100 Research Questions for Middle School Students
- Stephen Turban
- Sep 18
- 23 min read
Research involves picking a topic or question you are curious about and trying to find answers. You discover the existing state of research in the field and contribute your own discoveries. As middle school students, getting started on research is a solid way to enhance your learning while discovering the future academic or professional path you may want to pursue.
100 Research Questions for Middle School Students
The impact of physical exercise on mental and emotional well-being
The physical benefits of exercising are well-known. Regular exercise increases strength, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts immunity. However, exercise also affects our mental and emotional health. This research question allows you to investigate how and to what extent physical movement and training improve mental health and emotional stability.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How soil type affects plant growth
Different plants grow in different soils. Soil’s nutrient composition and water retention capacities also determine how well plants grow in it. By conducting this research, you can determine the correlation between soil type and its impact on plant growth.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Nutrient differences between sea salt and rock salt
Broadly speaking, salt is of two types: sea salt and rock salt. Given where these salts are found, they have different chemical and nutrient compositions. Investigate what properties each type of salt has and its nutritional benefits for consumption.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
A comparative study of solar, wind, and tidal energy
As climate consciousness grows, the world is moving towards renewable sources of energy. Solar, wind, and tidal energy are most commonly known. The means of producing them vary. Study how these are produced and what the advantages and drawbacks of each type are. This analysis can also be location-specific, as tidal energy may be more feasible in coastal areas, and so on.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The impact of social media marketing on adolescent consumer behaviorSocial media is widely used by all age groups. This new age digital media is also a marketing tool for many companies, which leverage influencers, peer pressure, and fast-moving trends. How does this marketing affect the way adolescent consumers perceive trends and consume goods? Is there a direct, quantifiable correlation?Materials/investment required: NoneSuitable 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.
How topography determines urban planning
A city’s layout and structure require careful planning to facilitate seamless movement, accessibility, and standard of living. The topography of a region may often dictate how a city can be optimally planned. Hilly areas make construction difficult, whereas coastal areas have to navigate changes in tides. Study how specific topographical features affect urban planning.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
What makes acid corrosive?
Acids and bases are common chemical components you will study. But why are some acids corrosive? Through this research, you can learn how an acid’s properties and its interaction with certain materials influence corrosive effects.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The historical evolution of fundamental rights
The fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution have a long and turbulent history. This research question allows you to examine the origin of the concept of fundamental rights and how they came to take their contemporary form. Through this research, you also become aware of your own rights and duties as a citizen.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The cognitive effects of being bilingual
Learning a second language is widely considered beneficial, especially in terms of employment. Being bilingual also fundamentally affects how you think of and perceive the world. Investigate how fluency in a second language improves cognitive processing.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How does gut bacteria affect human health?
The common adage ‘you are what you eat’ suggests that your diet influences your overall health. The foods you consume pass through your digestive system and are broken down by bacteria in the gut. These bacteria affect how your body absorbs nutrients, in turn affecting your health.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The future of artificial intelligence and visual art
Artificial intelligence, especially generative AI, has grown in leaps and bounds. People can create art and recreate trends like never before. But how has this affected the visual arts industry and artists? Some might argue that AI has devalued artistic skills, while others say that it has made art accessible.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
The evolution of hats since the 20th century
Hats and headgear are a fashion staple. Study how they have changed. From protective wear to fashion accessories, their uses and appearance may have changed. Perhaps their evolution symbolizes fashion trends at large.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The economics of a lemonade stand
A lemonade stand is a typical first entrepreneurial endeavor for many. This research question explores the economy of a lemonade stand. The various perspectives you can research include supply and demand, cost of procuring raw material, competition, profit margins, and more.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Is facial recognition technology ethical in law enforcement?
Growing technological advancements have raised corresponding ethical questions, particularly with regard to privacy. This research question studies whether privacy can be made less necessary for safety. You can investigate legal and ethical arguments that are raised by such a use of facial recognition technology.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
How were house pets domesticated?
Humans have a long history of farming and rearing. House pets are unlike other domesticated animals, like cows and horses. Through this question, you can uncover how the process of domesticating pet dogs and cats was undertaken and for what purpose.
Materials/investment required: None
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.
Why do humans need to sleep?
