50 Research Paper Ideas for Middle School
- Stephen Turban
- Sep 18
- 10 min read
Research papers involve investigating a topic of your choice and writing about your findings and results. Middle school students can opt for research papers to explore a field of interest and determine their career path. Conducting research in middle school offers flexibility and the time to explore different fields before making a decision. To help you get started, we have listed 50 research paper ideas for middle school students.
Why does the flu virus differ from year to year?
Although flu vaccines are available, many still catch the common cold regularly. It is also difficult to develop immunity against it. This research paper looks at how the flu virus changes annually and whether one can safeguard themselves from contracting it.
Suitable for: Beginners
What causes diabetes, and what are its different types?
Diabetes is a condition that affects blood sugar regulation. You may have heard that some people have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Investigate what these types are and how they are caused.
Suitable for: Beginners
How does a thermos keep liquids hot?
To keep liquids hot for a longer duration, we tend to use a thermos. They may also help keep cold liquids cold. This research paper allows you to examine the insulation properties of thermoses.
Suitable for: Beginners
How did the modern nation-state come into existence?
The ancient world had civilizations and kingdoms. Today, we have the modern nation-state in the form of countries. What political and legal changes led to the creation of these nation-states?
Suitable for: Beginners
What is the difference between psychopathy and sociopathy?
Psychopathy and sociopathy are among the most misunderstood psychological conditions, often used interchangeably. This study examines what these conditions are to dispel the negative connotations associated with them. You can also look at the ways they are managed and treated.
Suitable for: Intermediate
What is the Dewey Decimal Classification used in libraries?
Libraries contain hundreds of books. To make finding the book you want easier, they are classified and shelved according to the Dewey Decimal Classification. Study how this system was developed and why it is an appropriate method to classify books.
Suitable for: Beginner
A comparative study of DSLR and mirrorless cameras in terms of make and uses
DSLR and mirrorless cameras have different structures in terms of their components. Depending on a photographer’s needs, they may also provide different uses. This study considers the structural and use-case differences of the two types of cameras. You can also include other types, such as Polaroids and film cameras, to this study.
Suitable for: Beginners
Are our phones actually listening to us?
You may have encountered an ad on your phone about something you may have discussed with someone else. Many speculate that this is because the phone is listening to our conversations and suggesting ads accordingly. Investigate whether this is truly the case, a different system is at play, or a combination of both.
Suitable for: Beginners
An analysis of aestheticism and morality in The Picture of Dorian Gray
The Picture of Dorian Gray has been the subject of critical analyses. It deals with notions of vanity, beauty, ageing, and more. Explore what aestheticism is and how aestheticism and morality are embedded in this book.
Suitable for: Intermediate
What is blockchain, and how is it used?
Blockchain is a digital ledger used to make records. Primarily used for cryptocurrency, it may have other uses. Explore how blockchain is created and its application to other uses.
Suitable for: Beginners
Consider a mentored research program
Middle school students looking to write a research paper can consider participating in a mentored research program. The Lumiere Junior Explorers Program provides structured mentorship. Thus, you can explore the topics that you are interested in while receiving guidance from PhD mentors at top research universities like Harvard, Oxford, and MIT. These mentors work 1:1 with you to ensure personalized guidance as well as practical research experience. Through these programs, you can develop critical skills, build an impressive portfolio, and prepare for future academic pursuits.
The environmental effects of artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence is the subject of much debate and controversy. One among them is its environmental costs. Through this research paper, you can learn if AI is harmful to the environment and if this harm can be minimized.
Suitable for: Beginner
How do eyeglasses help us see?
People with poor eyesight need glasses to see clearly. They may be nearsighted or farsighted. Investigate how different glasses help different sightedness. Consider how glasses were developed and how they work.
Suitable for: Beginners
The addictive properties of social media
Many people today are addicted to social media, scrolling on their phones for the pleasure it provides. This research paper studies what makes social media addictive and the effects it has on users.
Suitable for: Beginners
Is universal basic income achievable?
Universal basic income is the idea that all receive an unconditional minimum income. This is meant to promote social welfare. Look at whether such a system is realistically possible to achieve and sustain. What factors affect its implementation?
Suitable for: Intermediate
The divine right of kings and the legal basis for monarchy in Europe
Monarchies were founded on the premise of a king’s divine right to rule. What was the legal basis and justification for this right? You may also study how this rule was done away with in favor of democracy.
