research topics for middle school language arts

Chess (Gr. 1-4)
TV (Gr. 1-4)
Metal Detectors (Gr. 2-6)
Tetris (Gr. 2-6)
Seat Belts (Gr. 2-6)
The Coliseum (Gr. 2-6)
The Pony Express (Gr. 2-6)
Wintertime (Gr. 2-6)
Reading (Gr. 3-7)
Black Friday (Gr. 3-7)
Hummingbirds (Gr. 3-7)
Worst Game Ever? (Gr. 4-8)
Carnivorous Plants (Gr. 4-8)
Google (Gr. 4-8)
Honey Badgers (Gr. 4-8)
Hyperinflation (Gr. 4-8)
Koko (Gr. 4-8)
Mongooses (Gr. 5-9)
Trampolines (Gr. 5-9)
Garbage (Gr. 5-9)
Maginot Line (Gr. 5-9)
Asian Carp (Gr. 5-9)
Tale of Two Countries (Gr. 6-10)
Kevlar (Gr. 7-10)
Tigers (Gr. 7-11)
Statue of Liberty (Gr. 8-10)
Submarines (Gr. 8-12)
Castles (Gr. 9-13)
Gutenberg (Gr. 9-13)
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101 research paper topics.

Why do we sleep ?
How do GPS systems work?
Who was the first person to reach the North Pole ?
Did anybody ever escape Alcatraz ?
What was life like for a gladiator ?
What are the effects of prolonged steroid use on the human body?
What happened during the Salem witch trials ?
Are there any effective means of repelling insects ?
How did trains and railroads change life in America?
What may have occurred during the Roswell UFO incident of 1947?
How is bulletproof clothing made?
What Olympic events were practiced in ancient Greece?
What are the major theories explaining the disappearance of the dinosaurs ?
How was the skateboard invented and how has it changed over the years?
How did the long bow contribute to English military dominance?
What caused the stock market crash of 2008?
How did Cleopatra come to power in Egypt what did she do during her reign?
How has airport security intensified since September 11 th , 2001?
What is life like inside of a beehive ?
Where did hip hop originate and who were its founders?
What makes the platypus a unique and interesting mammal?
How does tobacco use affect the human body?
How do computer viruses spread and in what ways do they affect computers?
What is daily life like for a Buddhist monk ?
What are the origins of the conflict in Darfur ?
How did gunpowder change warfare?
In what ways do Wal-Mart stores affect local economies?
How were cats and dogs domesticated and for what purposes?
What do historians know about ninjas ?
How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?
What were the circumstances surrounding the death of Osama Bin Laden ?
What was the women’s suffrage movement and how did it change America?
What efforts are being taken to protect endangered wildlife ?
How much does the war on drugs cost Americans each year?
How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
Are humans still evolving ?
What technologies are available to home owners to help them conserve energy ?
How have oil spills affected the planet and what steps are being taken to prevent them?
What was the Magna Carta and how did it change England?
What is the curse of the pharaohs?
Why was Socrates executed?
What nonlethal weapons are used by police to subdue rioters?
How does the prison population in America compare to other nations?
How did ancient sailors navigate the globe?
Can gamblers ever acquire a statistical advantage over the house in casino games?
What is alchemy and how has it been attempted?
How are black holes formed?
How was the assassination of Abraham Lincoln plotted and executed?
Do the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks?
How do submarines work?
Do lie detector tests accurately determine truthful statements?
How did Cold War tension affect the US and the world?
What happened to the lost settlers at Roanoke ?
How does a hybrid car save energy?
What ingredients can be found inside of a hotdog ?
How did Julius Caesar affect Rome?
What are some common sleep disorders and how are they treated?
How did the Freedom Riders change society?
How is internet censorship used in China and around the world?
What was the code of the Bushido and how did it affect samurai warriors ?
What are the risks of artificial tanning or prolonged exposure to the sun?
What programs are available to help war veterans get back into society?
What steps are involved in creating a movie or television show?
How have the film and music industries dealt with piracy ?
How did Joan of Arc change history?
What responsibilities do secret service agents have?
How does a shark hunt?
What dangers and hardships did Lewis and Clark face when exploring the Midwest?
Has the Patriot Act prevented or stopped terrorist acts in America?
Do states that allow citizens to carry guns have higher or lower crime rates?
How are the Great Depression and the Great Recession similar and different?
What are the dangers of scuba diving and underwater exploration?
How does the human brain store and retrieve memories ?
What was the Manhattan Project and what impact did it have on the world?
How does stealth technology shield aircraft from radar?
What causes tornadoes ?
Why did Martin Luther protest against the Catholic Church?
How does a search engine work?
What are the current capabilities and future goals of genetic engineers ?
How did the Roman Empire fall?
What obstacles faced scientists in breaking the sound barrier ?
How did the black plague affect Europe?
What happened to Amelia Earhart ?
What are the dangers and hazards of using nuclear power ?
How did Genghis Khan conquer Persia?
What architectural marvels were found in Tenochtitlan, capital of the Aztec Empire ?
From where does spam email come and can we stop it?
How does night vision work?
How did journalists influence US war efforts in Vietnam ?
What are the benefits and hazards of medical marijuana ?
What causes desert mirages and how do they affect wanderers?
What was the cultural significance of the first moon landing ?
What are sinkholes and how are they formed?
Have any psychics ever solved crimes or prevented them from occurring?
Who is Vlad the Impaler and what is his connection to Count Dracula ?
What are the risks of climate change and global warming ?
What treatments are available to people infected with HIV and are they effective?
Who was a greater inventor, Leonardo di Vinci or Thomas Edison ?
How are the Chinese and American economies similar and different?
Why was communism unsuccessful in so many countries?
In what ways do video games affect children and teenagers?

This is an image of a young woman in a library. She is sitting at a desk with a pile of books and looking toward the ceiling. She appears to be in deep thought.

923 Comments

I like using this website when I assist kids with learning as a lot of these topics are quickly covered in the school systems. Thankyou

Mackenah Nicole Molina

Wow! I always have trouble deiciding what to do a research project on but this list has totally solved that. Now my only problem is choosing what idea on this list I should do first!

Most of these my teacher rejected because apparently ‘these aren’t grade level topics, and I doubt they interest you”

I’m sorry to hear that. Sounds like you will have a potentially valuable character-building experience in the short-term.

Edwin Augusto Galindo Cuba

THIS SITE IS AWESOME, THERE ARE LOTS OF TOPICS TO LEARN AND MASTER OUR SKILLS!

research kid

I need one about animals, please. I have been challenged to a animal research project, Due Friday. I have no clue what to research! somebody help, thanks for reading!

You can do one on bats

For international studies you can do Defense and Security.

This was very helpful.

Research on Ben Franklin? I think THAT will get a real charge out of everyone (hehehehegetit)

Mandy Maher

“Is it possible to colonize Mars?”

maddy burney

these are silly topics

thx for making this real.

Mary Nnamani

Please I need project topics on Language Literature

Marcella Vallarino

I would appreciate a list of survey questions for middle school grades 6-8

I need a research topics about public sector management

I NEED FIVE EXAMPLES EACH ON QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH (EDUCATION, HEALTH, TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMY AND ENGINEERING)

publish research that are interesting please……

hey can you do one on the burmiueda triangle

Anybody know video games effect kids,and,teens. There Fun!!

they’re

I need a topic about woman history if any of u can find 1 please that would be great!

You could research about the history of the astronauts, and of human past (WWI, WWII, etc.)

so about women? Manitoba Women Win the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections, The First Women, January 23, 1849: Elizabeth Blackwell becomes the first woman to graduate from medical school and become a doctor in the United States, Rosa Parks Civil Rights Equal Pay. I have way more. so if you need more just ask.

communism is good

what are you a communist?!?!

Did FDR know about the upcoming attack on Pearl Harbor on 07 DEC 1941.

do you know how babies are born

Christine Singu

kindly assist with a research topic in the field of accounting or auditing

need more about US army

Please can yiu give me a topic in education

I think one should be how can music/Video games can affect the life for people

or How Do Video Games Affect Teenagers?

zimbabwe leader

I think a good topic is supporting the confederate flag!

Need a research topic within the context of students union government and dues payments

do more weird ones plz

joyce alcantara

Hi pls po can you give me a topic relate for humanities pls thank u.

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Exciting Research Topics for Middle Schoolers to Fuel Curiosity

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Middle school is a time of burgeoning curiosity and the perfect opportunity for students to engage in research that not only educates them academically but also cultivates skills for the future. By encouraging young learners to explore topics they are passionate about, educators and parents play a pivotal role in their intellectual development and the growth of their intrinsic motivation. This blog post outlines a diverse range of research topics suited to the inquiring minds of middle school students, giving them the freedom to deepen their understanding of various subjects while honing critical thinking and independent study skills.

Uncovering the Mysteries of History

Middle schoolers often find history fascinating, particularly when learning about the past from distinct perspectives. Here are some intriguing historical research topics to consider:

The Unsung Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement: Apart from the well-known leaders, students can explore the contributions of lesser-known figures who played a significant role in the struggle for equality.
The Impact of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Society: Researching the ways in which the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, or other ancient societies have influenced contemporary culture, politics, and technology offers a broad canvas for exploration.
Everyday Life in Different Historical Periods: Focusing on the routines, customs, and technologies that shaped people’s daily lives in times gone by can provide valuable insights into societal norms and individual experiences.

Science and the Natural World

The sciences are a playground of wonder, with an infinity of topics waiting to be explored. Here are some research ideas that can nurture a love for discovery and experimentation:

Climate Change: Effects and Solutions: Investigating the causes and potential solutions to this global challenge can make students aware of their role in protecting the planet.
The Wonders of the Solar System: Encouraging a study of the planets, their moons, and the vast expanse of space they inhabit can ignite dreams of interstellar exploration.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation: Researching the variety of life on Earth and strategies to protect and sustain ecosystems can foster a sense of environmental stewardship.

