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research topics about high school students

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 topics about high school students

58 Good Research Paper Topics for High School Students

June 27, 2023

We’ve all been there: you’re sitting in English or Social Studies, and suddenly your teacher announces those dreaded words: “I’d like you all to pick a topic for your upcoming research paper.” Your stomach lurches as your mind races to think of good research paper topics. Should you write about octopuses or the New York Yankees? Should you write about the history of Barbie and her uber-pink Dreamhouse , or perhaps the evolution of Taylor Swift ’s music career?

We get it: these are hard choices! That’s why we here at College Transitions have compiled the ultimate list to assist you in selecting an excellent research topic.

But First…the All-Important Question: What Makes a Great Topic?

We’re glad you asked! When selecting a topic for your academic research paper, you want to select a compelling topic that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Just like when choosing a persuasive speech topic or argumentative essay topic , you want to be sure to select a topic that intrigues you personally. This is pivotal for multiple reasons. If you find your topic intriguing, you’ll likely spend more time delving into the subject and gathering information to strengthen your arguments. Additionally, if a topic sparks your curiosity, odds are that your enthusiasm will pique someone else’s interest, too!

The Key to a Good Research Paper: Research

Regardless of the topic you choose, ensure it’s researchable . This means that the subject has sufficient resources for research. Even the most intriguing topic won’t make for a good paper if there’s not much research material out there. Remember: your typical research paper is longer and more in-depth than a regular academic essay. While this means you have more time to explore the topic at hand, it also means that the research paper will rely on more information and analysis of the existing material out there. Before finalizing your topic, make sure to do a preliminary search to guarantee there’s plenty of information out there to help you construct a comprehensive argument, filled with multiple perspectives and facets.

Following Guidelines

Lastly, and most importantly, follow the guidelines your teacher has laid out. If you focus your paper on pop culture, it certainly won’t meet a historical research paper’s requirement! Before embarking on this thrilling intellectual journey, double-check what type of research paper your teacher wants you to write. To prevent future headaches, clarify any rules or conditions upfront.

Now that we’ve covered these key bullet points of what makes a great research paper topic, let’s delve into some examples of topics:

English Literature Research Topics

1) Discuss the profound cultural impact and enduring relevance of Shakespeare’s plays.

2) What roles does feminism play in canonical literary works such as Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre ?

3) Investigate the use of symbolism and its impacts on the narrative and theme in a chosen novel, such as J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye or Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn.

4) Analyze the use of dystopian elements and their social commentary embedded in the works of George Orwell.

Good Research Paper Topics (Continued)

5) Analyze the themes , symbolic representations, and societal critiques of the American Dream as depicted in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby .

6) Provide a comprehensive explication of a renowned Shakespearean sonnet or soliloquy, such as this one from Hamlet .

7) Choose a poem such as Robert Frost’s “ The Road Not Taken ” and critically analyze its layered meanings and imagery, as well as their impact on the reader.

Technology Research Topics 

  • For a more comprehensive list of technology-related research topics, we’ve compiled an entire list for you here !

8) Compare and contrast the various techniques of solar geoengineering. How have these practices progressed over time? In what direction might they continue to evolve?

9) Art has become readily producible and consumable in the era of technology and artificial intelligence. How does this surge in accessibility impact the worth of artwork? Additionally, should we value physical artworks more than those made by programs like OpenAI’s DALL-E?

10) Does the advancement of cellular agriculture potentially threaten the ideas of a “ circular bioeconomy ?” Should we strive to pursue a circular bioeconomy?

11) Some people say that video games are detrimental to mental health or encourage violence. Study and present findings on whether specific categories or genres of video games provide more cognitive enhancement than others.

12) Since the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual appointments and doctor’s visits have increased exponentially. Does the surge in screen time that comes with digital therapeutics negatively affect mental health?

13) Consider mob mentality  across social media platforms such as TikTok, Twitter, Reddit, Facebook, and Instagram. In what instances and in what contexts is such mentality most prevalent?

Environmental Research Topics

  • For a more comprehensive list of environmental-related research topics, we’ve compiled the 50 best ones here !

14) Undertake a comprehensive study of the impacts of climate change on ocean currents and the changes in migration patterns of marine species.

15) Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of urban greenspaces . Discuss potential implementation strategies to ensure equitable access to these spaces, particularly for socio-economically disadvantaged communities.

16) Look at the ethical implications surrounding human intervention in conservation efforts for endangered species.

17) Analyze the environmental impacts of the hospitality and travel industries in terms of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

18) How do agricultural land use practices impact biodiversity and the health of ecosystems? Look at the relationship between farming, habitat degradation, and species survival.

19) Conduct an in-depth analysis of the potential economic repercussions of climate change. Focus on the impacts of climate changes on global agricultural productivity and food security, as well as their associated dynamics in the global economy.

Economic 

20) Conduct an in-depth exploration of the relationship between supply and demand dynamics and their influence on the market.

21) Analyze the impact of globalization on local economies. Examine both the direct and indirect effects of globalization and assess strategies for local economies to adapt and thrive within this system.

22) Write a research paper that investigates the role of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin in the global economy. What potential do these currencies have to disrupt traditional financial systems? What are their implications for monetary policy?

23) Undertake a study of the impact of China’s economic ascendance on the global economy.

24) Explore the intricate effects of population growth and/or decline on economic systems, considering factors such as labor market dynamics, allocation of resources, and the potential for sustainable development.

Political Science Research Topics

25) Discuss the role of lobbyists in U.S. politics. Scrutinize their influence on policy-making, and discuss the broader implications for democratic representation.

26) What influence does the media have on political elections? Investigate how media coverage shapes public opinion and voter behavior.

27) Analyze the impact of immigration policy on the economy. Examine such policies’ immediate and long-term implications on the labor market and economy.

28) Discuss the role of the Supreme Court in shaping U.S. laws. Focus on the function the Supreme Court plays in establishing legal precedents.

Philosophy 

29) Write a research paper examining the concept of free will, its origins, evolution, and implications.

30) Consider the implications of determinism. Look at its impact on individual agency and moral responsibility within the broader framework of philosophical tradition.

31) Undertake an in-depth analysis of happiness in philosophy, considering its interpretations and their influence on real-world practices.

32) Investigate how various philosophies have perceived consciousness through time. Trace this depiction of consciousness through various philosophical movements.

33) Discuss Nietzsche’s concept of the Übermensch, examining its underpinnings and implications.

Psychology research Topics

34) What role does social media play in shaping an individual’s self-esteem?

35) Explore childhood trauma’s long-lasting impact on adult interpersonal relationships and attachment styles.

36) Analyze the critical role that distinct parenting styles play in molding a child’s personality.

37) Research and discuss the psychological effects and health implications of prolonged exposure to stress.

Art Research Topics

38) Discuss the role of the Renaissance period on modern art, doing a side-by-side analysis of works from both eras.

39) Conduct a thorough analysis of the impact of street art on urban culture, examining how it reshapes public spaces and societal narratives.

40) Investigate the influence of Pop Art on modern design. You might focus on Pop Art’s particular impact on interior design and digital media.

41) Explore the role feminist art plays in promoting gender equality. How do feminist artworks challenge traditional gender roles and/or contribute to societal discourse?

Computer Science Research Topics

42) Artificial Intelligence is advancing rapidly. Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of this technology.

43) Discuss whether the use of facial recognition technology violates individuals’ privacy, as well as the broader implications such technology has on societal well-being.

44) Analyze the use of surveillance technology by the government. Is it ethical for the government to use such technology to monitor its citizens?

45) Investigate the rapid development and long-term effects of various social media platforms.

Education 

46) Investigate the history of book bans in schools. Discuss the larger cultural and educational impacts such bans have on students and society.

47) Analyze various forms of schooling, from homeschooling to public and private schools. Consider the implications of each on a child’s education and social skills.

48) Write a research paper examining the use of affirmative action or other race-conscious policies on college campuses. Discuss the impact such policies have, as well as potential benefits and drawbacks.

49) Consider the impact of standardized testing on student performance.

Government and Law Research Topics

50) Consider the role that intellectual property and copyright laws play in innovation.

51) Investigate the impact of anti-trust laws on big corporations. What are the economic effects of these laws?

52) Study the role that law enforcement plays in community safety.

53) Consider the legalization of marijuana on crime rates. Discuss the impact this legalization has had on various communities, as well as its benefits and drawbacks.

History Research Topics

54) Analyze the influence of the Civil Rights movement on modern America. How did this movement shape racial, social, and political dynamics in America?

55) Investigate how the French Revolution reshaped political structures and ideologies across Europe.

56) Analyze the significance of the fall of the Berlin Wall and how it marked a shift in the global balance of power.

57) Delve into the effects of the Cold War, as well as its impacts on global politics.

58) Examine the role that women played during World War II and what impact these roles had on challenging gender norms.

I’ve Got My Topic: What Now?

Once you’ve selected your topic, begin brainstorming ways to shape and craft your argument. Here’s one structure your research paper might take:

  • Introduction: The introduction presents your research topic to readers and provides a roadmap for the paper ahead.
  • Thesis Statement: Craft a compelling thesis statement summarizing your paper’s central arguments.
  • Body : The body of the paper is where your carefully conducted research comes into play. Each paragraph should follow the previous one, building a logical progression of thoughts.
  • Conclusion: In your conclusion, you reiterate the points you made in your paper and provide a closing paragraph to neatly tie up any last thoughts.
  • Reference Page: This is where you credit your sources.

Once you’ve followed this structure, you’re on your way to crafting an excellent research paper. Of course, don’t let pesky typos undermine your hours of hard work and writing. Make sure to always proofread your work before turning it in. And if you’re passionate about research and writing, don’t stop there. Check out these summer programs for writing and journalism so that you can continue to fuel your passion.

  • High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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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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50+ High School Research Paper Topics to Ace Your Grades

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Table of contents

  • 1 How to Choose High School Research Paper Topics
  • 2.1 Education
  • 2.2 World history
  • 2.3 Mental Health
  • 2.4 Science
  • 2.6 Healthcare finance research topics
  • 2.7 Environmental
  • 2.8 Entrepreneurship
  • 3 Conclusion

Research papers are common assignments in high school systems worldwide. It is a scientific term that refers to essays where students share what they’ve learned after thoroughly researching one specific topic. Why do high schools impose them?

Writing a well-structured and organized research paper is key to teaching students how to make critical connections, express understanding, summarize data, and communicate findings.

Students don’t only have to come up with several high school research paper topics, choose one, and produce a research paper. A good topic will help you connect with the evaluating public, or in this case, your professors and classmates. However, many students struggle with finding the right high school research topics.

This is why we’ve put together this guide on choosing topics for a high school research paper and over 50 topic ideas you can use or get inspired with.

How to Choose High School Research Paper Topics

Since you are about to go through over 50 high school research topics, you might get overwhelmed. To avoid it, you need to know how to choose the right research paper topic for you.

The most important thing to consider is the time needed to complete a paper on a particular topic. Too broad topics will wear you out, and you might fail to meet the deadline. This is why you should always stick to, shall we say, not-too-broad and well-defined topics.

Since you will spend some time researching and writing, you need to consider your motivation too. Choosing a topic that you find interesting will help you fuel your research and paper writing capabilities. If your efforts turn out to be futile and the deadline is dangerously close, you can always look for a research paper for sale to ace your grade.

Most Interesting & Easy Research Topics for High School students

Since there are many research paper ideas for high school students, we didn’t want to just provide you with a list. Your interest is an essential factor when choosing a topic. This is why we’ve put them in 8 categories. Feel free to jump to a category that you find the most engaging. If you don’t have the time, here at StudyClerk, we are standing by to deliver a completely custom research paper to you.

