A well-structured outline is essential for writing an effective high school science research paper. By planning your paper with an outline, you will ensure that your ideas and information are organized in a logical manner. Your outline provides the foundation upon which you will build your paper.
The basic elements of a typical outline for a high school science research paper include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each section contains more specific information to help guide your writing. Below is a sample outline for a research paper on the topic of how climate change impacts water resources:
I. Introduction
A. Background information on topic
1. Brief statement on how climate change affects water resources globally
2. Indicate importance of issue through statistics or scientific findings
B. Thesis statement
1. Clearly state main argument or area of focus for the paper
Ex: This paper will examine how rising temperatures caused by climate change impact water availability and quality in the United States.
C. Preview of main points to be discussed in paper
1. List topics of body paragraphs
II. Body Paragraph 1: Impact of warming temperatures on water resources
A. Topic sentence introducing first main point
Ex: Increased warming leads to changes in precipitation patterns that affect water availability.
B. Evidence & explanation
1. Cite scientific sources that discuss link between temperature rise and changes to precipitation
2. Explain how precipitation changes occur and impact water supplies
C. Connective transition to next paragraph
III. Body Paragraph 2: Effect of warming on water quality
A. Topic sentence introducing second main point
Ex: Warmer temperatures also reduce water quality through increased pollutants and growth of harmful algae.
B. Evidence & explanation
1. Cite studies examining relationship between temperature and water pollutants/algal blooms
2. Detail how warmer conditions favor algal growth and movement of pollutants
C. Connective transition to next paragraph
IV. Body Paragraph 3: Specific regional impacts of climate change on water
A. Topic sentence introducing third main point
Ex: Parts of the United States are already experiencing water shortages and quality issues due to climate change.
B. Evidence & explanation
1. Cite data and reports about water challenges in selected regions of the US
2. Provide details on challenges facing each region discussed
C. Connective transition to conclusion paragraph
V. Conclusion
A. Restate thesis
1. Reword thesis statement regarding impacts of climate change on US water resources
B. Summarize main points
1. Briefly summarize three body paragraphs discussing impact on availability, quality, and specific regions
C. Concluding thoughts
1. Reflect on importance of issue and need for adaptation/mitigation efforts
VI. Works Cited (bibliography of sources cited in paper)
This outline clearly defines the different components that will make up the paper by addressing the research question and previewing the key topics that will be discussed in the body. The outline helps organize information and ideas in a logical flow that builds upon each point before reaching a conclusion. This provides structure to the writing process and ensures all elements are adequately addressed in the final paper. Most importantly, following an outline prepares students to thoroughly research and analyze their chosen science topic.