Literature, Language, and Creative Expression

Language and literature are potent forms of human expression, allowing students to explore complex ideas and emotions. Here are some topics that bridge the gap between art and academia:

Interpreting Classic Literature for Modern Relevance: Encouraging the study of timeless works can lead to discussions on their contemporary significance and the evolution of societal values.
The Structure and Evolution of Language: Investigating the origins and changes in language over time can be a rich area of study, especially when paired with the examination of cultural shifts.
The Intersection of Art and Literature: Exploring how visual arts and writing intersect to convey messages and emotions can be a fertile ground for interdisciplinary research.

Mathematics and Logic Puzzles

The precision and patterns found in mathematics can be both satisfying and thought-provoking. Middle school students often enjoy the thrill of solving problems and unraveling puzzles. Here are some mathematical research topics that can engage students’ analytical minds:

Famous Mathematical Conjectures: Researching unsolved problems, such as the Goldbach conjecture or the Riemann hypothesis, can introduce students to the excitement of open questions in mathematics.
The Application of Math in Various Industries: Investigating how mathematical principles underpin fields like music, art, sports, and technology can illuminate the subject’s real-world utility.
The History of Mathematical Discoveries: Tracing the lineage of mathematical concepts through different cultures and periods can showcase the universality and timelessness of mathematics.

Social Sciences and Human Interaction

Studying human behavior and society can help students develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Here are some social science research ideas to explore:

The Impact of Social Media on Friendships and Relationships: Research could focus on positive and negative effects, trends, and the future of social interaction.
Cultural Traditions and Their Meanings: Investigating the origins and contemporary significance of customs from various cultures can foster respect for diversity and a global perspective.
The Psychology of Decision Making: Exploring the factors that influence human choices, from cognitive biases to social pressures, can provide insights into individual and collective behavior.

Technology and Innovation

A focused individual working at a desk with a laptop and a pen, engrossed in their work.

Middle schoolers are often tech-savvy and interested in the latest gadgets and advancements. Here are some technology and innovation research topics to tap into that curiosity:

The Impact of Gaming on Society: Research could examine how video games influence education, social issues, or even career choices.
Emerging Technologies and Their Ethical Implications: Encouraging students to study technologies like artificial intelligence, gene editing, or wearable tech can lead to discussions on the ethical considerations of their use and development.
Inventions That Changed the World: Chronicling the history and influence of significant inventions, from the wheel to the internet, can provide a lens through which to view human progress.

By providing middle schoolers with the opportunity to conduct meaningful research in a topic of their choosing, we not only deepen their education but also equip them with the skills and passion for a lifetime of learning. This list is just the beginning; the key is to foster curiosity and guide young minds toward engaging, challenging, and diverse research experiences. Through such explorations, we empower the next generation to think critically, communicate effectively, and, most importantly, to nurture their innate curiosity about the world.

Implementing Research Projects in the Classroom

Encouraging middle school students to undertake research projects requires a strategic approach to ensure sustained interest and meaningful outcomes. Here are some methods educators can employ:

Mentorship and Support: Pairing students with teacher mentors who can guide them through the research process, provide feedback, and encourage critical thinking is essential for a fruitful research experience.
Cross-Curricular Integration: Linking research topics to content from different subjects helps students appreciate the interconnectedness of knowledge and develop versatile learning skills.
Use of Technology and Media: Incorporating digital tools for research, presentation, and collaboration can enhance engagement and teach essential 21st-century skills.
Presentation and Reflection: Allocating time for students to present their findings nurtures communication skills and confidence, while self-reflection activities help them internalize their learning journey.

These strategies can create a robust framework within which students can pursue their curiosities, leading to a more personalized and impactful educational experience.

What is a good topic to research for middle school?

A good topic for middle school research could delve into the Role of Robotics in the Future of Society . Students can explore how robotics may transform jobs, healthcare, and everyday life. They can examine the balance between automation and human work, predict how robots could augment human abilities, and discuss the ethical dimensions of a robotic future. This inquiry not only captivates the imagination but also encourages critical thinking about technology’s impact on tomorrow’s world.

What are the 10 research titles examples?

The Evolution of Renewable Energy and Its Future Prospects
Investigating the Effects of Microplastics on Marine Ecosystems
The Influence of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Democracy
Understanding Black Holes: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Cosmos
The Impact of Augmented Reality on Education and Training
Climate Change and Its Consequences on Coastal Cities
The Psychological Effects of Social Media on Teenagers
Genetic Engineering: The Possibilities and Pitfalls
Smart Cities: How Technology is Shaping Urban Living
The Role of Nanotechnology in Medicine: Current Applications and Future Potential

Fascinating Facts About Middle School Research Topics

Interdisciplinary Impact : Research projects in middle school often blend subjects, such as the integration of art and mathematics when exploring patterns and symmetry, which helps students discover the interconnectivity of different fields of knowledge.
Skill Building : Engaging in research equips middle schoolers with advanced skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management, which are beneficial across their academic journey and beyond.
Diversity in Content : Middle school research topics are notably diverse, ranging from examining the role of robotics in society to exploring the psychological effects of social media, catering to a wide array of student interests and strengths.
Tech Savvy Learning : Technology-based research topics, such as the influence of smart cities or the impact of augmented reality in education, are deeply relevant to tech-savvy middle school students, making learning more engaging and relatable.
Cultural Relevance : Researching topics like cultural traditions and their meanings encourages middle schoolers to develop a global perspective and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity within their own school community and the world at large.

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10 Great Research Topics for Middle School Students

Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring the fascinating world of research, especially if you're passionate about STEM and the humanities. Engaging in research projects now not only feeds your curiosity but also develops critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning. Whether you're intrigued by the secrets of the universe, the beauty of numbers, or the complexity of robotics, there's a research project that you can pursue to help you build your knowledge. Let's dive into some advanced yet accessible research topics that will challenge you and enhance your academic journey.

1. Program your own robot

What to do: Start by defining the purpose of your robot. Will it be a pet robot that follows you around, or perhaps a robot that can help carry small items from one room to another? Sketch your design on paper, focusing on what sensors and motors you'll need. For instance, a robot that follows light might need light sensors, while a robot that avoids obstacles will require ultrasonic sensors. Use an Arduino or Raspberry Pi as the brain. You'll need to learn basic programming in Python (for Raspberry Pi) or C++ (for Arduino) to code your robot's behavior.

Tips to get started: The official websites for Arduino and Raspberry Pi offer tutorials for beginners. For more specific projects, such as building a pet robot, search for guides on Instructables that detail each step from hardware assembly to software programming.

2. Design a solar-powered oven

What to do: Investigate how solar ovens work and the science behind solar cooking. Your oven can be as simple as a pizza box solar oven or more complex, like a parabolic solar cooker. Key materials include reflective surfaces (aluminum foil), clear plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect, and black construction paper to absorb heat. Experiment with different shapes and angles to maximize the heat capture and cooking efficiency. Test your oven by trying to cook different foods and measure the temperature achieved and cooking time required.

Tips to get started: The Solar Cooking wiki is an excellent resource for finding different solar cooker designs and construction plans. YouTube also has numerous DIY solar oven tutorials. Document your process and results in a project journal, noting any changes in design that lead to improvements in efficiency.

3. Assess the health of a local ecosystem

What to do: Choose a local natural area, such as a stream, pond, or forest, and plan a series of observations and tests to assess its health. Key activities could include water quality testing (for pH, nitrates, and phosphates), soil testing (for composition and contaminants), and biodiversity surveys (identifying species of plants and animals present). Compile your data to evaluate the ecosystem's health, looking for signs of pollution, habitat destruction, or invasive species.

Tips to get started: For a comprehensive approach, NOAA’s Global Monitoring Laboratory provides information on atmospheric and environmental monitoring techniques. Tools like iNaturalist can assist in species identification, and water and soil testing kits are available from science education suppliers.

4. Develop an educational app

What to do: Identify a gap in educational resources that your app could fill. Perhaps you noticed that students struggle with a particular math concept, or there's a lack of engaging resources for learning a foreign language. Outline your app’s features, design the user interface, and plan the content it will deliver. Use MIT App Inventor for a drag-and-drop development experience, or Scratch for a game-like educational app. Test your app with classmates or family members, and use their feedback for improvements.

Tips to get started: Both MIT App Inventor and Scratch provide tutorials and community forums where you can learn from others’ projects. Begin with a simple prototype, focusing on one core feature, and expand from there.

5. Model rocketry: design, build, and launch!

What to do: Dive into the basics of rocket science by designing your own model rocket. Understand the principles of thrust, aerodynamics, and stability as you plan your rocket. Materials can range from simple kits available online to homemade components for the body, fins, and nose cone. Educate yourself on the proper engine selection for your design and the recovery system to ensure your rocket returns safely. Conduct a launch in a safe, open area, following all safety guidelines.

Tips to get started: The National Association of Rocketry is a treasure trove of information on model rocket safety, design, and launch procedures. For beginners, consider starting with a kit from Estes Rockets , which includes all necessary components and instructions.

6. Create a wearable electronic device

What to do: Envision a wearable device that solves a problem or enhances an aspect of daily life. It could be a smart bracelet that reminds you to stay hydrated or a hat with integrated LEDs for nighttime visibility. Sketch your design, listing the components you'll need, such as LEDs, sensors, a power source, and a microcontroller like the Adafruit Flora or Gemma. Plan your circuit, sew or assemble your device, and program it to function as intended.