Suitable for: Beginners
The physics of friction, pressure, and momentum in ice skating
Ice skating is possible due to a combination of different physics components, especially friction, pressure, and momentum. Study how these principles allow figure skaters to skate on ice. You will also learn how they perform different jumps and moves.
Suitable for: Intermediate
Understanding probability through the Monty Hall Problem
The Monty Hall Problem confuses many students interested in mathematics. It is a unique approach to understanding probability and helps make mathematically informed decisions. Research the basics of probability and how the Monty Hall Problem works.
Suitable for: Beginners
How do roundabouts regulate vehicle traffic?
Roundabouts can have any number of exits. Although they seem chaotic, they are efficient ways of managing large volumes of traffic. You will learn how the right-of-way works at roundabouts and how they are designed to facilitate a smooth flow of traffic.
Suitable for: Beginners
Why are there so many types of teas?
From black tea, green tea, Earl Grey, chamomile, and more, there is a wide variety of teas. How do they differ from each other? This study teaches you about the different properties and uses of tea.
Suitable for: Beginners
How are genetic diseases inherited?
Some diseases are genetically transmitted. Study how this transmission happens and how certain diseases are a product of genetics. You can also learn how such diseases can be prevented or treated.
Suitable for: Intermediate
The formation and structure of the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a unique geological formation of red rocks. It provides insight into geological history. This research paper looks at how it was formed and what we can learn about rocks and the environment from it.
Suitable for: Beginners
The engineering systems of fountains
Fountains are water features that have a constant flow of water. Some are simple, while others are ornate and elaborate. Study how fountains are engineered to recycle water through their systems. Consider whether they serve only a beautifying purpose or have additional functions.
Suitable for: Beginners
The evolution of writing tools
Writing and language are crucial markers of civilization. Styluses, quills, brushes, pencils, and pens come in diverse forms. Study the evolution and development of writing tools, including their benefits and drawbacks.
Suitable for: Beginners
A comparative study of the Presidential and Parliamentary systems of government
The US follows the presidential system, with the president as head of state. Many other countries follow the parliamentary system, with a prime minister. Study how these two systems differ and their advantages and disadvantages.
Suitable for: Beginners
How does caffeine keep us awake?
Energy drinks, tea, or coffee are sources of caffeine that people use to stay awake. Caffeine pills are also available for this purpose. Study how caffeine works to boost alertness.
Suitable for: Beginners
The history of insurance
Insurance protects against unforeseen events, providing a financial safety net. Explore the origins of insurance and how it has evolved into modern forms, including health, life, accident coverage, and investment-based products.
Suitable for: Beginners
Is there such a thing as drinking too much water?
Hydration is an essential component of survival and is common medical advice. However, there may be adverse effects of drinking a lot more water than necessary. Look at the effects of excessive water consumption through this research question.
Suitable for: Beginners
The relationship between mathematics and musical harmony
Music and mathematics seem like two completely different fields. However, students who study music will know that math plays an important part in music. This research study looks at the relationship between the two and how math can enhance music.
Suitable for: Beginners
Gender roles and career choices
From a young age, we are told that certain things are meant for girls and certain things are meant for boys. This conditioning has a lasting effect well into adulthood. Look at how gender roles in society determine the career paths men and women adopt.
Suitable for: Intermediate
How do non-profits run?
As the name suggests, non-profits are organizations meant for social benefit and do not aim to produce a profit. Without profit, how can these organizations keep up operations, employ staff, and achieve their missions? This study looks at the financing and structuring of non-profit organizations.
Suitable for: Beginners
Can saltwater be made into freshwater?
Due to environmental degradation and climate change, freshwater supplies are dwindling. One possible solution may be to treat saltwater from seas and oceans so that they can be converted to freshwater. This study explores whether this is possible and feasible at a large scale.
Suitable for: Beginners
Does standardized testing help students learn?
Most students dislike exams and tests, but they are an inescapable aspect of education. Although some subjects are moving towards projects instead of exams, standardized tests are used to determine student learning. This study explores whether these tests truly improve student learning and considers alternative methods that can benefit education.
Suitable for: Beginners
The effects of chronic stress on human health
Despite modern conveniences and a higher standard of living, stress levels among people are only rising. Over a long period, this stress can adversely affect our health. Study the health impacts of chronic stress and ways to mitigate them.
