"How do I choose a topic?
There are several methods.
What kinds of things qualify as a topic? A good topic for a history research paper can be an event, movement, person, or place that focuses on issues related to culture, society, economics, politics, diplomacy, or intellectual developments. Why does my teacher have to approve my topic? For a few reasons, first your teacher would know if there are few (or no) accessible sources for your topic. Secondly, your teacher would know if several other students are already researching the same topic (thereby making sure there are enough sources for everyone). And most importantly your teacher will help you to select a topic that is re-searchable and focused and not obscure, vague or unattainable. Why do I have to choose three topics? Choosing three topics forces the students to consider multiple ideas and allows the student to have immediate options if their first choice cannot be done. My topic is huge! What do I do? It is important to start thinking about narrowing your topic down as soon as possible. To write a thorough research paper on the Battle of Gettysburg or the Holocaust would take hundreds of pages so you will have to focus on only one aspect of a larger event and not the entire event. If your topic is a conflict then focus on one side, if your topic is a person then focus on one event or era they had an impact on (or impacted them)." Emphasis by bolding words completed by Ms. Barker
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