Tips to get started: Adafruit’s Wearables section offers guides and tutorials for numerous wearable projects, including coding and circuit design. Start with a simple project to familiarize yourself with electronics and sewing conductive thread before moving on to more complex designs.

7. Explore the science of slime and non-Newtonian fluids

What to do: Conduct experiments to understand how the composition of slime affects its properties. Create a standard slime recipe using glue, borax (or contact lens solution as a safer alternative), and water. Alter the recipe by varying the amounts of each ingredient or adding additives like cornstarch, shaving cream, or thermochromic pigment. Test how each variation affects the slime’s viscosity, stretchiness, and reaction to pressure.

Tips to get started: The Science Bob website offers a basic slime recipe and the science behind it. Document each experiment carefully, noting the recipe used and the observed properties. This will help you understand the science behind non-Newtonian fluids.

8. Extract DNA at home

What to do: Use common household items to extract DNA from fruits or vegetables, like strawberries or onions. The basic process involves mashing the fruit, adding a mixture of water, salt, and dish soap to break down cell membranes, and then using cold alcohol to precipitate the DNA out of the solution. Observe and analyze the DNA strands.

Tips to get started: Detailed instructions and the science explanation are available at the Genetic Science Learning Center . This project offers a tangible glimpse into the molecular basis of life and can be a springboard to more complex biotechnology experiments.

9. Investigate the efficiency of different types of solar cells

What to do: Compare the efficiency of various solar panels, such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Design an experiment to measure the electrical output of each type under identical lighting conditions, using a multimeter to record voltage and current. Analyze how factors like angle of incidence, light intensity, and temperature affect their performance.

Tips to get started: Introductory resources on solar energy and experiments can be found at the Energy.gov website. Consider purchasing small solar panels of different types from electronics stores or online suppliers. Ensure that all tests are conducted under controlled conditions for accurate comparisons.

10. Study ocean acidification and its effects on marine life

What to do: Simulate the effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms in a controlled experiment. Use vinegar to lower the pH of water in a tank and observe its impact on calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, such as seashells or coral fragments. Monitor and record changes over time, researching how acidification affects the ability of these organisms to maintain their shells and skeletons.

Tips to get started: NOAA’s Ocean Acidification Program offers educational materials and experiment ideas. For a simpler version of this experiment, see instructions for observing the effects of acidified water on eggshells, which are similar in composition to marine shells, at educational websites like Science Buddies .

By pursuing these projects, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of STEM principles but also develop invaluable skills in research, design, and critical analysis. These projects will teach you how to question, experiment, and innovate, laying the groundwork for future scientific inquiries and discoveries.

One other option – Lumiere’s Junior Explorer Program

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a program for middle school students to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore their academic interests and build a project they are passionate about . Our mentors are scholars from top research universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Duke and LSE.

The program was founded by a Harvard & Oxford PhD who met as undergraduates at Harvard. The program is rigorous and fully virtual. We offer need based financial aid for students who qualify. You can find the application in the brochure !

To learn more, you can reach out to our Head of Growth, Khushi Malde, at [email protected] or go to our website .

Multiple rolling deadlines for JEP cohorts across the year, you can apply using this application link ! If you'd like to take a look at the cohorts + deadlines for 2024, you can refer to this page!

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

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Navigating the Landscape of Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teaching and Learning

Female middle school teacher leading lesson at whiteboard in classroom

By: Dori Veto, M.Ed. from Perfection Learning

Middle school English Language Arts (ELA) education is a critical phase in a student’s academic journey, as it plays a pivotal role in shaping their language skills, cognitive development, and critical thinking abilities. In recent years, the landscape of middle school ELA teaching and learning has witnessed significant transformations due to advancements in technology, shifts in pedagogy, and the challenges of addressing the skill diversity exacerbated by the pandemic. In order to succeed in the middle school ELA environment, educators must understand the challenges and trends, identify effective strategies, and implement solutions for both teachers and students.

Challenges in Middle School ELA Teaching

Skill Diversity and Bridging the Literacy Gap: Despite the efforts of educators, a significant literacy gap that was exacerbated by the pandemic persists among middle school students. Because students are entering middle school with limited reading and writing skills, teachers struggle to implement grade-level ELA curriculum effectively. These gaps are even more pronounced due to remote teaching and learning during the pandemic.
Technology Equity: While digital tools offer numerous benefits, access to technology remains unequal across student populations. Ensuring all students have equal access to digital resources and platforms is essential to avoid exacerbating educational disparities.
Standardized Testing Pressure: Middle school ELA teachers often face pressure to prepare students for standardized tests, which can limit their ability to focus on more holistic literacy development and critical thinking skills while developing skill mastery organically throughout the year.
Time Constraints: The middle school curriculum often encompasses related ELA skills such as vocabulary and speaking, leaving limited time for in-depth reading and writing instruction. This challenge prompts educators to strike a balance between content coverage and fostering deep understanding and application of skills.

Trends in Middle School ELA Teaching

Research-based Instructional Resources: Concerns about low levels of literacy and its consequences have led to increased interest in pedagogical practices rooted in the Science of Reading and the Learning Sciences. The Science of Reading is an interdisciplinary body of scientifically based research about how people learn to read and write, derived from multidisciplinary fields.
Digital Literacy Integration: Middle school ELA classrooms are embracing technology to enhance literacy skills. Educators are incorporating digital tools and platforms to engage students in interactive reading experiences, collaborative writing projects, and critical analysis of online resources. Digital literacy is no longer an option but a necessity for students to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Engaging the Disengaged: For students to be engaged in reading, they need to see themselves reflected in the texts. They need to relate to the characters and situations presented in the texts they read. This approach not only fosters empathy and understanding but also enhances students’ comprehension and connection to the material.
Performance-based Assessments: Understanding students’ patterns of strengths and needs is key to delivering instruction that addresses skill diversity and evaluating the effectiveness of that instruction. Unlike growth in height or weight, prior knowledge and growth in learning are mental representations that are not immediately observable without assessment. Performance-based assessments include research, writing, and presentation projects that assess students’ ability to integrate ELA skills through application to real-world scenarios.
Personalized Learning: The one-size-fits-all model is giving way to personalized learning approaches. With the help of technology and data-driven insights, teachers can break down barriers to learning and tailor instruction to meet individual students’ needs and learning styles, ensuring better comprehension and engagement.

Strategies for Effective Middle School ELA Teaching

Differentiated Instruction: Recognizing the diverse abilities and needs of students, teachers are employing differentiated instruction techniques. This approach tailors lessons to individual students’ readiness levels, interests, and learning profiles.
Authentic Literature and Collaborative Discussions: To develop interpersonal skills, students need authentic experiences to help them navigate in-person social interactions. They need to read texts that reflect their world and their experiences with opportunities to collaborate with their peers to share ideas about texts through writing and meaningful talk.
Authentic Assessments: Shifting from traditional testing, educators are embracing authentic assessments. These assessments evaluate students’ skills through real-world tasks such as writing essays, creating multimedia presentations, and participating in debates.
Cross-Curricular Integration: Collaborating with teachers from other subjects, middle school ELA educators are integrating ELA skills into other disciplines. This approach not only reinforces literacy skills but also helps students understand the interconnectedness of knowledge.

A Solution for Middle School ELA Instruction

To help teachers implement these effective strategies with students and have the latest in scientifically-based literature instruction to meet the diverse challenges educators face today, Perfection Learning has recently launched Connections: Literature . This core ELA program provides comprehensive instruction in grade 6–8 standards for reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language and enable students to gain critical thinking skills as they analyze and evaluate modern and classic literary and informational texts through discussion and writing . Connections: Literature has been developed to support students’ mastery of essential ELA skills in a context that recognizes, values, and enhances their developing capabilities, based on the following key findings from the learning sciences:

Reading, writing, speaking, and listening draw on shared knowledge and skills and should be taught symbiotically.
Reading complex texts across genres supports growth in comprehension, background knowledge, and disciplinary literacy skills.
Strategic, active reading facilitates comprehension, analysis, and application of text information.
Deconstructing the writing process and analyzing mentor texts demystifies the complex task of writing.
Academic language is a key feature of oral and written communication in middle school.
Adolescents are motivated by interesting, peer-oriented learning experiences that promote the development of their identity and independence.
Progress toward skill mastery moves faster when assessment informs instruction helping teachers to respond to the skill diversity of their students.

Middle school ELA teaching and learning are evolving in response to the changing educational landscape and the unique challenges faced by educators. The integration of technology, the emphasis on diverse and authentic texts, and the shift toward personalized and project-based learning are reshaping the way ELA is taught in middle schools. While challenges such as the literacy gap and standardized testing pressures persist, educators are employing innovative strategies to overcome these hurdles and create meaningful and effective learning experiences for their students. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, middle school ELA education remains a cornerstone in equipping students with the skills they need to communicate, comprehend, and critically engage with the world around them.

To learn more about Connections: Literature from Perfection Learning, please visit www.perfectionlearning.com

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Research Activities For Middle School: Discussions, Tips, Exploration, And Learning Resources

February 6, 2024 // by Josilyn Markel

Learning to research effectively is an important skill that middle-school-aged students can learn and carry with them for their whole academic careers. The students in question will use these skills for everything from reading news articles to writing a systematic review of their sources. With increased demands on students these days, it’s never too early to introduce these sophisticated research skills.

We’ve collected thirty of the best academic lessons for middle school students to learn about sophisticated research skills that they’ll use for the rest of their lives.

1. Guiding Questions for Research

When you first give a research project to middle school students, it’s important to make sure that they really understand the research prompts. You can use this guiding questions tool with students to help them draw on existing knowledge to properly contextualize the prompt and assignment before they even pick up a pen.

Learn More: Mrs. Spangler in the Middle

2. Teaching Research Essential Skills Bundle

This bundle touches on all the writing skills, planning strategies, and so-called soft skills that students will need to get started on their first research project. These resources are especially geared towards middle school-aged students to help them with cognitive control tasks plus engaging and active lessons.

