The lesson guides young academics through the steps in producing a 10-page research paper on any topic in American history. Historians begin by formulating a thesis and gathering resources, then move on to creating an outline, and end with drafting a formal research paper. The unit also covers the use of primary and secondary sources. 

Concepts

historical research, research writing, american history, essay writing, formal writing, argumentative writing, the writing process

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Have pupils create short presentations based on their research 
• Use the lesson at the end of the semester to strengthen students' writing and research skills 

Classroom Considerations

• Requires prior experience with research and writing skills to complete the lesson 

Pros

• Provides rubrics for each stage of the lesson for easier grading
• Contains samples to guide learning 

Cons

• None

Common Core

WHST.11-12.1.a WHST.11-12.1.b WHST.11-12.1.c WHST.11-12.1.d WHST.11-12.1.e WHST.11-12.7 WHST.11-12.8 WHST.11-12.9