While I think it's an excellent idea to have students choose their own research or argument topics, it does tend to create a bit of panic because of the vast opportunities. The most important thing I can recommend is to choose a topic you are REALLY interested in, organically curious about, and want to know more about. Don't think about how many pages you need to write (teamonkey I am talking to you). Think about things you would look up and read about if you didn't have to write this paper.
Okay, to start (do each step before moving on to the next one):
1. Write down ten things you are interested in. (bands, literature, art, physics (oh wait that's me), theater, film, etc.). ANYTHING.
2. Cross off something on your list that you feel is ridiculous or you couldn't possibly write and academic paper about (bunnies?).
3. Think about, talk to other people about, talk to your mom or bff's mom about how this topic could be a valid academic research topic. IE: How can bunnies make good household pets? Why are bunnies so determined to eat the furniture? How do house bunnies manage to maintain an aloof nature and engage in wild behaviors (digging, eating the furniture) when they are domesticated like dogs and cats and even look more cuddly? On that note: why oh why won't my bunny cuddle me? (bunnies may not be the best example)
4. As illustrated in number 3, anything can make a good research topic (remember I once had a student write a 15 page paper on cupcakes). Also, notice the how/why questions. A good research topic needs research questions. These are how/why questions because they really dig in and require deeper investigation.
5. Come up with how/why questions on three of your topic ideas. As many as you can think of.
6. Structure a free write into: what you already know about a topic, what you need to know (how/why questions again but limit it to maybe three that could work together) and where would you look for answers (are there scholarly articles/texts on your topic?). Do some preliminary research (Google/library search) to get a broad idea of your topic and what kind of questions (and answers) are out there.
7. Pick a topic. One that you had a lot of questions about, don't know TOO much about already (you will get bored), and one that has potential sources in your library or library database (I'm assuming you need scholarly sources).
If you would like I can help with the steps to writing a term paper as well. First thing you need is to do research and construct an outline. I have ideas about presentations too if you're interested. Finally, How and Why did you end up with a mom/bff's mom who's an English teacher??? More unsolicited advice coming soon! Love. xo