Learn More: Pinterest

3. How to Develop a Research Question

Before a middle school student can start their research time on task, they have to form a solid research question. This resource features activities for students that will help them identify a problem and then formulate a question that will guide their research project going first.

Learn More: YouTube

4. Note-Taking Skills Infographic

For a strong introduction and/or systematic review of the importance of note-taking, look no further than this infographic. It covers several excellent strategies for taking the most important info from a source, and it also gives tips for using these strategies to strengthen writing skills.

Learn More: Word Counter

5. Guide to Citing Online Sources

One of the more sophisticated research skills is learning to cite sources. These days, the internet is the most popular place to find research sources, so learning the citation styles for making detailed citations for internet sources is an excellent strategy. This is a skill that will stick with middle school students throughout their entire academic careers!

Learn More: Educator’s Technology

6. Guided Student-Led Research Projects

This is a great way to boost communication between students while also encouraging choice and autonomy throughout the research process. This really opens up possibilities for students and boosts student activity and engagement throughout the whole project. The group setup also decreases the demands on students as individuals.

Learn More: The Thinker Builder

7. Teaching Students to Fact-Check

Fact-checking is an important meta-analytic review skill that every student needs. This resource introduces probing questions that students can ask in order to ensure that the information they’re looking at is actually true. This can help them identify fake news, find more credible sources, and improve their overall sophisticated research skills.

Learn More: Just Add Students

8. Fact-Checking Like a Pro

This resource features great teaching strategies (such as visualization) to help alleviate the demands on students when it comes to fact-checking their research sources. It’s perfect for middle school-aged students who want to follow the steps to make sure that they’re using credible sources in all of their research projects, for middle school and beyond!

9. Website Evaluation Activity

With this activity, you can use any website as a backdrop. This is a great way to help start the explanation of sources that will ultimately lead to helping students locate and identify credible sources (rather than fake news). With these probing questions, students will be able to evaluate websites effectively.

10. How to Take Notes in Class

This visually pleasing resource tells students everything they need to know about taking notes in a classroom setting. It goes over how to glean the most important information from the classroom teacher, and how to organize the info in real-time, and it gives tips for cognitive control tasks and other sophisticated research skills that will help students throughout the research and writing process.

Learn More: Visualistan

11. Teaching Research Papers: Lesson Calendar

If you have no idea how you’re going to cover all the so-called soft skills, mini-lessons, and activities for students during your research unit, then don’t fret! This calendar breaks down exactly what you should be teaching, and when. It introduces planning strategies, credible sources, and all the other research topics with a logical and manageable flow.

Learn More: Discover Hub Pages

12. Google Docs Features for Teaching Research

With this resource, you can explore all of the handy research-focused features that are already built into Google Docs! You can use it to build activities for students or to make your existing activities for students more tech-integrated. You can use this tool with students from the outset to get them interested and familiar with the Google Doc setup.

13. Using Effective Keywords to Search the Internet

The internet is a huge place, and this vast amount of knowledge puts huge demands on students’ skills and cognition. That’s why they need to learn how to search online effectively, with the right keywords. This resource teaches middle school-aged students how to make the most of all the search features online.

Learn More: Teachers Pay Teachers

14. How to Avoid Plagiarism: “Did I Plagiarize?”

This student activity looks at the biggest faux pas in middle school research projects: plagiarism. These days, the possibilities for students to plagiarize are endless, so it’s important for them to learn about quotation marks, paraphrasing, and citations. This resource includes information on all of those and in a handy flow chart to keep them right!

Learn More: Twitter

15. 7 Tips for Recognizing Bias

This is a resource to help middle school-aged students recognize the differences between untrustworthy and credible sources. It gives a nice explanation of sources that are trustworthy and also offers a source of activities that students can use to test and practice identifying credible sources.

Learn More: We Are Teachers

16. UNESCO’s Laws for Media Literacy

This is one of those great online resources that truly focuses on the students in question, and it serves a larger, global goal. It offers probing questions that can help middle school-aged children determine whether or not they’re looking at credible online resources. It also helps to strengthen the so-called soft skills that are necessary for completing research.

Learn More: SLJ Blogs

17. Guide for Evaluating a News Article

Here are active lessons that students can use to learn more about evaluating a news article, whether it’s on a paper or online resource. It’s also a great tool to help solidify the concept of fake news and help students build an excellent strategy for identifying and utilizing credible online sources.

Learn More: Valencia College

18. Middle School Research Projects Middle School Students Will Love

Here is a list of 30 great research projects for middle schoolers, along with cool examples of each one. It also goes through planning strategies and other so-called soft skills that your middle school-aged students will need in order to complete such projects.

Learn More: Madly Learning

19. Teaching Analysis with Body Biographies

This is a student activity and teaching strategy all rolled into one! It looks at the importance of research and biographies, which brings a human element to the research process. It also helps communication between students and helps them practice those so-called soft skills that come in handy while researching.

Learn More: Study All Knight

20. Top Tips for Teaching Research in Middle School

When it comes to teaching middle school research, there are wrong answers and there are correct answers. You can learn all the correct answers and teaching strategies with this resource, which debunks several myths about teaching the writing process at the middle school level.

Learn More: Teaching ELA with Joy

21. Teaching Students to Research Online: Lesson Plan

This is a ready-made lesson plan that is ready to present. You don’t have to do tons of preparation, and you’ll be able to explain the basic and foundational topics related to research. Plus, it includes a couple of activities to keep students engaged throughout this introductory lesson.

Learn More: Kathleen Morris

22. Project-Based Learning: Acceptance and Tolerance

This is a series of research projects that look at specific problems regarding acceptance and tolerance. It offers prompts for middle school-aged students that will get them to ask big questions about themselves and others in the world around them.

Learn More: Sandy Cangelosi

23. 50 Tiny Lessons for Teaching Research Skills in Middle School

These fifty mini-lessons and activities for students will have middle school-aged students learning and applying research skills in small chunks. The mini-lessons approach allows students to get bite-sized information and focus on mastering and applying each step of the research process in turn. This way, with mini-lessons, students don’t get overwhelmed with the whole research process at once. In this way, mini-lessons are a great way to teach the whole research process!

24. Benefits of Research Projects for Middle School Students

Whenever you feel like it’s just not worth it to go to the trouble to teach your middle school-aged students about research, let this list motivate you! It’s a great reminder of all the great things that come with learning to do good research at an early age.

Learn More: Thrive in Grade Five

25. Top 5 Study and Research Skills for Middle Schoolers

This is a great resource for a quick and easy overview of the top skills that middle schoolers will need before they dive into research. It outlines the most effective tools to help your students study and research well, throughout their academic careers.

Learn More: Meagan Gets Real

26. Research with Informational Text: World Travelers

This travel-themed research project will have kids exploring the whole world with their questions and queries. It is a fun way to bring new destinations into the research-oriented classroom.

Learn More: The Superhero Teacher

27. Project-Based Learning: Plan a Road Trip

If you want your middle school-aged students to get into the researching mood, have them plan a road trip! They’ll have to examine the prompt from several angles and collect data from several sources before they can put together a plan for an epic road trip.

Learn More: Appletastic Learning

28. Methods for Motivating Writing Skills

When your students just are feeling up to the task of research-based writing, it’s time to break out these motivational methods. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to get your kids in the mood to research, question, and write!

29. How to Set Up a Student Research Station

This article tells you everything you need to know about a student center focused on sophisticated research skills. These student center activities are engaging and fun, and they touch on important topics in the research process, such as planning strategies, fact-checking skills, citation styles, and some so-called soft skills.

Learn More: Upper Elementary Snapshots

30. Learn to Skim and Scan to Make Research Easier

These activities for students are geared towards encouraging reading skills that will ultimately lead to better and easier research. The skills in question? Skimming and scanning. This will help students read more efficiently and effectively as they research from a variety of sources.

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The Four Principles of Middle School ELA Engagement

Middle school is a time when students are deeply and constantly engaged in their own emotions, relationships, and “ finstas .” Problem is, it’s also a time when engagement in academics is critical to future success in school and beyond.

Research confirms that getting middle schoolers on the path to college and career readiness requires a truly engaging curriculum. We need to channel middle schoolers’ excitement with their new ways of seeing and being in the world into tackling challenging academic experiences. That’s why we created four actionable principles of middle school ELA engagement . When it comes to ELA, these principles won’t just help your students “get through” middle school. They’ll help you get through to your middle schoolers.

Your students bring a unique and complex set of needs into your classroom. If you want to do more than just hold their attention for five minutes—that is, if you want to deliver the deep engagement that leads to deep learning—you’ve got to provide both content and pedagogy that speak to those needs.

Engagement principle no. 1: Empower students to become critical thinkers

To be fully engaged, middle school students need to know that the work they’re doing will matter, be recognized, and be relevant to their lives. They need lots of opportunities to develop, communicate, and refine their ideas in light of new observations. A truly engaging curriculum supports a range of observations and possible interpretations of the text and provides supports for students to refine these ideas as they read further. In this way, students gain a sense of control over their own learning and the opportunity to become critical, independent—even audacious—thinkers.

Below are some strategies for supporting and encouraging a culture of original thinking in your classroom:

Be clear that the text, not the teacher, has all the answers. Ask questions such as, How did you get to that response? What might change if you considered a different point of view? Could you rephrase your response in a different way? Students develop their responses by following one simple rule: If you can justify it in the text, you can hold on to your interpretation
Teach students to develop theories they refine with time, versus focusing on right or wrong answers. Students struggle when they think learning is only about getting it right. For example, when students consider the narrator of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” it’s helpful to detach them from the goal of establishing one correct character analysis and instead help them to explore and problem-solve. For example, ask questions such as, “Why doesn’t this make sense?”
Channel Socrates. A Socratic seminar—which emphasizes inquiry and discussion over definitive responses—brings home the importance and power of open-ended questions. During the seminar, you act as facilitator of conversation rather than deliverer of knowledge, posing questions, guiding the discussion, and prompting students to contribute.

