks and utilizing time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique, can help students stay organized and focused.

5. Dealing with Information Overload

In the digital age, high school students can easily become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available for research. They may struggle to filter relevant content, leading to information overload and confusion. To tackle this challenge, students can develop effective search strategies using keywords and advanced search operators. They should also learn to critically evaluate sources, prioritize information based on relevance and reliability, and take concise notes to avoid information overload.

6. Writing and Citations

Writing a research paper or essay can be intimidating, especially for high school students who may have limited experience in academic writing. They may struggle with structuring their work, incorporating citations, and maintaining a coherent argument.  To overcome this obstacle, students can utilize writing resources and guides provided by their schools or online platforms. They should also practice paraphrasing and citing sources correctly, ensuring that they adhere to the required citation style (e.g., MLA or APA). High school students may encounter various challenges and obstacles during their research process, ranging from topic selection to time management and information overload. By utilizing available resources, seeking guidance, and developing essential research skills, students can overcome these challenges and enhance the quality of their research projects.

Otio: Revolutionizing Research and Writing with AI-Powered Workspaces

AI research and writing partner: Knowledge workers, researchers, and students today suffer from content overload and are left to deal with it using fragmented, complex, and manual tooling. Too many of them settle for stitching together complicated bookmarking, read-it-later, and note-taking apps to get through their workflows.  Now that anyone can create content with the click of a button - this problem is only going to get worse. Otio solves this problem by providing one AI-native workspace for researchers. It helps them: 

Draft outputs using the sources you’ve collected. Otio helps you to go from reading list to first draft faster. Along with this, Otio also helps you write research papers/essays faster.  Here are our top features that are loved by researchers: AI-generated notes on all bookmarks (YouTube videos, PDFs, articles, etc.), Otio enables you to chat with individual links or entire knowledge bases, just like you chat with ChatGPT, as well as AI-assisted writing.  Let Otio be your AI research and writing partner — try Otio for free today!

man holding clock for managing time while researching Research Topics For High School

Effective time management is crucial for high school students conducting research. With the demands of classes, extracurricular activities, and social lives, it can be challenging to find the time and focus needed for thorough research. By implementing strategies and tools, students can optimize their time and ensure successful research outcomes.

1. Set Clear Goals and Prioritize Tasks

By setting clear research goals and breaking them down into smaller tasks, high school students can stay organized and focused. Start by outlining the research objectives, identifying the main research questions, and creating a timeline. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and the importance of each component.

2. Create a Schedule

A well-structured schedule is essential for effective time management. Allocate specific time slots for research, ensuring that it is a regular and consistent part of your routine. Consider your personal energy levels and concentration peaks when scheduling your research sessions. Maintaining a balance between research and other responsibilities will help prevent burnout and promote overall well-being.

3. Utilize Technology and Research Tools

Technology can be a powerful ally when it comes to managing time effectively. There are numerous digital tools available that can streamline the research process. For example, using an AI research and writing partner like Otio can help students collect and organize information from various sources, generate AI-generated notes, and facilitate efficient writing. Otio's features, such as chat-based Q&A and AI-assisted writing, can significantly enhance the research workflow.

4. Stay Organized

Maintaining an organized workspace is essential for efficient research. Keep track of your sources, notes, and references using tools like citation management software. Create a system for organizing digital files and documents, ensuring easy access and retrieval. This will save valuable time when it comes to compiling research findings and writing papers.

5. Avoid Procrastination

Procrastination is the arch-nemesis of effective time management. High school students must develop strategies to overcome this tendency and stay on track with their research. Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps, use tools like time-tracking apps to monitor progress, and hold yourself accountable by setting deadlines and rewarding progress.

6. Seek Help and Collaboration

Don't be afraid to seek help and collaborate with others during the research process. Discuss your ideas with classmates, teachers, or mentors who can provide guidance and support. Collaboration can help generate fresh insights, provide different perspectives, and lighten the workload. Effective time management is crucial for high school students conducting research. By setting clear goals, creating schedules, utilizing technology and research tools, staying organized, avoiding procrastination, and seeking help when needed, students can optimize their time and achieve successful research outcomes.

Otio: Simplifying Research Workflows with an AI-Powered Workspace

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100 Research Topics for High School Students

research topics for junior high school

By Eric Eng

a student writing on her notebook and looking at the camera

High school is such an exciting time for stretching your intellectual muscles. One awesome way to do that is through research projects. But picking the right topic can make all the difference. It should be something you’re passionate about and also practical to tackle. So, we’ve put together a list of engaging research topics for high school students across ten different subjects: physics, math, chemistry, biology, engineering, literature, psychology, political science, economics, and history. Each topic is crafted to spark your curiosity and help you grow those research skills.

Physics Research Topics

Research topics for high school students in physics are an exciting way to enhance your understanding of the universe.

Physics major student surrounded by physics-related items

1. Gravitational Waves and Space-Time

How do gravitational waves distort space-time, and what can these distortions tell us about the origins of the universe?

2. Quantum Entanglement Applications

What are the potential technological applications of quantum entanglement, and how can it be harnessed for secure communication?

3. Dark Matter and Galaxy Formation

How does dark matter affect the formation and behavior of galaxies, and what evidence supports its existence?

4. Physics of Renewable Energy

What are the fundamental physical principles behind renewable energy sources, and how do they compare in terms of efficiency?

5. Superconductors in Technology

How are superconductors utilized in modern technology, and what advantages do they offer over traditional materials?

6. Particle Physics at the Large Hadron Collider

What significant discoveries have been made at the Large Hadron Collider, and how do they advance our understanding of particle physics?

7. Microgravity Effects on Organisms

How does microgravity affect the physiological and biological functions of organisms during space travel?

8. Thermodynamics and Engine Efficiency

How do the principles of thermodynamics improve the efficiency and performance of internal combustion engines?

9. Electromagnetism in Wireless Communication

How do principles of electromagnetism enable the functioning of wireless communication systems?

10. Cosmic Radiation and Human Space Travel

What are the effects of cosmic radiation on astronauts, and what measures can be taken to protect them during long-term space missions?

These research topics for high school students are designed to deepen your knowledge and prepare you for advanced studies and innovations in the field of physics.

Math Research Topics

Math research topics for high school students are a fantastic way to explore real-world problems through the lens of mathematical principles .

11. Graph Theory and Social Networks

How can graph theory be applied to identify influential nodes and optimize information flow in social networks?

12. Cryptography and Data Security

What cryptographic techniques are most effective in securing online communications and protecting sensitive data?

13. Mathematical Models in Disease Spread

How do SIR models predict the spread of infectious diseases, and what factors affect their accuracy?

14. Game Theory and Economic Decisions

How does game theory explain the strategic behavior of firms in competitive markets?

15. Calculus in Engineering Design

How is calculus used to optimize the structural integrity and efficiency of engineering designs?

16. Linear Algebra in Computer Graphics

How do matrices and vectors facilitate the creation and manipulation of digital images in computer graphics?

17. Statistical Methods in Public Health

What statistical methods are most effective in analyzing public health data to track disease outbreaks?

18. Differential Equations and Population Dynamics

How do differential equations model the population dynamics of endangered species in varying environments?

19. Probability Theory in Risk Management

How is probability theory applied to assess and mitigate financial risks in investment portfolios?

20. Mathematical Modeling in Climate Change Predictions

How do mathematical models simulate climate change scenarios, and what variables are most critical to their predictions?

These research topics for high school students are designed to spark your curiosity and help you build critical thinking skills and practical knowledge.

Chemistry Research Topics

Chemistry research topics for high school students open up a world of molecular wonders and practical applications.

Little Boy Mixes Chemicals in Beakers.

21. Photosynthesis Chemical Processes

How do the chemical reactions involved in photosynthesis convert light energy into chemical energy in plants?

22. Catalysts and Reaction Rates

How do different catalysts influence the rate of chemical reactions, and what factors affect their efficiency?

23. Environmental Pollutants and Atmospheric Chemistry

How do specific environmental pollutants alter chemical reactions in the atmosphere, and what are the consequences for air quality?

24. Green Chemistry Principles

How can green chemistry practices be applied to reduce chemical waste and promote sustainable industrial processes?

25. Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery

How does nanotechnology improve the targeted delivery and effectiveness of drugs within the human body?

26. Plastic Composition and Environmental Impact

How does the chemical composition of various plastics affect their environmental impact and degradation process?

27. Enzymes in Biochemical Reactions

How do enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, and what factors influence their activity and specificity?

28. Electrochemistry in Battery Technology

How are electrochemical principles applied to improve the performance and sustainability of modern batteries?

29. Chemical Fertilizers and Soil Health

How do chemical fertilizers impact soil health and agricultural productivity, and what alternatives exist to minimize negative effects?

30. Spectroscopy in Compound Identification

How is spectroscopy used to identify and analyze the composition of chemical compounds in various fields?

These research topics for high school students are designed to enhance your understanding of chemical principles and their real-world applications.

Biology Research Topics

Research topics for high school students in biology open up a fascinating window into the complexities of the living world.

31. Genetic Basis of Inherited Diseases

How do specific genetic mutations cause inherited diseases, and what are the mechanisms behind their transmission?

32. Climate Change and Biodiversity

How does climate change affect biodiversity in different ecosystems, and what species are most at risk?

33. Microbiomes and Human Health

How do microbiomes influence human health, and what roles do they play in disease prevention and treatment?

34. Habitat Destruction and Wildlife

How does habitat destruction impact wildlife populations and their behaviors, and what are the long-term ecological consequences?

35. Genetic Engineering in Agriculture

How can genetic engineering techniques improve crop yields and resistance to pests and diseases?

36. Pollution and Aquatic Ecosystems

How do various pollutants affect aquatic ecosystems, and what are the implications for water quality and marine life?

37. Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine

How are stem cells used in regenerative medicine to repair and replace damaged tissues and organs?

38. Evolutionary Biology and Species Adaptation

How do evolutionary principles explain the adaptation of species to changing environmental conditions?

39. Diet and Human Health

How do different dietary choices impact human health, and what are the underlying mechanisms?

40. Bioinformatics in Genetic Research

How is bioinformatics used to analyze genetic data, and what insights can it provide into genetic disorders and evolution?

These research topics for high school students are designed to deepen your understanding of life sciences and prepare you for advanced studies and research in the field.

Engineering Research Topics

Engineering research topics give high school students practical insights into designing and creating innovative solutions.

an civil engineering student

41. 3D Printing in Manufacturing

How does 3D printing technology revolutionize manufacturing processes, and what are its key advantages over traditional methods?

42. Robotics in Modern Industry

How do robotics improve efficiency and productivity in modern industries, and what are some specific applications?

43. Sustainable Building Design

What principles of sustainable building design can be applied to reduce environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency?

44. Artificial Intelligence in Engineering

How is artificial intelligence integrated into engineering solutions to optimize processes and solve complex problems?

45. Renewable Energy Technologies

How do renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, contribute to reducing carbon footprints?

46. Aerodynamics in Vehicle Design

How do aerodynamic principles enhance the performance and fuel efficiency of vehicles?

47. Material Science in Engineering Innovations

How do advancements in material science lead to innovative engineering solutions and improved product performance?

48. Civil Engineering in Urban Development

How does civil engineering contribute to urban development and infrastructure planning in growing cities?

49. Electrical Engineering in Modern Electronics

How are electrical engineering principles applied in the design and development of modern electronic devices?

50. Biomedical Engineering and Medical Devices

How does biomedical engineering contribute to the development of innovative medical devices and healthcare solutions?

These research topics for high school students are designed to broaden your understanding of engineering principles and their real-world applications, preparing you for future innovations and problem-solving in the field.

Literature Research Topics

Literature research topics give high school students the chance to delve into the rich and varied world of written works and their broader implications.

51. Identity in Contemporary Young Adult Fiction

How do contemporary young adult fiction novels explore themes of identity and self-discovery among teenagers?

52. Historical Events and Literary Movements

How have significant historical events influenced and shaped various literary movements, such as Romanticism or Modernism?

53. Symbolism in Classic Literature

How do authors use symbolism in classic literature to convey deeper meanings and themes?

54. Narrative Structure in Modern Storytelling

How do modern authors utilize narrative structures to enhance the storytelling experience and engage readers?

55. Literary Devices in Poetry

How do poets employ literary devices like metaphor, simile, and alliteration to enrich the meaning and emotional impact of their work?

56. Dystopian Themes in Science Fiction

How do science fiction authors use dystopian themes to comment on contemporary social and political issues?

57. Cultural Diversity and Literary Expression

How does cultural diversity influence literary expression and contribute to the richness of global literature?

58. Feminist Theory in Literary Analysis

How is feminist theory applied to analyze and interpret the representation of women and gender roles in literature?

59. Postcolonial Literature Principles

How does postcolonial literature address themes of colonization, identity, and resistance, and what are its key characteristics?

60. Intertextuality in Modern Novels

How do modern novelists use intertextuality to create layers of meaning and connect their works with other literary texts?

These research topics for high school students are designed to deepen your understanding of literary techniques and themes. They prepare you for advanced literary analysis and appreciation.

Psychology Research Topics

Psychology research topics offer high school students a fascinating journey into the complexities of human behavior and mental processes.

Unidentified expert talking to a client.

61. Social Media and Adolescent Mental Health

How does social media usage affect the mental health and well-being of adolescents, particularly in terms of anxiety and depression?

62. Stress and Cognitive Function

How does chronic stress impact cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making?

63. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Anxiety Disorders

How effective is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating various anxiety disorders, and what mechanisms underlie its success?

64. Early Childhood Experiences and Personality Development

How do early childhood experiences shape personality traits and influence long-term behavioral patterns?

65. Sleep and Memory Retention

How does the quality and quantity of sleep affect the retention and recall of memories?

66. Neuroplasticity in Brain Recovery

How does neuroplasticity facilitate brain recovery and adaptation following injury or neurological illness?

67. Mindfulness Practices and Emotional Regulation

How do mindfulness practices help individuals regulate their emotions and reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety?

68. Genetic Factors in Mental Health Disorders

How do genetic predispositions contribute to the development of mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder?

69. Group Dynamics and Decision-Making

How do group dynamics influence individual decision-making processes and outcomes in collaborative settings?

70. Psychological Assessments in Educational Settings

How are psychological assessments used to support student learning and development in educational environments?

These research topics for high school students are designed to enhance your understanding of mental processes and behavior. They prepare you for advanced studies and practical applications in the field.

Political Science Research Topics

Political science research topics offer high school students an exciting opportunity to dive into the complexities of political systems and their impact on society.

71. Social Media and Political Campaigns

How does social media influence the strategies and outcomes of political campaigns, particularly in terms of voter engagement and misinformation?

72. International Organizations and Global Governance

How do international organizations, such as the United Nations, contribute to global governance and conflict resolution?

73. Political Corruption and Economic Development

How does political corruption affect economic development and stability in different countries?

74. Democracy in Political Systems

How do the principles of democracy vary across different political systems, and what impact do these differences have on governance?

75. Public Opinion and Policy-Making

How does public opinion shape government policy-making processes and legislative decisions?

76. Political Ideology and Government Policies

How do different political ideologies influence the formulation and implementation of government policies?

77. Electoral Systems and Political Representation

How do various electoral systems impact political representation and voter behavior?

78. Political Communication in Media

How do media and communication strategies shape public perception of political issues and candidates?

79. Globalization and National Sovereignty

How does globalization affect national sovereignty and the ability of states to maintain independent policies?

80. Political Theory and Social Movements

How can political theory be used to understand the origins, development, and impact of social movements?

These research topics for high school students are designed to enhance your understanding of political processes and theories. They prepare you for advanced studies and informed civic participation.

Economics Research Topics

Economics research topics give high school students valuable insights into how economic systems and policies shape our world.

a professor looking at the output of his students

81. Minimum Wage Laws and Employment Rates

How do changes in minimum wage laws impact employment rates across different sectors and demographics?

82. Fiscal Policy in Economic Recessions

How do government fiscal policies, such as stimulus packages, help manage and mitigate the effects of economic recessions?

83. Globalization and Local Economies

How does globalization influence local economies, particularly in terms of job creation and market competition?

84. Behavioral Economics and Consumer Decisions

How do psychological factors and cognitive biases affect consumer decision-making and market trends?

85. Trade Policies and International Relations

How do specific trade policies impact international relations and global trade dynamics?

86. Technology in Economic Growth

How do technological advancements drive economic growth and productivity in various industries?

87. Taxation and Income Distribution

How do different taxation policies affect income distribution and economic inequality within a society?

88. Economic Modeling and Market Predictions

How are economic models used to predict market trends, and what are the limitations of these models?

89. Inflation and Purchasing Power

How does inflation impact purchasing power and the cost of living for consumers?

90. Econometrics in Economic Data Analysis

How is econometrics used to analyze and interpret complex economic data, and what insights can it provide?

These research topics for high school students are designed to deepen your understanding of economic principles and their real-world applications, preparing you for further studies and informed decision-making in the field.

History Research Topics

History research topics for high school students offer a deep dive into the past. They help you understand how it shapes our present and future.

91. Industrial Revolution: Causes and Consequences

What were the key factors that led to the Industrial Revolution, and how did it impact society and the economy?

92. Colonialism and Indigenous Populations

How did colonial rule affect the cultural, social, and economic lives of indigenous populations?

93. Women in Historical Social Movements

What roles did women play in various social movements throughout history, and what were their contributions?

94. Historical Revisionism in Modern Historiography

What are the principles and controversies surrounding historical revisionism in contemporary historiography?

95. Technological Advancements and Historical Events

How have technological innovations influenced significant historical events and driven societal changes?

96. Major Wars: Causes and Effects

What were the primary causes, key events, and consequences of major wars in history?

97. Religion in Shaping Historical Narratives

How has religion influenced the crafting and interpretation of historical narratives across different cultures?

98. Historiography and Documenting Events

What methods and principles are used in historiography to accurately record and analyze historical events?

99. Economic Changes and Historical Societies

How have economic shifts impacted social structures and historical developments in various societies?

100. Primary Sources in Historical Research

Why are primary sources important in historical research, and how are they used to ensure accuracy and depth in historical analysis?

These research topics for high school students are designed to deepen your understanding of past events and their significance, preparing you for advanced studies and critical historical inquiry.

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How do I pick the right high school research topic?

Choosing the right research topic involves considering your interests, the availability of resources, and the relevance of the topic to current issues. Start by identifying subjects you are passionate about. Then, look for specific questions within those subjects that spark your curiosity. It’s also important to consider the feasibility of the research, including access to necessary materials and data.

What high school research topics are in demand today?

High-demand research topics for high school students today often align with current global challenges and advancements. In science and technology, areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence , and genetic engineering are popular. In social sciences, topics like the impact of social media, political polarization, and mental health are highly relevant. Keeping up with current events and scientific journals can help you identify trending topics.

What resources should I use for my high school research?

Effective research requires a mix of resources. Start with your school library and online databases like JSTOR or Google Scholar for academic papers. Utilize books, reputable websites, and expert interviews to gather diverse perspectives. Don’t overlook primary sources, such as historical documents or scientific data, which provide firsthand information. Additionally, consider using software tools for data analysis and project management.

How can I publish or present my high school research?

Publishing and presenting your research can enhance its impact and your academic profile. Consider submitting your work to high school research journals , science fairs , and local or national competitions. You can also present at school or community events, or create a blog or website to share your findings. Networking with teachers and professors can provide guidance and additional opportunities for publication and presentation.

How does high school research enhance my college applications?

High school research demonstrates your ability to undertake independent projects, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Colleges value these attributes as they indicate readiness for college-level work. Including research experience in your application can set you apart from other applicants. It shows your commitment to learning and your ability to contribute to academic and extracurricular activities at the college level.

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151 Good Research Topics For High School Students

In this blog, we have discussed the research topics for high school students. Research papers allow high school students to explore academic subjects in-depth and learn how to find and analyze information. 

Selecting a good research topic can be challenging for students, as it needs to be engaging, relevant, and manageable within a school term. Current issues, science and technology, and social topics impacting teens make ideal subjects. 

Research also provides excellent opportunities for students to improve skills needed for college, such as critical thinking, sourcing quality information, and writing academic papers. Whether selecting famous historical figures, environmental issues, or teen psychology topics, students should choose research questions that excite them. 

The process teaches valuable research skills and lets students explore issues they care about. In this blog, we will discuss engaging research topics for high school students and tips to help them select the best subject for their research papers.

? Then, hire our experts to get unique and A+ quality Paper Solutions with on-time delivery.

Importance of Research Topics For High School Students

Table of Contents

Here are some key reasons why research topics are essential for high school students:

Develop Research And Critical Thinking Skills

Doing research allows students to learn how to find reliable information, analyze and evaluate sources, and synthesize information effectively. These skills are invaluable for college and career readiness.

Explore Passions and Interests

Research papers allow students to fully immerse themselves in a topic they care about or are curious to learn more about. This can increase engagement and inspiration to learn.

Learn Time Management and Responsibility

Completing a long-term research project requires planning, organization, and discipline. Students learn to manage their time and take responsibility for their learning.

Build Knowledge 

Deep diving into a topic through quality research allows students to build knowledge and become mini-experts. Retaining this knowledge can benefit them in the future.

Practice Academic Writing 

Research papers require students to present information in a scholarly, well-structured format. This is an excellent writing experience that prepares students for college-level writing.

Develop Presentation Skills 

Many research projects culminate in a presentation of findings. This allows students to practice public speaking and build confidence.

Gain Credibility and Recognition

High-quality research projects allow students to be recognized in their school community and beyond. This can build self-esteem.

In summary, research projects provide immense value for high school students on both academic and personal levels, making them an essential part of a well-rounded education.