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 Impose Mandatory Vaccination On Students?
  • The Benefits Of Charter Schools For The Public Education System
  • Homeschooling Vs. Traditional Schooling: Which One Better Sets Students For Success
  • Should Public Education Continue To Promote Diversity? Why?
  • The Most Beneficial Funding Programs For Students
  • The Effects Of The Rising Price Of College Tuitions On High School Students
  • Discuss The Most Noteworthy Advantages And Disadvantages Of Standardized Testing
  • What Are The Alternatives To Standardized Testing?
  • Does Gap Year Between High School And College Set Students For Success?
  • Identify And Discuss The Major Benefits Of Group Projects For High Schoolers

World history

World history is rich, fun, and engaging. There are numerous attractive topics to choose from. If history is something that has you on your toes, you’ll find the following world history research topics for high school fascinating.

  • The Origin Of The Israel-Palestine Conflict And Possible Resolutions
  • The History Of The USA Occupation Of Iraq
  • Choose A Famous Assassinated World Leader And Discuss What Led To The Assassination
  • Discuss A Historical Invention And How It Changed The Lives Of People Worldwide
  • Has The World’s Leading Countries’ Response To Climate Change Improved Or Declined Over The Last Decade?
  • How The President Of Belarus Manages To Stay In Power For Over 25 Years
  • Which Event In World History Had The Most Impact On Your Country?

Mental Health

Many governments worldwide work on increasing mental health awareness. The following mental health topics for high school research papers will put you in a position to contribute to this very important movement.

  • Discuss The Main Ways Stress Affects The Body
  • Can Daily Exercises Benefit Mental Health? How?
  • Should More Counselors Work In High Schools? Why?
  • Discuss The Major Factors That Contribute To Poor Mental And Physical Well-Being
  • In What Ways Has The Worldwide Pandemic Affected People’s Mental Health?
  • Explore The Relationship Between Social Media And Mental Health Disorders
  • How The Public School System Cares For The Mental Health Of Students
  • What Is The Most Effective Psychotherapy For High Schoolers?

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 Civilization Save Coral Reefs?
  • What Are Black Holes, And What Is Their Role?
  • Explain Sugar Chemistry That Enables Us To Make Candies
  • What Are The Biggest Successes Of The Epa In The Last Decade?
  • Is There A Way To Reverse Climate Change? How?
  • What Solutions Does Science Offer To Resolve The Drinking Water Crisis In The Future?

Many teenagers find inspiration in music, so why not choose some music high school research paper topics.

  • In What Way Music Education Benefits High School Students?
  • How Famous Musicians Impact Pop Music
  • Classification Of Music Instruments: Discuss The Sachs-Hornbostel System
  • Did Sound Effect Technology Change The Music Industry? How?
  • How Did Online Streaming Platforms Help Music Evolve?
  • How Does Music Software Emulate Sounds Of Different Instruments?

Healthcare finance research topics

Healthcare and finance go hand in hand. Shining light on some exciting correlations between these two fields can be engaging. Here are some topics that you can consider.

  • How Can Patient Management Systems Save Money In Hospitals?
  • The Pros And Cons Of The Public Healthcare System
  • Should Individuals Or The Government Pay For Healthcare?
  • What Is Obama-Care And How It Benefits Americans?
  • The Most Noteworthy Developments In The History Of Healthcare Financing

Environmental

Our environment has been a hot topic for quite some time now. There is a lot of research to back up your claims and make logical assumptions. Here are some environmental high school research topics you can choose from.

  • What Is The Impact Of Offshore Drilling On The Environment?
  • Do We Need Climate Change Legislation? Why?
  • Are Ecotourism And Tropical Fishing Viable Ways To Save And Recuperate Endangered Areas And Animals?
  • The Impact Of Disposable Products On The Environment
  • Discuss The Benefits Of Green Buildings To Our Environment
  • Find And Discuss A Large-Scale Recent Project That Helped Restore Balance In An Area

Entrepreneurship

Many students struggle with having to find good entrepreneurship research paper ideas for high school. This is why we’ve developed a list of topics to inspire your research.

  • What Is Entrepreneurship?
  • Are People Born With An Entrepreneurial Spirit, Or Can You Learn It?
  • Discuss The Major Entrepreneurship Theories
  • Does Entrepreneurship Affect The Growth Of The Economy?
  • Which Character Traits Are Commonly Found In Successful Entrepreneurs?
  • The Pros And Cons Of Having A Traditional Job And Being An Entrepreneur
  • Discuss Entrepreneurship As One Of The Solutions To Unemployment
  • What Is Crowdfunding, And How It’s Related To Entrepreneurship
  • The Most Common Challenges Entrepreneurs Face
  • How Social Media Made A Lot Of Successful Entrepreneurs

Hopefully, you’ll find these high school research paper topics inspirational. The categories are there to help you choose easily. Here at StudyClerk, we know how hard it is to complete all assignments in time and ace all your grades. If you are struggling with writing, feel free to contact us about our writing services, and we’ll help you come on top of your research paper assignment no matter how complex it is.

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research topics about high school students

research topics about high school students

100+ Most Qualitative Research Topics For High School Students In 2024

Are you in high school? Searching for the best and most qualitative research topics for high school students? Research is a part of study that is good for brainstorming ideas about a particular subject. 

When students research to find a qualitative research title, they face many challenges. These challenges include not knowing where to start or how to pick a good topic. 

Do you want to take a review of some ideas that make your research better and great? Here, we give all of the most creative and qualitative research topics for students who studied in high school. 

Table of Contents

What Is Qualitative Research Topics?

Well, before proceeding, you need to know what qualitative research topics are. A qualitative research title is like examining things closely to better understand them. 

Instead of just numbers, we focus on stories and conversations to learn about people’s experiences and thoughts. 

We use methods like talking to people and watching what they do to determine why things happen and how people feel about them. 

This helps us learn about topics like how people learn, why they act the way they do, and what they think about important stuff.

List of Qualitative Research Topics For High School Students

Check out qualitative research topics for high school students:-

  • What is the effect of social media on the self-esteem of teenagers?
  • What do high school students think about their bodies?
  • What can teens do to manage stress?
  • How do teens feel about online bullying?
  • Do high schoolers feel peer pressure?
  • How safe do students feel at school?
  • How can teens cope with school-related stress?
  • What do students think about standardized tests?
  • Does having supportive parents impact students’ academic performance?
  • What’s it like for students from diverse backgrounds to attend school together?
  • Are students educated enough about mental health in school?
  • How do LGBTQ+ students feel in school?
  • How does screen time affect studying?
  • Do students enjoy participating in sports?
  • What was the experience of learning online during the pandemic like for students?
  • Do students approve of the school meals?
  • What are students’ opinions on dress codes?
  • How do students with learning differences feel in school?
  • Do extracurricular activities improve students’ well-being?
  • What do students think about vocational education?
  • How do students from non-college-educated families fare in school?
  • Do students benefit from peer tutoring?
  • How do students feel about classroom diversity?
  • How do students feel about emergency drills?
  • What’s students’ attitude towards sleep?
  • How do students perceive substance use?
  • How does home learning differ from traditional schooling?
  • Do students find internet-based learning effective?
  • What’s students’ perspective on counseling in school?
  • What’s the experience of balancing school and part-time jobs for students?
  • How does involvement in arts and music affect students?
  • What are students’ opinions on homework?
  • How do students feel about transitioning to high school?
  • What do students think about career-oriented education?
  • Do students prioritize environmental education?
  • How do students feel about hybrid learning?
  • Do students prefer certain friends in group activities?
  • How do students perceive their teachers?
  • What’s the experience of students needing extra support?
  • Do students value emergency preparedness training?
  • How do students feel about receiving help from tutors?
  • What’s students’ comfort level with class participation?
  • What’s the experience of students in advanced classes?
  • Do students perform better academically when their families are harmonious?
  • Do students engage in community service willingly?
  • What’s the experience of students in remote learning?
  • Do students aspire to attend college or pursue a trade?
  • What’s students’ perspective on multicultural literature?
  • How do students feel about attending alternative schools?
  • Do students enjoy learning about environmental issues?
  • How do students feel about using technology for learning?
  • What’s the experience of students needing to catch up on missed lessons?
  • Do students feel comfortable confiding in school counselors?
  • How do students perceive school dress codes?
  • What’s the experience of students attending specialized schools?
  • Do students feel safer with certain peers?
  • How do students respond to varied teaching methods?
  • Do students appreciate learning about environmental conservation?
  • What’s the experience of students going on class trips?
  • How do students prioritize their health?
  • What’s the experience of students learning in a non-native language?
  • Do students value emotional intelligence education?
  • How do students feel about hands-on learning?
  • What’s students’ perception of grading systems?
  • Do students believe in universal access to higher education?
  • How do students perceive cultural education?
  • What’s the experience of students struggling to fit in socially?
  • Do students enjoy learning about technology?
  • How do students feel about history and geography lessons?
  • What’s the experience of students receiving additional academic support?
  • Do students value global awareness in their education?
  • How do students feel about ethics education?
  • What’s the experience of students balancing school with caregiving responsibilities?
  • Do students appreciate lessons on individuality?
  • How do students feel about art and music education?
  • What’s the experience of academically gifted students?
  • Do students value civic education?
  • How do students perceive religious studies?
  • What’s the experience of students transferring schools?
  • Do students enjoy learning about real-world applications?
  • How do students feel about health education?
  • What’s the experience of students with attention difficulties in class?
  • Do students value community service education?
  • How do students feel about collaborative learning?
  • What’s the experience of students struggling with literacy or numeracy?
  • Do students enjoy learning about animal care?
  • How do students feel about career planning education ?
  • What’s the experience of students who learn best through practical tasks?
  • Do students value online safety education?
  • How do students feel about environmental stewardship education?
  • What’s the experience of students juggling school with work or responsibilities?
  • Do students appreciate lessons on advocacy?
  • How do students feel about culinary and nutritional education?
  • What’s the experience of students excelling in sports or extracurriculars?
  • Do students value lessons on respectfulness?
  • How do students feel about financial literacy education?
  • What’s the experience of students struggling to socialize?
  • Do students appreciate emergency preparedness education?
  • How do students feel about animal welfare education?
  • What’s the experience of students exploring career options?

How To Find Qualitative Research Topics For High School Students?

Here we give the easiest steps to choose the qualitative research topics for high school students:

Steps To Find Qualitative Research Topics

Most Exceptional Qualitative Research Topics In Social Science

These are the Exceptional Qualitative Research Topics In Social Science:

Fantastic Examples of Qualitative Research Titles

Here are the Fantastic Examples of Qualitative Research Titles:

Good Topics To Start for Qualitative Research

Here are the Good Qualitative Research Topics for High School Students:

Best Qualitative Research Topics for High School Students Pdf

Here is the Qualitative Research Topics for High School Students pdf:

Latest Examples of the Qualitative Research Topics That Impress the Teacher

Following are the good examples of qualitative research topics for high school students:

Most Interesting Qualitative Research Title Examples for Students

These are the Qualitative Research Title Examples for Students:

Great Qualitative Research Topics About Humanity & Social Science

These are the following Qualitative Researches Topics About Humanity & Social Science:

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Research Topics & Ideas: Education

170+ Research Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

Topic Kickstarter: Research topics in education

If 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)
  • Free Webinar : Topic Ideation 101
  • Where to get extra help

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

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 idea 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 Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

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61 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

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

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.

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

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 .

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.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 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?

body_highschoolsc

  • 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?

Are you also learning about dynamic equilibrium in your science class? We break this sometimes tricky concept down so it's easy to understand in our complete guide to dynamic equilibrium .

Thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner? Nurse practitioners have one of the fastest growing careers in the country, and we have all the information you need to know about what to expect from nurse practitioner school .

Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa).

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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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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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.

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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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!

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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Topic 1: artificial intelligence (ai), topic 2: applied math and ai, topic 3: algorithms, data structures, and python, topic 4: neuroscience and psychology, delving into the intricacies of how the brain functions, particularly in learning and memory, is a vital area of research in neuroscience and psychology. students can explore topics like neural pathways, cognitive processes, and psychological theories. this field is especially appealing to those who are interested in biology, psychology, and neuroscience, offering a window into the complexities of the human mind., topic 5: cancer biology, topic 6: automobile engineering, in the era of connected, autonomous, shared, and electric (case) vehicles, designing safer vehicles is vital for achieving the goal of zero traffic fatalities. this topic is suited for students interested in engineering, physics, machine design, and other related fields. , topic 7: aerospace engineering, topic 8: medical emergencies in zero gravity and for long-term space missions, topic 9: exoplanets, topic 10: public health policy, topic 11: music and science.

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25+ Best Science Research Ideas for High School Students

If you’re an ambitious high school student looking for opportunities to build your college profile and learn new skills, consider undertaking a research project. You do not need to be sure about what you want to major in, but having a general idea aligned with your interests helps! Conducting research shows demonstrated interest in a subject, aids critical thinking and problem-solving, provides laboratory experience, and helps you gain analytical and communication skills. 

What makes a good research idea?

There are a few key components you need to keep in mind when thinking about a research topic:

What is your project trying to achieve? For your research to be relevant, it needs to identify a knowledge gap and be significant. Your research findings should add to existing literature and help future researchers.

It is important to state what will be included in your research explicitly.  Clearly defined boundaries help estimate a realistic timeline and allocate any necessary resources.  

The easiest way to be dedicated throughout your research project is by choosing a topic you are passionate about!  This will make sure you remain motivated throughout, and it will reflect in your work. Do not choose a topic for the sake of it — you will find the project difficult to complete and your disinterest will reflect in the quality of your work.

Feasibility:

You may have a grand idea for your research topic, but can you execute it? It’s important to consider any constraints you may have — time, money, etc. — and choose a topic that can be completed with your given resources.  If you are working independently, choose a topic that isn't resource-intensive. For example, research that requires you use advanced telescopes to examine cosmological patterns may not be feasible if you do not already have access to one. 

What do I do once I have a research idea?

Great job, you have found a topic that interests you, is relevant to the field, and is feasible in scope and resources! Next step, you need to find a mentor who can guide and advise you through the research process.  They could be a working researcher, a college professor, a graduate student, or a Ph.D. candidate.

If you’re looking for a mentor, we’d recommend applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program  which connects students with world-class researchers, offers one-on-one mentorship, and guides you through the research and writing process, even helping you get your paper published!

Chemistry research ideas for high school students:

Chemistry can be a great field to undertake independent research in — chemical reactions form the basis of life and can give you a deeper understanding of the world.  Moreover, chemistry is directly related to important issues that affect us, like climate change, drug discovery, nanotechnology, and more. Research in these domains can lead to life-changing benefits for society! 

Some topics you can research include:

1. Using green chemistry to achieve sustainability targets in the fields of energy, water remediation, agriculture, and sensing

2. Analyzing different energy storage options and comparing and contrasting different technologies' chemistries, performance, lifetime, cost, geographic and resource constraints, and more

3. Investigating how startups and the private sector’s newest technologies are critical to the transition to a green future and how products are commercialized from lab to market

4. Understanding how material nano-structure can create specific properties and take advantage of "structure-property" understanding to engineer new materials

5. Determining the role small molecules play in imaging, labeling, target identification, inhibiting native protein functions, and facilitating foreign ones, especially in new techniques used to understand disease pathways

6. Investigating how molecules are made in nature, such as the reactions performed by enzymes to make natural products

Suggested by Lumiere PhD mentors at Harvard University, University of California, Berkeley, Yale University, University of Cambridge, Technical University of Munich, Georgia Institute of Technology, Duke University, University of Leeds, Cornell University, and John Hopkins University

Biology research ideas for high school students:

Research in biology can contribute to humans’ understanding of living organisms, lead to medical breakthroughs and advancements in healthcare, contribute to cancer research and treatment, deepen our understanding of genetics, improve sustainability by helping develop biofuels and biodegradable materials, and more. 

7. Tumor progression and how cancer cells invade and interact with other cells

8. Cancer immunotherapy: the study of how cancer cells evade the immune system and how we can harness the immune system to battle cancer

9. Researching past and current technologies used in gene editing. Identify challenges and weigh the ethical and social implications of these technologies

10. Identifying technical challenges in mass vaccination campaigns. Review existing data from public health organizations and current scientific literature on new vaccine delivery technologies

11. Analyzing the effects of alcohol and drug addiction on the brain

12. Discovering different theories of learning and memory. You can design and use different  clinical studies here

Suggested by Lumiere Ph.D. mentors at Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Cornell University,  Duke University, and Yale University   

Physics research ideas for high school students:

Have space, quantum physics, nuclear science, and other such subjects always fascinated you? If so, a research project in physics is a great way to dig deeper and understand why different phenomena occur. Physics is a broad and interconnected discipline; research in the subject can cover topics like mechanical and electrical engineering, quantum computing, nuclear energy, astrophysical and cosmological phenomena, and computational technologies.

13. The features and limitations of augmented and virtual reality technologies, current industry standards of performance, and solutions to address challenges

14. Cosmological mysteries (like dark energy, inflation, and dark matter) and their hypothesized explanations

15. Physical processes that shape galaxies through cosmic time in the context of extragalactic astronomy and the current issues and frontiers in galaxy evolution

16. Radiation or radiation measurement in applications of nuclear physics (such as reactors, nuclear batteries, and sensors/detectors)

17. The electrical and thermodynamic properties of Boson particles, whose quantum nature is responsible for laser radiation

18. Mathematical derivation of the dynamics of particles from fundamental laws (such as special relativity, general relativity, and quantum mechanics)

19. The theoretical and experimental advances in quantum computing. Explore current high-impact research directions for quantum computing from a hardware or theoretical perspective

20. Nuclear fission or nuclear fusion energy as a possible solution to mitigate climate change

Suggested by Lumiere Ph.D. mentors at Northwestern University, Princeton University, Stanford University, Cornell University, University of Cambridge, Harvard University, University of California, Irvine, and University of Southampton.

Marine biology research ideas for high school students:

Contributing to research in marine biology can be extremely important given the diversity of marine ecosystems, the life they support, and their importance in combating climate change and preventing extreme weather events.  Understanding how oceans work directly relates to water pollution and the quality of seafood, contributes to coastal protection and carbon sequestration (the process of capturing and storing excess carbon dioxide), and helps educate the public on the importance of protecting marine habitats.

 If this interests you, here are some research topics to consider:

21. Examine how corals are responding to climate change, how the change in oceanic temperatures affects their reef-building capabilities, and the knock-on effects

22. Examine how marine conservation and tourism can go coexist. Suggest ways to ensure the sustainable development of coastal economies

23. Study how marine pollution impacts coastal areas, marine biodiversity, and communities’ livelihoods

24. Study how human activity (like pollution, fishing, and habitat destruction) has impacted marine genomes and how other anthropogenic factors have influenced adaptation and genetic diversity in marine organisms

25. Study the effect of plastic pollution on marine life and examine the benefits of adopting more eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging materials. Develop new methods to remove plastic from the ocean

26. Study carbon sequestration. Investigate how coastal ecosystems like mangroves, saltmarshes, seagrasses, etc. can help mitigate C02 emissions

27. Study the effect of plastic pollution on marine life and examine the benefits of adopting more eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging materials. Develop new methods to remove plastic from the ocean

If you’re serious about conducting independent research, you may want to consider the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a selective online high school program for students founded by researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here . You can also reach out to us at [email protected] to know more, or to have a chat about possible collaborations!

Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation , a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!

Kieran Lobo is a freelance writer from India, who currently teaches English in Spain.

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StatAnalytica

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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Top 50+ Research Topics for High School Students in 2022

research topics for high school students

A research paper is a piece of writing in which you explain what you have learned, analyzed, and experienced while studying a topic in depth.

A Research paper is a document that professes your knowledge and your analytical skills toward a particular topic. But writing a research paper is not an easy task, it is hard to show your knowledge through your writing skills.

So, It is essential to write in such a way that will appeal to the reader and will convince the checker that you can grow. Research topic for high school students is easy to find as being a high school student, as expectations of a  checker and reader are not high that high from you.

So, try to keep it simple and sorted. To make your research paper more manageable try to draw a mind map after choosing a topic try to make important headlines that you are going to write in a bold format and then research these headlines and try to compartmentalize your research in different paragraphs to make your paper easy to read.

Don't worry internet will help you in finding the best research topic and before this, you should know what should be written in a research paper and what the importance of a research paper is.

Importance of Writing a Research Paper for High School Students:

Being a high school student You might not express every idea that you get, while a teacher teaches you in a classroom because that might be daunting for you.

In this case research paper provides you with a great intermediating platform to express all your ideas and doubts which you were unable to communicate in the classroom.

A research paper is also a good way of stating something, for those who are shy in the classroom, though you know the answer to every question that has been asked by the teacher in the classroom.

As you are shy, it becomes difficult for you to answer. Plus research paper can fetch you good internal marks and improves your knowledge. Writing a research paper is always a blessing as it improves your writing and analytical skills and adds more points to your knowledge and experience.

How the High School Students Should Select a Research Topic?

  • Research topics for high school students should be of their interest. As interesting topics ignite the fire of research and analysis. It has been noticed that, if students have an interest in some topic then they enjoy studying that topic else they get tired off very soon so in order to write a good quality research paper high school students must seek the topic of their interest.
  • The second important point that a high school student must keep in mind while choosing a topic for a research paper is that the topic they are going to choose must have valid resources available in the market on which a student can research and about that research student can write. Being a high school student one must not do excessive research as it is the work of Ph.D. students, but high school students should keep it simple and crisp as they are still in a learning stage. So simply go for that topic whose material and information is available in the market. Being a high school student there are several topics available but still, the topic chosen by you to write a research paper should be significant and must be appealing to the readers. A topic should connect you as a writer with readers and should influence them.
  • So the third point is to go for the significant and influencing topic that is triggering for minds. The fourth point to be kept in mind by high school students while choosing a topic for research is, that they must choose a topic through which they can show their ability to learn, write and grow.
  • After all, a research paper shows the ability and potential you have so to show your potential you must choose that topic through which you can manageably prove your points and thoughts. Research topic for high school students is generally given by their subject teachers so in this case, a student must add those points which have been taught by the teacher in the classroom this will actually leave a good impression on a teacher. And will fetch you good internal marks.
  • Last but not least point is that your document should not be plagiarized . As, so much information is available on the internet today use that information correctly and in a more manageable way but don't copy paste, because by doing this you will lose your authenticity and this will leave a bad impression on others, especially on your teachers s choose the topic wisely first understand the topic you have chosen then search them on the internet from there understand the topic well and then write it down.
Therefore, while selecting a research topic one must keep these points in his mind to create a good document and avoid being rejected.

List of a Few Easy Research Topics for High School Students

Here are some interesting topics for high school students that they may consider if they are searching for a good topic to write a research paper . We are pointing out a few interesting topics, that will trigger your interest in researching more on that topic, are manageable and sources of these topics are available in the market also.

Top 5 Easy Research Topics for High School Students 

These topics are influential by nature. Topics that we are going to suggest to you are really good and will improve your own knowledge and will make you aware of so many new things. 
  • Should recycling plastic be mandatory?