Engagement principle no. 2: Provide opportunities and supports for all students to work “up”

When it comes to physical, emotional, social, and academic development, middle schoolers are all over the place. The phrase to remember is “low floors and high ceilings”—in other words, it’s all about providing multiple entry points and the right scaffolding opportunities so that every student can engage deeply with a rigorous curriculum.

The following differentiation strategies help to drive learning:

Incorporate multimedia strategically. Often a video dramatization or audio recording can help students find their way into a complex text.
Scaffold with sentence frames and modified prompts. These tools reduce linguistic barriers, enabling students to produce more complex writing and speech.
Aptitude, brackish, circumference! Daily vocab practice will make a huge difference, with each student completing assignments specifically engineered to challenge them at their level of proficiency.

Engagement principle no. 3: Support feedback systems that develop strengths

Well-delivered feedback can be useful for anyone. It’s particularly potent for middle schoolers, who may be aware of learning differences among students, vulnerable to criticism, and frequently unwilling to ask for help when they’re floundering. For them, true engagement moments are born from a teacher’s ability to provide feedback in a way that helps them see opportunity rather than failure.

The following feedback strategies help to drive learning:

Shoulder responsibility. Over-the-shoulder conferences during class give you the chance to offer unobtrusive, bite-size, encouraging, customized, and immediately actionable feedback.
Build a classroom culture of feedback. Fact of school/life: it’s scary to share your work. But when you encourage your students to provide supportive, targeted responses and specific, skill-related comments—not to mention eye contact and smiles—you bring out the best in everyone.
Focus rewrites on key skills. The written feedback you provide should be manageable and should target one or two specific places where a student needs help—say, with citing evidence to support a claim or combining sentences to better illustrate an idea.

Engagement principle no. 4: Engage multiple modalities, with particular attention to collaboration

All students need to “read” text in all sorts of ways—through hearing, speaking, writing, seeing, performing, and more. By providing multiple ways for students to interact with text, you are allowing them to process the language through distinct pathways.

The following multimodal strategies help to drive learning:

Invite drama. Dramatic readings contribute to speaking and listening skills by giving students models of excellent oral performances and helping them learn to listen for subtle differences in delivery among different performers.
Create great debate. A debate that students are motivated to engage vividly demonstrates the importance of evidence—including the way the one piece of evidence may be used to support two opposing arguments. Students also get to exercise their listening and public speaking skills.
Encourage performance. Performance decisions are an exercise in text analysis, challenging students to make distinct choices about the meaning and purpose of every word.

A curriculum that embodies these principles of engagement will bring out the best in your middle school students and make your classroom a challenging, lively place to learn.

Deb Sabin is the chief academic officer at Amplify, a next-generation curriculum and assessment company. She has taught in a variety of classrooms from alternative high schools, to elite prep schools, to international dual language schools.

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10 Smart Ideas for Integrating Language Arts and Social Studies

Build the bridge between ELA and social studies.

Studies Weekly makes social studies/ELA integration easy with their award-winning, state-specific curriculum that covers the standards you need to teach. Learn more>>

Integrating language arts and social studies can lead to powerful gains for kids. Why?

There are a few key reasons. First, kids often love the content covered in social studies—think volcanoes, Egypt, dogs—which can motivate them to make progress in ELA. Second, the literacy skills that overlap with social studies are also the ones we use most in adult life. Just in your own Internet time today, you probably have had to read informational text, conduct research, and analyze current events.

Finally, intentionally integrating language arts and social studies can help to ensure that the latter doesn’t get lost with the emphasis on reading and math happening in most schools.

So how can you integrate ELA and social studies? Here are a few smart strategies.

1. Build an awesome library of informational texts.

Best Women's History Month Books for the Classroom

This might sound like the most obvious suggestion, but it’s an important one. Research shows that despite the Common Core’s push for nonfiction, kids are still reading far more fiction than informational text throughout their schooling. The amount of quality nonfiction has increased, however. You can find great texts for almost any social studies topic you might cover, from space to biographies to women’s history.

2. Have a classroom news anchor.

SOURCE: Linda O’Connell

If you have classroom jobs, this is a nice addition to the lineup. The role of the news anchor is to share one to three events happening in the news during your morning meeting or another transition time. Students can then discuss what’s happening or respond in writing.

3. Go beyond report writing.

SOURCE: Pinterest

Often when we ask kids to write in social studies, the focus is on informational writing or reports. This kind of writing has its place, but there is also room for creative, reflection, and opinion writing tied to social studies content. We love these visual social studies writing prompts.

4. Keep things fresh with classroom magazines.

One of the challenges of traditional social studies textbooks is that they can often feel stale by midyear. That’s where a great nonfiction library can come in, but we also like classroom magazines for incorporating fresh social studies content as well. Studies Weekly is a favorite of ours because everything is aligned to the social studies and language arts standards for your state.

5. Put students’ interview skills to test.

Three components to oral history infographic

SOURCE: My Storycatcher

Conducting interviews or oral histories of relatives or community members is a great way to practice speaking, listening, and writing skills. This kind of project also easily ties into numerous social studies units. We love this Slideshare for more information on doing oral history projects.

6. Build vocabulary.

Different papers explaining American government

The world of social studies comes with its own rich and detailed vocabulary, and students lose ground when they don’t have the context or background knowledge for new words. Creating word walls for your social studies units can be a great way to build some of that context and support.

7. Analyze primary sources.

SOURCE: The Library of Congress

Kids of all ages can strengthen their close reading and analysis skills by examining primary sources. Photographs can be a particularly useful way to build writing and reflection skills. The Library of Congress offers a number of lesson plans on photographic analysis, including this one on the Civil War.

8. Consider historical role play.

SOURCE: Fourth Grade Flipper

Role play can be a great way to synthesize a number of literacy skills, including research, writing, speaking, and listening. Here blogger Fourth Grade Flipper explains how she uses role play during her Revolutionary War unit.

9. Use a class timeline.

Timeline stretching the wall of a classroom

SOURCE: Creative Ideas for the Upper Elementary Classroom

A timeline can be a good strategy to help students synthesize the information they have learned in various social studies units throughout the year. It can also help students put new historical information into context, in both social studies and language arts.

10. Assess historical thinking rather than facts.

Old painting of Pilgrims meeting Native Americans

SOURCE: Stanford History Education Group

When we emphasize facts in social studies (e.g., “When did the Civil War start?”), we may lose out on the deeper literacy skills required for more sophisticated historical understanding. The Stanford History Education Group offers close to 100 online historical assessments designed to measure understanding over facts.

Learn how our partner Studies Weekly makes it easy to integrate social studies and ELA with their fun, relevant classroom and online publications.

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206 Middle School Research Topics: Original Ideas List

As middle schoolers prepare to go to high school, they are introduced slowly to essay and research writing. They are sometimes given homework that involves picking suitable topics and writing on them. However, it should be noted that i t is not easy to write a research paper for a high grade. Middle schoolers in their preteen age are taught how to be creative, air out their opinions and conduct little research. It helps make them critical thinkers and prepares them for more writing tasks as they advance in their education. This article will help middle schoolers understand what is expected of them when asked to write an essay or research on a topic. It will also expose them to different areas where they can write and many research topics for middle school they can pick from.

What Should Be In A Middle School Research Paper?

Middle school research papers are often not required to be extended. They are in a unique position where they move from writing simple pieces to more detailed essays and research papers. This is the foundation where they learn to write excellent papers as they transcend to high school and eventually college. Writing an essay in middle school is not very different from writing in other stages. Some steps to get you started are

Understanding the Assignment :Before you begin, you should understand your teacher’s expectations when turning in your finished work.There will be rules and procedures to follow. Know the format the essay is supposed to be written in, and keep the due dates in mind. If you do not understand any aspect of the assignment, please ask for clarification, as this will help you deliver a clear and concise essay at the end.
Do Your Pre-Writing :Start with brainstorming on middle school research topics to determine what you would like your essay to be about. There are many options to pick from and several general subjects to break down into topics you want.

Pick up to three topics when you first brainstorm. From there, you can select the best one to write on. When you find a topic, start writing all you know about it. Create a rough paper where you jot down information from your research that will be useful in your essay. Feel free to write freely, as this will be your first draft, and you have the chance to edit it as you go.

Edit Your Work : Editing is essential. It helps give your paper structure. From your rough work, take out parts that are not necessary and add details you think you missed. This is where you should be detailed and try to make your work as neat and correct as possible. You are almost at the end of writing the paper.When you are sure your paper is good, it is time to proofread. Check for spelling and punctuation errors. One expert way to do this is to read the report from the bottom up, and this can help you spot any spelling errors.
Citations and References : Your teacher would have given you a format to write references for your work. Ensure that you are following the prescribed format.References will highlight the sources of the information gathered to make your essay.

What Can Middle Schoolers Write About?

There are many general subjects that middle schoolers can write about in their assignments. Streaming from what they have been taught in the classroom or their experiences outside class. Some issues that can create good middle school research paper topics include:

Science : This broad aspect covers earth science, geology, physical science, life science, and genetics. Science research paper topics for middle school will encourage the students to be interested in growth and learning how things work. Social Studies : This will involve learning about their history, other people’s cultures, human interaction, family, etc. This will create fun research topics for 6th graders, learning about life and how relationships work. Literature : This is the best time to learn about books and works of art. The literature will provide many topics to research for middle school students.