Elements of a Strong Research Paper

Here are some key elements that contribute to a strong research paper:

  • Relevant, focused research question – The research question should be specific, original, and clearly stated early in the paper. It sets the direction for the whole project.
  • Strong thesis statement – The thesis presents the main argument or position of the paper. It should be concise, arguable, and supported by evidence.
  • Organized structure – The paper should follow a logical flow, starting with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing evidence, and a conclusion. Effective transitions connect ideas.
  • Reliable sources – Research studies, expert analysis, and reliable facts support claims. Varied perspectives are included.
  • Critical analysis – The paper should analyze and interpret research findings rather than just describe them. Connections to key concepts are made.
  • Clear writing style – Precise language, smooth transitions, topic sentences, and appropriate word choice improve readability. Active voice and varied sentence structure engage readers.
  • Proper formatting – Following the required style guide for citing sources and formatting elements like page numbers, headings, and title page.
  • Meticulous editing – Checking for grammar, spelling, punctuation, ambiguity, and formatting errors polishes the paper.
  • Compliance with guidelines – Adhering to all requirements set by the instructor such as word count, formatting, and submission procedures.

Students can craft excellent research papers with thoughtful research, clear writing, and meticulous editing. The process requires time and diligent work but yields valuable skills.

151 Research Topics For High School Students

Here’s a list of 151+ research topics for high school students to explore across various subjects. Feel free to modify them to suit your interests or combine different ideas:

Science and Technology

  • The impact of technology on education.
  • Advancements in renewable energy technologies.
  • Effects of climate change on biodiversity.
  • Nanotechnology applications in medicine.
  • The role of genetics in predicting diseases.
  • The future of artificial intelligence.
  • Cybersecurity: Challenges and solutions.
  • The impact of the social media on the mental health.
  • Robotics and automation in various industries.
  • Space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial life.
  • CRISPR gene editing and its ethical implications.
  • The human microbiome and its influence on health.
  • Evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • Effects of different diets on human health.
  • The major role of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
  • Impact of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.
  • The connection between sleep patterns and academic performance.
  • Effects of various types of exercise on cardiovascular health.
  • Genetics of taste preferences.
  • Environmental conservation and endangered species protection.
  • Applications of nanomaterials in everyday life.
  • Green chemistry and sustainable practices.
  • The chemistry behind food preservation.
  • Analyzing the chemical composition of household products.
  • Investigating the pH levels of local water sources.
  • Chemical reactions in the human body.
  • The science behind the taste of different foods.
  • Synthesis and properties of biodegradable plastics.
  • Chemical analysis of air pollutants in urban areas.
  • Chemistry of cooking: Effects of different cooking methods on food.
  • The physics of sports: Analyzing the mechanics of different sports.
  • Quantum mechanics and its applications.
  • The concept of time: Physics and philosophy.
  • The physics of music: How musical instruments produce sound.
  • Applications of electromagnetic waves in daily life.
  • The science behind roller coasters.
  • Investigating the physics of climate change.
  • The relationship between mass and gravity.
  • Einstein’s theory of relativity: Understanding its principles.
  • The physics of renewable energy sources.

Environmental Science

  • Impacts of deforestation on local ecosystems.
  • Water pollution in urban areas.
  • The role of wetlands in ecological conservation.
  • Sustainable agriculture practices.
  • Plastic pollution in oceans: Causes and solutions.
  • The results of air pollution on the respiratory health.
  • Urban heat islands: Causes and mitigation.
  • Impact of invasive species on local biodiversity.
  • Analyzing the environmental footprint of different diets.
  • The significance of the biodiversity in supporting ecosystem balance.

Social Sciences

  • The influence of social media on political opinions.
  • Effects of bullying on mental health.
  • Gender stereotypes in the media.
  • The impact of video games on behavior.
  • Teen mental health: Identifying risk factors.
  • Cultural diversity in schools and its effects on education.
  • The role of family dynamics in shaping personality.
  • Impact of social isolation on well-being.
  • Analyzing the effectiveness of anti-drug campaigns.
  • The connection between socioeconomic status & academic achievement.
  • The effects of music on mood and cognition.
  • Sleep patterns and their impact on mental health.
  • The psychology of decision-making.
  • Factors influencing academic motivation.
  • Impact of social media on body image.
  • The role of nature vs. nurture in personality development.
  • Effects of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction.
  • The psychology of laughter: Why do we laugh?
  • The impact of positive affirmations on self-esteem.
  • Analyzing the placebo effect in medical treatments.
  • The impact of World War II on international geopolitics.
  • Civil rights movements and their legacy.
  • The role of women in historical revolutions.
  • The effects of colonialism on indigenous cultures.
  • Historical analysis of pandemics and their aftermath.
  • The Industrial Revolution and its social consequences.
  • The history of human rights movements.
  • The legacy of ancient civilizations on modern society.
  • Causes and consequences of the Cold War.
  • Historical development of democracy around the world.

Literature and Language Arts

  • Analysis of symbolism in a specific literary work.
  • The evolution of language and its impact on communication.
  • The portrayal of mental illness in literature.
  • The influence of science fiction on technological innovation.
  • The major role of folklore in shaping cultural identity.
  • Shakespearean plays: Themes and contemporary relevance.
  • Gender representation in literature.
  • The impact of censorship on literary works.
  • Analyzing the use of metaphors in poetry.
  • The influence of literature on social change.

Mathematics

  • The history and applications of fractals.
  • Cryptography: The mathematics of secure communication.
  • Mathematical modeling of population growth.
  • The role of mathematics in computer programming.
  • Analyzing the geometry of famous landmarks.
  • The mathematics behind music: Patterns and rhythms.
  • Game theory and its applications in decision-making.
  • Fibonacci sequence and its occurrences in nature.
  • Analyzing the statistics of a specific real-world phenomenon.
  • The concept of infinity in mathematics.
  • The impact of globalization on local economies.
  • Income inequality and its consequences.
  • The economics of climate change mitigation.
  • The role of small businesses in economic development.
  • The effects of automation on employment.
  • Consumer behavior and the psychology of spending.
  • Economic analysis of a specific industry.
  • The relationship between education and economic success.
  • The impact of government policies on economic growth.
  • Analyzing economic systems: Capitalism, socialism, and communism.

Political Science

  • The role of political parties in shaping procedures.
  • The impact of lobbying on political decision-making.
  • The history and consequences of political revolutions.
  • Electoral systems: A comparative analysis.
  • The influence of media on political opinions.
  • Human rights and their enforcement on the global stage.
  • The role of diplomacy in international relations.
  • Political corruption and its impact on society.
  • The concept of political ideology: Origins and evolution.
  • The role of grassroots movements in political change.

Health and Nutrition

  • The impact of fast food on health.
  • The benefits of a plant-based diet.
  • Exercise and its effects on mental health.
  • The role of core microbiota in digestion and immunity.
  • The psychology of eating disorders.
  • The relationship between stress and physical health.
  • Analysis of different diet trends.
  • The impact of sleep on overall well-being.
  • Effects of advertising on food choices and nutrition.
  • Public health initiatives: Successes and challenges.
  • The effectiveness of online learning platforms.
  • The impact of standardized testing on education.
  • The role of teachers in student motivation.
  • Inclusive education and its benefits.
  • School uniforms: Pros and cons.
  • The effect of parent’s involvement on academic success.
  • The importance of arts education in schools.
  • Analyzing the benefits of extracurricular activities.
  • The role of technology in modern classrooms.
  • Homeschooling: Factors influencing its success.

Art and Music

  • The evolution of hip-hop music and its cultural impact.
  • The role of art treatment in mental health treatment.
  • Cultural influences on visual arts.
  • Exploring the use of color in famous paintings.
  • The impact of technology on music production.
  • The intersection of art and technology in contemporary society.
  • Cultural appropriation in the arts.
  • The influence of political events on artistic expression.
  • The history and significance of a specific art movement.
  • Analyzing the symbolism in a particular piece of artwork.
  • The relationship between music and memory.

How to Pick the Right Research Topic

Here are some tips for picking the right research topic as a high school student:

  • Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Researching and writing about something intriguing will make the process more enjoyable and rewarding.
  • Make sure the topic is narrow and focused enough to be manageable. Don’t pick subjects that are too broad or vague.
  • Consider your research resources – access to primary sources, scholarly articles, experts to interview, etc. Pick a feasible topic.
  • Select a topic that is original and where you can offer a new perspective or angle. Avoid overdone topics.
  • Ensure the topic is relevant to your class objectives or allows you to demonstrate core skills. Consult your teacher.
  • Pick a topic that challenges you intellectually but is still within your capability. Balance ambition with practicality.
  • Look for available research topics that provide enough evidence and detail to support your thesis.
  • Consider topics that connect to your personal experiences, background, or community. These can offer passion.
  • If allowed, pick something enjoyable like music, sports, technology, or pop culture. Interest keeps you motivated.
  • Bounce ideas on your teacher or librarian for feedback. They can help assess research viability.

With the right topic, you’re off to an excellent start on your research paper! Allow time to refine your direction as the work progresses.

Final Remarks

In conclusion, selecting the right research topic is crucial for high school students. It engages them in academic exploration and cultivates essential skills for their future. Research enhances critical thinking, source evaluation, and practical information synthesis – all valuable for college readiness. 

Exploring personal interests boosts engagement and inspiration while instilling time management and responsibility. A solid research paper requires a focused question, a robust thesis, an organized structure, and critical analysis. Students also learn the art of clear writing, proper formatting, and meticulous editing. 

The journey offers a chance to become mini-experts, practice academic writing, develop presentation skills, and gain recognition. The significance of research topics extends beyond the classroom, contributing to a well-rounded education and preparing students for future challenges.

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  • A Research Guide
  • Research Paper Topics

120 Research Paper Topics for High School

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How to Choose a Topic for High School Research Paper:

High school psychology research paper topics:.

  • The impact of social media on adolescent mental health
  • The effects of bullying on the psychological well-being of high school students
  • The relationship between academic stress and anxiety in high school students
  • The influence of parental involvement on the academic achievement of high school students
  • The role of self-esteem in teenage substance abuse
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance in adolescents
  • The impact of peer pressure on decision-making in high school students
  • The relationship between body image dissatisfaction and eating disorders among teenagers
  • The effects of video games on aggression levels in adolescents
  • The role of mindfulness in reducing stress and improving mental health in high school students
  • The influence of family dynamics on the development of personality traits in teenagers
  • The effects of music on mood regulation in adolescents
  • The relationship between teenage pregnancy and psychological outcomes
  • The impact of gender stereotypes on academic and career choices in high school students
  • The role of cultural factors in shaping adolescent identity formation

High School Sociology Research Paper Topics:

  • The impact of social media on teenage self-esteem
  • The role of gender stereotypes in high school sports
  • The effects of bullying on academic performance among high school students
  • The influence of family dynamics on teenage substance abuse
  • The relationship between socioeconomic status and educational achievement
  • The impact of peer pressure on teenage decision-making
  • The role of cultural diversity in promoting tolerance and acceptance in high schools
  • The effects of single-parent households on adolescent development
  • The influence of school uniforms on student behavior and academic performance
  • The relationship between parental involvement and student success in high school
  • The impact of standardized testing on educational inequality
  • The role of race and ethnicity in educational opportunities and outcomes
  • The effects of social class on access to higher education
  • The influence of media on body image and eating disorders among high school students
  • The relationship between school climate and student mental health

High School Education Research Paper Topics:

  • The impact of standardized testing on student performance
  • The effectiveness of inclusive education for students with disabilities
  • The role of technology in enhancing learning outcomes in high school classrooms
  • The influence of parental involvement on academic achievement in high school
  • The effects of school bullying on students’ mental health and academic performance
  • The benefits and challenges of implementing project-based learning in high schools
  • The impact of socioeconomic status on educational opportunities and outcomes in high school
  • The role of school counselors in supporting students’ college and career readiness
  • The effectiveness of different teaching methods in high school science education
  • The relationship between physical activity and academic performance in high school students
  • The impact of social media on students’ academic engagement and achievement
  • The effectiveness of sex education programs in reducing teenage pregnancy rates in high schools
  • The influence of teacher-student relationships on students’ motivation and academic success
  • The role of arts education in fostering creativity and critical thinking skills in high school students
  • The effects of early school start times on students’ sleep patterns and academic performance

High School History Research Paper Topics:

  • The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society and the economy
  • The causes and consequences of World War I
  • The role of women in the American Civil Rights Movement
  • The rise and fall of the Roman Empire
  • The effects of the Great Depression on American society
  • The origins and consequences of the Cold War
  • The impact of the French Revolution on European politics and society
  • The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II
  • The causes and consequences of the American Revolution
  • The influence of ancient Greek philosophy on modern Western thought
  • The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on racial equality in the United States
  • The causes and consequences of the Holocaust
  • The role of religion in the colonization of the Americas
  • The effects of the Vietnam War on American society and politics
  • The rise and fall of apartheid in South Africa

High School Chemistry Research Paper Topics:

  • The effects of different catalysts on the rate of a chemical reaction
  • Investigating the properties and applications of graphene in nanotechnology
  • Analyzing the impact of pH on enzyme activity
  • Exploring the synthesis and characterization of biodegradable polymers
  • Investigating the role of antioxidants in preventing oxidative stress
  • Analyzing the effects of different concentrations of acids on metal corrosion
  • Investigating the principles and applications of chromatography in chemical analysis
  • Exploring the synthesis and properties of superconducting materials
  • Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of photosynthesis
  • Investigating the principles and applications of electrochemistry in energy storage
  • Exploring the synthesis and properties of carbon nanotubes
  • Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of a chemical equilibrium
  • Investigating the principles and applications of spectroscopy in chemical analysis
  • Exploring the synthesis and properties of biocompatible materials for medical applications
  • Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of a redox reaction

High School Medical Research Paper Topics:

  • The impact of social media on mental health among high school students
  • The effectiveness of school-based interventions in preventing teenage pregnancy
  • The relationship between sleep patterns and academic performance in high school students
  • The prevalence and consequences of substance abuse among teenagers
  • The role of physical activity in reducing stress and anxiety among high school students
  • The impact of bullying on mental health and well-being in adolescents
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing symptoms of depression among high school students
  • The relationship between nutrition and academic achievement in high school students
  • The prevalence and consequences of eating disorders among teenagers
  • The impact of technology use on sleep quality and quantity in high school students
  • The effectiveness of school-based sexual education programs in preventing sexually transmitted infections
  • The relationship between screen time and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in adolescents
  • The prevalence and consequences of self-harm behaviors among high school students
  • The impact of peer pressure on substance abuse and risky behaviors in teenagers
  • The effectiveness of school-based mental health programs in promoting emotional well-being among high school students

High School Environmental Research Paper Topics:

  • The impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems
  • The effectiveness of renewable energy sources in reducing carbon emissions
  • The role of deforestation in climate change
  • The effects of air pollution on human health
  • The importance of biodiversity conservation in maintaining ecosystem stability
  • The relationship between water scarcity and agricultural practices
  • The impact of climate change on wildlife habitats
  • The role of sustainable agriculture in food security
  • The effects of urbanization on local ecosystems
  • The significance of recycling and waste management in reducing environmental pollution
  • The relationship between pesticide use and declining bee populations
  • The impact of industrial pollution on freshwater ecosystems
  • The effectiveness of environmental policies in reducing greenhouse gas emissions
  • The role of environmental education in promoting sustainable practices
  • The effects of ocean acidification on coral reefs and marine life

High School Economic Research Paper Topics:

  • The impact of minimum wage on employment rates
  • The relationship between economic growth and income inequality
  • The effects of globalization on local economies
  • The role of government intervention in market failures
  • The economic consequences of climate change
  • The influence of consumer behavior on market demand
  • The economic implications of immigration policies
  • The relationship between education and economic development
  • The effects of automation on employment opportunities
  • The role of entrepreneurship in economic growth
  • The impact of trade policies on domestic industries
  • The economic consequences of healthcare reform
  • The relationship between inflation and unemployment
  • The effects of fiscal and monetary policies on economic stability
  • The role of technology in shaping future economic trends

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Research Paper Topics for High School Students

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Table of contents

  • 0.1 The Advantages of Research Project Participation in High School
  • 1.1 Elements of a Strong Research Paper
  • 2 How Should I Start With Writing My Research?
  • 3.1 Consider the Scope and Time Commitment
  • 3.2 Align the Topic with Your Interests
  • 3.3 Use Resources and Guides
  • 4.1 Education Research Topics
  • 4.2 Research Topics About World History
  • 4.3 Healthcare Research Topics
  • 4.4 Research Topics on Finance
  • 4.5 Research Topics on Mental Health
  • 4.6 Science Research Projects
  • 4.7 Music Research Topics
  • 4.8 Environmental Research Paper Topics
  • 4.9 Research Papers about Entrepreneurship
  • 5 Conclusion

Research papers are common assignments in high school systems worldwide. They serve as a method for students to convey what they have learned. Students do in-depth analysis on a specific subject. But why are they so prevalent in high schools?

The reason is that writing a well-structured research paper teaches students essential skills:

  • Academic writing;
  • Making critical connections;
  • Expressing understanding;
  • Summarizing complex data;
  • Effectively communicating and presenting findings;
  • Critical thinking skills;

The Advantages of Research Project Participation in High School

Participating in research projects in high school has many benefits!

  • It helps students think critically and solve problems.
  • Students also learn how to create a strong thesis statement for their research paper.
  • Exploring different research paper topics lets them discover new interests.
  • This experience prepares them for future academic work and improves their writing skills.
  • Research projects give high school students a solid foundation for success in college.

What is a Good Research Paper?

A good research paper demonstrates thorough research and critical thinking. Any graduate student must create a research paper that contributes to academic achievement. Research projects require careful planning and a well-structured research paper outline .

Elements of a Strong Research Paper

Key elements of a strong research paper include:

  • A clear thesis statement;
  • Credible sources and scholarly articles;
  • A focus on cognitive development.

Maintaining academic integrity and exploring topics that impact self-esteem are crucial. Students can create papers that resonate within the academic community. Students can contribute to their field of study!

How Should I Start With Writing My Research?

The journey of writing papers begins with selecting the right research paper topic! Students need to find a good topic that will captivate their interest and offer enough depth for thorough exploration.

Choosing a persuasive research paper topic is crucial for connecting with your audience. Yet, the challenge often lies in navigating the overwhelming number of options. It is important to understand what makes a topic engaging.

We’ve crafted this guide to assist students in this critical first step. It offers strategies for selecting compelling research topics for high school students and presents a diverse list of over 100 research ideas.

These recommendations will boost academic achievement and enhance student performance. Today, we’ll cover various subjects, from nutrition topics to research to human health themes. After reading it, students will base a solid foundation for their research projects.

How to Choose High School Research Paper Topics?

Choosing the right research paper topic is important. High school students have an opportunity to choose from various topics! Then, how to select the right one? First, narrow your choices to make the research paper writing less daunting. After, follow the advice we give you below!

Consider the Scope and Time Commitment

  • Focus on topics that are manageable within your deadline.
  • Avoid broad subjects that can be overwhelming and hard to complete on time.
  • Opt for well-defined subjects that ease in-depth investigation and effective composition.

Align the Topic with Your Interests

Select a topic that aligns with your interests! It can boost your motivation and academic performance. For instance, if you want to become a vet or love the natural world, check research topics about animals !

Do you want your research process to be more enjoyable and productive? Then, engage with an interesting subject!

Use Resources and Guides

Consulting resources like topic guides! It can inspire and help you kickstart your research paper. The guides offer a range of research paper ideas that cater to various academic needs. It is an amazing opportunity for you to create a strong research paper.

For extra help, consider resources on how to write a term paper . If you’re pressed for time, consider buying a research project! It is never a bad idea to ask for assistance from professionals!

Need assistance with high school research? Get your paper written by a professional writer Get Help Reviews.io 4.9/5

Best Research Paper Topics for High School Students

We’ve sorted all persuasive research paper topics into categories. It will make your academic exploration easier!

First, explore the category that interests you the most. You can also check something new for yourself.

If you’re short on time, remember – PapersOWL is ready to provide a custom research paper !

Anyway, let’s find the research topic for your future project!

Education Research Topics

If you are interested in education, you should consider choosing an education research topic for high school students. Below you can find ten topics you can use as inspiration.

  • Should High Schools Mandate Vaccinations for Students?
  • How Did the Fight for Gender Equality Influence Major Events in World History?
  • Homeschooling vs. Traditional Schooling: What is Better for Success in High School Classrooms?
  • Should Public Education Continue to Promote Cultural Diversity? Why or Why Not?
  • What Are the Most Noteworthy Advantages of Standardized Testing in High Schools?
  • What Are the Best Alternatives to Standardized Testing and Academic Journals?
  • How Is Technology Reshaping the Learning Experience?
  • What Has Been the Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Systems Worldwide?
  • How Can We Address the Achievement Gap in Education Caused by Socioeconomic Status?
  • What Impact Does Artificial Intelligence Have on Online Learning in High Schools?
  • The Ethical Implications of Using AI in Student Surveillance

Research Topics About World History

  • What Are the Cultural Factors of the Israel-Palestine Conflict?
  • How Did the U.S. Occupation of Iraq Shape Modern History, and What Were Its Long-Term Impacts?
  • What Political Factors Led to the Assassination of a Famous World Leader?
  • How Did a Major Historical Invention Change the Lives of People Worldwide?
  • Has the Response of the World’s Leading Countries to Climate Change Improved or Declined Over the Last Decade? What Are the Cultural Factors Behind It?
  • What Cultural and Political Factors Have Allowed the President of Belarus to Remain in Power for Over 25 Years?
  • Which Event in World History Had the Most Cultural Impact on Your Country?
  • How Did Ancient Civilizations, Including Ancient Greek Philosophy, Influence Modern Society?
  • What Was the Role of the Silk Road in Connecting Different Promoting Cultural Exchange?
  • How Did the Industrial Revolution Influence the Roles of Male and Female Athletes in Sports History?
  • How Has Colonialism Created Long-Term Cultural and Socioeconomic Effects on Colonized Nations?
  • What Were the Causes, Major Events, and Lasting Cultural Impacts of the Cold War?
  • What Role Did Women Play in Shaping World History, and How Did Culture Influence Their Contributions?
  • How Did Women Contribute to World War I and II, and What Was the Cultural Significance of Their Roles?
  • What Was the Cultural and Historical Significance of the Three Kingdoms Period in Chinese History?
  • How Did the Albigensian Crusade Impact Medieval Europe and Its Cultural Development?
  • What Was the Cultural and Strategic Importance of the Italian Front in World War I?
  • How Did the Mongolian Empire Influence World History and Cultural Development Across Asia and Europe?
  • What Was the Role of the Greco-Bactrian and Indo-Greek Kingdoms in Shaping Cultural Exchanges in Ancient Times?
  • What Was the Cultural and Strategic Significance of the Great Game: Anglo-Russian Rivalry in Central Asia?

