Research Paper Basics

Grade 6 · English · Study Guide

Learn the essential steps and skills for writing an organized, well-supported research paper.

A research paper is an extended piece of writing that uses evidence from multiple sources to explore, analyze, or argue about a topic. Writing one involves several important steps.

The process begins with choosing a focused topic and forming a research question — a specific question your paper will answer. A question that is too broad (like 'What is climate change?') is hard to answer fully. A more focused question (like 'How does climate change affect polar bear populations?') is more manageable.

Next, you gather information from credible sources: books, encyclopedias, academic articles, reliable websites, and databases. As you research, take organized notes and keep track of where each piece of information came from. This is called source documentation and it is essential for avoiding plagiarism.

Once you have gathered enough evidence, you create an outline to organize your ideas before you begin writing. An outline typically includes an introduction (with a thesis statement), body paragraphs each covering one main idea with evidence, and a conclusion.

Citing sources is one of the most important parts of research writing. A citation gives credit to the original author and allows readers to verify your information. Common citation formats include MLA (Modern Language Association) and APA (American Psychological Association). A bibliography or works cited page at the end of the paper lists all sources used.

Revision is the final step — reviewing and improving your draft for clarity, accuracy, organization, and grammar before submitting.

Key terms

Research question
A specific, focused question that guides the research and that the paper aims to answer.
Thesis statement
A sentence in the introduction that states the paper's main argument or central finding.
Citation
A note within the text or at the end of the paper that credits the original source of information used.
Bibliography / Works Cited
A list of all sources used in the research paper, formatted according to a style guide such as MLA or APA.
Paraphrase
Restating someone else's idea in your own words while still crediting the source.
Plagiarism
Using someone else's words, ideas, or data without proper credit, whether intentional or not.

Flashcards

Research question
A specific, focused question your research paper will investigate and answer.
Thesis statement
A sentence in the introduction that states the main claim or focus of the paper.
Outline
A structured plan that organizes the main ideas and supporting evidence before writing begins.
Citation
A reference that credits the original source of information used in the paper.
Works Cited / Bibliography
A formatted list of all sources used, placed at the end of the paper.
Paraphrase
Restating an idea from a source in your own words, while still giving credit.
Direct quote
An exact word-for-word copy of text from a source, placed in quotation marks.
Plagiarism
Using another person's words or ideas without proper credit.

Questions

  1. Which is the BEST research question for a 6th-grade research paper?

    1. What is the ocean?
    2. How does plastic pollution in the ocean affect sea turtle populations?
    3. Is the ocean important?
    4. Tell me about fish.
    Show answer

    Answer: How does plastic pollution in the ocean affect sea turtle populations?

    A focused, specific question about a measurable topic is ideal for research. Vague or overly broad questions are too difficult to address thoroughly.

  2. Putting someone else's idea into your own words (paraphrasing) means you do not need to cite the source.

    Show answer

    Answer: False

    Paraphrasing still requires a citation because the idea or information originated with someone else, even if the words are yours.

  3. The list of all sources used in a research paper, formatted according to a style guide, is called a bibliography or ______ cited page.

    Show answer

    Answer: works

    A Works Cited page (MLA) or References page (APA) is the formatted list of all sources used in a research paper.

  4. What is the purpose of creating an outline BEFORE writing a research paper?

    1. To make the paper look more professional
    2. To organize ideas and plan the structure of the paper before writing
    3. To show the teacher you started the assignment
    4. To count the number of sources you found
    Show answer

    Answer: To organize ideas and plan the structure of the paper before writing

    An outline helps writers plan their argument, organize evidence, and ensure the paper flows logically before they begin drafting.

  5. MLA and APA are two common citation formats used in research writing.

    Show answer

    Answer: True

    MLA (commonly used in English/humanities) and APA (commonly used in social sciences) are the two most widely taught citation formats in school.

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