There are many more aspects that middle school students can research and write papers on. Discover more than 200 interesting research topics for middle school students below. However don’t worry if the assignment seems too difficult for you. You are only at the beginning of the path and our cheap research writing service will be happy to get you through with your paper.

Good Research Topics For Middle School

Students who have no experience writing papers and are looking for good research topics to work on are in luck. The topics below are suitable for all middle schoolers and can create detailed essays.

Should students be compelled to wear a specific uniform?
Textbooks or tablets: which is better to read from?
Obesity in American youth: Causes and solutions.
Should boys and girls be allowed to play on the same athletics team?
Should young people be allowed to play violent video games?
Impact of continuously playing violent video games.
When can we say someone is spending too much time in front of the screen?
Listening to music during class: Does it disturb concentration?
How to recognize harmful content on the internet?
Should all businesses be compelled to recycle?
What is the appropriate punishment for students who engage in cyberbullying?
Should school hours be adjusted to later in the morning?
Should our scientists be allowed to test drugs on animals?
Why do people’s behavior change in different settings?
Is sex education important?
Different types of poetry and how they came about.
What to do if you are being bullied on the internet.
How to have healthy self-esteem.
Why does the human body need sleep?
Insect repellents, are they helpful?
Why did dinosaurs go extinct?
What is skateboarding?
The effects of tobacco on the body.
Artificial tanning: Risks and benefits.
What is spam email? Where does it come from, and how can we stop it?
What is a desert mirage? How does it affect people?
What are penguins? Where do they stay, and what do they eat?
When and how was America created?
Who are some well know and inspirational women?
Who are some famous inventors?
What famous inventions helped in shaping human existence?
Steps you can take to protect yourself from scammers online.
What is a cryptocurrency, and why is it so popular?
What did the invention of the mobile phone do to change the world?
How to handle stress from school.
How can issues in the family affect a child?
Is your school working hard enough to prevent bullying?
Should we use mobile phones and tablets in class?
Does technology make you smarter?
What is an unhealthy life, and what are the effects?
Is there any benefit of doing homework?
What is video game addiction, and how to stop it?
What is a museum, and what can be found in it?
What can we do to reduce climate change?
Is soda suitable for children?
Does everyone have to go to college?
Comparing homework and class assignments.
What is physical education?
How the internet has changed our life
What is peer pressure?
What effect has global warming had on the environment?
What is racism?
What is a healthy diet?
Should students be able to pick what they learn?
Do movies depict what happens in real life?
Is arts a vital part of the school curriculum?
What are the challenges students face?
How do we conserve energy in our homes?
What is pop culture?
Should parents monitor their children’s social media?

Fun Research Topics for Middle School

Writing an essay shouldn’t always be stressful or tedious. These topics will make writing papers fun. The topics below can hold the researcher’s attention for a long time as they work on completing their project.

How should celebrities who break the law be punished?
What is bulletproof clothing made of?
All there is to know about hip-hop.
What do we know about ninjas?
Do lie detector tests work?
What are the ingredients contained in a hotdog?
Sharks, how do they hunt, and what do they eat?
How do search engines work?
Some fascinating extinct animals, and what happened to them?
How to manage time effectively.
How does insufficient sleep affect the brain?
How to let go of bad habits?
How do parents help us grow?
How to become a better writer.
Are dogs and cats enemies?
Why do parents punish children for bad behavior?
What is the best punishment for naughty kids?
Is magic real?
How to save money effectively?
What is self-development?
How to motivate yourself to be a better student?
When should you begin to earn money?
What’s the secret of having a successful life?
How not to become a game addict.

Middle School Research Project Ideas

Research shouldn’t always end as essay writing. Sometimes, you need hands-on projects to keep the middle schooler busy. The list below can serve as an ideal hub for research ideas for middle school students and work as interesting essay topics.

Investigating what life is like inside a beehive.
Steps in creating a movie.
How do our brains store memories and retrieve them when we need them?
What is a landform?
What are some important holidays around the world, and who celebrates them?
What are some significant symbols used in world holidays?
Creating an ecosystem: what’s the process involved?
Research on some exotic underwater creatures.
What is a meteor?
How to build a crossword puzzle.
What is advertising: create a short advertisement campaign.
Write the story of your life.
Create a calendar highlighting critical events in your life.
Create your family tree.

Science Research Topics for Middle School

Science is an exciting part of our lives. Because of science, the quality of our lives has increased, and there are many more inventions to come. These topics can engage the curious mind of the youngster and introduce them to science-related subjects to work on.

Earthquakes: Its causes and effects.
Computer viruses. What are they, and how do they spread?
Evolution of human beings.
Are human beings still evolving?
What is alchemy?
What is a black hole? How is it formed?
What is a submarine? Who uses them, and how do they work?
What is the cause of tornadoes?
What is a sinkhole, and how do they form?
Research on one of the planets in the solar system.
Understanding glaciers and icebergs.
What are volcanoes, and how do they form?
The different types of volcanoes and what causes them.
Who are the most famous scientists, and what are they famous for?
What are the components of airplanes that make them fly?
What are fossils, and what do they teach us?
How do genetics and DNA affect how we look?
Why does the moon change color and shape sometimes?
What is a Lunar eclipse?
What is pollution?
The different types of pollution and what can be done to curb them?
Can fruits play a part in medicine?
What is flooding?
What is an ecosystem?
What measures do butterflies take to defend themselves?
Different types of butterflies.
What is a skeleton, and why is it an essential part of the body?
How many bones are in a skeleton? Which are the most important?
Who is a marine biologist?
What is the connection between a marine biologist and the weather?
What are the risks marine biologists face when they dive?
Different types of fossils?
Are whales still hunted?
What is scientific research, and who conducts it?
What is the job of the nervous system?
Understanding the concept of hibernation?
What are the necessities plants need to grow?
Who are the people who study dinosaurs?
Mammals and reptiles: Similarities and differences.
Why don’t human beings float?
What is a prism, and what does it do?
What gives humans the ability to lift heavy things?
What factors can cause earthquakes?
How is wind measured?
What differentiates a planet from a star?
What is a galaxy? What galaxy is the earth?
Who is an astronaut, and what is their job?
What is a waterfall?
Do plants drink water?
Why do oil and water not mix?
What is microbiology?
How can we preserve our natural resources?
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of exploring space.
What are bacteria, and how useful is it to humans?
The similarities between temperature and heat.

If You Need Paper Writing Help

There are many ways to brainstorm ideas for your middle school homework. The research project ideas for middle school and the topics listed above will make it easier to begin. After picking a suitable topic, the next step is writing the entire paper. This will involve a lot of research and fact-finding to get accurate information for your paper. It doesn’t end at research, as you still have to write a great essay to score high marks. This could be a daunting task for many students. Don’t be afraid to get research paper help from our professional writers. After attending class, you may not have adequate time to write your essay yourself, if this is your situation, it’s okay to search for help on the internet. A quick google search for “write my paper” will result in several websites promising to write the best essay for you. However, you need to make your research before hiring an online writer for your assignment. If you need someone to write your assignment, we can be of help. We provide fast, reliable, custom paper writing services that can be completed online. Our services are available to every student, including university, middle school, high school, and college students. Our team of writers consists of professionals and teachers who are always available to ensure that you meet your deadlines. Contact us with a message “ do my research paper for me ” and enjoy the perfect result!

Free English Language Arts and Reading Activities for Middle School

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May 26, 2020

Grades 6–8 ELA Activity Set 7: Synonyms and Antonyms Crossword Puzzle and More

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May 18, 2020

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52 Language Arts Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best language arts topic ideas & essay examples, ✅ simple & easy language arts essay titles, 📌 interesting topics to write about language arts.

5th Grade Language Arts Classroom Language arts are essential to learners as it helps in communication, critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovation, productivity, imagination, and curiosity.
Lesson Plan: English/Language Arts Lesson Name of Activity: English/Language Arts Lesson. Materials, Resources, and Educational Technology Needed: Computer with projector for PowerPoint presentation and internet access Text-To-Speech Assistive Tools Sound-Field Systems Proofreading software Pens and notebooks We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
Teaching Language Arts: Phonemic Awareness The paper will be based upon the National Reading Panel report that, according to the program of Congress, studied a lot of research in the field of reading instruction so that to increase the number […]
Language Arts in Montessori Curriculum A lot of attention is paid to language in the framework of the Montessori curriculum. In addition to that, teachers of the Language Arts have a range of external duties, such as meetings with other […]
Observation Lesson Plan: Math, Science and Language Arts As far as the science lesson plan is concerned, it incorporates elements of the student-centered approach and the so-called Montessori method. Researchers stress that the development of students’ creativity is important as it positively affects […]
Language Arts: Major Areas and Teacher’s Role The purpose of Language Arts is to develop the child’s oral and written language, as well as to teach the child reading and paying attention to her or his handwriting.
Narratives in the Middle School Language Arts It is important to note that the narrative is not the story itself, but the event of telling the story; the narrative is not several happenings, but the act of communicating those events, possibly omitting […]
English Language Arts Lesson Plan: Valentine’s Day Subject English Language Arts Lesson Title Valentine’s Day Grade Level 4th grade Central Focus The focus of this lesson will be the identification of similarities as well as differences in the way people of different […]
English Language Arts Standards in Reading As far as the table limits the description of the Understanding by Design lesson template, it is necessary to evaluate particular parts of the template separately.
English Language Arts and Common Core State Standards In the proposal, the author does not define the target audience, and it is impossible to say whether the chosen subject matter is age-appropriate for the audience.
Language Arts Development in Elementary-Aged Children To develop the ability to communicate effectively the skills of reading, listening, writing, representing ideas visually, and viewing are essential for this purpose. With regard to elementary aged students, visual representing comes in the form […]
Educational Strategies for the Fourth Grade English Language Arts The teachers should use strategies to enable the students to learn the use of euphemisms, affixes and roots and be able to apply them in their work.
History of Language Arts: Ethos, Pathos, Logos
New York State Standards in English Language Arts
Charles Dickens and Great Expectations for Language Arts Activities
Investigating the Relevance and Importance of Language Arts
Writing and Language Arts in Literature: Fables, Parables and Allegories
Language Arts for Cover Letters and Resumes PPT
Grammar Corrections in Language Arts
Language Arts: Curriculum Adaptations
California Language Arts Framework Analysis
The Common Core State Standard for Language Arts
Magical Realism and Gothic Horror of Language Arts
Skills Children Learn in First Grade Language Arts
What’s on the GED: Reasoning through Language Arts
Language Arts: Teaching Effectiveness Techniques
Intervention Programs Increase Student Achievement in Language Arts
Achieving Language Arts Standards: Using the Ruler Approach to Social and Emotional Learning
Language Arts: Essential Tool Used in Everyday Life
Comparation between Satire and Parodia: Language Arts Activities
Student’s Achievement in Language Arts: Getting Ideas for Narrative
The Connection of Language Arts, Education and Science
Chinese Language Arts for Lower Primary Schools
Language Art and How It Effects Society
Language Arts and the Uses of Technology
Cooperative and Direct Learning Approaches in the Language Arts
Environmental Education through Science, Visual and Language Arts
Modern and Innovative Technologies for Teaching Language Arts
Language Arts: Linguistic Picture of the World and Linguistic Mentality
Importance of Synthetic Phonics in Language Arts
The Main Stages of the Development of Writing in Language Arts
Language Arts – Core Knowledge Foundation
The Importance of Language Arts Development
Analyzing the Most Traditional Language Arts Programs
The Main Components of Language Arts: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing
Charlotte Mason’s Approach to Language Arts
The Link Between Culture And Language Arts
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Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