In this topic, you can take recycling as the main keyword around which your whole writing will revolve. The next word of utmost significance is plastic, so you can mention both advantages and disadvantages of using plastic , along with that you can also mention why plastics should be recycled and banned.

  • Air Pollution due to aviation

The aviation sector every year releases huge tonnes of carbon into the environment; you can take it as a research topic through which you can suggest some measures to combat these carbon emissions.

  • How to manage natural resources effectively

In this topic, you can take the readers towards sustainable development. And suggest your ways to tackle the problems which are coming in front due to the development.

  • Role of media in global politics

In this topic, you can describe the role of media both on the national and international levels as media is the bridge that binds two or more countries together and shares the ideologies of different countries with us. Media also make us aware of what is happening around us in a simple way one could say that media connects one country with another. 

  • Nuclear weapons

Nuclear weapons are another important and innovative topic that is a good topic and frequently comes in news globally as it has some extreme effects. In this case, you can surely take this topic as your research topic and write the bad and good effects of nuclear technology and state your own points as well.

Some More Interesting Research Topics for High School Students

        1. Environmental Studies-Based Research Topics for High School Students

  • Endangered species
  • Soil degradation
  • Climate disturbances  
  • Global Warming and Gases Involved in it
  • Development is a curse or a boon
  • Forest fire
  • Oceans’ garbage and its effect on marine animals

        2. International Affairs-Based Research Topics for High School Students

  • Global Friendship
  • Man is the citizen of the world yes or no
  • Functions of the United Nations and their significance in the 21st century
  • International trade
  • Interdependency of countries on each other
  • Role of the international court of justice
  • Bilateral trade

       3. Literature-Based Research Topics for High School Students

  • Role of literature in shaping the world
  • Literature is a mirror of society
  • Challenges faced by literature in the previous century
  • Women in literature or women's writings in literature
  • Types of writing in literature
  • Literature before independence and after independence
  • Literature from Shakespeare till now
  • Human Evolution in Literature  

       4. Politics-Based Research Topics for High School Students

  • Role of women in politics
  • Politics is the sound of a layman
  • What is dirty politics ?
  • Changes in the pattern of politics
  • Different political ideologies
  • Best political leaders
  • Challenges in the life of a politician

       5. Science-Based Research Topics for High School Students:

  • NASA is an epicenter of science and new technology in space
  • Science and the new world
  • Scientific spirit in new generations
  • Genetics and Molecular biology
  • Rocket science and Robotics
  • Neuroscience and mental problems
  • Virology and its importance in the COVID period

       6. Sports-Based Research Topics for High School Students:

  • What is the major difference between the commonwealth games and the Olympics ?
  • Participation of women in world championships
  • Rising competition in sports
  • Why cricket and football are the two most common games that are being watched by high school students?
  • Impact of the Olympics on the economy of the hosting nation
  • Para Olympics is a really good platform for talented opportunity seekers 
  • Over exaggerated and overpaid games

Conclusion:

Through this blog, we have provided some Research topics for high school students that might turn out helpful for young students. As selecting a research topic is always intriguing, we have solved this problem by providing you with some really good topics on which you can research and write.

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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.

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:-

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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10 creative research topics for students (2024)

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Miroslav Damyanov

Research is a key part of student life, but deciding which topic to research can take time and effort. The right research topic typically aligns with your skills and interests, has current relevance, and can positively impact the world.

In this article, you’ll find some helpful examples to help you get started.

  • What is a research topic, and what is it for?

Research topics enable students to drill down into a specific aspect of a subject to broaden their knowledge and share learnings with others. They are typically used to make discoveries or develop fresh viewpoints.

A research topic defines the specific theme that research will be conducted around. It’s essential for providing a key focus for the work to be completed. Ultimately, it defines a core problem or knowledge gap that needs to be solved. 

A clear topic helps define what is being studied and how that information will be communicated to others.

  • Research topic vs. research question

A research topic is a broad theme of focus that requires further investigation. It’s the project’s overall subject—an aspect of which will be studied.

A research topic example could be “The effects of meditation on stress reduction.”

A research question is a specific inquiry that researchers want to investigate and answer to broaden their knowledge and make new discoveries. Research questions are much more specific, focusing on a very small aspect of the overall topic.

The right research question will specifically set out what is being researched so there is no ambiguity.

Here’s an example of a research question within the topic: “How does meditation impact stress, anxiety, and burnout in the workplace?”

  • What makes a good research paper topic?

Here are the characteristics that make some topics more favorable and useful than others:

Clarity: a helpful research topic should be clearly understood to ensure the integrity of the research. It should be clear to the student and mentor/professor what the topic is and how it will be explored.

Originality: answering questions that have already been researched and answered many times before could be a waste of resources. Answering original questions is key to getting the most out of research. This might involve researching topics that have already been covered from a different angle or exploring an entirely new topic.

Relevance: it’s helpful to ensure that a research topic is related to your expertise and your access to resources. This will ensure that the research topic is relevant to you.

Ethical : ethics should always be considered when conducting research. Your research shouldn’t cause physical or mental harm to any participants. You should also consider animal and environmental ethics.

  • How can I choose a good topic for my research paper?

With so many topics to choose from, selecting a topic for your research paper can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s a good idea to consider these three points to make the best choice:

1. Lean into personal interest

Being interested and experienced in a particular field will make the research more interesting, relevant, and straightforward to conduct.

Your interest will mean you’re committed and motivated to discover the answer to your research question. Being personally engaged also makes the process more enjoyable.

One caveat to keep in mind is the potential for bias. If you are invested in the research having a particular result, you must ensure it’s accurate, double-checked, and reviewed by an impartial party.

2. Choose a topic with enough information

Your research project might fail if you don’t have access to sufficient information and resources. There needs to be enough information to gain deep insights into the research at hand.

Consider the resources you have within your project limits. If your research has funding, carefully work out what that funding could be used for. If not, you may need to consider research that you’ll be able to complete with access to public records and other free resources.

Timings, finances, access to participants, and publicly accessible information will all need to be considered before choosing the final topic to research.

3. Consider the guidelines

You’ll need to adhere to the specific guidelines that your school, mentor, or professor have laid out. They may request that the topic be related to public interest, a currently challenging topic for the environment, or another parameter.

When considering those guidelines, make ethical considerations. Your school or university is unlikely to permit unethical research.

  • How to find research topics to write about

Even though there’s an endless range of topics to research, you might not know where to begin. Starting with background reading, mind mapping, and speaking with mentors can help mold general ideas into useful topics and questions.

Extensive reading: completing background reading of educational databases, journals, and scientific studies can help provide a good working knowledge of what is currently being researched and identify key gaps.

Social problems: current challenges on both a local and global scale can make excellent research questions. Whether it’s investigating climate change, human health, or the impact of pandemics, there’s likely to be large human interest if you research social problems and challenges. The research you conduct may even have a positive impact on the world around you.

Mind mapping: brainstorming different ideas inspired by your background reading and personal interests can lead to ideal research topics. Create a large mind map, whether in a notebook or on a whiteboard, to get all your ideas down on paper. You may be surprised at what unique ideas you come up with.

Speak to mentors: running topics over with your professor or mentor could prove very helpful. They may be able to help you refine your ideas, provide feedback on research questions, and offer useful suggestions to ensure the topic you pick is appropriate.

  • The top 10 research topics for students

Here are some of the top 10 research topics and research areas for students. Whether in high school, senior high school, or college, these topics are important and relevant for students today.

You might use these ideas as starting points for your own original research topics and research questions.

1. High school research paper topic ideas

Research topics in high school can promote critical thinking , personal growth, and problem-solving skills.

Some of the most relevant research topics for high schoolers revolve around social and political issues, as those are often core topics within the school curriculum. Also, students are often interested in how they can positively impact the world around them, so topics within social change and social issues are particularly relevant.

The impacts of bullying

Bullying and its impacts are an interesting and relevant topic for high school students. Students may want to consider ways to mitigate bullying or explore whether bullying can affect people long-term.

Some specific research questions within the bullying topic are:

What is the evidence that parental support can alleviate the impact of bullying in schools?

What are the effects of bullying and victimization on short-term mental health?

How can we predict adolescents’ bullying participation and understand the participant roles of bullying in different grades?

Social media in high schools

With social media use prolific in the modern world, students may be particularly interested to learn about how it impacts humans. Students may want to research the effects of different social media types, ways to reduce social media use, or how social media is impacting people around the world.

Some topics within social media could be:

Is there a correlation between social media use and academic performance?

What are the effects of social media use on mental health in people aged 12–18?

How does social media use affect self-esteem in students?

2. Psychology research paper topics

Psychology is a broadly studied topic with many possible avenues for exploration. Whether you’d like to understand how the human brain works, ways to boost mental health, or treatment options in psychology, there are endless options.

Here are some of the top 10 research topics for college students in psychology: 

Increasing happiness

Some specific research questions related to happiness include the following:

What are the factors driving the fear of leaning into happiness in American society?

How can practicing vulnerability reduce stress and boost happiness?

What impact does forest bathing have on overall mood scores?

Mitigating anxiety

With 37% of US adults more anxious in 2023 than in 2022, anxiety as a research topic is very relevant.

Below are some example research questions:

How does chronic anxiety impact people’s day-to-day lives?

What is the impact of meditation interventions on anxiety?

Is there data to support physical exercise interventions for anxiety disorders?

3. Science research paper topics

Scientific research covers many study fields. From biology and chemistry to physics and biochemistry, science helps researchers discover critical information about humans and our world.

Here are a few potential topics for exploration:

Reducing pandemic risk

Given the impact of COVID-19, mitigating the risk of a future pandemic is of significant human interest. A student may look at ways to improve pandemic responses, identify future pandemics, boost vaccine adoption, and reduce the spread of misinformation. 

Specific research questions include the following:

How can AI help predict future pandemics?

How does animal breeding contribute to zoonotic disease risk?

What are the key ways to identify and control a potential future pandemic before it becomes widespread?

Renewable energy

With climate change and the planet’s health a major concern for many scientists, investigations into more environmentally friendly and renewable energy sources are of great social interest.

Here are some research questions about renewable energy to consider:

What is the economic feasibility of widespread renewable energy use across the US?

How could wind, water, and solar energy reduce global emissions?

What are the core factors preventing the widespread use of renewable energy?

4. Good environmental research topics

Climate change impacts every person on the planet, so it can make an excellent research topic. Particularly for the younger generation, climate change is an interesting and often concerning discussion topic. Gen Z, for example, speaks much more actively about climate change both on and offline.

Climate change on a global scale

Some specific research questions within the climate change topic are:

What is the impact of climate change on biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest?

What impact could the use of solar power have in the US in relation to carbon emissions?

How do carbon dioxide emissions affect ocean acidity levels?

5. Argumentative research paper topics

Setting out a specific argument and exploring the topic can make for interesting research. Argumentative research topics are typically related to human interest, issues that impact us on a global scale, or challenges that particular social groups face.

Affirmative action

With rising interest in equality, researching affirmative action—designed to prevent the impacts of discrimination—is a relevant research topic for high school and college students.

Some specific questions relating to affirmative action could be:

Does affirmative action promote equality in the workplace?

What is the evidence that affirmative action is helpful in university admissions?

How has the affirmative action ban impacted the tech industry?

The ethical use of AI

AI use is expanding rapidly across the globe, so there’s growing interest in its impacts and the need for ethical usage.

Some research questions relating to AI include the following:

Could AI lead to more global conflict?

Can ethical legislation reduce the risk of AI and its implementation?

How many jobs could be impacted by AI in 2025?

6. Human rights paper topics

Human rights impact everyone on the planet, so it’s a topic that’s of continual interest.

Research in this area could cover human rights in the workplace, privacy rights, gender equality, and much more.