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Healthcare Research Topics

  • What Are the Benefits and Risks of Telemedicine for Managing Drugs Abuse?
  • How Has COVID-19 Affected Global Healthcare Systems?
  • How Can Awareness Programs in High Schools Help Prevent Teenage Substance Abuse?
  • What Role Does Vaccination Play in Ensuring Public Health?
  • How Does Adolescent Obesity Impact Health and Increase the Risk of Obesity?
  • What Is the Future of Personalized Medicine in Addressing Nutritional Needs?
  • What Are the Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering About Eating Disorders?
  • How Is Artificial Intelligence Revolutionizing Healthcare Diagnostics and the Treatment of Alcoholism?
  • How Does Access to Healthcare Differ in Rural vs. Urban Areas? What Impact Does This Have on Global Food Security?
  • Why Is Preventive Healthcare Important in Reducing Substance Usage?
  • What Are the Healthcare Disparities Among Different Socioeconomic Groups?
  • How Does Climate Change Affect Public Health, Specifically the Worldwide Food Crisis?
  • Is Technology Used to Manage Chronic Diseases?
  • What Is the Impact of Nutrition on Adolescent Health? Is it Connected to Eating Disorders?
  • How Do Pharmaceutical Companies Affect Drug Abuse-Related Healthcare Policies?
  • What Are the Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare Systems? Are They Addressing Substance Addiction?
  • What Are the Causes and Solutions to the Opioid Crisis? How Can Better Healthcare Practices Address It?
  • Can Mental Health Services Prevent Adolescent Drug Use in Schools?
  • How Does Social Media Impact Teen Health Behaviors? Does it Influence the Rise of Substance Abuse?
  • What Are the Latest Advancements in Cancer Treatments?

Research Topics on Finance

  • How is Cryptocurrency Transforming the Financial Landscape in the Context of Emerging Technologies?
  • What Impact Does Globalization Have on Financial Markets?
  • What are the Benefits and Challenges of Ethical Investing in Promoting Sustainable Development?
  • What is the Influence of Interest Rates on Minimum Wage Adjustments?
  • How Do Central Banks Stabilize Economies During Economic Recessions and Financial Crises?
  • How is AI Transforming Financial Services and Impacting Technologies?
  • What are the Security Factors in Online Banking on Social Media Platforms?
  • Should Personal Finance Education Be Mandatory in Schools to Promote Economic Development?
  • What is the Future of Digital Payments in the Context of Emerging Technologies?
  • How Do Tax Policies Impact Economic Inequality and Sustainable Development?

Research Topics on Mental Health

  • What Are the Main Ways Stress Affects the Body and Academic Performance?
  • How Can Daily Exercises Benefit Mental Health and Influence Creativity on Torrenting Sites?
  • Why Should More Counselors Work in High Schools to Address Gender Stereotypes?
  • What Major Factors Contribute to Poor Mental and Physical Well-Being? How Do They Relate to Human Knowledge?
  • Has the Worldwide Pandemic Affected People’s Mental Health Across Different Genders?
  • How Does Social Media Impact Mental Health Disorders and Reinforce Gender Stereotypes?
  • How Effective Does the Public School System Care for the Mental Health of Students?
  • How Does Bullying Impact Mental Health and Academic Performance?
  • How Do Cultural Differences Influence Perceptions and Treatment of Mental Health?
  • How Do Family Dynamics Influence Adolescent Mental Health and Their Academic Performance?

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Science Research Projects

Science is one of those fields where there is always something new you can research. If you need a science research topic for high school students, feel free to use any of the following.

  • How Can Preliminary Research Help Civilization Save Coral Reefs?
  • What Are Black Holes, and What Role Do They Play in Our Universe?
  • How Does the Chemistry of Sugar Enable Us to Make Candies?
  • What Have Been the Biggest Successes of the EPA in the Last Decade? How Have They Shaped Environmental Policies?
  • Is There a Scientific Way to Reverse Climate Change?
  • What Solutions Does Science Offer to Resolve the Drinking Water Crisis in the Future?
  • How Can Civilization Save Coral Reefs? What Role Does Preliminary Research Play in These Efforts?
  • What Are Black Holes, and How Do They Influence Our Understanding of the Universe?
  • How Does Sugar Chemistry Enable Candy Making? What Thesis Is Applicable to This Process?
  • What Have Been the Biggest Successes of the EPA in the Last Decade?
  • Can We Reverse Climate Change? What Scientific Methods Might We Use?
  • What Are the Most Promising Scientific Solutions for Resolving the Drinking Water Crisis?
  • How is CRISPR Revolutionizing Genetic Engineering?
  • What Impacts Has Space Exploration Had on Earth Science?
  • What Are the Latest Developments in Renewable Energy Technologies?
  • How Does Microplastics Affect Marine Life?
  • How is Nanotechnology Transforming Medicine?
  • What Are the Potential Uses of Quantum Computing?
  • How Has the Human Genome Project Advanced Our Understanding of Genetics?
  • What Are the Latest Advancements in Vaccine Development and Their Implications?

Music Research Topics

  • How Does Music Education Benefit High School Students?
  • In What Ways Do Famous Musicians Influence the Evolution of Music Culture?
  • How Does Culture Shape the Classification of Musical Instruments Using the Sachs-Hornbostel System?
  • How Has Sound Effect Technology Transformed the Music Industry?
  • How Did Online Streaming Platforms Help Music Evolve?
  • In What Ways Does Music Software Emulate the Sounds of Different Instruments? How Might Torrenting Sites Influence Creativity?
  • What Role Does Music Education Play in Shaping Pop Culture Trends Among Students?
  • How Has the Integration of Sound Effect Technology Changed the Pop Culture Music?
  • How Do Famous Musicians Impact the Perception of Pop Culture in the Modern Era?
  • How Has the Evolution of Online Streaming Platforms Influenced the Creativity of Artists?

Environmental Research Paper Topics

  • What Is the Impact of Offshore Drilling on the Environment? Does it Contribute to Global Warming?
  • Why Do We Need Climate Change Legislation to Protect Climate Change?
  • Can Environmental Education Promote the Use of Solar Power to Mitigate Global Warming?
  • Are Ecotourism Viable Ways to Save and Recuperate Endangered Areas and Animals?
  • How Do Disposable Products Impact the Environment and Contribute to Climate Change?
  • What Are the Benefits of Green Buildings to Our Environment? How Do They Support Renewable Energy Sources?
  • How Has a Recent Large-Scale Project Helped Restore Environmental Balance?
  • How Can Learning About the Environment Help Increase Public Climate Awareness?
  • How Effective Are Renewable Energy Sources? Can They Reduce the Impact of Offshore Drilling on the Environment?
  • How Can We Address Climate Change Through Enhanced Environmental Exploring Programs?

Research Papers about Entrepreneurship

  • What Is Entrepreneurship? Can Law Preventing Cyber Bullying Shape This Field?
  • Are People Born With an Entrepreneurial Spirit? Can We Learn More About It Through Social Movements Like the Civil Rights Movement?
  • How Do Major Entrepreneurship Theories Address Social Responsibility, Including Laws Preventing Cyberbullying?
  • Does Economic Growth in the Context of Social Justice Movements Affect Entrepreneurship?
  • Which Character Traits Are Common for Successful Entrepreneurs?
  • What Are the Pros and Cons of Having a Traditional Job Versus Being an Entrepreneur?
  • Can Entrepreneurship Serve as a Solution to Unemployment?
  • What Is Crowdfunding and How Is It Related to Entrepreneurship?
  • What Are the Most Common Challenges Entrepreneurs Face?
  • What Role Do Laws Preventing Cyberbullying Play the Success of Entrepreneurs?

PapersOwl hopes these high school research paper topics spark your creativity and enthusiasm! These categories will make your research process easier and more enjoyable.

We understand the challenges of juggling many assignments and striving for top grades. If you ever find yourself stuck or overwhelmed with your writing, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our writing services are here to ensure you succeed! No matter how challenging your research paper assignment may be!

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100+ High School Research Paper Topics [Updated]

high school research paper topics

Hey there, high school students! Have you ever felt a bit overwhelmed when your teacher mentioned a research paper? No worries – it’s totally normal. In fact, tackling a research paper is like embarking on an exciting journey where you get to explore topics you’re interested in, do your own research, and become a critical thinking pro! This blog post is like your trusty map for this adventure. It’s here to help you create top-notch high school research paper topics without the stress.

What is The Significance of Research?

Table of Contents

Before delving into the intricacies of crafting a research paper, it’s crucial to understand the significance of this academic exercise. Research papers serve as a platform for students to explore a chosen topic in depth, analyze existing literature, and contribute to the broader conversation within a particular field. 

The process of conducting research enhances critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills—essential attributes for success in higher education and beyond.

How to Write a Research Paper?

Writing a research paper can seem like a daunting task, but with a structured approach, it becomes much more manageable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

  • Choose a Topic
  • Pick a topic that interests you and is relevant to your assignment.
  • Make sure it’s not too broad or too narrow; find a balance.
  • Conduct Preliminary Research
  • Gather some initial information to ensure there’s enough material available.
  • Note down key points and potential sources.
  • Develop a Thesis Statement
  • Formulate a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main purpose or argument of your paper.
  • Create an Outline
  • Form an outline that is structured based on your research and ideas.
  • Assign headings to the sections of your work, such as introduction, methods, findings, discussion, and conclusion.
  • Write the Introduction
  • Provide background information on your topic.
  • State the purpose of your research and present your thesis statement.
  • Review the Literature
  • Summarize existing research related to your topic.
  • Identify gaps or controversies in the literature.
  • Detail the Methodology
  • Explain your research design (e.g., experiment, survey, case study).
  • Describe the data collection process and justify your chosen method.
  • Present the Results
  • Showcase your findings using tables, graphs, or charts.
  • Analyze the results and connect them to your thesis statement.
  • Discuss Your Findings
  • Compare your results to existing research.
  • Explore the broader implications and practical applications.
  • Encourage critical thinking and discussion.
  • Write the Conclusion
  • Summarize the key findings.
  • Restate your thesis and highlight its importance.
  • Suggest directions for future research.
  • Cite Your Sources
  • Compile a list of all sources cited in your paper.
  • Use a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA) as per your assignment guidelines.
  • Revise and Edit
  • Review your paper for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
  • Make sure your arguments flow logically, and check for any spelling or punctuation errors.
  • Seek Feedback
  • Ask a friend, family member, or teacher to review your paper.
  • Consider their feedback and make necessary revisions.
  • Finalize Your Paper
  • Double-check formatting and ensure your paper adheres to any specific requirements.
  • Submit your well-crafted research paper on time!

100+ High School Research Paper Topics

  • Climate Change: Impact and Mitigation Strategies
  • The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental Health
  • Cybersecurity: Protecting Against Online Threats
  • The History and Impact of Vaccines
  • Gender Inequality in the Workplace
  • Artificial Intelligence: Boon or Bane?
  • Environmental Pollution: Causes and Solutions
  • The Influence of Pop Culture on Society
  • The Importance of Financial Literacy for High School Students
  • The Rise of E-commerce and Its Effects on Traditional Retail
  • Bullying in Schools: Causes and Prevention
  • The Role of Women in History
  • Genetic Engineering: Ethical Considerations
  • The Impact of Video Games on Adolescent Behavior
  • Youth Activism: Examining Movements and Causes
  • The Relationship Between Diet and Academic Performance
  • The History and Impact of Space Exploration
  • Mental Health Stigma: Breaking the Silence
  • The Future of Renewable Energy
  • The Evolution of Language: From Ancient to Modern
  • The Influence of Art and Music on Society
  • Cultural Appropriation: Understanding the Debate
  • The Rise of Online Education: Pros and Cons
  • Human Trafficking: A Global Issue
  • The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Academic Performance
  • The Impact of Social Class on Educational Opportunities
  • The History of Civil Rights Movements
  • Technology Addiction: Causes and Solutions
  • The Role of Government in Public Health
  • Animal Testing: Ethical Dilemmas
  • The Influence of Literature on Social Change
  • Gun Control: Balancing Rights and Safety
  • The Importance of Diversity in Education
  • The Rise of Single-Parent Families: Causes and Effects
  • The Role of Mass Media in Shaping Public Opinion
  • The Future of Space Travel and Colonization
  • The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures
  • Teenage Pregnancy: Causes and Prevention
  • The History and Impact of Rock and Roll Music
  • The Ethics of Cloning and Genetic Modification
  • The Effectiveness of Anti-Smoking Campaigns
  • The Impact of Social and Economic Inequality
  • Human Rights Violations: A Global Perspective
  • The Role of Religion in Shaping Societal Norms
  • The History and Impact of Hip-Hop Culture
  • Online Privacy: Balancing Security and Freedom
  • The Effects of Fast Food on Health
  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
  • Climate Change Denial: Causes and Consequences
  • The Influence of Ancient Philosophers on Modern Thought
  • Internet Censorship: Balancing Free Speech and Security
  • The Effects of Parental Involvement on Academic Achievement
  • The Impact of Social Media Influencers on Consumer Behavior
  • Renewable Energy: Exploring Alternatives
  • The History and Impact of Feminism
  • Technology and Education: Enhancing or Hindering Learning?
  • The Role of Social Institutions in Shaping Behavior
  • The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples
  • The Evolution of Human Rights
  • The Influence of Advertising on Consumer Choices
  • The Importance of STEM Education
  • The Effects of Peer Pressure on Teenagers
  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Healthcare
  • The Role of Religion in Shaping Political Beliefs
  • Cyberbullying: Causes and Solutions
  • The Influence of Literature on Cultural Identity
  • The Impact of Social Media on Political Activism
  • The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education
  • The Effects of Air Pollution on Health
  • The History and Impact of LGBTQ+ Rights Movements
  • The Impact of Social Media on Body Image
  • The Influence of Technology on Human Relationships
  • The Role of Education in Combating Racism
  • The History and Impact of the Internet
  • The Effects of Childhood Obesity on Long-Term Health
  • The Role of NGOs in Addressing Global Issues
  • The Impact of Immigration on Society

Tips For Successful High School Research Paper

  • Choose a topic you’re passionate about and align with the assignment.
  • Start your research early to allow sufficient time for thorough investigation.
  • Craft a clear thesis statement that encapsulates your main argument.
  • Create a well-organized outline to structure your paper effectively.
  • Use reliable and diverse sources for a comprehensive literature review.
  • Clearly explain your research methodology, showcasing its relevance.
  • Present your findings using visual aids like graphs or charts.
  • Engage in critical discussion in the results and discussion sections.
  • Conclude by summarizing key findings and suggesting future research.
  • Follow the prescribed citation style diligently for accurate referencing.
  • Revise and edit your paper for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
  • Seek feedback from peers or teachers to enhance your paper further.
  • Pay attention to formatting details to meet assignment requirements.
  • Proofread carefully before submission to catch any last-minute errors.

Crafting a high school research paper is an intellectual journey that allows students to explore their passions, hone critical skills, and contribute to the academic discourse.

By following the outlined structure, students can navigate the process with confidence, producing a well-organized and impactful research paper that not only fulfills academic requirements but also serves as a testament to their intellectual curiosity and prowess. I hope this topic on high school research paper topics will help you out with a number of suggestions.

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113 Great Research Paper Topics

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General Education

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One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

  • Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
  • Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
  • How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
  • How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
  • How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
  • How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

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Current Events

  • What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
  • How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
  • How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
  • Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
  • What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
  • What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
  • How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
  • How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
  • How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
  • What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
  • What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
  • What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
  • Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies  (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
  • Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
  • Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
  • Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
  • Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
  • Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
  • How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
  • What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
  • Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
  • What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
  • How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
  • What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
  • Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
  • Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
  • Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
  • How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
  • Should graduate students be able to form unions?

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  • What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
  • How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
  • Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
  • Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
  • How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
  • How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
  • Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
  • Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
  • Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
  • Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
  • Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
  • Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
  • Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
  • Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
  • Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
  • What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
  • How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
  • How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
  • What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
  • What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
  • Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
  • What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
  • What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
  • Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
  • Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
  • How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
  • Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
  • What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
  • How does stress affect the body?
  • Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
  • What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
  • Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
  • How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
  • What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
  • What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
  • Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
  • What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
  • What were the causes of the Civil War?
  • How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
  • Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
  • What caused Hitler's rise to power?
  • Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
  • What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
  • How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
  • What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

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  • Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
  • Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
  • How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
  • How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
  • What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
  • What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
  • How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

  • How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
  • How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
  • Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
  • Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
  • How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
  • How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
  • What are the pros and cons of fracking?
  • What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
  • What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
  • How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
  • Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
  • Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
  • What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
  • What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
  • How are black holes created?
  • Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
  • How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
  • Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
  • How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
  • Has social media made people more or less connected?
  • What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
  • Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
  • What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
  • How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
  • When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
  • Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

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How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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62 Best Research Opportunities for High School Students

June 2, 2024

Hands-on laboratory-based research experiences are coveted by just about every STEM-oriented teenager on the planet. Of course, this level of demand renders research opportunities for high school students a valuable and rare commodity. Fortunately, there are a number of reputable summer programs run by universities, government agencies, and private research laboratories that afford young scientists this highly sought-after experience. Research opportunities during the actual school year are more challenging to locate as colleges are, at that time, catering to their own students, and the rigidity of the high school calendar makes participation a further challenge.

What type of research opportunities can a high school student have, anyway?

Research opportunities for high school students can range from introductory to highly advanced. Some programs focus on teaching students the fundamental skills required for research while others place students with a real working research group and allow them to contribute to legitimate experiments and papers. Your level of involvement will depend on the university or organization’s policies, your mentor, your lab team, and the type of research being conducted.

What types of research experiences look best on college applications?

Authentic, laboratory-based research experiences that you get paid for are the hardest types of positions to nail down, primarily because very few of these spots are available. Moreover, such research groups are conducting serious work—consequently, they’re looking for serious, high-achieving students who will positively enhance their dynamic. Additionally, these positions typically require a longer time commitment, with students working full-time (or close to full-time) hours for several months or even years. As such, accepting one of these positions may limit the other types of summer opportunities that you can participate in. Finally, due to safety concerns and restrictions, you will likely need to be at least 16 years old to participate in many types of lab-based research.

On the flip side are research opportunities that you pay to be involved in, with some being more selective than others. Many families wonder if these programs offer legitimate research experience or are simply another way to capitalize off of the college admissions craze, and the answer is that you have to do your homework.

Although some research opportunities offer little in the way of experience, others are truly authentic opportunities to work with a mentor and delve into an area of interest for academic enrichment—no different than any other cost-based summer program. In these cases, the fact that a student prioritized their intellectual curiosity and spent several months seriously pursuing a topic of interest will be an excellent addition to their application. We’ve gone ahead and done the hard work for you—any one of the opportunities listed below is legitimate and worthy of investing your time and resources into.

How do I decide what types of research opportunities to apply for?

If conducting research is important to you, we recommend applying to a mix of highly selective and lesser selective programs to maximize your chances of being accepted to at least one. Beyond selectivity, it’s important to consider additional several factors:

  • Time commitment —Some programs may require a multi-week, full-time commitment over the summer. Others may require nights and weekends during the school year.
  • Time frame —Some programs are only available in the summer while others run year-round (sometimes for multiple years).
  • Cost/stipend —Do you have to pay for the program, or does the program pay you? Research whether the program will be a good fit for your financial situation, including how much it costs and if you’ll receive compensation for your work, either via academic credit or a paycheck. Note that many residential programs are cost-based while commuter programs that only accept local students are more likely to be fully funded and/or offer a stipend.
  • Location —Evaluate whether you’d like to attend a local program, are willing to travel to a residential program, or would prefer a virtual option.
  • Level of mentor interaction —During some programs, you’ll be closely supported by PhD faculty members, while others may be run by graduate or postdoc students and require students to be more independent.
  • Opportunity to publish or enter research competitions —If publishing research or submitting your project/paper to a research competition is important to you, you’ll want to look into whether the program prepares you for that venture.

Our list includes a bevy of summer program choices as well as year-long internships and apprenticeships. We’ve divided the list into three sections: Virtual, Residential/Multi-Location, and Location-Specific.

For each entry, we list the geographic location of the program, the time frame and length of the program, any associated costs or stipends, and the eligibility criteria for participation.

Virtual Research Opportunities for High School Students

Virtual research opportunities for high school students offer ultimate flexibility, in regard to time commitment as well as subject matter.

1) Polygence

  • Location : Virtual
  • Timeframe : Academic year and/or summer
  • Length: 2-6 months
  • Cost : $495-$3,695
  • Eligibility: No age restrictions

For high school students who want to showcase authentic passion on their college applications, Polygence offers the most personalized and flexible online research program that helps students turn their interests into unique research projects. Accordingly, they pair intellectually curious students with PhD-level mentors to design experiments, build robots, create podcasts, write original screenplays, and publish in peer-reviewed journals in all fields from the humanities to STEM. All 1:1 programs include ten meetings with a mentor in your chosen field as well as a self-selected project topic and outcome, which could include a research paper, a prototype, or a creative piece of work.

A multitude of personalized options are available, including additional brainstorming sessions, time with a specialist who will guide the student through the publishing or research competition process, and academic credit through UCI x GATI. Moreover, Polygence’s Pods program allows students to work with like-minded peers in a group setting.

Sound like a good fit? College Transitions readers can save $50 on their Polygence package.

Research areas available include:

  • Computer science, engineering, AI, & game design
  • Biology, biotech, chemistry, neuroscience, and physics
  • Medicine, surgery, dentistry, and public health
  • Business, finance, and economics
  • Math, statistics, sports analytics, and quantitative analysis
  • Psychology, psychiatry, cognitive science, and social sciences
  • Creative writing, history, philosophy, and literature
  • Animation, the arts, fashion, photography, and dance

Residential/Multi-Location Research Programs

In the following section, we’ve outlined programs that are residential or offer opportunities in multiple locations, making them more accessible to a wider array of students.

Programs are organized alphabetically by discipline.