Sleep is a biological requirement for humans. Through this research question, you can investigate why humans need to sleep and what purpose sleep serves. You will learn about optimal sleep habits and the changes that occur with age.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What causes a phobia?
Phobia, in simple terms, is a fear of or discomfort caused by something. What may seem like an irrational fear has a specific neurological and psychological reason. Explore the causes of phobias and how they manifest in different people.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do antibiotics work?
From the common cold to more serious infections, patients are typically treated with antibiotics. This research question delves into how antibiotics help treat these illnesses and their long and short-term effects. You can also learn about antibiotic resistance and its potential solutions.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Bread and its different forms around the world
Bread is a kitchen staple that has existed for millennia. However, different regions around the world consume bread in different forms. Learn about the history and differences in how bread is made.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What makes salt and sugar soluble in water?
Salt and sugar are among the most common soluble ingredients. Research what makes a carbohydrate and a compound soluble in water. You can also learn how, when mixed, these solutions affect the freezing and boiling points of water.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How does a volcano go extinct?
A volcano is a vent through which hot lava and ash are released from the Earth’s magma chamber. However, you may have heard that some volcanoes are active and others are extinct. This research question seeks to understand how a volcano may go extinct and whether it can become active again.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The advantages and disadvantages of video-based learning material in classrooms
With changing technology, classroom instruction is also changing. Some education tools may have varying effects on student learning. Here, you can investigate the efficacy of video-based tools on students’ learning.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Why are some people right-handed and some people left-handed?
You may have noticed that some people are right-handed and others are left-handed, although left-handed individuals are a minority. Learn about what evolutionary changes determine an individual’s dominant hand. Is there a genetic explanation?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How does an airplane fly?
Since the invention of the airplane by the Wright brothers, aviation has rapidly progressed. Today, hundreds of flights are airborne at any given time. How is the airplane designed and engineered to facilitate safe and fast travel?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The traits of an effective leader
Leadership is an admirable trait in individuals. After all, any social institution, such as schools, offices, and government, requires effective leaders to ensure smooth functioning. This question seeks to answer what makes a leader effective and whether this is an acquired or innate quality.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The effects of classical music on concentration
As you study, you may have noticed that you may prefer background sound or complete silence. While this is an individual choice, this research question studies whether classical music from any region can help boost focus and attention. The effect may also vary depending on the task; memorization may be facilitated by silence, while writing may benefit from music. This research may also help maximize your learning during study sessions.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The history of global shipping routes
The globalized world runs on international trade and commerce. However, this is not a new phenomenon. Civilizations and kingdoms have long traded with each other through land and sea routes. This research question explores the history and development of shipping routes that mobilized people, goods, and culture.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The importance of coral reefs for marine life
The Great Barrier Reef is a diverse and thriving ecosystem. Coral reefs are extremely important for climate and sustainability. Students interested in marine sciences can learn about how coral reefs support marine life and foster marine biodiversity. Insights from this research may also answer questions about conservation and climate change.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The role of drones in disaster relief efforts
Natural disasters are a growing concern with the rampant disruption of the natural world. Millions of people are affected by such calamities every year. Investigating the uses of drones, you can study whether they can be a useful tool in aiding relief efforts and minimizing damage.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Why do songs get stuck in our heads?
Has a song ever played on loop in your head, not stopping despite your best efforts? This is known as stuck song syndrome. Through this research question, you can understand why this occurs and how it can be resolved.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Designing wheelchair-accessible infrastructure in educational institutions
Designers and engineers are increasingly aware of public infrastructure accessibility for all users. To make education available to everyone, schools, colleges, and libraries must be wheelchair accessible. What components and characteristics make such facilities accessible and promote equality?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The origins of the science fiction genre in literature and film
While Interstellar and Jurassic Park are relatively contemporary science fiction films, the genre has a long history in literature and film. This research traces the origins of the genre. You will learn how science fiction has changed over the years and what it tells us about popular ideas and concerns.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The correlation between literacy and financial well-being
Education is widely considered the best way to improve financial well-being and succeed in life. This study looks at whether there is a correlation between literacy levels and financial progress. Insights from this study can inform education programs and policies to help people.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Can animals help predict environmental disasters?
