Introduction to 8th Grade Research Papers
Writing a research paper is an important skill for 8th graders to develop. At this level, research papers typically range from 5-8 pages and require students to properly cite at least three sources using MLA or APA format. Here are a few tips for 8th graders as they work on their first major research papers:
Choosing a Topic
One of the first and most important steps is choosing a topic. For 8th grade research papers, students should pick a subject that interests them but isn’t too broad. Some good options include:
A historical figure like Martin Luther King Jr. or Eleanor Roosevelt.
An animal like great white sharks or komodo dragons.
An important event like the American Revolution or women’s suffrage movement.
A famous inventor like Thomas Edison or the Wright brothers.
A city or landmark like New York City or the Eiffel Tower.
A science topic like space exploration, anatomy, or physics.
A book, movie or video game they enjoy and want to analyze.
The topic should be specific enough that there is plenty of research material but not too narrow that it’s difficult to find sources. Getting the topic approved by the teacher is also a good idea.
Researching Credible Sources
Once the topic is chosen, it’s time to research. 8th graders should focus on finding at least three credible sources to cite, like books, academic journals, magazines, newspapers or credible websites. Some good places to research include the school or public library databases, online search engines, archives, and museums.
Students should take detailed notes by hand or on a computer as they research. They should record the author’s name, source title, publisher or website, date, and page numbers if applicable for each citation. Properly recording this information from the beginning will make the citation process much easier.
Creating an Outline
Before beginning to write, creating an outline is essential. The outline should have the introduction, three to five topic sentences as the main body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each main point in the outline should expand on the research with key facts, quotes, examples or details. The outline helps structure the paper and provides talking points for each section.
Writing the Draft
Armed with thorough research notes and a detailed outline, students are ready to write a draft. The introduction should capture the reader’s attention, state the topic, and thesis. Each body paragraph should address one main idea or aspect of the research with a topic sentence followed by supporting evidence and details from credible sources with in-text citations.
The conclusion should summarize the main points without introducing new information and leave the reader with a final thought. Grammatically sound and varied sentences are ideal. Transitions between ideas will help the paper flow cohesively. Leaving time to proofread for errors is also crucial before the final draft.
Include a Works Cited Page
No research paper would be complete without properly citing sources. For 8th grade papers, either MLA or APA style is typically required by the teacher. Whichever format is chosen, students must create a works cited page alphabetically listing full citations for every source referenced in the paper. This provides credibility and allows readers to find the original sources.
Key Elements of Example 8th Grade Research Papers
A well-written 8th grade sample paper will contain these essential elements:
A creative title that captures the topic. For example, “Eleanor Roosevelt: A Pioneer for Women’s Rights.”
An engaging introductory paragraph with a clear thesis statement. For example, “This paper will examine Eleanor Roosevelt’s accomplishments and pivotal role in advocating for women’s rights in America during the 20th century.”
3-5 body paragraphs, each with a topic sentence supported by facts, quotes, data or other evidence from sources cited in-text.
Logical progression/sequencing of the main points covered in the outline.
Smooth transitions between ideas denoted by transition words.
A thoughtful conclusion that restates the thesis and leaves the reader with final thoughts.
Complete works cited page with accurate citations formatted in MLA or APA style.
Clean, error-free writing presented in a reader-friendly format with proper grammar, punctuation & varied sentence structure.
Example 8th Grade Research Paper in PDF Format
To see a sample research paper along with the elements discussed above, click here to access a deidentified 6-page PDF document. This example covers “The Historic New Deal” topic with 3 body paragraphs exploring different aspects of FDR’s New Deal programs and policies.
The sample paper includes:
A creative title: “Franklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal: Rescuing America from the Great Depression.”
Clear introductory paragraph with a compelling thesis statement.
3 body paragraphs with topic sentences, facts/details from 3 credible sources cited in-text using MLA style.
A concluding paragraph that summarizes the key points and leaves the reader with a final thought.
A works cited page listing the 3 sources in alphabetical order by author’s last name using correct MLA formatting.
This 8th grade research paper example pdf demonstrates grade-appropriate writing skills incorporating thorough research, proper citations, key elements, and overall organization and structure. It serves as a useful model for students working to complete their own papers.
Concluding Thoughts
Writing a research paper takes time, effort, and organizational skills, but provides many educational benefits. The research process helps 8th graders develop critical thinking abilities while learning about their topic in-depth. Citing sources accurately also introduces proper research conduct. With careful topic selection, diligent note-taking, strong outlining, and iterations of writing and revision, students can craft comprehensive research papers meeting 8th grade standards.
Andrew Stroud