Biology Research Opportunities for High School Students

2) university of chicago research in the biological sciences (ribs).

  • Location : Chicago, IL
  • Timeframe : Summer
  • Length: 4 weeks
  • Cost : $14,000
  • Eligibility: Current sophomores and juniors

In UChicago’s highly selective RIBS program, students practice a range of molecular, microbiological, and cell biological research techniques. The goal? To prepare them to work in a research laboratory. Accordingly, for the first two weeks, students undergo basic training in lab skills and techniques. Then, they spend the final two weeks of the course immersed in an independent research project. At the end of the course, they present the project during a research forum. Moreover, students can expect weekly writing assignments and seminars. To be competitive, students should have a demonstrated interest in science as well as top grades in those classes.

Biomedical Research Programs for High School Students

3) rosetta institute of biomedical research molecular medicine workshops.

  • Location : Berkeley; San Diego; Columbia; London; virtual
  • Length: 2 weeks
  • Cost : $3,580-$4,180 (residential); $2,280-$2,480 (commuter); $430-1,050 (online)
  • Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18

Curious about biomedical research but not ready to pursue a full-blown lab internship? Rosetta Institute offers a number of residential and online two-week programs that introduce high schoolers to topics in medicine, drug development, pharmacy, and nursing. For example, current workshops include Medicinal Chemistry, Neurological Bioinformatics, and Molecular Biology of Cancer. All students are taught by PhD-level instructors and complete an original research project.

Chemistry Research Opportunities for High School Students

4) american chemical society — project seed.

  • Location : Multiple
  • Length: 8-10 weeks
  • Cost : Free, and students receive a $4,000 stipend
  • Eligibility: All high school students whose families meet annual income requirements, but preferably current sophomores, juniors, or seniors

Having been operational for more than fifty years, Project SEED (Summer Experiences for the Economically Disadvantaged) runs programs at over 350 institutions and has served over 12,000 students. The goal of the program is to empower a diverse cohort of high school students to conduct hands-on research experience in the chemical sciences. Accordingly, all students work full-time on meaningful independent or small group projects, are closely guided by a mentor, and either write a report or do a poster presentation at the end of their fellowship.

Genetics Research Opportunities for High School Students

5) jackson lab summer student program.

  • Location : Bar Harbor, ME or Farmington, CT
  • Length: 10 weeks
  • Cost : Free, and students receive a $6,500 stipend plus funded room, board, and travel
  • Eligibility: High school seniors can apply to the Bar Harbor program, while eligible undergrads can apply to either program.

Hoping to design and execute an original independent research project? You’ll be able to do just that through Jackson Lab’s Summer Student Program, which immerses students in one of seven areas: bioinformatics and computational biology, cancer, developmental biology and aging, genomics, immunology and infectious disease, metabolic diseases, and neurobiology and sensory deficits. Moreover, students are closely guided by a mentor and present their research at the end of the summer. Finally, the application process is intense and competitive, requiring two letters of recommendation, a transcript, a resume, evidence of a strong interest in genetics and genomics, and four essay responses.

Pre-Health Research Opportunities for High School Students

6) national institutes of health high school summer internship program.

  • Location : Research groups are available at many of NIH’s 27 institutes and centers , including the main campus in Bethesda, MD
  • Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend
  • Eligibility: High school seniors age 17+

Through their HS-SIP Program, the National Institutes of Health places high school students in full-time research positions within their many active research groups. Subject areas include biomedical, behavioral, and social sciences, and are geared toward students who are interested in pursuing research and healthcare. Moreover, students can take part in Summer Poster Day, where they present their research to the NIH community. They also have access to professional development programs and educational/career advising.

Note that this research opportunity for high school students is extremely competitive; approximately 7% of applicants are ultimately accepted. Finally, if you are under the age of 18 when you participate in the program, you will need to live within 40 miles of the campus that you’d like to intern at.

STEM/Humanities Research Opportunities for High School Students

7) army educational outreach program—high school internships.

  • Location : Various
  • Timeframe : All Year
  • Length: 3 months
  • Cost : Free, and all interns receive a stipend
  • Eligibility: All current high school students. Some sites may have additional eligibility requirements.

With programs currently available in twenty states, the Army Educational Outreach Program places high school students in university research labs or at a US Army Research Laboratory/Center. Each site has its own technical focus, from biology and materials science to cybersecurity and AI. Regardless of specialty, all interns receive formal mentorship from a professional scientist or engineer, have access to high-tech equipment, and work on relevant research that addresses a current major challenge.

8) Boston University RISE

  • Location : Boston, MA
  • Length: 6 weeks
  • Cost : $5,350 plus room & board
  • Eligibility: Current high school juniors

A residential program located on the Boston University campus, RISE offers high school students the opportunity to conduct laboratory research in one of two tracks: Internship or Practicum. Students in the Internship track work full-time on a research project that aligns with their interests, and are mentored by a faculty member, postdoc fellow, or grad student. 15 subject areas are available, including astronomy, mechanical engineering, medical laboratory research, and nutrition. Alternatively, Practicum students work in small groups on structured research related to systems neuroscience and neurobiology.

Research Opportunities for High School Students—Continued

9) michigan state high school honors science, math and engineering program.

  • Location : East Lansing, MI
  • Length: 7 weeks
  • Cost : $4,000

HSHSP is a highly selective, residential program where students can pursue research opportunities in science, engineering, and mathematics. After learning more about the research process, students deeply explore a problem of interest while engaging in an authentic (not “fail-proof”) research experience. Along the way, they’ll work with professionals and peers in their field of interest. Finally, many students have gone on to publish their work or be recognized at prestigious research competitions.

10) MIT Research Science Institute

  • Location : Cambridge, MA
  • Cost : Free
  • Eligibility: High school juniors

With a combined focus on academic coursework and hands-on research, RSI students first take one week of STEM coursework with MIT professors. Here, they’ll learn about current research topics in biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, physics, and the humanities. Then, for the remaining five weeks, students “experience the entire research cycle start to finish.” During this time, they participate in an intensive, mentored individual project experience that culminates in a written and oral presentation.

The program looks for students who are exceptionally academically talented. As such, the application process is quite intensive. PSAT Math scores must be over 740 and ACT Math scores must be over 33. In addition, students must write several essays, acquire teacher recommendations, and provide transcripts. Ultimately, only 100 students are accepted.

11) NASA Internship Programs

  • Location : Various; there are 15 centers and facilities in the US. Remote opportunities may also be available.
  • Timeframe : Available during the fall, spring, and summer
  • Length: 10-16 weeks, depending on session
  • Cost : Free; the majority of interns receive a stipend, but some are unpaid
  • Eligibility: High school students aged 16+

NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers a number of internship opportunities for high school students. Available projects change each year and are location-specific, and not every NASA center will offer internship opportunities every session. That said, current projects span a range of subject areas, including Climate Change in the Hudson Estuary and Characterizing the Urban Land Surface Temperature. During the research internship, students will be closely mentored by a research scientist, engineer, or other professional. Note that you will need to make your own housing arrangements if you are not a local student.

Are you an undergraduate student? Check out NASA Pathways , which can provide a direct transition into full-time employment at NASA.

12) Smith College Summer Science and Engineering Program

  • Location : Northampton, MA
  • Length: 2-4 weeks
  • Cost : $4,745 (2 weeks); $8,082 (4 weeks)
  • Eligibility: Female high school students in grades 9-12; some programs have specific prerequisites

Fun fact: Smith was the first women’s college to create a program in engineering science. As such, their summer programs are an excellent place for young women to participate in hands-on, introductory research experiences. Two-week sessions are offered, and students can take one or both. Each session offers six distinct course choices. For example, the first session offers Chemistry of Herbal Medicine, Designing Intelligent Robots, and Novel Bacteriophage Discovery. Second session courses include Where the Body Meets the Mind, Supercontinents, Rocks, and Fossils, and the Art and Science of Microcontrollers. Students spend five days a week in class, attending lectures and conducting experiments & fieldwork. Additionally, the program is team-based, allowing students to learn from each other’s ideas and perspectives.

13) Stony Brook University Garcia Center Research Experience for High School Students

  • Location : Stony Brook, NY
  • Timeframe : Summer (with possible academic year continuation)
  • Cost : $4,000 plus room & board

At the Garcia Center for Polymers at Engineered Interfaces, high school students can design an original research project in polymer science and technology during an intensive seven-week summer program. Uniquely, the research can then be continued during the academic year under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Students should be highly motivated and high-achieving, with at least three upper-level science courses under their belt. Finally, past participants have regularly published their research and won recognition in national competitions.

14) Stony Brook University Simons Summer Research Program

  • Cost : Students need to cover transportation costs (if commuting) or room/board (if residential). Room/board is $2,781. Stipends are also awarded at the end of the program.

After being matched with a mentor and research team, students are fully immersed in the research process. Placement availability varies from year to year, but typically about thirty projects are available across over a dozen disciplines. These include biochemistry, computer science, geosciences, and pharmacological sciences, among others. Moreover, some have prerequisites, such as specific AP courses or previous programming experience.

All students participate in weekly faculty research talks, workshops, events, and a culminating poster symposium.

15) Summer Science Program

  • Location : Astrophysics: UNC Chapel Hill, University of Colorado, Georgia College & State University, New Mexico State University; Biochemistry: Purdue, Indiana University; Genomics: Georgetown, Purdue, New Mexico State; Synthetic Chemistry : Southwestern Oklahoma State University
  • Cost : $8,800 max; all program fees are scaled according to what each family can afford
  • Eligibility: Current high school juniors and exceptional sophomores

The Summer Science Program offers four different immersive research programs that take place on different college campuses around the country. These include programs in astrophysics, biochemistry, genomics, and synthetic chemistry. Each program has its own research focus. For example, astrophysics students will dive into Asteroid Orbit Determination while genomics students explore Antibiotic Resistance and Directed Evolution.

Students spend six days a week in class deeply investigating their research topics and learning more about general experimental science. They also take part in guest lectures and other special programming.

16) Texas Tech University Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

  • Location : Lubbock, TX
  • Cost : Free; all students receive a $750 stipend upon completion of their projects
  • Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 17+ by the start of the program

The Clark Scholars Program is one of the only programs on this list with research disciplines in the sciences as well as the humanities. For example, current research areas include everything from nutritional sciences and mechanical engineering to history. Over the course of seven weeks, students work closely with a faculty member to complete a research paper in their discipline. They also participate in weekly seminars, discussions, and field trips.

17) University of California Santa Barbara Research Mentorship Program

  • Location : Santa Barbara, CA
  • Cost : $11,874 (residential); $4,975 (commuter)
  • Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors

During this intensive program, students work 35-50 hours per week on an interdisciplinary research project of their choice. Nearly thirty research areas are available in both the STEM disciplines and humanities; current topics include biochemistry, computer science, history, music, and anthropology, among others. Over the course of the program, they also take two courses: Introduction to Research and Presentation Techniques. Finally, students occasionally continue their research remotely during the academic year, depending on their mentor’s availability.

18) University of California Santa Barbara Summer Research Academies

  • Cost : $8,224 (residential); $2,575 (commuter)
  • Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors

Running for four weeks, the UCSB Summer Research Academies allow students to earn up to four credits. While taking a university-level course that teaches fundamental research concepts, students spend the first two weeks of the program developing a research question & framework via hands-on labs. They’ll then spend the final two weeks of the course analyzing their results and building presentations. Overall, they’ll spend about 25-40 hours per week working. Finally, twelve different tracks are available; each involves multiple disciplines. For example, “Bionic Creatures” combines mechanical engineering, materials science, soft robotics, biomanufacturing, and collective motion.

19) University of California Santa Cruz Science Internship Program (SIP)

  • Location : Santa Cruz, CA
  • Length: 9 weeks (two weeks virtual, seven weeks in-person)
  • Cost : $4,750 plus room & board
  • Eligibility: High school students aged 14+, although some research groups require students to be 16+

UCSC’s SIP Program offers a wide range of research focus areas, including science and engineering as well as social science, humanities, and art. For example, over 100 projects are currently offered that include everything from “Eating Insects in Silicon Valley: Cultural Gaps Between Food-Tech and Tradition” and “Future Projected Changes in the Distribution and Variability of Ocean Chlorophyll in Climate Simulations.” Before you dive in, you’ll spend two weeks doing online research prep (this part is conducted remotely) followed by seven weeks of in-person, mentored research. Students get to engage in authentic, open-ended projects that fully immerse them in the academic research experience. Moreover, they’ll present their findings at a symposium at the end of the program.

20) University of California Davis Young Scholars Program

  • Location : Davis, CA
  • Cost : $6,750
  • Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors who will be 16+ by the start of the program

Interested in biological, agricultural, environmental, or natural sciences? If so, UC Davis is a stellar place to explore those interests through research. All students have the opportunity to work on independent, original projects while receiving one-on-one faculty mentorship. Moreover, they each produce a journal-quality paper and symposium presentation. In addition to research, students also participate in a lecture series presented by UC Davis faculty; past topics have included forensic entomology and nutrition, among others. Finally, field trips to educational facilities like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Bodega Bay Marine Laboratory round out the experience.

21) University of Florida Student Science Training Program

  • Location : Gainesville, FL
  • Cost : $5,200
  • Eligibility: Rising seniors aged 16+

Thinking about a career in science, medicine, math, computer science, or engineering? UF’s Student Science Training Program could be the right fit. For thirty hours per week, you’ll work with a faculty mentor and lab team on university-level, ongoing research. Moreover, you’ll participate in a science lecture series as well as a UF Honors Program seminar class. Over the course of the program, you will write a research paper, present a poster, and give two oral presentations. Finally, social programming is included.

22) University of Iowa Secondary Student Training Program

  • Location : Iowa City, IA
  • Cost : $7,500

During this intensive and competitive program, students conduct research within small groups that are supported by a University of Iowa faculty member. There are twenty current active research areas, including chemistry, geography, neurology, orthopedics & rehabilitation, and religious studies. You’ll be working on your project approximately seven hours per day, attending classes in the evenings, and participating in structured activities on the weekend. Moreover, all groups will create and present a poster at the culmination of the program.

23) University of Massachusetts Amherst Summer Programs

  • Location : Amherst, MA
  • Cost : $3,636 (residential); $2,167 (commuter)
  • Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors

UMass Amherst offers two introductory, research-focused opportunities for high school students. These are Antibiotic Resistance: A Global Health Crisis, which allows students to join the Department of Microbiology in researching new antibiotics, and Energy Without Borders, which delves into climate change, infrastructure, and green energy. In both courses, you’ll learn research methods, complete multiple lab experiences, and present a research poster. Finally, students can earn two college credits upon successful completion of the program.

Location-Specific Research Opportunities for High School Students

The following programs are not residential and only offered in a specific location. Many also only accept local students, although some do allow out-of-state students to apply. If that’s the case, you will need to secure your own living accommodations and transportation. Moreover, if you are under the age of 18, you will need to be supervised by a parent or guardian.

Programs are organized alphabetically by state.

24) California Academy of the Sciences—Careers in Science Intern

  • Location : San Francisco, CA
  • Focus: STEM
  • Length: Multi-year (2-3 years)
  • Eligibility: 9 th or 10 th grade student enrolled in an SFUSD school with a GPA of 2.5 or higher

25) Cedars Sinai INSPIRE High School

  • Location : Los Angeles, CA
  • Focus: Pre-Health
  • Cost : Free; all students are paid
  • Eligibility: High school students age 16+

26) City of Hope Summer Student Academy

  • Location : Duarte, CA
  • Focus: Biomedicine
  • Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend of $4,000

27) Sandia National Laboratories—Internships

  • Location : Livermore, CA
  • Focus : STEM
  • Timeframe : Academic year and summer internships available
  • Length: Academic year or 10-12 weeks (summer)
  • Cost : Free; all positions are paid

28) Scripps Student Research Internship Program

  • Location : La Jolla, CA
  • Focus : Translational science/genomics
  • Cost : Free; stipends are typically offered

29) UCSF SEP High School Intern Program

  • Focus : Biomedical research
  • Length: 8 weeks
  • Eligibility: High school juniors enrolled in an SFUSD high school, SF charter school, or College Track San Francisco

30) UCSF Summer Student Research Program

  • Location : Oakland, CA
  • Length: 9 weeks
  • Cost : Free; all students are given a stipend between $3,000-$4,300
  • Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors, aged 16+

Connecticut

31) jackson lab academic year fellowships.

  • Location : Farmington, CT*
  • Focus: Genetics
  • Timeframe : Academic year
  • Length: 1 school year
  • Cost : Free; students must be able to receive academic credit for their work
  • Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors age 16+ within commuting distance of the lab

*Some fully remote opportunities are available

32) Yale School of Medicine Discovery to Cure High School Internship

  • Location : New Haven, CT

33) Yale University Social Robotics Lab High School Internship

  • Focus: Robotics and human social behavior
  • Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors aged 16+

34) Argonne National Laboratory — Exemplary Student Research Program

  • Location : Lemont, IL
  • Focus: Engineering
  • Eligibility: Application must be completed by participating teacher

35) Chicago EYES on Cancer

  • Focus : Biomedicine
  • Timeframe : All year, with two 8-week summer research experiences
  • Length: 2 years
  • Cost : Free; all students receive $3,100 stipend
  • Eligibility: High school sophomore, junior, or senior aged 16+

36) University of Kansas Biotech Research Apprentice Program

  • Location : Overland Park, KS
  • Focus : Biotech
  • Length: Semester

37) Jackson Lab Academic Year Fellowships

  • Location : Bar Harbor, ME*

38) National Cancer Institute Werner H. Kirsten Student Internship Program

  • Location : Frederick, MD
  • Timeframe : Academic year & summer
  • Length: 1 year
  • Cost : Free; academic credit available during school year, stipend provided in summer
  • Eligibility: High school junior age 17+ who attends an eligible school located within a 30-mile radius of campus

39) University of Minnesota Lillehei Heart Institute Summer Research Scholars Program

  • Location : Minneapolis, MN
  • Focus: Cardiovascular medicine
  • Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors age 16+ as well as undergraduate students

40) Coriell Institute for Medical Research

  • Location : Camden, NJ
  • Eligibility: High school student aged 17+

41) Princeton Laboratory Learning Program

  • Location : Princeton, NJ
  • Focus : Natural Sciences or Engineering
  • Length: 5-6 weeks

42) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory High School Internship

  • Location : Princeton, NJ*
  • Focus : Physics
  • Eligibility: High school seniors (program takes place summer after graduation)

*Remote projects may be available.

43) Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science Summer Research Program (RITMS)

  • Location : Rutgers, NJ
  • Focus : Translational medicine/science

44) Rutgers Waksman Institute Summer Experience Program

  • Location : Piscataway, NJ*
  • Focus : Molecular biology/bioinformatics
  • Cost : $2,000
  • Eligibility: High school students who have completed a high school-level biology course

*Online version of the program is also available

45) Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program

  • Location : Los Alamos, NM
  • Length: 11 weeks
  • Eligibility: New Mexico high school seniors aged 16+

46) Sandia National Laboratories—Internships

  • Location : Albuquerque, NM

47) Baruch College STEM Research Academy

  • Location : New York, NY
  • Timeframe : Spring/summer
  • Cost : Free, but all students receive a stipend of $1,575
  • Eligibility: Must be a NYC public high school sophomore junior to apply

48) Burke Neurological Institute NeuroAcademy

  • Location : White Plains, NY
  • Focus: Neuroscience
  • Eligibility: Completion of NYS Regents Living Environment or equivalent Biology class; cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher

49) City Tech College STEM Research Academy

  • Length: Two semesters (January-August)
  • Eligibility: NYC public school sophomore or junior

50) Columbia Zuckerman Institute—BRAINYAC Program

  • Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors from select partner programs/schools in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx

51) HOPP Summer Student Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

  • Focus: Biomedical or computational research
  • Eligibility: High school students aged 14+

52) University of Rochester Laboratory for Laser Energetics Summer High School Research Program

  • Location : Rochester, NY
  • Focus: Laser energetics
  • Eligibility: Rochester-area high school students who have completed their junior year

53) Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute

  • Location : Cleveland, OH
  • Timeframe : Varies; depends on lab
  • Length: Varies; depends on lab

54) OHSU School of Medicine Partnership for Scientific Inquiry (PSI)

  • Location : Portland, OR
  • Focus: Biomedical research
  • Timeframe : Academic semester + summer
  • Length: 16+ weeks
  • Eligibility: Oregon-based high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 16+

Pennsylvania

55) fox chase cancer center high school research programs.

  • Location : Philadelphia, PA
  • Timeframe : During school year
  • Length: 2-3 months; depends on program
  • Eligibility: Philadelphia-area high school students; students must be 16+ for some programs

56) Penn State College of Medicine Research Internships

  • Location : Hershey, PA
  • Length: Varies; could be weeks to months depending on lab
  • Cost : Paid and unpaid internships available

57) University of Pennsylvania GRASP Lab High School Internships

  • Focus: Robotics
  • Cost : Free; stipend typically available
  • Eligibility: Rising high school senior

58) George Mason University Aspiring Scientists Internship Program (ASSIP)

  • Location : Fairfax, VA*
  • Eligibility: High school students aged 15+ or 16+, depending on program

*Some fully remote and hybrid opportunities are available, depending on the lab.

59) Jefferson Lab High School Summer Honors Program

  • Location : Newport News, VA
  • Eligibility: High school students aged 16+ who live within 60 miles of the lab

60) Virginia Tech Fralin Biomedical Research Institute Summer Research Program

  • Location : Roanoke, VA
  • Focus: Health behaviors research
  • Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend of $4,800
  • Eligibility: Rising high school junior or senior in the Roanoke Valley

61) Pacific Northwest National Laboratory High School Research Programs

  • Location : Richland, WA
  • Timeframe : Summer & academic year programs available
  • Length: Academic year or 10 weeks (summer)
  • Eligibility: High school students aged 16+; some labs may require students to be 18+

62) Seattle Children’s Hospital Research Training Program

  • Location : Seattle, WA
  • Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors within commuting distance of downtown Seattle

Final Thoughts—Research Opportunities for High School Students

If gaining research experience is important to you, it’s in your best interest to explore a number of different programs, evaluating whether their structure, length, cost, and outcomes are in line with your goals. Finding the right opportunity may take some time, but it will be well worth the effort required.