International human rights

International human rights is a complex yet critical area of global interest. Human rights help protect people’s freedom and safety around the world.

What are ways to reduce human rights violations in conflict zones?

What is the impact of organizations such as Amnesty International on international human rights?

In what ways can governments enforce human rights globally?

LGBTQI+ rights

With LGBTQI+ issues gaining a brighter spotlight in mainstream media, research into this area can be very beneficial, not just for those impacted by discrimination but for society as a whole.

Here are some potential research questions:

How can gender dysphoria impact transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) adolescents’ mental health and quality of life?

What are ways to boost mental health for those who experience discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity?

How could genderless bathrooms increase access and safety for LGBTQI+ people?

7. US history research paper topics

The US has a vast and interesting history, which forms part of the curriculum in many high schools and colleges. Different aspects of this history can make relevant fields of research, such as the following:

What factors that led to the abolishment of slavery in the US are relevant in politics today?

How did the Founding Fathers shape the US political system, and what can be learned?

Why did the Louisiana Purchase have such a significant impact on US history?

8. Law enforcement research topics

Maintaining law and order in society is highly complex. Exploring how law enforcement can benefit society as a whole can be a rewarding field of study.

Some possible law enforcement topics include the following:

How can data analysis and intelligence-led policing reduce crime?

What is the role of Crisis Intervention Training in policing?

How can data improve the enforcement of cybersecurity laws?

9. Business research paper topics

Business is a broad area of study with many possible directions for research papers. Business drives the economy, providing jobs and industry. It’s the cornerstone of society, so research in this area is always of social interest. 

Here are some possible business research topics to consider:

How can data analysis impact consumer purchasing decisions?

What are some of the key dilemmas in ethical business practices?

How can diversity and inclusion be boosted in the workforce?

10. Economics research paper topics

Whether you choose to focus on microeconomics, macroeconomics, or applied fields, economics research can take you in many directions.

Below are some general economics paper topics:

What are the widespread impacts of the gig economy?

How can investing in female-founded businesses impact economies in developing countries?

How does progressive taxation impact income inequality?

It all starts with the right research question  

Successful research starts with the right question, regardless of your chosen topic.

Taking time to pose a relevant and clear research question will help you discover new insights, learnings, and evidence.

Research is the very thing that drives human knowledge. Remember, your research might not just impact you but also the world and people around you.

How can I get research ideas?

To come up with research ideas, you might find it helpful to do some background reading, consider current social issues, lean into your skills and interests, and speak to a mentor or professor. Brainstorming and mind mapping can also help.

What is a good research question?

A good research question should be clear, relevant, original, and ethical. You should also have access to the necessary resources to perform the research thoroughly.

How do I create a title for my research topic?

The right title for a research topic is clear and relevant to your field of study. Ideally, it’s an original idea and refers to the specific question you’re posing.

What are some good qualitative research topics?

Qualitative research involves analyzing people’s attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors.

There are qualitative research topics across almost every field of study, including psychology, education, social sciences, human resources, technology, and healthcare.

What qualitative research topics can be good for STEM students?

For STEM (​​science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) students, qualitative research topics could revolve around social impacts and perceptions of science and technology.

Here are some examples:

How the general population views climate change

The potential social impacts of AI

How to use Big Data ethically

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The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ 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 round-up 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
  • Personal Essay Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

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 possible 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.
  • The best country in the world is …
  • 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?

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

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  • Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
  • Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
  • Does social media do more harm than good?
  • Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
  • 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?
  • Are men and women treated equally?

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 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

  • 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.

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 movies or video games have on kids?
  • Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
  • Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

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 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

  • Public and private schools
  • Capitalism vs. communism
  • Monarchy or democracy
  • Dogs vs. cats as pets

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. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

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?
  • What is your happiest 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 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

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. ( See 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?

What does it mean to be a good teacher?

  • 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?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

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.

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.

  • 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 .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

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.

  • 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.
  • 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.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , 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 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

  • Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
  • Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
  • What animal makes the best pet?
  • 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 little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
  • Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
  • The best music genre is …

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 schools have dress codes?
  • If I could change one school rule, it would be …
  • Is year-round school a good idea?

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.
  • 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.

  • 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.

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

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

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Inspirit AI

20 Great Research Opportunities for High School Students

As high school students continue to show a growing interest in research and exploration, the opportunities available to them are expanding at an unprecedented rate. From STEM to social sciences, there are countless avenues for young minds to delve into. In 2024, here are 20 research programs tailored specifically for high school students, each offering a unique and enriching experience:

research topics about high school students

Interested in learning more about AI and its impacts on research ahead of college? Find out how YOU can apply artificial intelligence to subjects like science and engineering in InspiritAI’s AI Scholars Program . Students in the Inspirit AI Scholars program craft interdisciplinary AI projects engaging subjects of personal interest to them. Additionally, many students who have participated in the AI+X Individual Research Mentorship have gone on to win prestigious awards at various science fair competitions ! Also be sure to check out our previous blog post on learning AI . 

Why Do Research as a High School Student?

Engaging in research as a high school student offers a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond the classroom. Here are several compelling reasons why pursuing research during this formative period can be incredibly rewarding:

1. Intellectual Growth: Research challenges students to think critically, analyze information, and solve complex problems. Engaging in scientific inquiry or scholarly exploration fosters intellectual curiosity and encourages students to explore topics in depth, leading to a deeper understanding of various subjects.

2. Hands-On Experience: Research provides an opportunity for hands-on learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Whether conducting experiments in a laboratory, collecting data in the field, or analyzing primary sources, students gain practical skills that are invaluable for academic and professional success.

3. Personal Development: Research fosters personal growth by promoting independence, self-discipline, and resilience. Students learn to navigate the research process, from formulating hypotheses to presenting findings, gaining confidence and self-efficacy along the way.

4. Preparation for College: Engaging in research as a high school student can enhance college readiness by demonstrating initiative, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine passion for learning. Research experience strengthens college applications, setting students apart in the admissions process and opening doors to prestigious universities and scholarship opportunities.

5. Exploration of Interests: Research allows students to explore their interests and discover potential career pathways. Whether exploring scientific phenomena, conducting social science research, or delving into humanities scholarship, students can gain insights into different fields and make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures.

6. Contribution to Knowledge: Research enables students to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of knowledge in their chosen field. By conducting original research or contributing to ongoing projects, students have the opportunity to generate new insights, challenge existing paradigms, and contribute to the collective understanding of complex issues.

7. Networking and Mentorship: Engaging in research provides opportunities for networking and mentorship, connecting students with peers, faculty members, and professionals in their field of interest. Building relationships with mentors and collaborators can provide guidance, support, and valuable resources for future academic and career endeavors.

Overall, conducting research as a high school student offers a transformative experience that fosters intellectual growth, personal development, and preparation for future academic and professional pursuits. Whether pursuing scientific inquiry, scholarly exploration, or creative endeavors, research empowers students to explore their interests, make meaningful contributions, and unlock their full potential.

20 Research Opportunities for High School Students

research topics about high school students

1. Research Science Institute (RSI)

RSI, hosted by the Center for Excellence in Education, is an intensive six-week summer program that immerses high school students in cutting-edge scientific research. Held at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), RSI offers a transformative experience for participants, providing them with the opportunity to work closely with leading researchers and faculty members from across the STEM disciplines. Through hands-on laboratory work, seminars, and collaborative projects, students delve into advanced topics in mathematics, physics, biology, and computer science. RSI not only equips students with valuable research skills but also fosters a vibrant intellectual community where participants engage in lively discussions, exchange ideas, and form lasting connections with peers who share their passion for scientific inquiry. For more information on this exclusive program, make sure to check out our previous blog post here !

2. Simons Summer Research Program

The Simons Summer Research Program , hosted by Stony Brook University, offers high-achieving high school students the chance to engage in meaningful research experiences in mathematics, science, and engineering. Over the course of six weeks, participants work closely with faculty mentors on individual research projects, gaining hands-on experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Beyond the laboratory, students have the opportunity to attend seminars, workshops, and networking events, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the research process. The program culminates in a symposium where students present their findings to their peers, mentors, and the broader scientific community, showcasing their contributions to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.

3. MIT LaunchX

MIT LaunchX is a premier entrepreneurship program for high school students, offering them the opportunity to develop and launch real startup ventures under the guidance of experienced mentors and industry experts. Over the course of the program, participants engage in an immersive entrepreneurial experience, from ideation to prototype development to pitching their business ideas to potential investors. Through hands-on workshops, mentorship sessions, and collaborative teamwork, students learn essential skills in business strategy, product development, marketing, and finance. Additionally, LaunchX provides access to a vibrant network of alumni and professionals, offering valuable connections and resources to support students as they navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. By the end of the program, participants emerge with not only a viable startup venture but also a deeper understanding of entrepreneurship and the confidence to pursue their innovative ideas in the real world.

4. Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research in genetics and genomics alongside leading scientists at The Jackson Laboratory in Maine. Participants in the program work on cutting-edge research projects, gaining valuable experience in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. Under the mentorship of faculty members and research scientists, students delve into topics such as cancer genetics, neurobiology, and personalized medicine, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in these critical areas of research. Additionally, the program provides seminars, journal clubs, and networking events that expose students to the broader scientific community and help them develop essential skills for success in STEM fields. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of genetics and genomics and a portfolio of research experiences that will serve them well in their future academic and professional pursuits.

5. Wolfram High School Summer Research Program

The Wolfram High School Summer Camp offers high school students an immersive experience in computer science and computational thinking. Held at the Wolfram headquarters in Massachusetts, the camp provides participants with hands-on experience using the Wolfram Language, a powerful programming language used in scientific research, data analysis, and computation. Through workshops, coding challenges, and collaborative projects, students learn essential skills in algorithmic thinking, problem-solving, and software development. Additionally, the camp offers seminars and guest lectures from industry professionals and academic experts, exposing students to the latest advances in computer science and technology. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of computer science principles and practical experience using advanced computational tools, preparing them for further studies and careers in STEM fields.

6. Gelfand Center STEM Education Programs at Carnegie Mellon University

The Carnegie Mellon University Gelfand Center offers programs for motivated high school students interested in pursuing research across a wide range of STEM disciplines. Participants have the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors and researchers on cutting-edge projects, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, and data science. Through immersive research experiences, students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper understanding of the research process. Programs also provide workshops, seminars, and networking events that expose students to the broader academic and professional communities, helping them build valuable connections and explore future career pathways. By the end of their program, participants emerge with a deeper appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of STEM fields and the confidence to pursue further studies and careers in these exciting areas of research and innovation.

7. Secondary School Program at Harvard University

The Secondary School Program (SSP) at Harvard University offers high school students a transformative academic experience, including opportunities for research exploration. With access to Harvard's vast resources and renowned faculty, participants can delve into a wide range of disciplines, from STEM fields to social sciences to humanities. The program provides a rigorous and immersive learning environment where students can engage in advanced coursework, seminars, and research projects tailored to their interests and goals. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, participants have the opportunity to conduct independent research, gaining valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scholarly inquiry. Additionally, SSP offers a vibrant community of peers and mentors, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and intellectual exchange. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their academic journey and prepare them for future success.

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research topics about high school students

8. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University

The Clark Scholars Program, hosted by Texas Tech University, offers high school students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in various STEM fields. Participants work closely with faculty mentors on individual research projects, gaining hands-on experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore connections between different fields of study and tackle complex scientific challenges. Through workshops, seminars, and networking events, Clark Scholars develop essential skills for success in STEM fields, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their college applications and future career prospects.