Animals tend to be in tune with nature and environmental patterns. Their habitats, feeding habits, and other components may provide insights into changing climate phenomena. This study considers whether animal behavior can help successfully predict and safeguard from environmental disasters.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How does GPS work?
Maps and landmarks are important tools to help us find our way. In the digital world, the GPS has all but replaced traditional paper maps. Using satellite inputs, the GPS helps us navigate unfamiliar territories and traffic, but how does it provide real-time data?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Can Mars support human life?
Since the space age, we have been fascinated by the idea of finding life and habitable environments on other planets. Mars, one of the closest planets to Earth, is a planet of particular interest. This research question theorizes whether human habitation on Mars is truly possible now or in the future and what technology or climate conditions may be required to do so.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The impact of gunpowder on modern warfare
War has, unfortunately, proliferated since the dawn of civilization, with people taking up arms against each other. While bows and arrows, spears, and swords were common in the ancient world, the arrival of gunpowder may have changed the battlefield. What role did gunpowder play in advancing war technology to guns, cannons, and explosives? This history question looks at war and weapons technology.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
A comparative study of the effectiveness of to-do lists and time blocking in improving productivity
In today’s competitive and fast-paced world, everybody is trying to maximize their productivity. They use different tools and techniques, including planners and organizers, to help them work faster and better. This research project studies the differences between to-do lists and time blocking in improving productive output.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Do video games encourage violent tendencies among teens?
Many believe that movies and games influence our behavior. This argument is used to call for censorship and the banning of certain media. Through this research, you can determine whether violent video games truly inculcate violent tendencies among teens or provide a safe outlet instead.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
How are historical monuments conserved and restored?
History serves as an invaluable lesson for our present and future. As a result, historical monuments and artefacts are conserved for us to learn and benefit from. Conduct this research to understand how such monuments are preserved over centuries and how damaged landmarks can be restored to their former glory.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How are black holes formed?
Black holes have intrigued scientists for a long time. You can learn what black holes are and how they come into existence. If you’re interested in studying the universe, this could be a solid research question.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What are some alternative fuels for sustainable transportation?
In the growing discourse surrounding sustainability, transport, and vehicles are common subjects. While electric vehicles are becoming popular, they also have drawbacks. This research question considers whether other fuel sources can replace traditional petrol and diesel to make transport sustainable and eco-friendly.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do computer viruses work and spread?
Computer viruses are a malevolent way to target devices for different reasons, stealing data and money or disrupting an institution. These viruses can be of different types and be used for various purposes. This research looks at how computer viruses are created and how they can spread to several devices for heightened damage.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The evolution of women’s clothing
Women’s clothing has changed remarkably over the last few centuries. From large dresses and notions of modesty to fast-moving trends and styles, there is a rich history to explore. Students interested in history and fashion may find this topic interesting.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do night vision goggles work?
Humans can see in the dark to a limited extent. To facilitate nighttime vision, technological progress led to the creation of night vision goggles. How do they help us see in the dark, and for what are they used?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The role of railways in America’s economic development
Railways as a mode of transport are integral for moving people and goods across the vast landscape of the country. While road vehicles may take longer, trains can provide faster transport and carry larger quantities. This study looks at how the railways were integral to America’s economic and commercial development.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Paperbacks and e-books: which is more environmentally friendly?
Traditionally, reading was done through printed books. Today, the Kindle and other e-reading tools are becoming popular. While paperbacks demand the cutting of trees, e-books require electricity and energy. This study helps determine which is a more sustainable way of reading books.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How was civil society structured in ancient Rome?
Modern society is a result of the evolution and changes that have occurred across civilizations over several centuries. This study looks at the social structures and hierarchies prevalent in ancient Rome. You can trace the history of social development in the West and the history of ancient Rome.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How has English slang developed due to the internet?
Language is fluid and constantly changing. From Shakespeare to Jane Austen to the digital age and instant messaging, English has taken different forms. Even different regions speak English differently. This research question explores how the internet has changed the way we write and speak the language.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
How much water does a human body need every day?
We have heard the advice that we must drink 8 glasses of water every day. To what extent is this advice applicable, and are all bodies the same? Athletes may require more water, whereas those working indoors may need relatively less water. This study looks at the water quantity an average person must consume in a day for optimal benefits.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What makes adventure sports popular?