  • Research Programs

Kelsea Conlin

Kelsea holds a BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Tufts University, a graduate certificate in College Counseling from UCLA, and an MA in Teaching Writing from Johns Hopkins University. Her short fiction is forthcoming in Chautauqua .

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110+ Best Scientific Research Topics for High School Students: Igniting Curiosity

Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

  • Post author By admin
  • September 25, 2023

Explore a wide range of scientific research topics for high school students. Expand your knowledge and enhance your academic journey.

Imagine, You, a high school student, donning a lab coat or wielding a microscope, uncovering the mysteries of the universe one experiment at a time. Exciting, right?

But here is the catch, choosing the right research topic is quite important for the high school students. Beacause it can help them to standout in the class.

In this blog post you are going to find out some of the best scientific research topics that offers lots of opportunities to learn and explore the scientific world. So get ready to explore them right now.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Choosing the Right Topic

Have a close look at the importance of choosing the right topic:-

Stay Curious and Excited

Your research topic should be like that thrilling book you can’t put down – it keeps you curious and eager to dive in.

Practicality is Key

Think of it as fitting the right shoes for a hike; your topic needs to match the resources, time, and skills you have.

Be a Real-world Problem Solver

A good topic isn’t just for your benefit; it can help tackle real-world issues, like a superhero swooping in to save the day.

Stay on Course

Your topic is like the North Star; it guides your research journey, making sure you don’t get lost in the vast sea of knowledge.

Let Passion Drive You

Your topic should be something that keeps you awake at night with excitement – it’s your research’s secret sauce.

Open Doors to Opportunities

Choose wisely, and your topic could be the key to unlocking academic and career doors you never knew existed.

Add to the Collective Wisdom

Your research can be a puzzle piece in the grand mosaic of human knowledge – it’s your chance to contribute.

Grow Personally and Intellectually

Research isn’t just about facts; it’s a personal journey of growth, challenging you to think, learn, and communicate.

Embrace Innovation

A unique topic can be your ticket to thinking outside the box and coming up with groundbreaking ideas.

Claim Your Spotlight

If you’re passionate and your topic is right, you might just find yourself in the spotlight, with peers and mentors applauding your work.

Achieve Personal Fulfillment

Successfully researching a topic you love can bring a deep sense of accomplishment and joy.

Tips for Selecting a Research Topic

Choosing a research topic is like picking a movie to watch on a Friday night – it should be exciting and capture your interest. To help you find that perfect topic, here are some tips that feel like advice from a friend:

Follow Your Passion

Start with what makes your heart race with curiosity. Think about the subjects or issues that genuinely excite you – that’s where your research journey should begin.

Consider Your Resources

Imagine you’re a chef choosing ingredients for a new recipe. Your topic should align with the “ingredients” you have, whether it’s access to a lab, experts, or specific research tools.

Look for Real-world Relevance

Think of your research as a chance to change the world, even in a small way. Find topics that connect to real-world problems or gaps in knowledge – that’s where the magic happens.

Explore Unanswered Questions

Think of research as detective work. Scan the existing knowledge in your field and look for unsolved mysteries or gaps. Your research could be the missing puzzle piece.

Brainstorm and Mind-map

Get a notepad and brainstorm your interests. Make a mind map with your passions in the center, and let it grow like a tree with branches of related topics. It’s like planting the seeds of your research.

Discuss with Mentors

Imagine your mentors as treasure maps to research gold. Seek their wisdom and guidance; they might lead you to hidden gems of topics.

Consider Multidisciplinary Topics

Sometimes, the most exciting adventures happen when you cross borders. Explore topics that blend different fields – it’s like mixing your favorite flavors for a new dish.

Narrow it Down

Think of your topics as outfits for a special occasion. Try them on for size and consider factors like feasibility, relevance, and your personal interest to see which one fits the best.

Stay Open to Change

Think of your research journey as a winding road; sometimes, you might take a different turn. Be open to evolving interests as you dive deeper into your topic.

Read Widely

Dive into the world of research literature like you’re exploring a library full of secrets. The more you read, the clearer your path becomes.

Seek Feedback

Imagine your friends as your personal focus group. Share your ideas with them and see which ones light up their eyes. Their feedback can be invaluable.

Trust Your Instincts

Picture your topic choice as a conversation with your gut feeling. If it excites you and feels like the right choice, it probably is. Your enthusiasm will be your guiding star.

So, as you embark on your research journey, think of these tips as your trusty companions, guiding you towards that perfect topic – the one that makes your research adventure a truly thrilling experience.

Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

Have a close look at scientific research topics for high school students:-

  • Investigating the Effect of Various Fertilizers on Plant Growth
  • Analyzing the Impact of Different Light Sources on Photosynthesis in Aquatic Plants
  • Studying the Behavior of Ants in Response to Environmental Changes
  • Exploring the Microbial Diversity in Soil Samples from Different Ecosystems
  • Investigating the Effect of Temperature on the Lifespan of Fruit Flies
  • Analyzing the Antibacterial Properties of Natural Substances like Honey or Garlic
  • Studying the Impact of Pollution on Aquatic Life in Local Rivers
  • Investigating the Genetics of Taste Perception Among Family Members
  • Analyzing the Growth Patterns of Mold on Different Types of Food
  • Exploring the Impact of Music on the Heart Rate of Animals (e.g., Dogs, Cats, Fish).
  • Testing the pH Levels of Different Brands of Bottled Water
  • Investigating the Chemical Reactions Involved in Food Preservation Methods (e.g., Canning, Freezing, Drying)
  • Analyzing the Effects of Different Types of Salt on Ice Melting
  • Studying the Chemical Composition of Various Brands of Household Cleaners
  • Investigating the Electrolyte Levels in Common Sports Drinks
  • Exploring the Chemical Reactions Behind the Colors in Fireworks
  • Testing the Efficiency of Homemade vs. Commercial Cleaning Products
  • Investigating the Effects of Household Ingredients on Rust Formation
  • Analyzing the Chemical Changes in Food During Cooking
  • Studying the Oxidation Rate of Different Types of Cooking Oils.
  • Experimenting with Different Materials to Create Solar Cells
  • Investigating the Factors Affecting the Swing of a Pendulum
  • Analyzing the Relationship Between Surface Area and Air Resistance
  • Studying the Properties of Lenses and Their Applications in Optics
  • Investigating the Physics of Simple Machines (e.g., Levers, Pulleys)
  • Exploring the Relationship Between Magnetic Fields and Electricity Generation
  • Testing the Effect of Different Materials on Sound Insulation
  • Investigating the Behavior of Different Materials Under Pressure
  • Analyzing the Impact of Projectile Mass on Distance Traveled
  • Studying the Properties of Elastic Materials (e.g., Rubber Bands, Springs).

Environmental Science

  • Measuring Air Quality in Various Locations within Your Community
  • Investigating the Effects of Urbanization on Local Bird Populations
  • Analyzing Soil Composition in Different Types of Ecosystems (e.g., Forest, Desert)
  • Studying the Impact of Land Use on Water Quality in Local Rivers
  • Investigating the Efficiency of Different Water Filtration Methods
  • Exploring the Effects of Climate Change on Local Plant Phenology (e.g., Flowering, Leafing)
  • Testing the Biodegradability of Common Plastics in Different Environments
  • Investigating the Impact of Noise Pollution on Wildlife Behavior
  • Analyzing the Biodiversity of Microorganisms in Freshwater Ecosystems
  • Studying the Effects of Light Pollution on Nocturnal Animal Behavior.
  • Observing and Tracking the Movements of a Specific Celestial Body (e.g., Mars, Jupiter)
  • Investigating the Effects of Light Pollution on Night Sky Visibility
  • Analyzing Data from a Solar Observation and Creating Sunspot Predictions
  • Studying the Impact of Solar Flares on Earth’s Magnetosphere
  • Investigating the Relationship Between Planetary Orbits and Climate Change on Earth
  • Exploring the Search for Exoplanets Using Transit Photometry
  • Testing the Effects of Different Filters on Astronomical Telescopes
  • Investigating the Rotation Periods of Asteroids Through Observational Data
  • Analyzing Stellar Spectra and Classifying Stars Based on Their Characteristics
  • Studying the Formation and Properties of Galactic Superclusters.
  • Investigating the Impact of Social Media Use on Teenagers’ Sleep Patterns
  • Studying the Effects of Different Learning Styles on Academic Performance
  • Analyzing the Relationship Between Screen Time and Attention Span in Children
  • Investigating the Role of Stress in Memory Formation and Recall
  • Exploring the Impact of Color on Emotional Responses in Art and Design
  • Testing the Effect of Mindfulness Meditation on Stress Reduction
  • Investigating the Connection Between Music Preferences and Personality Traits
  • Analyzing the Influence of Parental Involvement on Children’s Self-esteem
  • Studying the Effects of Exercise on Cognitive Function in the Elderly
  • Investigating the Psychological Factors Behind Decision-Making in Risky Situations.
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How to Develop a Research Question

Think of developing a research question like embarking on a treasure hunt. Your question is the map that will guide you to the hidden gems of knowledge.

Here’s your compass for crafting a research question that’s not just sharp but exciting:

Start with What Fires You Up

Begin with a topic that genuinely piques your curiosity. Think of it as choosing the theme for your grand adventure.

For example, if you’re into climate change, begin with questions like, “What’s up with climate change’s impact?” or “How does it shake up our ecosystems?”

Dive into the Research Ocean

Before you set your question in stone, go snorkeling in the sea of existing research. Explore journals, books, and online sources that relate to your topic. This is like checking out the maps to see where others have explored.

X Marks the Spot

Keep an eye out for uncharted territory. As you read, you’ll notice gaps in the knowledge or conflicting information. These are the hidden treasures you want to uncover with your research.

Precision is Key

Now, it’s time to put on your archaeologist’s hat. Narrow your question down to a specific focus. Instead of asking, “How does climate change affect ecosystems?” try, “What happens to the daily behavior of local bird species when temperatures rise in a specific forest ecosystem?”

Make Sure It’s Investigable

You’ll need to be Sherlock Holmes here. Ensure your question is something you can investigate – gather evidence, conduct experiments, or analyze data to answer it. If it’s too vague, it’s like hunting a ghost.

Speak Plainly

Your research question shouldn’t sound like it’s written in a secret code. Keep it clear and straightforward, like a friendly guide leading a group of explorers.

Use PICO(T) if You’re a Health Detective

If your research deals with health or clinical sciences, think of yourself as a detective and use the PICO(T) framework to frame your question:

P: Who’s the main character? (The population)

I: What’s the intervention or exposure? (The twist in the story)

C: Is there a comparison to make? (The alternative path)

O: What’s the outcome you’re hunting for? (The treasure)

T: When’s this adventure happening? (The time frame)

Test Your Question

Before you set sail on your research journey, gather your crew (mentors or friends) and test your question. Make sure it’s easy to understand and seems doable. It’s like doing a trial run before the real adventure.

Be Open to Plot Twists

Remember, just like in a thrilling story, your research question might evolve as you dig deeper. Don’t be afraid to adjust it if you stumble upon new clues during your research expedition .

So, crafting your research question is like drawing the map to your very own research treasure. Make it intriguing, precise, and let it lead you to discoveries that will make your scientific journey an epic adventure.

The Research Process

Have a close look a the research process:-

Craft Your Research Question

Think of this as marking your destination on the map. Your research question should be clear and captivating, like the quest that beckons you into the wilderness. It sets the stage for your entire adventure.

Dive into the Existing Knowledge Ocean

Before you embark on your journey, gather your maps and lore. Delve into the existing body of research, like reading ancient scrolls and deciphering hidden codes. This not only helps you understand what others have discovered but also reveals the uncharted territories.

Plan Your Expedition

Just like an intrepid traveler, chart your course. Decide how you’ll collect your precious artifacts (data) – will it be through experiments, surveys, interviews, or analyzing existing records? Create a roadmap (research plan) with milestones to guide you.

Embark on Your Quest

Now, it’s time to set sail on your research ship. Venture into the field, collect your data, or delve into archives like an archaeologist hunting for relics. Take careful notes, as these are the pieces of the puzzle.

Uncover the Hidden Truths

Back at your research camp, it’s time to scrutinize your treasures. Use your magnifying glass (data analysis tools) to unearth patterns, connections, and revelations hidden within your findings.

Decipher the Clues

As you uncover the secrets, don your detective’s hat. What do these findings reveal about your original quest? Are there unexpected twists in the plot?

Claim Your Discovery

With your investigations complete, you reach the heart of the treasure vault. Draw your conclusions. Do they confirm or challenge your initial theories? This is the moment you unveil your findings.

Share Your Tale

Every great explorer returns home with stories of their adventures. In the world of research, this means sharing your discoveries. Write your research paper, like a memoir of your quest, detailing your methods, findings, and conclusions.

Reflect and Refine

Just as explorers grow wiser with each journey, reflect on your research odyssey. What worked splendidly, and where could you enhance your methods? Use these insights to prepare for your next voyage.

Keep the Flame Alive

Remember, your quest for knowledge is an endless adventure. Your discoveries may lead to more questions, uncharted territories, and grander adventures. Embrace the thrill of the unknown, and continue your quest.

Honor the Code

Throughout your journey, uphold the ethical code of the scholar. Respect the rights and dignity of all who share your path. Be scrupulous in citing your sources and maintain the highest standards of integrity.

Seek Companions and Allies

In this grand adventure, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance and camaraderie of fellow explorers. Collaboration can turn a solo quest into an epic expedition.

What are some good research topics for high school students?

Have a close look at some of good research topics for high school students:-

  • The Impact of Climate Change on Local Ecosystems
  • Investigating the Genetics of Inherited Diseases
  • Understanding the Effects of Different Diets on Gut Microbiota
  • Exploring the Impact of Pollution on Local Water Bodies and Aquatic Life
  • Analyzing the Behavior of Ants in Response to Environmental Changes
  • Studying the Chemical Composition of Common Household Products
  • Investigating the Effects of Various Types of Cooking Oils on Food Quality
  • Analyzing the Efficiency of Natural vs. Synthetic Water Purification Methods
  • Exploring the Chemical Reactions Behind Food Preservation Techniques
  • Investigating the Properties of Different Types of Plastics and Their Environmental Impact
  • Examining the Relationship Between Mass and Acceleration
  • Investigating the Behavior of Light Waves in Different Mediums
  • Studying the Factors Affecting the Motion of Pendulums
  • Analyzing the Impact of Different Materials on Heat Conductivity
  • Exploring the Physics of Renewable Energy Sources
  • Assessing Air Quality in Various Locations within the Community
  • Investigating the Impact of Urbanization on Local Bird Populations
  • Analyzing Soil Composition in Different Ecosystems (e.g., Forest, Wetland)
  • Exploring Sustainable Agriculture Practices to Reduce Soil Erosion
  • Studying the Effects of Climate Change on Local Wildlife Migration Patterns
  • Observing and Tracking the Movements of Celestial Bodies (e.g., Planets, Stars)
  • Analyzing the Formation and Properties of Galactic Superclusters
  • Investigating the Influence of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental Health
  • Studying the Effects of Music on Cognitive Performance
  • Analyzing the Relationship Between Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance
  • Exploring the Impact of Bullying on Adolescent Mental Health
  • Investigating the Cognitive Development of Children in Different Environments

Feel free to choose any of these topics based on your interests and available resources for your research project.

What is a good 9th grade research topic?

Have a close look at good 9th grade research topic:-

How Does Music Affect Our Concentration?Investigate how different types of music influence our ability to focus and concentrate.
The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental HealthExplore how excessive use of social media platforms affects the mental well-being of teenagers.
Investigating the Effects of Climate Change on Local EcosystemsStudy the consequences of climate change on local plants, animals, and ecosystems in your region.
The Chemistry of Baking Soda and Vinegar ReactionsDiscover the chemical reactions that occur when baking soda and vinegar are mixed together.
How Do Different Types of Exercise Affect Heart Rate?Investigate how various forms of physical activity, such as jogging, cycling, or jumping rope, impact heart rate.
The Influence of Family Dynamics on Academic PerformanceExplore how family structure and dynamics can affect a student’s academic success and well-being.
The Effects of Bullying on School Attendance and PerformanceAnalyze the impact of bullying on students’ attendance, academic performance, and overall psychological well-being.
The Role of Nutrition in Adolescents’ Physical and Mental HealthInvestigate how a balanced diet and nutritional choices influence the physical and mental health of teenagers.
Does Screen Time Before Bed Affect Sleep Quality?Research the effects of using smartphones and other screens before bedtime on sleep quality and duration in adolescents.
The Psychology of Peer Pressure in Adolescent Decision-MakingStudy how peer pressure influences teenagers’ decision-making processes and behavior.

These research topics are suitable for 9th-grade students, covering a range of subjects and providing opportunities for critical thinking and investigation.

Students can choose a topic that aligns with their interests and resources for their research project.

When you’re choosing your topic, you have to be more specific with it. Because it is not just a part of an assignment but also playing a leading role in order to learn new things and clear the concepts.

All those skills you’re building along the way – like thinking critically, solving everyday problems, and explaining your discoveries – they’re like secret superpowers you’ll use in school and life.

So, whether you’re peering through microscopes, mixing up potions, or stargazing, savor every moment. Your curiosity is your trusty sidekick, and knowledge is the treasure you’re after. So, enjoy every bit of your research journey, and may it lead you to amazing discoveries!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of scientific research for high school students.

Engaging in scientific research in high school enhances critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for science. It also prepares students for future academic and career opportunities.

How do I narrow down my research topic?

To narrow down your research topic, start with a broad area of interest, conduct a literature review, and formulate a specific research question based on existing gaps in knowledge.

Can I collaborate with professionals or university researchers?

Collaborating with professionals or university researchers can be a valuable experience. Reach out to local institutions or researchers who may be willing to mentor or collaborate with you.

What are the best sources for scientific literature?

Utilize reputable sources such as academic journals, library databases, and educational websites. Your school or local library can provide access to many of these resources.

How can I make my research stand out?

To make your research stand out, choose a unique and relevant topic, conduct thorough and well-designed experiments or studies, and effectively communicate your findings through presentations and reports.

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The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (150+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer.

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge roundup of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

  • Argumentative Essay Topics
  • Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
  • Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
  • Descriptive Essay Topics
  • Expository and Informative Essay Topics
  • Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

  • Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
  • Opinion Essay Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

  • The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
  • The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
  • All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
  • Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
  • Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
  • Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
  • Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?
  • Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
  • Animal testing should be banned.
  • Does social media do more harm than good?
  • Is single-sex education better than co-education?
  • Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
  • Are men and women treated equally?
  • Should plastic be banned?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 137 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

  • Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
  • Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
  • What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
  • Describe the effects social media has on young adults.
  • How does playing sports affect people?
  • What are the effects of loving to read?
  • Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
  • What effect does violence in cartoons, movies, or video games have on kids?
  • Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
  • Racism is caused by …
  • Immigration benefits the United States.

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

Dogs vs. cats as pets

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 125 compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

  • Public and private schools
  • Capitalism vs. communism
  • Monarchy or democracy
  • Dogs vs. cats as pets
  • Paper books or e-books
  • Two political candidates in a current race
  • Going to college vs. starting work full-time
  • Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
  • iPhone or Android
  • Instagram vs. X (or choose any other two social media platforms)
  • Gas-powered cars vs. electric cars
  • High school vs. college
  • Volunteering vs. paid work
  • Your teacher vs. your parent/guardian
  • Oldest child and youngest child
  • Introverts vs. extroverts

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

What is your earliest memory?

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

  • Who is the funniest person you know and why?
  • What is your favorite childhood memory?
  • Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
  • Write about your favorite place.
  • When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
  • Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
  • What is your earliest memory?
  • What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
  • Describe your favorite pet.
  • What is the most important item in the world to you?
  • Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
  • Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
  • Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
  • Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
  • Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

What does it mean to be a good teacher?

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( You can also get 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

  • What makes a good leader?
  • Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
  • What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
  • Describe how the internet changed the world.
  • What does it mean to be a good teacher?
  • How has modern technology changed teaching and learning?
  • Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
  • Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
  • Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
  • Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
  • What does “financial responsibility” mean?
  • What is video game addiction, and how does it affect teens?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Explain why it's important to eat dessert first.

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

  • What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
  • What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
  • Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
  • Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.
  • Explain why it’s important to eat dessert first.
  • Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
  • Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
  • Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
  • Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
  • Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

  • Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
  • Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
  • Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
  • Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .
  • Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth .
  • What is the role of resilience and hope in The Hate U Give ?
  • Analyze the exploration of racism and social injustice in Dear Martin .
  • Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
  • Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
  • Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
  • Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
  • Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .
  • Explore the use of satire in The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy .
  • What does Death of a Salesman say about the concept of the American dream?
  • Explore the effects of trauma on mental health in The Perks of Being a Wallflower .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics. ADVERTISEMENT

  • Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
  • Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
  • Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
  • Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
  • What is your biggest fear?
  • Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.
  • Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.
  • Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
  • Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
  • Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
  • Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
  • Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
  • What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
  • Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
  • Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
  • Tell about your proudest moment.

Opinion Essay Topics for High School

What is one book that everyone should be required to read?

When writing an opinion essay, you don’t need to rely as much on facts or persuasive techniques. You’re simply sharing your thoughts on a topic, as well as your justifications for your beliefs. You may include evidence if you like, but an opinion essay is more personal than persuasive. These topics work well for opinion essays:

  • Is technology too isolating?
  • What animal makes the best pet?
  • Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
  • What is one book that everyone should be required to read?
  • Is democracy the best form of government?
  • Is capitalism the best form of economy?
  • Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
  • Should physical education be graded?
  • The best country in the world is …
  • What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
  • Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
  • Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?
  • Who faces more peer pressure, girls or boys?
  • Is it better to be kind or truthful?

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative essays , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 130 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

  • Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
  • Should schools be allowed to ban some books from their libraries?
  • Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
  • Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
  • Should parents use their children’s cell phones to track where they are?
  • What’s the best way to handle constantly rising college education costs?
  • Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
  • Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
  • The best music genre is …
  • Should schools have dress codes?
  • Is climate change reversible?
  • If I could change one school rule, it would be …
  • Is year-round school a good idea?
  • Selling tobacco should be banned.

Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

  • Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
  • Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
  • Describe the causes and effects of a specific war, e.g., “What instigated World War II?”
  • Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
  • What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?
  • Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.
  • Explore the impact of income inequality on education in this country.
  • Conduct an exploration of healthcare in this country, and make recommendations for improvement.
  • Explain the importance of participating in government by voting, running for office, campaigning, etc.
  • Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
  • Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
  • Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
  • Choose one animal from the endangered species list and propose a realistic plan to protect it.
  • Explain how space exploration has changed our understanding of the universe.
  • Explore the effects of sleep deprivation on academic and physical performance.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests , you might also like.

Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.

100 Thought-Provoking Argumentative Writing Prompts for Kids and Teens

Practice making well-reasoned arguments using research and facts. Continue Reading

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121+ Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

High school is a time of exploration, and for budding scientists, it’s the perfect opportunity to dive into the exciting world of scientific research. Whether you’re passionate about biology, chemistry, physics, or the social sciences, there’s a wealth of fascinating topics waiting to be explored. 

In this blog, we’ve compiled over engaging scientific research topics for high school students. These topics not only ignite your curiosity but also align with your academic journey. From unraveling the mysteries of genetics to exploring the cosmos, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s embark on this thrilling adventure of discovery and learning together!

While delving into these captivating research topics, don’t forget that academic support is just a click away. If you ever need assistance with your computer science assignments, consider exploring our service to excel in your studies.

What is a Scientific Research Topic?

Table of Contents

A scientific research topic is a specific subject or question that scientists or researchers investigate through a structured and systematic approach. These topics can cover a wide range of fields, from biology and chemistry to physics and social sciences. The goal of selecting a research topic is to address a problem, explore a hypothesis, or contribute new insights to an existing body of knowledge.

Why Engage in Scientific Research as a High School Student?

High school is the perfect time to start exploring scientific research because it:

  • Fosters curiosity and a love for learning.
  • Enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
  • Offers a taste of what a future career in science might entail.
  • Provides an edge in college applications.

How to Choose the Right Scientific Research Topics for High School Students?

Selecting a research topic can be challenging, but it’s essential to choose something that genuinely interests you. When choosing a scientific research topic, it’s essential to consider the following factors:

  • Interest: Select a topic that genuinely interests you. Your enthusiasm will drive your research forward.
  • Relevance: Ensure that your topic is relevant to the field you’re studying or the scientific discipline you’re interested in.
  • Feasibility: Assess whether you have access to the necessary resources and equipment to conduct research on your chosen topic.
  • Ethical Considerations: Make sure your research is conducted ethically and follows all relevant guidelines and regulations.

Interesting Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

Now, let’s dive into the exciting world of scientific research topics for high school students in different categories:

Biology Research Topics

Let’s explore the scientific research topics for students in biology:

1. The impact of different types of diets on human health.

2. Investigating the effects of climate change on local ecosystems.

3. Studying the genetics of a specific inherited disease.

4. Exploring the biodiversity of a local habitat.

5. Investigating the role of microorganisms in soil health.

6. Analyzing the effects of pollution on aquatic life.

7. Studying the behavior of a specific animal species.

8. Investigating the impact of a new drug on cell growth.

9. Exploring the relationship between exercise and heart health.

10. Studying the effects of various fertilizers on plant growth.

11. Investigating the genetics of taste perception.

12. Exploring the impact of environmental factors on plant adaptation.

Chemistry Research Topics

Here are some scientific research topics for high school students in chemistry:

1. Investigating the properties of different types of polymers.

2. Studying the effects of pH on chemical reactions.

3. Analyzing the composition of a local water source.

4. Exploring the chemistry of food preservation methods.

5. Investigating the synthesis of a specific chemical compound.

6. Studying the effects of temperature on reaction rates.

7. Analyzing the chemical components of household products.

8. Investigating the properties of nanomaterials.

9. Exploring the chemistry of natural dyes.

10. Studying the chemical reactions involved in baking.

11. Investigating the chemistry of fireworks.

12. Analyzing the composition of air pollutants in your area.

Physics Research Topics

Let’s dive into the physics research topics for high school students:

1. Investigating the laws of motion using simple experiments.

2. Studying the behavior of light using prisms and lenses.

3. Analyzing the effects of different materials on magnetic fields.

4. Exploring the properties of waves and sound.

5. Investigating the relationship between temperature and electrical conductivity.

6. Studying the principles of electromagnetism.

7. Analyzing the motion of objects in a vacuum.

8. Investigating the behavior of pendulums.

9. Exploring the properties of different types of mirrors.

10. Studying the physics of roller coasters.

11. Investigating the properties of superconductors.

12. Analyzing the behavior of particles in nuclear reactions.

Environmental Science Research Topics

Discover some scientific research topics for high school students in environmental:

1. Studying the impact of deforestation on local climate.

2. Investigating the effects of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.

3. Analyzing the biodiversity of a local wetland area.

4. Exploring the use of renewable energy sources in your community.

5. Investigating the impact of plastic waste on marine life.

6. Studying the effects of urbanization on local wildlife.

7. Analyzing the water quality in a nearby river.

8. Investigating the effectiveness of different recycling methods.

9. Exploring the impact of climate change on bird migration patterns.

10. Studying the use of sustainable agriculture practices.

11. Investigating the effects of air pollution on respiratory health.

12. Analyzing the benefits of green roofs in urban areas.

Social Science Research Topics

Here are some social science research topics for high school students:

1. Investigating the impact of social media on mental health.

2. Studying the effects of peer pressure on academic performance.

3. Analyzing the relationship between family dynamics and child development.

4. Exploring the influence of music on mood and behavior.

5. Investigating the effects of bullying on adolescent well-being.

6. Studying the role of gender stereotypes in career choices.

7. Analyzing the impact of video games on cognitive skills.

8. Investigate the factors influencing voter turnout in your community.

9. Exploring the effects of income inequality on social mobility.

10. Studying the relationship between parental involvement and student success.

11. Investigating the influence of advertising on consumer behavior.

12. Analyzing the impact of cultural diversity on community cohesion.

Astronomy Research Topics

Let’s explore the scientific research topics for high school students in astronomy:

1. Studying the phases of the moon and their impact on tides.

2. Investigating the properties of asteroids and comets.

3. Analyzing the life cycle of stars.

4. Exploring the potential for life on other planets.

5. Investigating the effects of light pollution on stargazing.

6. Studying the orbits of planets in our solar system.

7 Analyzing the properties of black holes.

8. Investigating the formation of galaxies.

9. Exploring the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

10. Studying the impact of solar flares on Earth’s magnetic field.

11. Investigating the history of space exploration.

12. Analyzing the concept of time dilation in relativity.

Psychology Research Topics

Discover the psychology research topics for students:

1. Investigating the effects of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction.

2. Studying the impact of early childhood experiences on adult behavior.

3. Analyzing the relationship between sleep patterns and mood.

4. Exploring the psychology of decision-making under uncertainty.

5. Investigating the effects of music therapy on patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

6. Studying the role of empathy in interpersonal relationships.

7. Analyzing the psychology of fear and phobias.

8. Investigating the effects of social isolation on mental health.

9. Exploring the influence of advertising on consumer behavior.

10. Studying the psychology of memory and recall.

11. Investigating the relationship between personality traits and career choices.

12. Analyzing the effects of social media on self-esteem.

Earth Science Research Topics

Here are some scientific research topics for high school students in earth science:

1. Studying the formation of earthquakes and their impact on landscapes.

2. Investigating the processes of erosion and sedimentation in rivers.

3. Analyzing the effects of climate change on glacial retreat.

4. Exploring the formation of volcanoes and their eruptions.

5. Investigating the geology of a specific region.

6. Studying the impact of tsunamis on coastal communities.

7. Analyzing the properties of different types of rocks and minerals.

8. Investigating the formation of caves and underground formations.

9. Exploring the processes of weathering and soil formation.

10. Investigating the geological history of a particular mountain range.

11. Studying the impact of wildfires on ecosystems and soil.

12. Analyzing the effects of climate change on the availability of freshwater resources.

Engineering and Technology Research Topics

Let’s dive into the engineering and technology research topics for high school students:

1. Investigating the efficiency of solar panels in different weather conditions.

2. Studying the aerodynamics of different wing designs in model airplanes.

3. Analyzing the impact of 3D printing on manufacturing processes.

4. Exploring the development of sustainable building materials.

5. Investigating the use of artificial intelligence in autonomous vehicles.

6. Studying the effectiveness of water purification methods.

7. Analyzing the design and performance of wind turbines.

8. Investigating the development of wearable health monitoring devices.

9. Exploring the use of drones for environmental monitoring.

10. Studying the impact of cybersecurity threats on modern technology.

11. Investigating the design and efficiency of energy-efficient homes.

12. Analyzing the potential of blockchain technology in various industries.

13. Investigating the impact of 5G technology on wireless communication networks.

Health and Medicine Research Topics

Discover the scientific research topics for high school students in health and medicine:

1. Investigating the effects of different types of exercise on physical fitness.

2. Studying the impact of nutrition on weight management.

3. Analyzing the relationship between sleep patterns and overall health.

4. Exploring the effectiveness of alternative medicine treatments.

5. Investigating the genetics of a specific medical condition.

6. Studying the effects of stress on the immune system.

7. Analyzing the impact of vaccinations on public health.

8. Investigating the use of telemedicine in healthcare delivery.

9. Exploring the factors influencing antibiotic resistance.

10. Studying the psychology of pain perception.

11. Investigating the effects of environmental pollutants on human health.

12. Analyzing the relationship between diet and chronic diseases.

13. Studying the potential benefits of gene therapy in treating genetic diseases.

Mathematics and Computer Science Research Topics

Let’s explore the mathematics and computer research topics for high school students:

1. Investigating the properties of prime numbers and their applications.

2. Studying the algorithms used in data encryption.

3. Analyzing the efficiency of sorting algorithms.

4. Exploring the applications of artificial intelligence in image recognition.

5. Investigating the mathematics of fractals and their visual representations.

6. Studying the use of data mining in predicting consumer behavior.

7. Analyzing the algorithms used in recommendation systems.

8. Investigating the mathematics of network theory.

9. Exploring the applications of game theory in decision-making.

10. Studying the mathematics behind cryptography.

11. Investigating the use of machine learning in natural language processing.

12. Analyzing the algorithms used in optimizing transportation routes.

13. Analyzing the applications of quantum computing in solving complex problems.

Tips for Conducting Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

Before you embark on your research journey, consider these tips:

  • Define clear research objectives.
  • Seek guidance from teachers or mentors.
  • Maintain organized records of your work.
  • Stay persistent and embrace failure as a learning opportunity.

Engaging in scientific research topics for high school students can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It allows you to explore your interests, develop critical skills, and contribute to our collective understanding of the world. When selecting a research topic, remember to choose something that genuinely excites you, is relevant to your field of interest, and is feasible given your available resources. 

Whether you’re passionate about biology , chemistry, physics, social sciences, or any other field, there’s a fascinating research topic waiting for you to explore. So, roll up your sleeves, ask questions, and embark on your scientific research journey—it’s an adventure that can shape your future and the world around you.

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research topics for junior high school

Research Topics & Ideas: Education

170+ Research Ideas To Fast-Track Your Dissertation, Thesis Or Research Project

Dissertation Coaching

I f you’re just starting out exploring education-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of research topics and ideas , including examples from actual dissertations and theses..

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Education Research Topics

  • How to find a research topic (video)
  • List of 50+ education-related research topics/ideas
  • List of 120+ level-specific research topics 
  • Examples of actual dissertation topics in education
  • Tips to fast-track your topic ideation (video)
  • Where to get extra help

Topic Kickstarter: Research topics in education

Education-Related Research Topics & Ideas

Below you’ll find a list of education-related research topics and idea kickstarters. These are fairly broad and flexible to various contexts, so keep in mind that you will need to refine them a little. Nevertheless, they should inspire some ideas for your project.

  • The impact of school funding on student achievement
  • The effects of social and emotional learning on student well-being
  • The effects of parental involvement on student behaviour
  • The impact of teacher training on student learning
  • The impact of classroom design on student learning
  • The impact of poverty on education
  • The use of student data to inform instruction
  • The role of parental involvement in education
  • The effects of mindfulness practices in the classroom
  • The use of technology in the classroom
  • The role of critical thinking in education
  • The use of formative and summative assessments in the classroom
  • The use of differentiated instruction in the classroom
  • The use of gamification in education
  • The effects of teacher burnout on student learning
  • The impact of school leadership on student achievement
  • The effects of teacher diversity on student outcomes
  • The role of teacher collaboration in improving student outcomes
  • The implementation of blended and online learning
  • The effects of teacher accountability on student achievement
  • The effects of standardized testing on student learning
  • The effects of classroom management on student behaviour
  • The effects of school culture on student achievement
  • The use of student-centred learning in the classroom
  • The impact of teacher-student relationships on student outcomes
  • The achievement gap in minority and low-income students
  • The use of culturally responsive teaching in the classroom
  • The impact of teacher professional development on student learning
  • The use of project-based learning in the classroom
  • The effects of teacher expectations on student achievement
  • The use of adaptive learning technology in the classroom
  • The impact of teacher turnover on student learning
  • The effects of teacher recruitment and retention on student learning
  • The impact of early childhood education on later academic success
  • The impact of parental involvement on student engagement
  • The use of positive reinforcement in education
  • The impact of school climate on student engagement
  • The role of STEM education in preparing students for the workforce
  • The effects of school choice on student achievement
  • The use of technology in the form of online tutoring

Private Coaching

Level-Specific Research Topics

Looking for research topics for a specific level of education? We’ve got you covered. Below you can find research topic ideas for primary, secondary and tertiary-level education contexts. Click the relevant level to view the respective list.

Research Topics: Pick An Education Level

Primary education.

  • Investigating the effects of peer tutoring on academic achievement in primary school
  • Exploring the benefits of mindfulness practices in primary school classrooms
  • Examining the effects of different teaching strategies on primary school students’ problem-solving skills
  • The use of storytelling as a teaching strategy in primary school literacy instruction
  • The role of cultural diversity in promoting tolerance and understanding in primary schools
  • The impact of character education programs on moral development in primary school students
  • Investigating the use of technology in enhancing primary school mathematics education
  • The impact of inclusive curriculum on promoting equity and diversity in primary schools
  • The impact of outdoor education programs on environmental awareness in primary school students
  • The influence of school climate on student motivation and engagement in primary schools
  • Investigating the effects of early literacy interventions on reading comprehension in primary school students
  • The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student achievement in primary schools
  • Exploring the benefits of inclusive education for students with special needs in primary schools
  • Investigating the effects of teacher-student feedback on academic motivation in primary schools
  • The role of technology in developing digital literacy skills in primary school students
  • Effective strategies for fostering a growth mindset in primary school students
  • Investigating the role of parental support in reducing academic stress in primary school children
  • The role of arts education in fostering creativity and self-expression in primary school students
  • Examining the effects of early childhood education programs on primary school readiness
  • Examining the effects of homework on primary school students’ academic performance
  • The role of formative assessment in improving learning outcomes in primary school classrooms
  • The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic outcomes in primary school
  • Investigating the effects of classroom environment on student behavior and learning outcomes in primary schools
  • Investigating the role of creativity and imagination in primary school curriculum
  • The impact of nutrition and healthy eating programs on academic performance in primary schools
  • The impact of social-emotional learning programs on primary school students’ well-being and academic performance
  • The role of parental involvement in academic achievement of primary school children
  • Examining the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior in primary school
  • The role of school leadership in creating a positive school climate Exploring the benefits of bilingual education in primary schools
  • The effectiveness of project-based learning in developing critical thinking skills in primary school students
  • The role of inquiry-based learning in fostering curiosity and critical thinking in primary school students
  • The effects of class size on student engagement and achievement in primary schools
  • Investigating the effects of recess and physical activity breaks on attention and learning in primary school
  • Exploring the benefits of outdoor play in developing gross motor skills in primary school children
  • The effects of educational field trips on knowledge retention in primary school students
  • Examining the effects of inclusive classroom practices on students’ attitudes towards diversity in primary schools
  • The impact of parental involvement in homework on primary school students’ academic achievement
  • Investigating the effectiveness of different assessment methods in primary school classrooms
  • The influence of physical activity and exercise on cognitive development in primary school children
  • Exploring the benefits of cooperative learning in promoting social skills in primary school students

Secondary Education

  • Investigating the effects of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic success in secondary education
  • The role of social media in enhancing communication and collaboration among secondary school students
  • The impact of school leadership on teacher effectiveness and student outcomes in secondary schools
  • Investigating the effects of technology integration on teaching and learning in secondary education
  • Exploring the benefits of interdisciplinary instruction in promoting critical thinking skills in secondary schools
  • The impact of arts education on creativity and self-expression in secondary school students
  • The effectiveness of flipped classrooms in promoting student learning in secondary education
  • The role of career guidance programs in preparing secondary school students for future employment
  • Investigating the effects of student-centered learning approaches on student autonomy and academic success in secondary schools
  • The impact of socio-economic factors on educational attainment in secondary education
  • Investigating the impact of project-based learning on student engagement and academic achievement in secondary schools
  • Investigating the effects of multicultural education on cultural understanding and tolerance in secondary schools
  • The influence of standardized testing on teaching practices and student learning in secondary education
  • Investigating the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior and academic engagement in secondary education
  • The influence of teacher professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in secondary schools
  • The role of extracurricular activities in promoting holistic development and well-roundedness in secondary school students
  • Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and achievement in secondary education
  • The role of physical education in promoting physical health and well-being among secondary school students
  • Investigating the effects of gender on academic achievement and career aspirations in secondary education
  • Exploring the benefits of multicultural literature in promoting cultural awareness and empathy among secondary school students
  • The impact of school counseling services on student mental health and well-being in secondary schools
  • Exploring the benefits of vocational education and training in preparing secondary school students for the workforce
  • The role of digital literacy in preparing secondary school students for the digital age
  • The influence of parental involvement on academic success and well-being of secondary school students
  • The impact of social-emotional learning programs on secondary school students’ well-being and academic success
  • The role of character education in fostering ethical and responsible behavior in secondary school students
  • Examining the effects of digital citizenship education on responsible and ethical technology use among secondary school students
  • The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student outcomes in secondary schools
  • The role of educational technology in promoting personalized learning experiences in secondary schools
  • The impact of inclusive education on the social and academic outcomes of students with disabilities in secondary schools
  • The influence of parental support on academic motivation and achievement in secondary education
  • The role of school climate in promoting positive behavior and well-being among secondary school students
  • Examining the effects of peer mentoring programs on academic achievement and social-emotional development in secondary schools
  • Examining the effects of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and achievement in secondary schools
  • Exploring the benefits of service-learning programs in promoting civic engagement among secondary school students
  • The impact of educational policies on educational equity and access in secondary education
  • Examining the effects of homework on academic achievement and student well-being in secondary education
  • Investigating the effects of different assessment methods on student performance in secondary schools
  • Examining the effects of single-sex education on academic performance and gender stereotypes in secondary schools
  • The role of mentoring programs in supporting the transition from secondary to post-secondary education

Tertiary Education

  • The role of student support services in promoting academic success and well-being in higher education
  • The impact of internationalization initiatives on students’ intercultural competence and global perspectives in tertiary education
  • Investigating the effects of active learning classrooms and learning spaces on student engagement and learning outcomes in tertiary education
  • Exploring the benefits of service-learning experiences in fostering civic engagement and social responsibility in higher education
  • The influence of learning communities and collaborative learning environments on student academic and social integration in higher education
  • Exploring the benefits of undergraduate research experiences in fostering critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills
  • Investigating the effects of academic advising and mentoring on student retention and degree completion in higher education
  • The role of student engagement and involvement in co-curricular activities on holistic student development in higher education
  • The impact of multicultural education on fostering cultural competence and diversity appreciation in higher education
  • The role of internships and work-integrated learning experiences in enhancing students’ employability and career outcomes
  • Examining the effects of assessment and feedback practices on student learning and academic achievement in tertiary education
  • The influence of faculty professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in tertiary education
  • The influence of faculty-student relationships on student success and well-being in tertiary education
  • The impact of college transition programs on students’ academic and social adjustment to higher education
  • The impact of online learning platforms on student learning outcomes in higher education
  • The impact of financial aid and scholarships on access and persistence in higher education
  • The influence of student leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities on personal development and campus engagement
  • Exploring the benefits of competency-based education in developing job-specific skills in tertiary students
  • Examining the effects of flipped classroom models on student learning and retention in higher education
  • Exploring the benefits of online collaboration and virtual team projects in developing teamwork skills in tertiary students
  • Investigating the effects of diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus climate and student experiences in tertiary education
  • The influence of study abroad programs on intercultural competence and global perspectives of college students
  • Investigating the effects of peer mentoring and tutoring programs on student retention and academic performance in tertiary education
  • Investigating the effectiveness of active learning strategies in promoting student engagement and achievement in tertiary education
  • Investigating the effects of blended learning models and hybrid courses on student learning and satisfaction in higher education
  • The role of digital literacy and information literacy skills in supporting student success in the digital age
  • Investigating the effects of experiential learning opportunities on career readiness and employability of college students
  • The impact of e-portfolios on student reflection, self-assessment, and showcasing of learning in higher education
  • The role of technology in enhancing collaborative learning experiences in tertiary classrooms
  • The impact of research opportunities on undergraduate student engagement and pursuit of advanced degrees
  • Examining the effects of competency-based assessment on measuring student learning and achievement in tertiary education
  • Examining the effects of interdisciplinary programs and courses on critical thinking and problem-solving skills in college students
  • The role of inclusive education and accessibility in promoting equitable learning experiences for diverse student populations
  • The role of career counseling and guidance in supporting students’ career decision-making in tertiary education
  • The influence of faculty diversity and representation on student success and inclusive learning environments in higher education

Research Topic Mega List

Education-Related Dissertations & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic in education, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses in the education space to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of education-related research projects to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

  • From Rural to Urban: Education Conditions of Migrant Children in China (Wang, 2019)
  • Energy Renovation While Learning English: A Guidebook for Elementary ESL Teachers (Yang, 2019)
  • A Reanalyses of Intercorrelational Matrices of Visual and Verbal Learners’ Abilities, Cognitive Styles, and Learning Preferences (Fox, 2020)
  • A study of the elementary math program utilized by a mid-Missouri school district (Barabas, 2020)
  • Instructor formative assessment practices in virtual learning environments : a posthumanist sociomaterial perspective (Burcks, 2019)
  • Higher education students services: a qualitative study of two mid-size universities’ direct exchange programs (Kinde, 2020)
  • Exploring editorial leadership : a qualitative study of scholastic journalism advisers teaching leadership in Missouri secondary schools (Lewis, 2020)
  • Selling the virtual university: a multimodal discourse analysis of marketing for online learning (Ludwig, 2020)
  • Advocacy and accountability in school counselling: assessing the use of data as related to professional self-efficacy (Matthews, 2020)
  • The use of an application screening assessment as a predictor of teaching retention at a midwestern, K-12, public school district (Scarbrough, 2020)
  • Core values driving sustained elite performance cultures (Beiner, 2020)
  • Educative features of upper elementary Eureka math curriculum (Dwiggins, 2020)
  • How female principals nurture adult learning opportunities in successful high schools with challenging student demographics (Woodward, 2020)
  • The disproportionality of Black Males in Special Education: A Case Study Analysis of Educator Perceptions in a Southeastern Urban High School (McCrae, 2021)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, in order for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest.  In the video below, we explore some other important things you’ll need to consider when crafting your research topic.