9. High School Honors Science, Math, and Engineering Program (HSHSP) at Michigan State University

The High School Honors Science, Math, and Engineering Program (HSHSP) is a rigorous six-week summer program hosted at Michigan State University. Designed for academically talented high school students, HSHSP offers a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research experiences in science, mathematics, and engineering. Participants work closely with faculty mentors on individual research projects, gaining valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to explore connections between different fields of study and tackle complex scientific challenges. Through workshops, seminars, and networking events, HSHSP provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the research process and essential skills for success in STEM fields. By the end of the program, students emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their college applications and future career prospects.

10. Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP) at the University of Iowa

Hosted by the University of Iowa, the Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP) offers high-achieving high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on research experiences across various disciplines. Over the course of five weeks, participants work closely with faculty mentors on individual research projects, gaining valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program covers a wide range of topics, including STEM fields, social sciences, and humanities, allowing students to explore their academic interests and pursue their passion for research. Through workshops, seminars, and networking events, SSTP provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the research process and essential skills for success in academia and beyond. By the end of the program, students emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their college applications and future career prospects.

research topics about high school students

11. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) offers high school students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in biomedical research at one of the world's leading institutions for scientific innovation. Under the mentorship of Stanford faculty members, participants engage in hands-on laboratory work, gaining valuable experience in techniques ranging from molecular biology to biomedical engineering. Through full-time research placements, students tackle real-world scientific challenges, contributing to projects that have the potential to impact human health and well-being. Beyond the lab, SIMR provides a rich intellectual environment, with seminars, journal clubs, and networking events that expose students to the breadth and depth of biomedical research. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of the scientific process and a newfound appreciation for the role of research in addressing complex medical issues.

12. Research Mentorship Program (RMP) at UCSB

The Research Mentorship Program (RMP) at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) connects high school students with distinguished faculty mentors for immersive research experiences in a wide range of disciplines, including STEM, social sciences, and humanities. Through one-on-one mentorship relationships, participants work on individual research projects tailored to their interests and goals, gaining hands-on experience in experimental design, data collection, and analysis. Additionally, RMP provides workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities that expose students to the research process and help them develop essential skills for success in academia and beyond. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their college applications and future career prospects.

13. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) is a four-week residential program hosted by four University of California campuses (UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Santa Cruz, and UC San Diego). COSMOS offers high-achieving high school students the opportunity to engage in intensive STEM research and coursework. Participants choose from a variety of interdisciplinary courses, ranging from biomedical sciences to engineering to computer science, and work on hands-on projects under the guidance of faculty mentors. Through laboratory experiments, field trips, and seminars, students gain practical experience in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and innovation. Additionally, COSMOS fosters a supportive community of peers and mentors, providing opportunities for collaboration, networking, and personal growth. We have previously covered this program at length in another blog post; see here for more details. 

14. Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) at Fred Hutch Cancer Center

The Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP), hosted by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Washington, offers high school students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in cutting-edge biomedical research. Over the course of eight weeks, participants work alongside renowned scientists and researchers on projects related to cancer biology, infectious diseases, immunology, and more. Through hands-on laboratory work, seminars, and interactive workshops, students gain valuable experience in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore connections between different fields of study and tackle real-world scientific challenges. Additionally, SHIP provides mentorship and networking opportunities that expose students to the broader scientific community and help them develop essential skills for success in STEM fields. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of biomedical research and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their academic and professional aspirations.

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15. inspirit ai 1:1 ai+x individual research mentorship.

In the AI + X Independent Mentorship Course, the next generation of engineers, artists, entrepreneurs, scientists, doctors, actors, lawyers, and activists will apply artificial intelligence to meet real problems in their chosen field. This individualized program pairs you with an expert mentor one-on-one to carry out comprehensive research and solve a problem you find interesting. This course places high emphasis on the following engineering, scientific, and design principles: question formulation, hypothesis testing, collaborative debugging, technical excellence, statistical significance, open source deployment, professional research presentation, and effective communication.

Students and mentors will work collaboratively throughout the entire course to customize the scope, topic, strategy, and goals of the program to the student’s background and interest. Upon completion of the course, students will have completed a research proposal and a final research paper. In the past, students have submitted work as part of a senior thesis, to be published in high school journals, deployed as an app for nonprofits, submitted to science fairs, and used in hackathons. Students are able to come in with a specific submission goal in mind or learn about opportunities within the course itself.

16. NASA Internships

NASA offers a wide range of internship opportunities for high school students interested in space exploration, aeronautics, and engineering. From the Ames Research Center to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, students have the chance to work alongside NASA scientists and engineers on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of human knowledge. Whether designing experiments for the International Space Station, analyzing data from Mars rovers, or developing next-generation spacecraft technologies, participants in NASA internships gain hands-on experience that prepares them for future careers in STEM fields. Additionally, the program offers workshops, seminars, and mentorship opportunities that support students' professional and personal growth, fostering a community of aspiring scientists and engineers dedicated to advancing space exploration and scientific discovery.

17. Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)

The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) is a six-week educational experience for intellectually curious high school students, offering seminars and workshops in a wide range of disciplines, including literature, philosophy, history, and the social sciences. Held at various college campuses across the United States, TASS provides participants with the opportunity to engage in lively discussions, debates, and collaborative projects with peers who share their passion for intellectual inquiry. Through intensive coursework and extracurricular activities, students develop critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and a deeper understanding of complex issues facing society. Additionally, TASS fosters a supportive community of scholars and provides mentorship opportunities that encourage students to explore their academic interests and pursue their intellectual passions. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a renewed sense of curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the value of lifelong learning.

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18. amgen scholars program.

The Amgen Scholars Program provides high-achieving undergraduate and high school students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in science and biotechnology at top institutions around the globe, including prestigious universities like Harvard, Stanford, and Cambridge. Through intensive research experiences, participants work closely with faculty mentors on projects spanning a wide range of disciplines, from molecular biology to bioinformatics to drug discovery. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory work, allowing students to gain valuable skills in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. Additionally, Amgen Scholars participate in seminars, workshops, and networking events that expose them to the broader scientific community and provide insights into career pathways in STEM fields. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of scientific research and a network of peers and mentors that will support their future academic and professional endeavors.

19. ISSYP - Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

The International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP), hosted by the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, offers high school students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in theoretical physics research. Over the course of two weeks, participants engage in intensive lectures, seminars, and hands-on research projects under the guidance of world-renowned physicists. The program covers a wide range of topics, including quantum mechanics, relativity, cosmology, and particle physics, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles and current research trends in theoretical physics. Through collaborative projects and discussions, participants develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the universe. Additionally, ISSYP fosters a supportive community of peers and mentors, providing opportunities for networking, mentorship, and academic enrichment. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of theoretical physics and the confidence to pursue further studies and careers in STEM fields.

20. Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE) Germany

The Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE) program offers high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on research experiences at leading research institutions in Germany. Through full-time research placements, participants work alongside scientists and engineers on cutting-edge projects in STEM fields, gaining valuable experience in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore connections between different fields of study and tackle real-world scientific challenges. Additionally, RISE provides workshops, seminars, and networking events that expose students to the broader scientific community and help them develop essential skills for success in academia and industry. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of scientific research and a global perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing the scientific community.

The array of research opportunities available to high school students in 2024 provides an invaluable platform for intellectual growth, personal development, and exploration of academic interests. Engaging in research as a high school student offers a multitude of benefits, from hands-on learning experiences to preparation for college and beyond. These programs represent just a fraction of the opportunities available to high school students interested in research. For more information on high school research, check out our previous blog posts on research programs and research competitions for high school students!

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research topics about high school students

10 Great Research Competitions for High School Students in 2024

research topics about high school students

TheHighSchooler

200 Biology Research Topics For High School

Research papers are an integral part of high school. A detailed research paper is required in most of the subjects, and one just cannot back out, as this is a part of their curriculum. However, what is even more laborious than writing the whole research paper? Finding a good topic!

The same goes for biology. Although there are plenty of topics out there that a student can write about, choosing a relevant topic is often a taxing job since they may need to brainstorm various factors. However, it can be disentangled with clarity and appropriate counsel. 

While this subject deals with various areas like cells, animals, plants, and human anatomy; in this post, we would appraise you with 200 biology research topics handpicked for aspiring high schoolers, to make their task easier.

Biology Research Topics- Finding the Right one 

Choosing the right topic can be a long expedition. However, it can be effortless when students are clear about their requirements personally and academically. To discern the same, it can be a fair idea to look into some crucial attributes that can lead a high schooler towards a desired biology research topic.

  • Know your niche

Learners often have one or more notions that they feel enticing to learn and travel with. For instance, a student may like to learn and work in cell biology, while another may love studying more about genetics. Knowing the niche in which they can excel can make their topic selection facile.

  • Stick to one Narrow topic

After comprehending the choice of the niche, the scholar may need to narrow down to one topic which is intriguing and manageable at the same time. Evidently, “Study of Mitochondria and its benefits ” is a better choice than “Cell biology”. Choosing a righteous narrow topic may mitigate the constraints like taxing research and report length later. 

  • Consult mentors and Peers

Instructors are always available to answer the queries of pupils. Students can take their inputs to add strength to their research topics. Mentors not only assist to choose the right topic but also can advise a few changes in the choice to make it finer. Say, a student has chosen “Study of DNA”, the mentor can suggest modifying it to ”Role of DNA in Curing Diseases”. Brainstorming sessions with peers may also ameliorate the topic decision 

  • Ensure the School Regulations 

High school research is often guided by some crucial regulations to stipulate students work efficiently. Students may need to choose a topic somehow related to the academic syllabus. Further, they may be stimulated to address burning issues to create awareness. Adhering to the guidelines can mitigate the need for rectifications later. 

200 Biology Research Topics- To Start With Right Away

High School biology has several sections to choose from, which may make it taxing for students to resolute on one choice. Here is a sizable list of 201 biology research topics for high schoolers which they can start instantly: 

Cell Biology

  • Animal cell and its structure
  • Functions of Cells
  • Mitochondria- the PowerHouse of cell
  • Functions of an RBC- How does it transfer Oxygen?
  • Functions of a WBC- How does it retain immunity?
  • Components of Plant Cell
  • Plant Cell Vs. Animal Cell
  • Cell Division
  • Mitosis Vs. Meiosis
  • Bacteria- How is it different from cells?
  • Cell structure and antibiotic Resistance
  •  What are cancer cells? Are they Dangerous?
  • Mushrooms and Molds- A brief Study of Fungi
  • Curing Cancer Cells
  •  Stem Cells- A brief Study
  • Embryonic vs Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
  • Adults vs Induced Pluripotent stem Cells 
  • The Build of Human DNA
  • Components of DNA
  • Chromosomes- A brief Study
  • Double Helix Structure of DNA
  • Singled celled Organisms and their DNA
  • Bacteria and its DNA
  • X and Y chromosomes
  • Genetic INformation in DNA
  • DNA modification- Its application in medicine
  • Cancer and DNA modification
  • DNA of dinosaurs
  • Do plants have DNA?