Adventure sports are popular among people seeking a thrilling activity. But what about these sports makes them popular despite the risks associated with them? This study looks at the social and psychological aspects that determine why people flock to such sports.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do parrots talk?
Parrots are one of the few birds that can imitate human sounds and words. This question helps you learn what biological features allow parrots to talk like humans and how they can be trained to do so. You can also learn whether the bird is simply imitating humans or has some capacity to understand what these words mean.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What do we know about ninjas?
Ninjas are not only characters we encounter in comics and cartoons. They were specific roles people in pre-modern Japan took up. They also served various purposes. This research question compiles all that we know about ninjas and their role in Japan.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What causes Alzheimer’s, and can it be cured?
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative condition that affects many people worldwide. This research study questions why the condition occurs and whether there are genetic or environmental factors. You can also look at the current state of treatment and whether a cure is available.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
What is game theory?
Game theory is a fascinating concept in applied mathematics. It is used in various fields, including economics, computer science, and diplomacy. Through this research question, you can understand the overall principles and applications of game theory.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The history of groomsmen and bridesmaids in weddings
A wedding typically involves, in addition to the pair getting married, groomsmen and bridesmaids. While they may be family and friends of the couple, they had a specific role in history. Why were these roles created, what were their functions, and how are they different from the groomsmen and bridesmaids we know today?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How was slavery abolished?
Slave trade and slave ownership are considered one of the worst human rights atrocities. While slavery was practiced for a long time, it was eventually abolished. This study looks at the major movements, resistances, and changes that led to the formal abolishment of slavery.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Why is mercury dangerous to humans?
Mercury is a heavy metal. In fact, mercury poisoning can be fatal to humans. This study looks at how mercury affects the human body, what makes it so dangerous, and how mercury poisoning can be treated.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How is air traffic managed at an airport?
As one previous question observed, air travel has significantly increased in volume since the invention of the airplane. As a result, airports and air traffic controllers have to navigate this traffic to ensure safe and timely travel. This research question looks at the logistics and management systems used at airports to manage air traffic.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How does paper type affect print quality?
You may have noticed that images have a different appearance on different materials. Print on glossy paper looks shiny, whereas that on canvas has a more matte look. This research question studies the impact of paper type and texture on what the print looks like.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How is sound engineered at a music concert?
A music concert or festival is produced on a large scale and involves various components put together. Sound is the most important part and must be carefully engineered to ensure high quality, appropriate volume, and more for a good audience experience. This study looks at how sound is produced at a music concert, the role of the venue, and the impact of the music genre.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
In the digital world, is it possible to go off the grid?
With almost all of us owning or having access to at least one digital device, whether a phone, laptop, tablet, smart home system, and so on, the internet is deeply embedded in our lives. Even our utilities and daily chores are managed digitally. In such a scenario, is it possible to live offline and erase our digital footprint?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do undercover agents disguise themselves?
If you’ve seen any cop show or movie, you may have come across the character of an undercover agent. They are cops who infiltrate a criminal ring posing as a criminal to catch them. This research question looks at how fake identities and disguises are created and the effectiveness of such disguises.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do art historians determine if a painting is real or fake?
Forgery and counterfeiting are not new to the art world. Replicas of original and valuable paintings are often fraudulently sold to unassuming clients. As a result, museums and art galleries must thoroughly verify the art they collect for originality. This research question narrows down the main ways an artwork is verified for authenticity.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do submarines work?
Submarines are an essential component of naval defense. They patrol the depths of the ocean. This research question examines the physics of the submarine structure, how it avoids sinking while sustaining human life.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What would happen if there were no clouds?
When we think of the weather, we often think in terms of cloudy and sunny, with many preferring sunny skies. This research question explores what would happen to agriculture, climate, and the economy if clouds did not exist. Would Earth be habitable without them?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How did 0 change the world of mathematics?
The number 0, although signifying no value, is invaluable to mathematics. First defined by Brahmagupta in 628 CE, the number completely changed mathematics as we know it. In fact, it is held that without 0, certain mathematical concepts could not function. This historical and mathematical question investigates the importance of 0.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What makes a person ticklish?