Get 1-On-1 Help

If you’re still unsure about how to find a quality research topic within education, check out our Research Topic Kickstarter service, which is the perfect starting point for developing a unique, well-justified research topic.

Research Bootcamps

Find The Perfect Research Topic

How To Choose A Research Topic: 5 Key Criteria

How To Choose A Research Topic: 5 Key Criteria

How To Choose A Research Topic Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples + Free Topic...

Research Topics & Ideas: Automation & Robotics

Research Topics & Ideas: Automation & Robotics

A comprehensive list of automation and robotics-related research topics. Includes free access to a webinar and research topic evaluator.

Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology

Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology

Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology 50 Topic Ideas To Kickstart Your Research...

Research Topics & Ideas: Public Health & Epidemiology

Research Topics & Ideas: Public Health & Epidemiology

A comprehensive list of public health-related research topics. Includes free access to a webinar and research topic evaluator.

Research Topics & Ideas: Neuroscience

Research Topics & Ideas: Neuroscience

Research Topics & Ideas: Neuroscience 50 Topic Ideas To Kickstart Your Research...

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71 Comments

Watson Kabwe

This is an helpful tool 🙏

Musarrat Parveen

Special education

Akbar khan

Really appreciated by this . It is the best platform for research related items

Trishna Roy

Research title related to school of students

Nasiru Yusuf

How are you

Oyebanji Khadijat Anike

I think this platform is actually good enough.

Angel taña

Research title related to students

My field is research measurement and evaluation. Need dissertation topics in the field

Saira Murtaza

Assalam o Alaikum I’m a student Bs educational Resarch and evaluation I’m confused to choose My thesis title please help me in choose the thesis title

Ngirumuvugizi Jaccques

Good idea I’m going to teach my colleagues

Anangnerisia@gmail.com

You can find our list of nursing-related research topic ideas here: https://gradcoach.com/research-topics-nursing/

FOSU DORIS

Write on action research topic, using guidance and counseling to address unwanted teenage pregnancy in school

Samson ochuodho

Thanks a lot

Johaima

I learned a lot from this site, thank you so much!

Rhod Tuyan

Thank you for the information.. I would like to request a topic based on school major in social studies

Mercedes Bunsie

parental involvement and students academic performance

Abshir Mustafe Cali

Science education topics?

alina

plz tell me if you got some good topics, im here for finding research topic for masters degree

Karen Joy Andrade

How about School management and supervision pls.?

JOHANNES SERAME MONYATSI

Hi i am an Deputy Principal in a primary school. My wish is to srudy foe Master’s degree in Education.Please advice me on which topic can be relevant for me. Thanks.

Bonang Morapedi

Thank you so much for the information provided. I would like to get an advice on the topic to research for my masters program. My area of concern is on teacher morale versus students achievement.

NKWAIN Chia Charles

Every topic proposed above on primary education is a starting point for me. I appreciate immensely the team that has sat down to make a detail of these selected topics just for beginners like us. Be blessed.

Nkwain Chia Charles

Kindly help me with the research questions on the topic” Effects of workplace conflict on the employees’ job performance”. The effects can be applicable in every institution,enterprise or organisation.

Kelvin Kells Grant

Greetings, I am a student majoring in Sociology and minoring in Public Administration. I’m considering any recommended research topic in the field of Sociology.

Sulemana Alhassan

I’m a student pursuing Mphil in Basic education and I’m considering any recommended research proposal topic in my field of study

Cristine

Research Defense for students in senior high

Kupoluyi Regina

Kindly help me with a research topic in educational psychology. Ph.D level. Thank you.

Project-based learning is a teaching/learning type,if well applied in a classroom setting will yield serious positive impact. What can a teacher do to implement this in a disadvantaged zone like “North West Region of Cameroon ( hinterland) where war has brought about prolonged and untold sufferings on the indegins?

Damaris Nzoka

I wish to get help on topics of research on educational administration

I wish to get help on topics of research on educational administration PhD level

Sadaf

I am also looking for such type of title

Afriyie Saviour

I am a student of undergraduate, doing research on how to use guidance and counseling to address unwanted teenage pregnancy in school

wysax

the topics are very good regarding research & education .

derrick

Am an undergraduate student carrying out a research on the impact of nutritional healthy eating programs on academic performance in primary schools

William AU Mill

Can i request your suggestion topic for my Thesis about Teachers as an OFW. thanx you

ChRISTINE

Would like to request for suggestions on a topic in Economics of education,PhD level

Aza Hans

Would like to request for suggestions on a topic in Economics of education

George

Hi 👋 I request that you help me with a written research proposal about education the format

Cynthia abuabire

Am offering degree in education senior high School Accounting. I want a topic for my project work

Sarah Moyambo

l would like to request suggestions on a topic in managing teaching and learning, PhD level (educational leadership and management)

request suggestions on a topic in managing teaching and learning, PhD level (educational leadership and management)

Ernest Gyabaah

I would to inquire on research topics on Educational psychology, Masters degree

Aron kirui

I am PhD student, I am searching my Research topic, It should be innovative,my area of interest is online education,use of technology in education

revathy a/p letchumanan

request suggestion on topic in masters in medical education .

D.Newlands PhD.

Look at British Library as they keep a copy of all PhDs in the UK Core.ac.uk to access Open University and 6 other university e-archives, pdf downloads mostly available, all free.

Monica

May I also ask for a topic based on mathematics education for college teaching, please?

Aman

Please I am a masters student of the department of Teacher Education, Faculty of Education Please I am in need of proposed project topics to help with my final year thesis

Ellyjoy

Am a PhD student in Educational Foundations would like a sociological topic. Thank

muhammad sani

please i need a proposed thesis project regardging computer science

also916

Greetings and Regards I am a doctoral student in the field of philosophy of education. I am looking for a new topic for my thesis. Because of my work in the elementary school, I am looking for a topic that is from the field of elementary education and is related to the philosophy of education.

shantel orox

Masters student in the field of curriculum, any ideas of a research topic on low achiever students

Rey

In the field of curriculum any ideas of a research topic on deconalization in contextualization of digital teaching and learning through in higher education

Omada Victoria Enyojo

Amazing guidelines

JAMES MALUKI MUTIA

I am a graduate with two masters. 1) Master of arts in religious studies and 2) Master in education in foundations of education. I intend to do a Ph.D. on my second master’s, however, I need to bring both masters together through my Ph.D. research. can I do something like, ” The contribution of Philosophy of education for a quality religion education in Kenya”? kindly, assist and be free to suggest a similar topic that will bring together the two masters. thanks in advance

betiel

Hi, I am an Early childhood trainer as well as a researcher, I need more support on this topic: The impact of early childhood education on later academic success.

TURIKUMWE JEAN BOSCO

I’m a student in upper level secondary school and I need your support in this research topics: “Impact of incorporating project -based learning in teaching English language skills in secondary schools”.

Fitsum Ayele

Although research activities and topics should stem from reflection on one’s practice, I found this site valuable as it effectively addressed many issues we have been experiencing as practitioners.

Lavern Stigers

Your style is unique in comparison to other folks I’ve read stuff from. Thanks for posting when you have the opportunity, Guess I will just book mark this site.

Mekonnen Tadesse

that is good idea you are sharing for a lot of researchers. I am one of such an information sucker. I am a chemistry teacher in Ethiopia secondary school. I am MSc degree holder in Analytical chemistry. I need to continue my education by this field. How I can get a full scholar ship?

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research topics for junior high school

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Unleashing Creativity in Research: How High Schoolers Can Find Unique and Engaging Research Topics

Unleashing Creativity in Research: How High Schoolers Can Find Unique and Engaging Research Topics

In a competitive college admissions landscape, research accomplishments can help make you stand out, both academically and in terms of extracurriculars. But to achieve these goals, you need to start with a unique and engaging research topic. In this blog post we explain the importance of high school research projects for college admissions, share expert tips for finding your own compelling research topics, and offer you lots of examples of great research topics in different subject areas.

The Importance of Research for High Schoolers

Academic knowledge is driven by inquiry, and virtually all inquiry prompts us to engage in research that advances learning or solves problems. Not only will you need research skills to excel in college, but engaging in high-quality research projects while you’re still in high school can do a lot more than just get you a better grade.

For example, engaging in original research that aligns with your personal passions is a great way to spotlight you curiosity and motivation. And, if you tailor your research project to dovetail with other scholars’ interests, or with a compelling practical application or area of public interest, you’re already spotlighting for admissions officers your ability to apply learning to real life problem solving and public service.

Finally, because a sophisticated research project hones core academic skills, boosts subject-matter learning dramatically, and showcases your academic drive and motivation, an extracurricular research project can go a long way in elevating your college admissions profile!

Great Research Starts with a Great Research Topic

To get the most of a research project, it’s crucial to start with a unique and compelling research topic.

With a research topic that’s relevant and engaging, you’ll get more for the time and effort you’ll be investing in your research project.

Here’s just some of the benefits you can get from a well-designed research project with an interesting and relevant research topic:

  • learn new information that’s not covered in your regular classes
  • discover cutting-edge ideas, interests, and unanswered questions in your field of interest
  • move from passive learning to actively exploring hypotheses and contributing to academic conversations to science, to public policy, or to problem solving
  • make important strides as a student, by consolidating your learning and contributing new insights to your field of interest

With research projects offering so many benefits for high school students, it’s crucial to remember that all winning research starts with a winning research topic!

So let’s get started!

How to Develop a Great Research Topic

Researching something you’re passionate about that’s original, relevant, and compelling is key to turning your research effort into something that really helps you grow and stand out academically.

But, if you aren’t going to settle for an overly cliche or general research topic, how do you find one that’s truly engaging and also right for your interests?

Using a thorough and tested multi-step process is probably the best way to chart your own path to a unique and engaging research topic.

  • Brainstorming: Good old-fashioned brainstorming is almost certain to help you tap into your own passions and jumpstart the work of developing a great topic. You’re likely to surprise yourself with your own creativity. Be sure to write your ideas down; then finish this step by creating a “short list” of the topic ideas you believe to be most promising.
  • Exploratory Research: Sometimes you just need to know a bit more about an area of research in order to come up with the best research topics. Exploratory research is often easy to do online, and is a great way to get insights into the subject matter terrain you’re considering in order to:
  • find additional topic ideas
  • deepen or narrow a topic idea
  • decide if a topic is worth pursuing further

TIP: If you’re exploring topics for a PERSONAL ESSAY for college applications, be sure to check out Crimson Education’s Free Topic & Idea Generator .

Or, do you want to learn more about research-focused extracurriculars for high schoolers , with added guidance and learning in the form research mentorships, internship placements, proposal writing competitions, or summer research intensives? If so, reach out to a Crimson Education Advisor for more information.

  • Defining and Refining Your Research Topic or Question: A research paper or project typically involves more than just a short essay: you’ll have to craft a driving question or hypothesis and synthesize information from a variety of sources:
  • Is your  topic broad enough to invite meaningful inquiry?
  • Is it complex enough to incorporate and evaluate competing perspectives?
  • Is there a way to use specific experiments, examples, or case study approaches in order to keep the project focused?
  • Outside Guidance and Advice: Getting guidance and input from teachers or professors, other mentors, or industry professionals can be immensely valuable for uncovering new topics or for refining your existing topic ideas!

TIP: Many professionals find it gratifying to talk about their work with an interested young scholar, so don’t be afraid to ask someone in the field for input — it’s a great way to get an expert perspective can really transform a good research topic into a great one.

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Examples of Research Topics Across Disciplines

We’ve covered a lot of ground already, but maybe you’re still wondering, okay, what does a good research topic look like?

As you review the examples below, you can evaluate them on your own by asking yourself:

  • Is the topic open-ended enough?  Can the topic be explored with evidence, critical thinking, a case study approach, or some form of scientific method?
  • Is the topic relevant and interesting? Does the topic advance scholarly or academic conversations? Or contribute to an area of public interest or social debate? Or have some kind of scientific value?

Topics in Schools & Education

  • Should high schools re-invest in vocational education or focus exclusively on a college prep curriculum?
  • Should ethnic studies courses and curricula in public schools be required, optional, or eliminated ?
  • How can we predict the impacts tools like Chat-GPT will have on student learning?
  • Should countries have national curriculum standards, or should local communities and school boards decide what is taught in schools?
  • Have charter schools helped the US improve the public education system?
  • What countries appear to have the best education systems and what features do they have in common, if any?

Topics in History

  • What do important examples in history teach us about the causes of civil war and how to prevent civil war?
  • Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt are among the highest ranking US presidents, based on scholarly estimations and public opinions. What do their presidencies teach us about the qualities of great political leadership?
  • What constitutes the US’s greatest military or national defense failure? What lessons  can policymakers draw from it?
  • Does the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict offer any insights into how to end it today?
  • What can we learn about democracy today based on the successes and failures of ancient experiments in democracy?
  • If used as primary source evidence by historians, how can art illuminate social history or social progress?

Topics in Government

  • Should we protect or abolish the Electoral College in the US?
  • Using Canada as a model, what are the pros and cons of a nationalized healthcare system?
  • Is affirmative action good public policy?
  • Should we reform the US Supreme Court? Why or why not?
  • Using carbon cap & trade policy, or a similar economic policy as an example, how effective are economic incentives for solving big social problems?
  • Should there be a global revenue tax on large global technology companies?
  • Should industrial countries do more to help developing countries cope with the effects of climate change?

Topics in Literature

  • How does literature give a voice to the voiceless?
  • Why are some books banned or censored?
  • Is literature educational or just entertainment?
  • Do graphic novels count as literature?
  • What characterizes the works of authors who have won Nobel Prizes for literature?
  • Can literature —  in the form of novels, short stories, essays, or plays — change the course of history?

Topics in Society, Health, & Human Psychology

  • What are the best ways to reduce and prevent bullying?
  • Should we criminalize hate speech?
  • Since loneliness has been shown to decrease life expectancy, are there any promising ways to combat it?
  • What can schools do to help reduce mental health suffering in teens and young adults?
  • Do we truly live in an “age of anxiety”? What do the indicators tell us about the scope of the problem and possible remedies?

Topics in Sports

  • Should college athletes get paid?
  • What are the benefits and downsides of participating in athletics in high school?
  • What sports should be eliminated from the Olympics and which ones added? Why?
  • How can we use sports to increase international goodwill and cooperation?

Topics in Technology and Social Media

  • Should there be more age restrictions on social media access?
  • How can society address hate speech and/or disinformation in social media?
  • Should employers encourage or discourage more remote work arrangements?

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Interdisciplinary Examples

Another great way to pick a research topic is to explore interdisciplinary areas of research . In fact, many engaging research topics are going to naturally encompass different disciplines.

Here are some examples of topics that bridge two or more disciplines:

  • What concept(s) from the field of economics might help us find ways to improve education?
  • How can we use marketing principles to develop better public awareness campaigns for reducing teen vaping?
  • Does participating in team sports help improve mental health?
  • How can we apply insights from either microeconomics or from organizational psychology to improve health and fitness?
  • How can concepts from the study of linguistics help us understand political messaging and address political polarization?
  • What are additional ways we can leverage economic incentives to combat global warming?
  • Does mainstream advertising have an impact on social prejudices and stereotypes?

The Social Impact Factor

You should always consider if there are ways to shape your research topic to make your research project more relevant and consequential.

As an illustration, look at the two pairs of research topics below.

Compare the topics in each pair. Does A) or B) have more relevance or urgency in your opinion? Why?

A) What are the personal benefits of participating in team sports?

B) How can we use access to team sports programs in high schools to address today’s teen mental health crisis?

A) How can we use insights from linguistics to promote nonviolence and conflict resolution?

B) How can we use insights from linguistics to reduce extreme political polarization?

If your research topic address a clear “need,” “challenge” or “problem,” your audience is likely to find the topic more engaging and relevant.

What to Do When You’re Not Sure You Have a Good Research Topic?

If you’re not sure if you have a good topic, use the simple rubric below and see how your topic stacks up.

Compelling interest and social relevance. Does your research topic set you up to shed light on an important academic or scientific question? Does it illuminate a controversial and consequential social issue? Will it help solve a consequential problem? If so, you have a topic that will help you stay motivated and be more engaging for your audience.

Personally fulfilling. Whatever research topic you choose, it needs to be a research topic that relates to your own learning interests and passions, otherwise it’s hard to imagine that you’ll get the results you hoped for.

Important academic considerations. A good essay topic will offer valuable benefits for your academic growth and college journey: enhancing and accelerating your learning in one or more disciplines you enjoy studying and boosting your overall academic profile.

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Research Resources

Once you’ve selected a research topic, you’ll obviously need to gather information from various sources and synthesize it into a coherent set of claims, findings, or arguments.

Here's a list of basic research tools and resources that you might find useful:

Libraries and Librarians

Libraries, especially academic libraries, are the researcher’s paradise.

If there’s a drawback to libraries, it’s not a lack of resources, but the challenge of finding your way to what’s most useful and relevant!

Fortunately, most libraries come with librarians who are trained to help researchers find the right resources, so don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Popular Kinds of Library Research Resources

Books: Useful for in-depth information, background information, historical context.

TIP: Don’t worry about how “long” a book is — use the table of contents and indexes to navigate to the information you need.

Academic Journals: Get scholarly articles useful for gathering more specialized and more up-to-date information about your topic.

Magazines and Newspapers: Good resources for getting interesting quotes from experts in a current events context or for exploring diverse public perspectives and viewpoints.

Online Platforms and Databases: Although some of these, such as Google Scholar are free and easy to access from any computer and internet browser, it’s often easier to get free access to many others with the help of a school or public library acting as an intermediary. Also, there are so many digital resources and databases, that we recommend getting assistance in this area from a trained librarian.

Reference Librarians: Last but not at all least, take advantage of librarians! They are not a direct research source of course, but may help you navigate quickly to the most useful research resources for your particular topic.

TIP: In many larger libraries, the librarians specially trained to help patrons with research are commonly referred to as reference librarians.

Internet Search Engines

Most young scholars today are already well acquainted with internet searches and search engines, with Google and Bing among the most popular.

Here’s a few tips for upping your internet search prowess:

  • Refine your search parameters with more sophisticated search terms and search engine settings
  • Know how to identify trustworthy and reliable internet sources

Educational Websites

There are a number of .edu websites operated by reputable sources that provide access to a range of educational content for students at different grade levels. Here are just a few examples:

  • Khan Academy: Comprehensive overviews and instructional videos on a variety of subjects
  • BBC Bitesize: Provides study guides for different topics (especially for UK curriculum)
  • National Geographic Education: Great for geography, history, and science topics
  • The Learning Network: (NY Times): Educational perspectives on a wide range of current events topics
  • The PBS Newshour Classroom: A respected educational website covering a range of topics

Government and Organization Websites

There are also lots of government ( .gov ) websites offering useful information for researchers. An upside of .gov websites is they are among the most objective and reliable sources of information, appropriate for academic research. Examples in the US include:

  • The White House
  • The Department of State
  • Science.gov
  • Department of Justice
  • Department of Agriculture
  • Department of Education

Websites operated by large, well-established, and highly reputable organizations are also typically good sources of information for researchers.

Examples could be highly reputable news organizations , such as US News and World Report , The BBC , Time Magazine , or The New York Times . Most of these news outlets also have searchable online resources.

Alternately, large international organizations , such as the United Nations or the World Health Organization, or the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation can also be reliable sources of information.

Documentaries and Educational Videos

Easy to overlook as research resources are any number of educational videos, podcasts, and documentary films.

YouTube educational channels such as CrashCourse and TED-Ed are two examples.

Likewise, ordinary streaming services may also list informative, high-quality documentaries.

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Final Thoughts

In this post, we've explored a wide array of strategies and considerations for choosing a compelling research topic. From brainstorming and exploratory research to defining and refining your topic with guidance from mentors and professionals, the journey to selecting the right topic is as important as the research itself!

The Power of a Good Topic: Remember, an intriguing and relevant topic will not only captivate your audience but keep you motivated to the finish line.

Aligning with Your Interests: Does your topic resonate with your personal learning interests and goals? This alignment is crucial for achieving fulfilling and meaningful outcomes.

Practical Considerations: Consider how your chosen topic can enhance your understanding and passion in your field of study, especially in the context of your future academic and career goals.

Finally, don't underestimate the value of the resources and tools available for research exploration.

From online search to electronic databases and journals, to librarians themselves, these tools are pivotal in helping you refine your research interests and embark on a successful research project.

Interested in exploring more options for pre-college research experiences? Want information about more advanced research mentorships, competitions, internships, or initiatives? Connecting with a Crimson Education Advisor is the best way to find opportunities like these, both online and around the world, based on your individual interests and preferences.