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K-12 Internet Resource Center

A totally free index of Internet resources for the K-12 Community.

Middle School Language Arts

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826 Digital Writing Lessons

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Earth Day ELA Choice Board for Middle School

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Celebrate Earth Day while enhancing ELa skills and knowledge with this 9-square choice board menu for middle school. Create independent or group practice opportunities as a standalone Earth… learn more

All About Adolescent Literacy

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AdLit: Video Library

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Literary Term Infographics

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WordGameTime: Free Word Games

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Facing our History. Explore our wide range of curricular resources and professional learning for secondary English Language Arts classrooms. Our ELA resources integrate literacy skills development with social-emotional… learn more

YMI Language Arts Archives

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Young Minds Inspired educational outreach programs tap into popular culture to create a dynamic learning experience. Browse by subject through our library of free study guides and online… learn more

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GRAPHIC NOVELS, AUDIOBOOKS, AND MORE: 6 WAYS TO ADD ACCESSIBLE STORIES TO YOUR LIBRARY

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PBS Literature

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Affect or Effect: Simple Tricks for Helping Your Students Get It Right

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A SIFT LESSON PLAN: CRITICAL SKILLS FOR NAVIGATING MEDIA

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Our Mission

Nine Strategies for Reaching All Learners in English Language Arts

Not satisfied with students' progress on district- and state-mandated tests -- and after careful deliberation by administration and staff -- the Edwards Middle School implemented the Massachusetts Expanded Learning Time (ELT) Initiative in the 2006/07 school year. ELT has since become an integral part of the school day, where students receive an additional 60 minutes of support instruction in some core academic classes like English and math, and 90 minutes of electives in arts, sports and music, and other enrichment activities.

In order to maximize the benefits of ELT for students, I looked for ways to fine tune my approach to teaching individualized learning in my English language arts classroom. One of the instructional models that informs my approach to teaching individualized learning is the Readers and Writers Workshop . This approach proved very helpful in optimizing ELT.

Readers and Writers Workshop: An Instructional Model

The workshop model for English instruction combined with an extended 60 minutes of ELT support for my struggling students provides an excellent springboard to plan and implement individualized instruction in my class. Readers and Writers Workshop is an instructional model that focuses on students as learners, as well as readers and writers in practice. As readers and writers, students are mentored, working in a supportive and collaborative environment with their mentor on touchstone texts. There is an inherent reading-writing connection with this instructional delivery system that includes the following phases:

1. Mini-lesson (10-15 minutes)

This phase involves a teacher modeling a reading or writing strategy for the students to practice. It could also involve a "do now" to tap into students' prior knowledge. Students might build a schema around a specific strategy that the teacher had modeled previously -- or do an activity to see what they retained of the day's lesson. (See a a sample lesson plan (PDF).)

2. Guided or independent student practice (40-45 minutes)

This is a student work time allocated for practicing the modeled strategy. During this phase the teacher circulates the room conferring with individuals and small groups. He takes notes, makes informal assessments, and provides one-on-one support to struggling learners.

3. Reflection (5-10 minutes)

This phase allows the whole class to regroup and review the lesson objectives, share learning, and reflect on what worked or did not work.

The workshop model provides for both independent and collaborative learning, and thus fosters student ownership of the learning process. This approach strongly emphasizes a student-centered approach to learning.

Reaching All Learners in the ELA Classroom

As a middle school ELA teacher, I continue to collaborate with my peers in the building and across the school district. I participate in planning and designing instruction, inquiry-based studies, and collaborative coaching and learning. These activities have provided me with a repertoire of research-based best practices to engage the readers and writers in my ELA classroom. I teach four core ELA classes Monday through Friday, and one support ELA class Monday through Thursday. Two of my core classes are inclusion, with a third of the students in each on individual education plans (IEP). I co-teach with a specialist who supports the students on IEP. The specialist and I also plan instruction to ensure that all students are able to effectively access the curriculum. We provide frequent check-ins and modify instruction to meet everyone's needs. Our instruction is focused on building stamina in reading and writing to produce critical thinkers and life-long learners. We use the following strategies:

1. Encourage independent reading

From the first day of school, we encourage students to choose the books they read. We model how to choose and review a book for reading. We also encourage students to choose books at their independent reading level rather than at their frustration or difficult level. Students read for 30 minutes daily and complete an entry on the reading. (See sample reading questions (PDF).) Students are not only expanding their knowledge as good readers, they are also building reading stamina.

2. Design product-driven reading and writing instruction

Plan units that are product-driven. (See a sample lesson plan template (PDF).) Have a key or an essential question that instruction seeks to address in the unit. It should become the epicenter of instruction, thus allowing for mastery. Students become stakeholders when they know the instructional objectives and learning outcome.

3. Pre-reading and pre-writing strategies

Infuse pre-reading and pre-writing strategies to build schema. "What I know, what I want to know, and what I learned" (KWL), quick-writes, and vocabulary activities before reading and writing are very useful for tapping into students' prior knowledge and making connections in learning. Quick-writes also provide excellent seed ideas for writing. Expand students' word choice by previewing text vocabulary before reading and providing opportunities for students to find at least three synonyms for unfamiliar words.

4. Making meaning

Provide instruction in basic reading strategies using reciprocal teaching practice that includes predicting, visualizing, questioning, clarifying, and summarizing. As students master these strategies, have them read in small groups of three or four, applying the strategies to their readings. Students should be encouraged to rotate roles. As they interact with the text, they are making meaning and comprehending the text.

5. Text annotation

Teach students to mark or highlight text for main ideas and also for answers to specific questions. Text annotation is an excellent method to make meaning and provide evidence to support answers.

6. Ask text-based evidence questions

Challenge students to provide specific evidence to support their answers. Use t-chart graphic organizers to have them identify specific lines from a text and explain their thoughts about the lines.

7. Immerse students in the genre

Provide adequate opportunity -- one to two weeks -- for students to examine text features and structures, and to read and learn from mentor texts and literature before writing.

8. Provide options for writing

As students examine mentor texts in their reading, provide a variety of writing samples for them to learn from. Teach a variety of genres. Encourage learning and practicing the craft of authors through modeling, conferring, and collaboration.

9. Analyze and interpret

Teach strategies that emphasize analysis and interpretation -- examine author styles and use of language through literal and figurative analysis to get meaning from text.

I apply this model to ELT by working with kids twice a day. In the morning class, it is strictly curriculum-driven; students are using the workshop as a means to their own learning. In the afternoon, I guide them to help remediate the skills they need to improve their comprehension.

Have you used this workshop model, and if so, do you have any other techniques for how you've been able to individualize instruction? Please share any questions or experiences in the comments section below.

Edwards Middle School

Per pupil expenditures, free / reduced lunch, demographics:.

38% English-language learners 24% special needs

Learn more about Edwards Middle School and their expanded learning time program.

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Teaching Language Arts: Resources for Educators

Introduction.

The ability to read and write plays a major role in a student’s ability to succeed in the classroom. It also has enormous implications regarding mental and emotional development, self-esteem, and even health. Highly literate students are more likely to have higher IQs, develop a love for reading, and become sought-after employees as adults.

Those are just a few reasons why a focused language arts curriculum is so vital to a child’s development. Exposure to the concepts of spelling, grammar, storytelling, and composition gives students a basis for how to write and communicate effectively.

Writing Activities

The best writing comes from a place of creativity that is easier to access when assignments are fun and engaging. The resources below include classroom exercises that teach students how to write clearly while also holding their attention.