Suitable for: Beginners
Engineering principles for protection from earthquakes
Some regions in the world, such as Japan, are prone to earthquakes. They pose immense danger to economies, nature, and human life. Can buildings and cities be engineered to minimize the devastation caused by earthquakes?
Suitable for: Beginners
Does a daily routine improve productivity?
Self-help books often highlight the need for a consistent routine to not only increase productivity but also be successful. In contrast, some consider routines to be rigid. Use this research question to determine whether a set daily routine affects productivity.
Suitable for: Beginners
Why should you not look at a solar eclipse?
It is believed to be dangerous to look directly at a solar eclipse. The common reason is that it damages your eyes. Study the effects of eclipse viewing on eyesight and general health.
Suitable for: Beginners
The invention of the wheel and modern commerce
The wheel is hailed as one of the most important inventions. Facilitating faster movement and other technological advancements, it helped boost trade and commerce. Research the economic benefits of the invention of the wheel.
Suitable for: Beginners
Vaccine production and distribution during pandemics
Countries around the world are still reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. While this is the most recent example, pandemics have a long history, and vaccines are a way to combat their spread. This study looks at how vaccines are developed and distributed to eradicate a pandemic. You can look at COVID-19 as a case study.
Suitable for: Beginners
The uses of wearable technology in fitness
Rings, watches, and many more gadgets are available to track fitness. They typically track your heart rate, oxygen levels, caloric burn, and so on. Look at how wearable technologies have developed and how they are used to manage fitness.
Suitable for: Intermediate
How are old paintings restored?
Paintings typically fade or diminish in quality over time. Because they serve an important cultural purpose, they are preserved and restored. What is the process of restoring old paintings?
Suitable for: Beginners
The impact of microplastics on marine life
Plastic has pervaded every facet of human life due to its cheap cost, convenience, and durability. The unfortunate cost of plastic has been the harm done to the environment. This study looks at how microplastics in the ocean affect marine life.
Suitable for: Beginners
The importance of statistics in sports analysis
Sports enthusiasts may know the importance of stats in player or team performance. Statistics tell the story of past performance and areas of improvement. This study examines how statistics are used in sports analysis.
Suitable for: Beginners
Can journaling improve mental health?
Journaling is promoted as a technique to improve mindfulness and gratitude. These benefits can be associated with mental health. This research question considers whether journaling has a demonstrable and measurable effect on mental health.
Suitable for: Beginners
The origins of the nuclear family
A nuclear family is described as a family of two parents and their children. Before industrialization, people lived in joint families of more than two generations living in one household. How did this change come about, and what are the social impacts of a nuclear family?
Suitable for: Beginners
The role of logos in branding
Logos are unique visual identifiers by which brands differentiate themselves from competitors. Like the Nike swoosh or Apple, logos have become an integral part of brand identities. Study how logos help a company’s brand and profits.
Suitable for: Intermediate
How do seasonal or festive sales influence consumer behavior?
Shoppers often wait for sales to save money. Similarly, sales are a way for stores and companies to increase their revenue. How do sales influence a consumer’s spending habits and purchasing behavior?
Suitable for: Intermediate
Are some languages more difficult to learn than others?
Learning a language can be a tough undertaking. One has to learn vocabulary, grammar rules, and common conventions. However, some languages may be more difficult to learn than others. What determines the difficulty of learning a particular language?
Suitable for: Beginners
How does soap help clean a surface?
While bathing, doing the laundry, or cleaning the house, soaps are used. The chemical content may vary depending on the surface being cleaned. But how do soaps remove dirt and grime?
Suitable for: Beginners
How do lions hunt?
As a carnivore and predator, lions survive by hunting other animals. Despite their size, they must remain stealthy and quick to find prey. What are the hunting patterns of lions in the wild?
Suitable for: Intermediate
What is quicksand, and how dangerous is it?
Quicksand is often portrayed in films as a dangerous landscape that can drown people. Use this question to learn how quicksand is formed and whether it is as dangerous as shown in the media. You can study this in comparison with sinkholes.
Suitable for: Beginners
Consider a mentored research program
Middle school students looking to write a research paper can consider participating in a mentored research program. The Lumiere Junior Explorers Program provides structured mentorship. Thus, you can explore the topics that you are interested in while receiving guidance from PhD mentors at top research universities like Harvard, Oxford, and MIT. These mentors work 1:1 with you to ensure personalized guidance as well as practical research experience. Through these programs, you can develop critical skills, build an impressive portfolio, and prepare for future academic pursuits.
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