1c. Develop Research Questions

Once you have selected an initial topic, the next step is to develop research questions. To begin:

• Write down what you already know or don't know about the topic.
• Using the information you wrote down, develop questions you'd like to answer when doing your research.
  • Use probing questions such as why? how? what if? should?
  • Avoid questions that can be answered with yes or no. 

An example is provided below.

Download a worksheet to help you work through the development process

What DO or DON'T I know about the Endangered Species Act (ESA)?

I know it's a law that protects animals, and their habitats, that are in danger of extinction. I believe the law only protects habitats that are within the U.S. boundaries.  The gray wolf population, since being protected, has grown substantially in Wisconsin and now Illinois. A farmer in my hometown lost several calves to wolves and lawmakers are considering lifting the endangered status so wolf populations could be controlled with hunting. I don't know what it takes for an animal to be removed from the list and I don't know what the penalties are for violating this act.

Research Questions

• What was the Endangered Species Act (ESA) designed to protect?

• What animals are currently on the endangered species list?

• What penalties are imposed on those who violate the act?

• How does an animal get added/removed from the list?

• What other countries have legislation to protect animals/habitats?

• How does government balance the good of one species with the potential impact (financial or otherwise) to humans?