These opportunities can take you well beyond ordinary classroom research assignments, connecting you with like-minded peers for group projects, with schools hosting summer research intensives or fun and prestigious research competitions, or with university mentors…

We’ve helped thousands of students just like you elevate their extracurriculars with opportunities like these! Contact a friendly Crimson Education Advisor today and find out what you can do…

Finally, stay tuned for future blogs that explore extracurriculars, interesting future careers, diverse majors, and insights for boosting your university admissions strategy!

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About the Author

Keith Nickolaus

Keith Nickolaus

Keith Nickolaus is a former educator with a passion for languages, literature, and lifelong learning. After obtaining a B.A. from UC Santa Cruz and exploring university life in Paris, Keith earned his Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, and then worked for 16 years in K12 education before setting up shop as a freelance writer.

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List of High School Research Paper Topics

High school research paper topics

Working with your first (or even not the first!) high school research paper topic can be a challenging task. In addition to a list of the high school research topics, we share the actual research papers from our vast database with you, so you get the idea of how the fellow students do it.

Finally, for those who will make it through the list of research topics, some helpful research paper writing tips will help you to get a good grade and feel confident that you can deliver your paper on time!

Contents (Clickable)

   Learning by Example: Actual High School Research Paper Topics

Speaking from our professional experience of work with the high school students, one of the best ways to explain how to write an excellent high school research paper is actually by showing several examples of a good paper. While the rules and ideas are good, looking through an actual research paper always helps one to feel confident and see how the paragraphs and ideas are being put together. Looking through our vast database of research papers, we have picked these examples for you:

  • Research Paper on Water/Environment example – Have you ever thought about how bottled water stored in the plastic bottles affects people’s lives and the environment? This research paper studies the negative impacts of the bottled water on the situation, showing how the people, animals, and the plants suffer from the effects of the plastic bottles. You can see that a student started with a brief historical introduction to the origin of the bottled water and continued by an explanation of why such practice can be dangerous. If you are interested in environmental science or would like to tell about how a local factory pollutes the waters in your neighborhood, make sure to research the topic!
  • Research Paper about Censorship example – Living in the age of computers, social networks, and smartphones, you are always accessing information of a different kind. Most information is free, and you can look up anything online as you learn. Still, it is not always like that everywhere. Take the Chinese government as an example of Internet censorship. While it is not always bad, the topic of censorship is a something that we all face in this way or another. This research paper focuses on the cons and pros of censorship, researching the ways how it is implemented in practice. Sounds interesting, right? 🙂 Check out this example to get an idea of how the student shows both opinions, making the research paper exciting and exciting!
  • A Psychological Reflection Research on Memory, Language, and Altruism example – Sometimes your teacher asks to do a research paper as a reflection writing on a particular topic. Even if it sounds complicated, there is no need to despair! As an example, here is a psychological reflection research paper for you, written in the first person. It means that you have to speak about your thoughts and your opinion. Here the student speaks of personal views on memory, language, and altruism concepts. You can see how the different topics and ideas are combined into a good reflection research paper. You can write about anything you feel passionate about as long as you discuss the problem with your teacher!
  • Social Media Addiction example – Are you an expert in all things related to social media? Can you share some valuable observations on social media addictions and safety rules with your schoolmates? If this particular topic interests you, take a look at the Social Media Addiction research paper. Note how well it explains both sides of the issue by telling of the positive teams of social networking, too. If you want to write a good research paper, always do your best to discuss the views that are opposite to yours to make your own statement and research position clear.
  • Charles Dickens’ – Hard Times, The Role of Women in Victorian England example – If you want to focus on culture, literature, and creative writing in your research, take a look at this example of a research paper. It revolves around Charles Dickens’ “Hard Times” and the role of women in Victorian England. It provides lots of examples to support the statements, so make sure to make a good mental note when you write your own high school research paper.

Okay, now that you have the actual research paper examples, let us move on to the list of high school research paper topics, so you can pick the one that fits you best!

   Towards The Best Grades: A List of Powerful High School Research Paper Topics

high school research topics

At the very start of our list, let us focus on topic ideas related to social issues that many of us face as the high school students:

  • Bullying in high school – we all know the feeling when someone is being bullied or when we become the victims of bullying. Writing a research paper about bullying is very important as it helps you and others to understand why it occurs, how to deal with it, and how to prevent it in the first place. Use this precise structure ( reasons, dealing, prevention ) as you think of a structure of your future paper!
  • Anxiety, low self-esteem, homework, and time management issues – You can start with your time management tips and tricks and continue with research on why it is essential to follow specific rules. Alternatively, you can write the other way around by starting with the rules and finishing with your considerations. Write about the importance of sleep, taking walks outside, healthy eating, doing one task at a time, and sports among other things that you may find important!
  • How to solve school conflicts with the teachers – it is safe to assume that most of us have been through the school conflicts with the teachers! Let’s write about it then! Share your experience and try to come up with the tips about how to get out of trouble by respecting your teacher, knowing your rights, staying attentive and polite no matter what!
  • The way how school students can contribute to the community – Think about social work and volunteering, summer camps, helping the seniors, younger siblings, or getting busy with scouting and exploration of your neighborhood’s culture and history. There is a lot you can do, so writing research on any important social topic of your choice is a great adventure and a good example for group work in pairs!
  • Importance of learning a foreign language at school – Living in the age of globalization and technology, learning a foreign language at school is important. Still, what are the challenges and what is the best way to master another culture and language at school?
  • After-school activities and why they are important – One of the best ways to survive through high school is being involved in after-school activities. If you are an athlete, musician, or like visiting local geography or history club, write about it, share your thoughts, and tell others about why it is important and how it has changed your life!
  • Students with special needs – A very sensitive, yet challenging and an important research topic to write about. If you have a special needs student in your class or know someone who has a sibling with special needs, write about how important it is to provide education for everyone. Add how people should show respect and care for such people.
  • High school athletes – This is a great idea for high school athletes. Still, if you are not an athlete yourself, you can explore the topic and impress your boyfriend (or a girlfriend) with your care and knowledge about sports! Write about the challenges, competition, courage, hard work, and all the fun that high school sports involve!
  • School safety and healthcare rights of youth in the United States – an interesting topic you can choose by researching the safety rules at your local school or by focusing on the healthcare rights of young people in the United States.
  • Pros and cons of private tutoring – have you ever turned to private education? Do you know someone who is studying with the help of additional tutoring? Share your thoughts about this topic and think about why it has occurred and how it can be helpful to achieve better GPA (Grade-Point-Average) level and enter a college of your dreams in the future.

Next, we shall continue with more general high school research topics that will fit high school students of all kind:

  • How do stereotypes appear in modern society? – Take one stereotype that is most present in your local culture, the false judgments or misconceptions to start a significant research paper. Think about how did these stereotypes have appeared. Now, if you need an example, think about wearing a hoodie or using certain words as you speak (Dope! Wicked! Go bezerk ! Cool! Well, you get the idea!).
  • The Trail of Tears and the history of the United States – The Trail of Tears was a series of forced relocations of Native American peoples from their ancestral homelands in the Southeastern United States, to areas to the west that had been designated as Indian Territory. Write research about how did the situation occur and how the Native American people live now.
  • The role of diversity for high school students. – Think about your own culture, your parents, and the socio-cultural background. Everyone is different, yet we all are unique personalities. Write research about how diversity unites people and how your school friends share their cultural knowledge and skills.
  • The benefits of E-Learning versus textbooks. – Even though the majority of the modern school students are used to e-learning, the role of usual textbooks cannot be underestimated. A good research topic to tell if reading something online is as good as checking with a textbook in the quiet of your room.
  • Online safety and social networks. – We are sure that you already have something to tell on this particular topic. Write a paper about how a person can remain safe online and what to avoid when texting your friends on social networks.
  • Importance of reading. – Some students like to read, while some people hate reading and rarely pick up a book if they are not forced to. Think about why it is so and how can reading improve person’s intelligence, grammar, punctuation, and even the verbal skills !
  • Where does rock music come from? – Research the history of the rock music in the United States or all over the world by starting with your favorite bands, the bands that your parents (and even Grandparents!) have listened to and grew up with. Do not forget to mention the protest movements and the reasons why rock music became the voice of rebellion, protest, and significant social changes.
  • The history of television in the United States. – When we think of the United States, certain movies come to mind, Hollywood, and all the great things associated with going to the cinema. There is a lot of daily work involved to make it all possible. Explore the history of television and see each person’s role. Write about how television and the media affect the modern culture, politics, education, and the way people’s opinions are being formed.
  • The recent advancements in technology and how they have affected people’s lives. – Think about 2-3 recent inventions in the field of technology and think about how they have affected the way we live. It may be anything from Facebook as a social network or a handheld electronic device that is fairly new.
  • The culture and traditions of the First Nations People of Canada – a very good and an important high school research topic even for those outside of Canada. Research the traditions and the culture and see how an identity, cultural background, and a strength of a person make all the difference! If writing on that topic sounds too difficult for you, you can choose any other example. Think about that tiny Greek (or any other cultural spot!) restaurant across the street, talk to the Greek owner’s son or daughter you may be friends with, and ask them about their culture, traditions, and life in the United States. Remember, this is just an example to keep you going! After all, it is your own research, so the possibilities are endless!

Now that we have a list of high school research paper topics let us move on to the research writing tips, so you can avoid getting in trouble with your teacher and get the best results possible!

   Research Paper Writing Tips

Finding a good research topic is not enough if you do not follow format requirements and do not take care of the following:

  • Use the Outline for your future research paper where you write down the main parts of your future paper and a thesis (your main statement and idea).
  • Always proofread your paper and do not forget to work with the drafts before you submit the final paper. This way you can avoid grammar mistakes and make sure that you do not repeat the same sentence or an idea twice. Proofreading your paper aloud also helps to make sure that your thoughts are solid, logical and well backed-up.
  • Always write your research paper (unless specified otherwise) using the following structure: Introduction – Thesis Statement – 3 Body Paragraphs – Conclusion .
  • Use Topic Sentences . It means that the first sentence in each of your body paragraphs should speak of the main idea of things you are going to explore as a researcher.
  • Do not forget to mention the opposite opinion before the conclusion . If there is information that goes against your thesis or some point of you that you find essential for your research, it is important to mention the fact.
  • If you are using a particular book or a journal as you write your research paper, make sure to mention your sources .
  • Always discuss your future topic with the teacher to make sure you are on the right track.
  • If you are stuck with your topic idea and a thesis statement, try to re-read it aloud and change the order of words to find out what makes you feel stuck and confused.

Still, if nothing helps, you can share your homework assignment with one of our professional Geeks who can guide you through homework tasks of any complexity. Fill in the simple form below and share your task with us:

research topics for junior high school

Homework Lab service is fully confidential and helps you to get out of this terrible “I’m Stuck!” phase. Research paper writing can be challenging if you already have a topic, but feel unsure that it has been done in a right way. We all know the feeling when you feel frightened or embarrassed, so a little bit of professional guidance in a private manner helps a great deal!

research topics for junior high school

We wish you the best of luck and hope that our list of high school research topics and the research paper writing tips have already helped you to get closer to the writing of the best research paper. Remember, you have the power to be the change you want to see in the society! You are the future!

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Research Basics for Junior and Senior High School Students: Getting Started - Essay Type & Topic

  • Getting Started - Essay Type & Topic
  • Find & Evaluate Sources
  • Write & Edit Your Paper
  • Presenting your research

Types of Essays

research topics for junior high school

Narrat ive Essays: Telling a Story  In a  narrative essay , the writer tells a story about a real-life experience. When writing a narrative essay, writers should try to involve the reader by making the story as vivid as possible.

Descriptive Essays: Painting a Picture  A  descriptive essay  paints a picture with words. A writer might describe a person, p lace, object, or even memory of special significance. The descriptive essay strives to communicate a deeper meaning through the description. 

Expository Essays: Just the Facts  The  expository essay  is an informative piece of writing that presents a balanced analysis of a topic. In an expository essay, the writer explains or defines a topic, using facts, statistics, and examples. 

Persuasive Essays: Convince Me  While like an expository essay in its presentation of facts, the goal of the  persuasive essay  is to convince the reader to accept the writer’s point of view or recommendation. The writer must build a case using facts and logic, as well as examples, expert opinion, and sound reasoning. 

Source: Time4Writing.com,  Types of Essays: End the Confusion .   https://www.time4writing.com/writing-resources/types-of-essays/  

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The Research Process

research topics for junior high school

Chosing your topic is research

Step One: Choose a topic 

1) Choose a topic of interest as you will be spending a lot of time with it

2) Test your topic against the research: is the topic to broad (overwhelming information) or to narrow (not enough information)

3) Tweek your topic (broaden or narrow as needed)

Before choosing a topic, watch - Picking your topic is research NCSU Libraries 

Slides from 7th-12th Grade Research Skills and Writing Workshop

research topics for junior high school

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TheHighSchooler

100 Qualitative Research Titles For High School Students

Are you brainstorming for excellent qualitative research titles for your high school curriculum? If yes, then this blog is for you! Academic life throws a lot of thesis and qualitative research papers and essays at you. Although thesis and essays may not be much of a hassle. However, when it comes to your research paper title, you must ensure that it is qualitative, and not quantitative. 

Qualitative research is primarily focused on obtaining data through case studies, artifacts, interviews, documentaries, and other first-hand observations. It focuses more on these natural settings rather than statistics and numbers. If you are finding it difficult to find a topic, then worry not because the high schooler has this blog post curated for you with 100 qualitative research titles that can help you get started!

Qualitative research prompts for high schoolers

Qualitative research papers are written by gathering and analyzing non-numerical data. Generally, teachers allot a list of topics that you can choose from. However, if you aren’t given the list, you need to search for a topic for yourself.

Qualitative research topics mostly deal with the happenings in society and nature. There are endless topics that you can choose from. We have curated a list of 100 qualitative research titles for you to choose from. Read on and pick the one that best aligns with your interests!

  • Why is there a pressing need for wildlife conservation?
  • Discuss the impacts of climate change on future generations. 
  • Discuss the impact of overpopulation on sustainable resources.
  • Discuss the factors considered while establishing the first 10 engineering universities in the world.
  • What is the contribution of AI to emotional intelligence? Explain. 
  • List out the effective methods to reduce the occurrences of fraud through cybercrimes.
  • With case studies, discuss some of the greatest movements in history leading to independence. 
  • Discuss real-life scenarios of gender-based discrimination. 
  • Discuss disparities in income and opportunities in developing nations. 
  • How to deal with those dealing with ADHD?
  • Describe how life was before the invention of the air conditioner. 
  • Explain the increasing applications of clinical psychology. 
  • What is psychology? Explain the career opportunities it brings forth for youngsters.
  • Covid lockdown: Is homeschooling the new way to school children?
  • What is the role of army dogs? How are they trained for the role?
  • What is feminism to you? Mention a feminist and his/her contributions to making the world a better place for women.  
  • What is true leadership quality according to you? Explain with a case study of a famous personality you admire for their leadership skills. 
  • Is wearing a mask effective in preventing covid-19? Explain the other practices that can help one prevent covid-19. 
  • Explain how teachers play an important role in helping students with disabilities improve their learning.
  • Is ‘E business’ taking over traditional methods of carrying out business?
  • What are the implications of allowing high schoolers to use smartphones in classes?
  • Does stress have an effect on human behavior?
  • Explain the link between poverty and education. 
  • With case studies, explain the political instability in developing nations.
  • Are ‘reality television shows’ scripted or do they showcase reality?
  • Online vs Offline teaching: which method is more effective and how?
  • Does there exist an underlying correlation between education and success? Explain with case studies.
  • Explain the social stigma associated with menstruation. 
  • Are OTT entertainment platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime beneficial in any other way?
  • Does being physically active help reverse type 2 diabetes?
  • Does pop culture influence today’s youth and their behavior?
  • ‘A friend in need is a friend in deed.’ Explain with case studies of famous personalities. 
  • Do books have greater importance in the lives of children from weaker economic backgrounds? Explain in detail.
  • Give an overview of the rise of spoken arts. 
  • Explain the problem of food insecurity in developing nations.
  • How related are Windows and Apple products?
  • Explore the methods used in schools to promote cultural diversity. 
  • Has social media replaced the physical social engagement of children in society?
  • Give an overview of allopathic medicine in treating mental disorders. 
  • Explain if and how willpower plays a role in overcoming difficulties in life. 
  • Are third-world countries seeing a decline in academic pursuit? Explain with real-life scenarios. 
  • Can animals predict earthquakes in advance? Explain which animals have this ability and how they do it. 
  • Discuss if the education system in America needs to improve. If yes, list out how this can be achieved.
  • Discuss democracy as a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.’
  • Discuss the increasing rate of attention deficit disorder among children.
  • Explain fun games that can help boost the morale of kids with dyslexia. 
  • Explain the causes of youth unemployment.
  • Explain some of the ways you think might help in making differently-abled students feel inclusive in the mainstream.
  • Explain in detail the challenges faced by students with special needs to feel included when it comes to accessibility to education.
  • Discuss the inefficiency of the healthcare system brought about by the covid-19 pandemic. 
  • Does living in hostels instill better life skills among students than those who are brought up at home? Explain in detail. 
  • What is Advanced Traffic Management? Explain the success cases of countries that have deployed it.  
  • Elaborate on the ethnic and socioeconomic reasons leading to poor school attendance in third-world nations.
  • Do preschoolers benefit from being read to by their parents? Discuss in detail.
  • What is the significance of oral learning in classrooms?
  • Does computer literacy promise a brighter future? Analyze. 
  • What people skills are enhanced in a high school classroom?
  • Discuss in detail the education system in place of a developing nation. Highlight the measures you think are impressive and those that you think need a change. 
  • Apart from the drawbacks of UV rays on the human body, explain how it has proven to be beneficial in treating diseases.  
  • Discuss why or why not wearing school uniforms can make students feel included in the school environment. 
  • What are the effective ways that have been proven to mitigate child labor in society? 
  • Explain the contributions of arts and literature to the evolving world. 
  • How do healthcare organizations cope with patients living with transmissive medical conditions?
  • Why do people with special abilities still face hardships when it comes to accessibility to healthcare and education?
  • What are the prevailing signs of depression in small children?
  • How to identify the occurrences and onset of autism in kids below three years of age?
  • Explain how SWOT and PESTLE analysis is important for a business.
  • Why is it necessary to include mental health education in the school curriculum?
  • What is adult learning and does it have any proven benefits?
  • What is the importance of having access to libraries in high school?
  • Discuss the need for including research writing in school curriculums. 
  • Explain some of the greatest non-violent movements of ancient history. 
  • Explain the reasons why some of the species of wildlife are critically endangered today. 
  • How is the growing emission of co2 bringing an unprecedented change in the environment?
  • What are the consequences of an increasing population in developing nations like India? Discuss in detail. 
  • Are remote tests as effective as in-class tests? 
  • Explain how sports play a vital role in schools. 
  • What do you understand about social activities in academic institutions? Explain how they pose as a necessity for students. 
  • Are there countries providing free healthcare? How are they faring in terms of their economy? Discuss in detail. 
  • State case studies of human lives lost due to racist laws present in society.
  • Discuss the effect of COVID-19 vaccines in curbing the novel coronavirus.
  • State what according to you is more effective: e-learning or classroom-based educational systems.
  • What changes were brought into the e-commerce industry by the COVID-19 pandemic?
  • Name a personality regarded as a youth icon. Explain his or her contributions in detail.
  • Discuss why more and more people are relying on freelancing as a prospective career. 
  • Does virtual learning imply lesser opportunities? What is your take?
  • Curbing obesity through exercise: Analyze.
  • Discuss the need and importance of health outreach programs.
  • Discuss in detail how the upcoming generation of youngsters can do its bit and contribute to afforestation.
  • Discuss the 2020 budget allocation of the United States. 
  • Discuss some of the historic ‘rags to riches’ stories.
  • What according to you is the role of nurses in the healthcare industry?
  • Will AI actually replace humans and eat up their jobs? Discuss your view and also explain the sector that will benefit the most from AI replacing humans. 
  • Is digital media taking over print media? Explain with case studies. 
  • Why is there an increasing number of senior citizens in the elderly homes? 
  • Are health insurances really beneficial? 
  • How important are soft skills? What role do they play in recruitment? 
  • Has the keto diet been effective in weight loss? Explain the merits and demerits. 
  • Is swimming a good physical activity to curb obesity? 
  • Is work from home as effective as work from office? Explain your take. 

Qualitative research titles for high school students

Tips to write excellent qualitative research papers

Now that you have scrolled through this section, we trust that you have picked up a topic for yourself from our list of 100 brilliant qualitative research titles for high school students. Deciding on a topic is the very first step. The next step is to figure out ways how you can ensure that your qualitative research paper can help you grab top scores. 

Once you have decided on the title, you are halfway there. However, deciding on a topic signals the next step, which is the process of writing your qualitative paper. This poses a real challenge! 

To help you with it, here are a few tips that will help you accumulate data irrespective of the topic you have chosen. Follow these four simple steps and you will be able to do justice to the topic you have chosen!

  • Create an outline based on the topic. Jot down the sub-topics you would like to include. 
  • Refer to as many sources as you can – documentaries, books, news articles, case studies, interviews, etc. Make a note of the facts and phrases you would like to include in your research paper. 
  • Write the body. Start adding qualitative data. 
  • Re-read and revise your paper. Make it comprehensible. Check for plagiarism, and proofread your research paper. Try your best and leave no scope for mistakes. 

Wrapping it up!

To wrap up, writing a qualitative research paper is almost the same as writing other research papers such as argumentative research papers , English research papers , Biology research papers , and more. Writing a paper on qualitative research titles promotes analytical and critical thinking skills among students. Moreover,  it also helps improve data interpretation and writing ability, which are essential for students going ahead.

research topics for junior high school

Having a 10+ years of experience in teaching little budding learners, I am now working as a soft skills and IELTS trainers. Having spent my share of time with high schoolers, I understand their fears about the future. At the same time, my experience has helped me foster plenty of strategies that can make their 4 years of high school blissful. Furthermore, I have worked intensely on helping these young adults bloom into successful adults by training them for their dream colleges. Through my blogs, I intend to help parents, educators and students in making these years joyful and prosperous.

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