Interesting Writing Assignments That Take Students Beyond the Essay : How many five-paragraph essays do students write in their school career? A lot. How many standardized tests require an essay? Most of them. How many…
Writing into Summer: Creative Assignments Can Keep Students Academically Engaged : Many students see the summer break as a time to put off their studies and stop thinking about school for three months. Yet parents and…
Share Your Story: Teaching Strategies That Reach Reluctant Writers : In a recent interview in the Stories Teachers Share podcast, high school teacher Alexa Schlechter perfectly described the challenge instructors face with creative writing classes…
Nerd Culture and Storytelling: How Tabletop Games Can Inspire Creative Writing Students : On Saturday nights, my family sits down and plays a silly game called Munchkin. We go on a quest, establishing our race, class, and armor…
Examples of Outdoor Activities to Get Your Students Writing : As a teacher, there are only so many things you can do indoors to help your students write. That is why more and more teachers…
Effectively Teaching Grammar: What Works (and What Doesn’t Work) : All educators agree that students are better writers when they have an understanding of grammar. To be effective writers in school and to effectively communicate…

Teaching Figurative Language

Figurative language is language that is not meant to be taken literally; it deviates from the normal meaning of words and phrases to communicate in a different and more interesting.

Students often use figurative language without even realizing it. Here are the six types of figurative language that students are most likely to come across and use when they’re reading and writing.

personification

Figurative language allows students to find different and more creative ways to express themselves, both verbally and in writing.

11 IDEAS FOR TEACHING FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE MEANINGFULLY
All Types of Figurative Language
Summer Workshop Series: Teaching Word Portraiture to Young Writers

Language Arts Lesson Plans Per Grade

The language arts curriculum should be taught according to the developmental stage of students. Younger students (grades 1 to 3) should be taught the building blocks of language. Students in grades 4 to 6 should be expected to start combining concepts and building vocabulary. Middle school students are taught delve into more long-form reading and writing, while high school students should begin putting everything they have learned together.

4 Kindergarten Lesson Plans to Help your School’s Language Arts Curriculum
4 Tips for Teaching 2nd Grade Writing
Middle School Level English Language Arts Lesson Plans
High School Level English Language Arts Lesson Plans
K-12 Language Arts Classroom Worksheets

Learning Language Arts Through Literature

One of the most effective ways to teach students the building blocks of language is to give them the opportunity to see those building blocks in action.

Literature melds grammar, spelling, figurative language, and many other tenets of the language arts curriculum into a single, cohesive composition. Reading allows students to practice interpreting the meaning of certain words and phrases through context and to develop ideas regarding how to use them in their own work.

Mixing Fun Into Poetry Lessons Can Engage Students
English Teachers: How You Can Use STEAM in Your Classroom
Finding the Right Language Arts Curriculum
How to Teach Reading Comprehension
Literature Study Guides (free)

Teaching Essay Writing

Essay writing allows students to apply what they have learned from the language arts curriculum. It gives them practice expressing themselves personally, and it teaches how to conduct effective research to support an argument.

Written communication is critical for success, so the consequences of not writing essays include missing out on the ability to clearly and concisely communicate with the written word.

The below links give inspiration for assigning essays and assignments that help students develop their research abilities.

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COVID-19 Teacher Toolkit: Resilience Through ...

IMAGES

206 Middle School Research Topics
Middle School Research Topics
Middle School Language Arts Lesson Plan
Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School Argumentative Essay Topics
How to Select Effective Research Topics
Good Essay Topics For 6th Graders

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Editorial: Writing Workshop #1

COMMENTS

101 Research Paper Topics
Whether you are a teacher or a student, this list of 101 research topics should be extremely helpful. Navigation ... Language Arts. Grammar Worksheets. Capitalization Worksheets, Lessons, and Tests ... I would appreciate a list of survey questions for middle school grades 6-8. Reply. Benicia / June 28, 2018. I need a research topics about ...
Research Topics for Middle Schoolers: Engaging Ideas for Student
Science and the Natural World. The sciences are a playground of wonder, with an infinity of topics waiting to be explored. Here are some research ideas that can nurture a love for discovery and experimentation: Climate Change: Effects and Solutions: Investigating the causes and potential solutions to this global challenge can make students ...
10 Great Research Topics for Middle School Students
10. Study ocean acidification and its effects on marine life. What to do: Simulate the effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms in a controlled experiment. Use vinegar to lower the pH of water in a tank and observe its impact on calcium carbonate shells or skeletons, such as seashells or coral fragments.
Navigating the Landscape of Middle School English Language Arts (ELA
By: Dori Veto, M.Ed. from Perfection Learning. Middle school English Language Arts (ELA) education is a critical phase in a student's academic journey, as it plays a pivotal role in shaping their language skills, cognitive development, and critical thinking abilities. In recent years, the landscape of middle school ELA teaching and learning ...
PDF 10 Ways to Make Research-Based Middle Schools
practitioners across the country, the Middle School Matters Field Guide is a collection of research-based principles, practices, and strategies deemed essential for middle school success. It includes instructional practices derived from the most rigorous research conducted in the middle grades over the past 15 years. Speciically,
Research Activities For Middle School: Discussions, Tips, Exploration
18. Middle School Research Projects Middle School Students Will Love. Here is a list of 30 great research projects for middle schoolers, along with cool examples of each one. It also goes through planning strategies and other so-called soft skills that your middle school-aged students will need in order to complete such projects.
Research Projects
Create a free account to gain full access to the website. Save & Organize Resources. See State Standards. Manage Classes & Assignments. Sync with Google Classroom. Create Lessons. Customized Dashboard. Find lessons on Research Projects for all grades. Free interactive resources and activities for the classroom and home.
Expository Unit for Middle School English Language Arts
This is how I've laid out my entire 9-week Expository Reading & Writing Unit for 7th grade English / Language Arts. Inside my private membership area, you can actually click on each week and then all the lesson plans for that week open up. Each file is kinda large (never larger than 20MB) and so they'll download in the form of a ZIP file (a ...
To Make the Parts of Speech Engaging, Have Students Do the ...
Divide the students in a class into eight groups of three or four students. As the teacher, this part of the process requires you to make purposeful decisions about whether to form homogeneous or heterogeneous groups. They both have their strengths and limitations. 2. Selectively assign each group a part of speech.
The Four Principles of Middle School ELA Engagement
Engagement principle no. 2: Provide opportunities and supports for all students to work "up". When it comes to physical, emotional, social, and academic development, middle schoolers are all over the place. The phrase to remember is "low floors and high ceilings"—in other words, it's all about providing multiple entry points and the ...
Middle School ELA Activities and Resources
Mrs. Beers Language Arts Classroom. A middle school ELA teacher blog featuring language arts activities, classroom ideas, and teacher resources for grades 4-8.
Inquiry-Based Learning in Middle and High School English
Step 3: Creating or Doing. This is where IBL projects differ from traditional research projects. Ask students to either create, experience, or do something with their learning. The beauty of IBL projects in English language arts is that the project topic and physical result don't have to have anything to do with English class.
Language Arts
Language Arts. Language Arts provides a forum for discussions on all aspects of language arts learning and teaching, primarily as they relate to children in pre-kindergarten through the eighth grade.Issues discuss both theory and classroom practice, highlight current research, and review children's and young adolescent literature, as well as classroom and professional materials of interest ...
Integrating Language Arts and Social Studies
3. Go beyond report writing. Often when we ask kids to write in social studies, the focus is on informational writing or reports. This kind of writing has its place, but there is also room for creative, reflection, and opinion writing tied to social studies content. We love these visual social studies writing prompts.
206 Middle School Research Topics
This will create fun research topics for 6th graders, learning about life and how relationships work. Literature: This is the best time to learn about books and works of art. The literature will provide many topics to research for middle school students. There are many more aspects that middle school students can research and write papers on.
Supporting Middle School Language Arts Teachers Through Professional
The purpose of this research was to examine a sustained Professional Development (PD) project provided to Language Arts ... In this study, language arts teachers in one middle school participated in ongoing professional development. As part of this professional development, participants engaged in face-to-face professional development sessions ...
English Language Arts & Reading Activities for Middle School
4 Min Read. As your learners become more advanced readers and writers, support their development with these free English language arts and reading activities for middle school. These lessons and downloadable resources focus on haikus, metaphors, figurative language, and more curriculum-rich topics.
52 Language Arts Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
5th Grade Language Arts Classroom. Language arts are essential to learners as it helps in communication, critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovation, productivity, imagination, and curiosity. Lesson Plan: English/Language Arts Lesson. Name of Activity: English/Language Arts Lesson.
Middle School Language Arts
Topic List; About Us; Middle School Language Arts. Filters: PreK 1-3 4-5 6-8 9-12 Lesson Plan Video. Fun English Games for Kids. 1-3 4-5 6-8. ... Literature, Writing, and Research Skills. 6-8. A collection of websites to assist middle school students in writing and research skills. learn more. Khan Academy: ELA 2nd-9th.
Nine Strategies for Reaching All Learners in English Language Arts
As they interact with the text, they are making meaning and comprehending the text. 5. Text annotation. Teach students to mark or highlight text for main ideas and also for answers to specific questions. Text annotation is an excellent method to make meaning and provide evidence to support answers. 6.
When Middle Schoolers Collaborate in Language Diverse Classrooms, All
When middle schoolers are working and talking together across language groups, it helps all students learn better and participate in the classroom. While there are academic benefits for all students in well-integrated language diverse classrooms, these new findings also suggest that EL students have greater growth in their language ...
Teaching Language Arts: Resources for Educators
The language arts curriculum should be taught according to the developmental stage of students. Younger students (grades 1 to 3) should be taught the building blocks of language. Students in grades 4 to 6 should be expected to start combining concepts and building vocabulary. Middle school students are taught delve into more long-form reading ...
Effectively Using Technology To Develop Independent Research Topics by
This practicum was designed to increase the effective use of technology by language arts students in middle schools involved in independent research activities. Technology was made available to students in the classroom and in the library to use as a resource to investigate and research topics. Seventh grade students (n=57) were given instruction in Boolean searching techniques to use the ...