Molecular Biology

  •  Gene- A Brief History
  • Components of Gene
  • Drugs for Humans
  • Vaccine vs Drugs
  • A brief study of Gregor Mendel
  • Dominant vs recessive genes
  • Widow’s peak illustration of Genes
  • What is mutation?
  • Hormones and their functions
  • Artificial hormones for animals
  • PCR tests for analyzing DNA
  • Structure of a Molecule
  • Structure of prion
  • DNA transcription-Its applications
  • Central Dogma
  • Heredity and traits 

NeuroBiology

  • Human Nervous System- A brief description
  • Structure and components of neurons.
  • Neurons vs Animal cell
  • A brief study of electric pulses in the human brain
  • Altering reaction speed in the brain
  • Alzheimer’s disease- its study in genetics
  • Neurobiological Degeneration- does it have a cure?
  • Brain injuries and cures
  • Spinal Cord Injuries and cures
  • Narcolepsy 
  • A brief study of mental health with neurobiology
  • Various emotions and their neural pulses
  • A brief study of the human neurological system

Genetics 

  • A brief study of ancient cloning techniques
  • Reasons behind Abortion. Is it ethical
  • Procedure of abortion
  • What is human cloning? 
  • Side effects of Human Cloning
  • Goals of Human Cloning
  • Transplantation vs Human Cloning
  •  Perfect child theory. Is it ethical?
  • Gene cloning- Removal of undesirable traits.
  • Genes and ethics
  •  Gene therapy
  • Gene therapy vs Cloning
  • Curing Cancer with Gene therapy
  • Cons of Cloning

Environment and Ecology

  • A Brief Study of Charles Darwin 
  • The Evolution Theory
  • Natural Selection- the complete study
  • Mutation- A brief study with examples
  • Adaptations in animals- Study with 5 examples
  • Divergent evolution
  • Convergent evolution
  • Parallel Evolution
  • Components of a sustainable environment
  •  Environmental Friendly Practices
  • Role of Plastics in pollution
  • Alternatives for Plastic
  • Deforestation
  • Solutions for Deforestations
  • Ecological concerns
  • History of the Ozone layer
  • Change in ecology- A study of extinct animals
  • Effects of Fast Food factories
  • Reversing ecological changes
  • Climate changes and their effects
  • Global Warming
  • GreenHouse effect

Plants And Animals

  • A study of Endangered animals
  • Melatonin therapy
  • Benefits of growing plants in the home
  • A brief study of popular plant diseases
  • Effects of pesticides and herbicides
  • Immunity in plants
  • The Banana Pandemic
  • Weedy and Invasive Plants
  • Genetic analysis of plants
  • Medicinal plants- A brief study
  • Evolution in plants
  • Plants in Food production
  • Components of Photosynthesis
  • A brief study of Phytohormones
  • Antibiotics and phytocides
  • A detailed study of Stomata structure
  • Grafting techniques
  • Roots and stem modification
  • Real-life examples of taxonomy
  • Study of sweet potato Virus
  • Classifications of animals
  • Evolution of marine life
  • Prehistoric aquatic life- study of enormous creatures
  • Evolution of land-based life
  • Zoos and petting- are they ethical?
  • Drug testing on animals
  • A brief study of cows and their benefits on Humans
  • Food chain and classification
  • Vegans vs carnivores
  • Resistance in animals
  • Behavioral changes  in animals due to evolution
  • A brief study of intelligence in animals
  • Migration of birds- a brief study.
  • Study of extinct species and bringing back them
  • Types of dinosaurs
  • Male pregnancy in animals 

Marine Biology

  • Oil spilling in the ocean- strategies to mitigate
  • Ocean Acidification and its effects
  • Evolution in aquatic animals
  • Camouflage mechanism
  • Petting marine species
  • Study on Ultrasonic communication in whales
  • Role of marine shows and debate on its ethics
  • Are mermaids real?
  • A study of immortal marine species
  • Plankton and its medicinal uses
  • Underwater ecologies
  • Freshwater And Seawater
  • A brief study of coral reefs
  • Medicinal values of coral reef plants
  • Tectonic plates and underwater earthquakes

Cardiovascular 

  • Heart Rhythm and Arrhythmias
  • Preventive Cardiology
  • Hypertension
  • InterventionalCardiology
  • Heart Failure (Myocardial Biology)
  • Heart Disease in various age groups
  • Signs, symptoms and first aid for Heart Disease.
  • A study of ECG and other apparatus

Hormone Biology

  • Pregnancy and hormonal changes
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Endocrine and related diseases
  • MEntal health in different genders. 
  • Stress and immunity

Reproductive System

  • Cervical Cancer and its cure
  • A brief study of puberty
  • Contraception
  • Infertility
  • Test tube babies
  • The concept of surrogacy
  • Tubectomy and vasectomy
  • Male Reproductive complications and their cures
  • Female reproductive complications and their cure

Digestive System

  • Gastrointestinal tract- a brief study
  • Components of Digestive systems
  • A brief study of stomach and liver
  • Functions of intestines

Skeletal System

  • The function of the skeletal system
  • Type of bones
  • Functions of Sesamoid bones
  • Foods for healthy bones 
  • A brief study of Spinal Cord

Excretory System

  • The detailed study on Kidney and its Function
  • Gross Anatomy of the Urinary System
  • Reasons for Renal Calculi (Kidney Stones) and cures

Miscellaneous 

  • Coordination between muscular system and skeletal system 
  • Benefits of ecotourism
  • Extinction of bees- A brief study
  • The green revolution
  • US Grain economy
  • Agricultural practices for more yield
  • World trade of food
  • A brief study of Covid 19
  • Renewable energies and their effect on plants 
  • Bacteria and depression
  • Genes and neuron functions
  • Robotic surgeries- the study of the future. 
  • Benefits of organic farming
  • Study of various components of flower and a fruit
  • Diet and obesity
  • Various components of Brain
  • Diabetes and its cure
  • CRISPR and Genetic Engineering
  • A brief on Cell tissue engineering

Having a large number of alternatives often creates incertitude. The topics we put forward are all worth considering. Determining your area of interest can make your choice facile. For instance, if you feel genetics enticing, prefer choosing relevant topics. You may consider consulting researchers, faculty and pertinent professionals to add muscle to your research. Review our picks to see if any of those can fit your choice in making a credible research paper. 

research topics about high school students

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How Much High Schoolers Think Their Educators Care About Them

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Schools are earning mixed reviews from high school students on two key indicators of how well they encourage a sense of belonging.

That’s according to a recent survey by the EdWeek Research Center, which polled a nationally representative sample of 1,056 students in grades 9-12 in February and March.

The survey asked students whether the adults in their school care about their well-being and success and whether students feel like they are accepted and welcomed in their school community.

Although more than half of students answered positively to both questions, there are some concerning trends in the data. A significant proportion of students indicated that they feel disconnected—a troubling sign given the challenges schools are facing with student disengagement and chronic absenteeism .

A majority of students—57 percent—say the adults in their school care about them at least a moderate amount, but 1 in 5 students say the adults care little or not at all about their well-being and success.

Students are much more likely to say they feel accepted and welcomed in their school community overall, with 86 percent agreeing with that statement. That percentage drops slightly for students who are not heterosexual or students who come from low-income families.

Students who feel connected to school are more likely to attend and perform well and less likely to misbehave and feel sad and hopeless. There are even health benefits well into adulthood linked to a strong connection to school as an adolescent.

Schools are using a variety of strategies to bolster a sense of belonging among their students.

Students at Ruby Bridges Elementary School in Woodinville, Wash., play during recess on April 2, 2024. Students have access to cards with images and words on them so all students, including those who do not speak, can communicate on the playground.

Educators at Thomas Kelly College Preparatory have homed in on freshman year as a key time to make sure students have a strong connection to the Chicago high school.

“If you’re a 9th grader, nothing is more important to you than belonging,” Grace Gunderson, a counselor at the 1,700-student school who leads its newly formed freshman success team, said in a recent Education Week special report . “If we can get those kids involved in band, or ‘Hey, I play on the soccer team,’ or ‘Hey, I always eat lunch in Ms. Gunderson’s office,’ now, they have a connection. They have a reason to keep coming to school.”

The 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, which is administered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , found that students feeling connected to their school was associated with a lower prevalence of several risk factors, such as poor mental health, drug use, and missing school because students felt unsafe. In that survey, 61 percent of high schoolers reported feeling connected to peers and the adults in their schools.

A more recent survey of middle and high school students by YouthTruth , a nonprofit that surveys students and families for school districts, asked specifically about students’ connections to their teachers. The results of that survey aligned closely with the EdWeek Research Center findings.

On both of the survey questions, the EdWeek Research Center’s analysis did not find any statistically significant differences among students by race or gender.

Taken together, the data in the charts below show that while high schools have room for improvement in ensuring that all students feel that they belong and are connected to the adults in their schools, there is a solid foundation to build from.

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Data analysis for this article was provided by the EdWeek Research Center. Learn more about the center’s work.

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Northeast Ohio high school students to present findings from research on LGBTQ+ issues

The THRiVE Research Collaborative at Cleveland State University (from left): Dr. Shereen Naser, associate professor, psychology; Dr. Kim Fuller, associate professor, social work; Dr. Katie Clonan-Roy, associate professor, education; Dr. Liz Goncy, associate professor, psychology.

Seven local high school students will present findings May 2 from research projects they've undertaken over the past two years as part of Youth Research for Social Change.

YRSC, which is meant to give LGBTQ+ youth a voice in issues that matter to them, is a collaboration between Cleveland State University and the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland.

The program provided students with nine months of training in clinical research skills, followed by nine months of student research on topics of their choosing, said Gulnar Feerasta, managing director of the LGBT Community Center.

The program is meant to help remedy an imbalance where LGBTQ+ youth have historically had little say in issues that affect them, Ferrasta added.

"Visibility matters," she said. "Representation matters, and oftentimes the research relationships between the researchers and the community, there's a power imbalance. In this case, it was really cool to be able to shift that power dynamic and have it be equal, right," she said.

Greater representation is especially important as the Ohio legislature considers changes to a law that could limit the rights of LGBTQ+ community members, said Katie Clonan-Roy, who helped facilitate the project with her colleagues in Cleveland State University’s THRiVE Research Collaborative.

“It really draws attention in our region to critical issues that are rooted in systems of oppression that have become even more difficult and challenging in the state of Ohio in recent legislation," she said.

The symposium will run May 2 from 5-7 p.m. at the LGBT Community Center in Cleveland's Gordon Square neighborhood. It will include opportunities for attendees to interact one-on-one with the students, formal presentations of each student's findings and a Q&A period.

Students will explain why they selected their research topic, how they did their research, what kind of design they used, what they found, limitations of their study and how they hope to use their findings to promote change, Clonan-Roy said. The students will also discuss why this work is important to them and other LGBTQ+ youth.

The event is also meant to be as much a conversation as a presentation with particular stakeholder groups invited to help potentially move this research forward.

"We've been very intentional about who we tried to invite to the symposium," Clonan-Roy said. "Of course, all are welcome, but we wanted to gather folks from local hospital systems, local government structures, folks who work in schools and neighborhood associations and community development kind of programs, because that is who the youth research really speaks to. We want those stakeholders to be able to offer feedback and suggestions for next steps in future directions, and that hopefully those stakeholders, to varying degrees, are partnering with youth to promote social change."

The students' research focused on the following topics:

  • Decolonizing methodologies: How colonization has shaped our notions of gender, reinforced the gender binary and attempted to erase gender expansiveness,
  • How the language we use impacts how we experience sexuality (in health care and non-health care settings) — specifically, how trans folks navigate lack of affirming language related to sexuality, intimacy and sexual health,
  • The lived and health care experiences of intersex individuals,
  • How gender and sexually diverse youth use fashion to affirm their identities,
  • The experiences of queer folks living in rural areas, and their ability to find and form community,
  • How identity (racial/ethnic, gender, sexuality) impacts political affiliation and action,
  • The experiences of gender expansive folks in team sports.

research topics about high school students

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Danville high school students present insights from youth participatory action research program at Undergraduate Research Symposium

Danville high school students on the main quad

For the six high school students who presented at the University of Illinois’ Undergraduate Research Symposium, it was all about that “a-ha!” moment.

“We noticed a connection between crime and poverty in our community, and we thought it would be a good idea to talk about that problem and to dig into it with research,” said Mariya McCullough, a student at Kenneth D. Bailey Academy in Danville, Ill.

“And not everybody has the answers,” added classmate Ariel Gosser. “When we asked questions about crime and poverty, it was hard for interviewees to answer those.”

On Thursday, April 25, McCullough and Gosser stood at the Illini Union with fellow Bailey Academy students Armarni Eaton, Tashonna Jones, Krissa Sims, Cyntavia Suggs beside their poster presentation, “The Flaws of Our Community: Is There a Connection Between Crime and Poverty?” The students spent the 2023-24 academic year collectively exploring this question through a youth participatory action research program, or YPAR, piloted at Bailey Academy thanks to a grant from the Institute for Government and Public Affairs .

YPAR positions young people as co-researchers alongside adults like teachers, health educators, church elders or out-of-school time volunteers. As part of this project, over the course of the year, students researched issues that affect their communities and then select policy actions that might successfully intervene in the problem. By centering youth voice, YPAR provides young people with the confidence to communicate about problems that affect them and opportunities to apply solutions at the policy-level to create beneficial community change .

“At first I was scared that the research process might intimidate them,” said Elizabeth (Libby) Schnepel, the Bailey Academy teacher who heads the class implementing YPAR. “But somewhere along the way, the students realized that they were actually researching themselves. That was a wakeup call. That was an epiphany, and that was when the project become meaningful.”

Schnepel was guided in the YPAR experience by Daniela Markazi, a doctoral student in informatics, and Kate Suchodolski, a master’s student in the Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications program.

“For me, the most meaningful part has been seeing student engagement increase throughout the year,” said Suchodolski. “Sometimes in the beginning, students have their heads down and don’t want to talk with you. But then, as they warm up, they start having their own ideas and proposing new research areas.”

Markazi agreed that the students became more invested in the process once they had an object on which to apply their research skills.

“Choosing the topic helped everyone have that ‘a-ha!’ moment—helped everyone to feel like, ‘Ok, now we know what we’re doing,’” Markazi said. “Once we found the topic of poverty and crime, we were off.”

For Bailey Academy students, the research process offered new opportunities for interactions with their communities.

“We interviewed a congresswoman, and we talked with people in law enforcement,” said Suggs. “We just kept on asking questions. It feels good. It feels like we did something that can benefit our community.”

One of the final steps of a YPAR program is choosing a cause to champion and a venue in which to  advocate for it. That’s something the students still want to research, said Suchodolski, who noted that the students are continuing to perform interviews even after the symposium and have scheduled future conversations with some important leaders in their community .

A number of the student presenters are set to graduate this spring, but as a high school instructor, Schnepel notes, she would implement the YPAR program again in a heartbeat.

“The process is definitely worth it; anything that will inspire them is worth it,” she said. “This is a real proud-teacher moment. I can’t say it enough.”

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‘Back to school’ means anytime from late July to after Labor Day, depending on where in the U.S. you live

First graders quietly head into the cafeteria at Tulip Grove Elementary School in Bowie, Maryland, on Sept. 4, 2018. (Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

About 70% of the 46.7 million public school students in the United States are now back in class, according to a new Pew Research Center analysis. Depending on where you grew up or live now, your reaction might be, “That sounds about right,” “Already?” or “What took them so long?”

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to determine when public schools in the United States start classes. We collected school start dates for the 2023-24 school year from a nationally representative, stratified random sample of 1,573 districts.

To create this dataset, we began with a stratified random sample of 1,500 public school districts that was used in a 2023 Center analysis of school district mission statements (this analysis only covers “regular” public school districts and their equivalents; institutions such as charter schools and specialized state-run schools are excluded). That sample had been drawn from a comprehensive list of public school districts maintained by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). For more details for how that earlier sample was selected, read the methodology for that analysis.

We then supplemented that stratified sample in several ways:

  • One district no longer exists and was removed from the dataset.
  • Because school districts in Vermont, New Hampshire and New York City are classified not as “regular local districts” but as “component districts,” the initial sample missed them. So we drew an additional sample of 72 districts from those areas and added it to the original sample.
  • The lone districts in Hawaii and Washington, D.C., neither of which were initially selected, were also added so that at least one district from all 50 states and the District of Columbia would be represented.

The data was weighted to account for each district’s probability of selection in both the initial and supplementary samples. Then it was calibrated so that both the weighted number of districts and the weighted number of students matched the totals for all eligible districts in the NCES list.

After these adjustments, we had a sample of 1,573 districts. For each one, we manually searched its website to find its 2023-24 calendar. If we couldn’t find a calendar (or a functioning website), we called the district office. In the end, we found start dates for 1,551 districts; the rest were coded as “no data.”

In most cases, districts had a single reopening date for all of their schools. When start dates varied, we used the date that applied to the most grade levels. In the few cases where we couldn’t determine that reliably, we went with the earliest reopening date on the calendar.

In some districts, certain schools may follow a “year-round” calendar rather than the “traditional” calendar (late summer/early fall to late spring/early summer). In those cases, we used the start date on the traditional calendars, since those were more comparable to the vast majority of U.S. school districts. As of the 2017-18 school year, only about 3% of public schools were on any type of year-round schedules , according to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Teacher and Principal Survey.

Student enrollment figures are taken from the NCES database and are for the 2021-22 school year. In addition, each district was coded as belonging to one of the U.S. Census Bureau’s nine geographic divisions for regional analysis.

Some, but not all, U.S. school districts offer prekindergarten classes. Student weights for each district in the sample include pre-K students when appropriate, but start dates are based on grades K-12.

Information on the laws and policies governing school start dates in each state came from the Education Commission of the States , a nonprofit research organization that serves education policymakers throughout the country.

A bar chart showing that when U.S. public school students go back to school.

For most U.S. K-12 students, the school year runs about 180 days, spread over roughly 10 months with a long summer vacation. Within that broad timeframe, however, there are substantial regional variations, according to our analysis of over 1,500 public school districts. (The analysis only covers “regular” public school districts and their equivalents; institutions such as charter schools and specialized state-run schools are excluded.)

For example, school tends to start earlier in southern regions than farther north, broadly speaking. More than two-thirds of students in the U.S. Census Bureau’s East South Central division – Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee – went back to school the week of Aug. 7. They joined another 19% of students who had started classes earlier. In the West South Central division (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas), 94% of students returned to school between Aug. 7 and Aug. 18.

But in the six New England states, almost no one goes back to school before the week of Aug. 28. And students in the Middle Atlantic states – New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania – go back even later: About three-quarters won’t hit the books until after Labor Day, which falls on Sept. 4 this year.

A regional chart that shows back-to-school dates vary by region.

Even within regions, districts in the southernmost states sometimes start classes earlier than those farther north. For instance, within the sprawling South Atlantic division, sampled districts in its southernmost states (Florida and Georgia) have similar start-date patterns to those in the East South Central region, while the division’s northernmost jurisdictions (Maryland, Delaware and D.C.) more closely resemble districts in regions up north.

Some states stand apart from the overall trends in their region in other ways. In the West North Central region, for instance, roughly two-thirds of public school students start classes between Aug. 14 and Aug. 25. However, Minnesota law requires schools to start after Labor Day in most cases, and the vast majority of sampled Minnesota districts will go back after the holiday.

In the Census Bureau’s eight-state Mountain division, which stretches from the Canadian border to the Mexican border, nearly half of public school students overall return to school between Aug. 14 and Aug. 25. But almost all of the sampled districts in Arizona and New Mexico, the two southernmost states in that division, start one to three weeks earlier.

Why do start dates vary so much?

While such geographic variations are fairly apparent, the reasons for them are less clear. State laws certainly play a part: 16 states establish windows, either by statute or rule, for when school must start, according to data from the Education Commission of the States and individual state education agencies. But even in those states, the rules are fairly loose – merely requiring school to start before or after a certain date – and waivers for individual districts are not uncommon.

Contrary to popular belief, the school calendar isn’t a relic of the nation’s agrarian past . In fact, into the early 20th century, rural schools typically operated summer and winter sessions, with children working on farms in spring and fall to help with planting and harvesting. Urban schools, on the other hand, were open nearly year-round, though many children attended sporadically or for just part of the year.

Between roughly 1880 and 1920, urban and rural school calendars converged into more or less the pattern we know today, driven by factors such as pressure from education reformers, the high cost of keeping schools open year-round, the shift from one-room schoolhouses to age-graded education , and lower attendance in urban schools during the summer months (especially as family vacations grew in popularity).

Another possible explanation, for both the traditional calendar and the regional clustering of start dates, is “network effects,” in which a given standard becomes more useful as it’s adopted more widely. It’s easier, for instance, for a school district to recruit teachers from neighboring districts if those districts are on similar schedules.

School start dates could vary even more in the future with climate change. Some education experts predict hotter temperatures may force districts to adjust their start dates or times , especially in places like the Southwest, if schools can’t update air conditioning systems or make other accommodations.

Note: This is an update of a post originally published Aug. 14, 2019.

Drew DeSilver's photo

Drew DeSilver is a senior writer at Pew Research Center

Most Americans think U.S. K-12 STEM education isn’t above average, but test results paint a mixed picture

About 1 in 4 u.s. teachers say their school went into a gun-related lockdown in the last school year, about half of americans say public k-12 education is going in the wrong direction, what public k-12 teachers want americans to know about teaching, what’s it like to be a teacher in america today, most popular.

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Kinesiology Department Hosts High School Students for National Biomechanics Day

The national awareness day celebrates accomplishments in biomechanics and aims to inspire high school students..

Kinesiology graduate students apply motion capture sensors to high school student

On April 12th, the Department of Kinesiology welcomed students from nearby Holyoke High School for their annual celebration of National Biomechanics Day. The national awareness day celebrates accomplishments in biomechanics and aims to inspire high school students across the country to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields after graduating.

"The goal is to expose high school students to biomechanics and give them an understanding of what it is and how all areas of science can help improve the health of all people,” says Moreno Jaramillo.

Kinesiology doctoral students Abby Salvadore, Adam Grimmitt, Ross Brancati, and Jonaz Moreno Jaramillo organized the effort, which included tours and demonstrations in three of the department labs in the Totman Building: the Neuromuscular Biomechanics, Neuromechanics, and Biomechanics labs. They provided hands-on demonstrations of a variety of equipment that is used in the labs daily by UMass Amherst students, including a motion capture system, treadmills, force plates, balance pads, and distortion goggles, which allowed the students to learn about balance, force, and muscular functions.

“It’s my favorite part of the day,” says Salvadore. “It’s so cool to be able to give these students a glimpse of biomechanics and let them experience what it’s all about. It’s rewarding watching the students have fun and get excited about these activities.”

The high school students were also given an overview of the research done in each lab. They saw examples of current studies such as examinations of movement patterns among different populations and the testing of running shoes to compare how each pair impacts running performance.

“The research we do has a lot of applications in sports and sports medicine which a lot of these high school students are interested in,” adds Brancati. “National Biomechanics Day is a really cool and unique opportunity for them to see how they can integrate their interests with future college degrees and eventual careers in fields like biomechanics and engineering."

The student organizers, all now in their third and fourth years of doctoral study, have been putting on this event for the past three years. “We are at the intersection of doing the research but being young enough to connect with students,” explains Grimmitt. “Biomechanics is so applicable to our everyday lives so a day like this allows us to give them tools to communicate that more scientifically. It’s awesome that we can do it in this space and have a lot of fun while doing it.”

All four organizers said they would not be able to put National Biomechanics Day on without the help of other student volunteers from all degree levels in the department – undergraduate, master’s and PhD students. “We’d like to give a shout out to Montgomery Bertschy, Sklyar Holmes, Leah Metsker, Elena Schell, Calder Robbins, and Maryam Golmohammadi Qadikolai,” says Grimmitt. “We are so thankful of them.”

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