Tickling, although it makes us laugh, can be an unpleasant sensation. Many people do not feel ticklish. Through this research question, you can learn the biological reasons that make a person ticklish and how the sensation varies among people.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do pressure changes affect the body of a scuba diver?
Common advice states that one must not catch a flight soon after going scuba diving due to changes in air pressure. Even while scuba diving, one must rise to the surface slowly. This research question explores the impact of pressure on the human body during and after scuba diving and the potential health consequences.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do wildfires begin and spread?
Wildfires can be devastating to forests and human settlements. They can spread rapidly, destroying all vegetation in their path, and can be difficult to control. This research, by exploring how wildfires start and spread, can be instructive in preventing future fires and reducing their impact.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
In what way has e-commerce affected small businesses in the US?
E-commerce refers to the online marketplace where consumers can purchase goods. The likes of Amazon have provided convenience to consumers. However, e-commerce has had a detrimental effect on local businesses. This study investigates the economic impact of e-commerce on small businesses and what this means for local economies.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
Is censorship necessary or a violation of the freedom of speech and expression?
Censorship is when certain media are stopped from being produced or disseminated. Supporters of censorship argue that it is a protective measure for social good. In contrast, critics say that it violates the freedom of speech. This research question looks at censorship from a legal standpoint, the history of censorship, and whether it violates fundamental rights.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
How is the International Space Station resupplied and maintained?
The International Space Station is used to study space. Astronauts can live there for long periods of time. However, to do so, the station must be resupplied regularly and repaired as needed. This study looks at how this is done.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Can you forget how to ride a bike?
It is believed that once you learn to swim or ride a bike, you cannot really forget how to do so. To what extent is this true? If it is indeed impossible to forget, how is this memory stored and different from other memories?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Do colors affect mood?
We often associate certain colors with certain emotions, such as blue for sadness, yellow for happiness, red for passion or anger, and so on. This study looks at whether we can use color and related associations to manage mood. This research can provide insights into human behavior and psychology.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
The efficacy of cryptography in communicating secret messages
Cryptography involves encoding messages with a cipher for communication such that a third person cannot read or understand the message. Typically used in national security, this research question looks at whether cryptography is effective in secret communication and whether a particular form of cryptography is better than another. You can also try creating ciphers of your own.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
Humans and opposable thumbs: what evolutionary advantage do they provide?
Humans are unique in that they have opposable thumbs, unlike many other animals. They provide a significant evolutionary advantage to us and allow us to perform actions that would be impossible without opposable thumbs. This study finds the benefits and uses of opposable thumbs for humans.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How are suspension bridges constructed?
Suspension bridges seem like an engineering curiosity. They stand upright with little to no pillar support. From an architectural and engineering perspective, research how suspension bridges are constructed and support weight.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Is Latin a dead language?
Latin, widely spoken in the ancient world, has all but vanished today. Its relevance seems limited to religious and historical study. This study considers what a dead language actually is, whether Latin is used by certain populations, and whether it can be classified as a dead language.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The hierarchy and responsibilities of different military ranks
The armed forces operate with a strict hierarchy and chain of command. Through this research, you can learn how these ranks came to be and how they are classified today. You will also learn what responsibility each rank has.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The science behind optical illusions
Optical illusions trick the brain into seeing things that may or may not be there. This study investigates the neurological perspective on optical illusions. How do they work, and can they be circumvented?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The history of vampire lore
Vampires have a long history in global folk traditions and the horror genre. While the modern vampire may have the image of a heartthrob, they were monstrous creatures that preyed on the living. This study looks at what vampires symbolized in folk stories, the social anxieties they represented, and how they evolved to take their modern form.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The impact of daylight saving time on the sleep cycle
The clocks go back and forward twice a year as per daylight saving time. While you might gain an hour of sleep once, you lose an hour another time. This study questions the impact this change in time has on our sleep cycle and cognitive functioning.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The importance of extracurriculars for a child’s holistic development
Outside of academics, extracurricular activities are an important part of a child’s schedule. Whether sports or clubs, extracurricular activities allow students to enhance their learning and skills. This research question looks at the impact of extracurriculars on students’ overall development, including in terms of technical skills, leadership, teamwork, and more.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Do public libraries help improve literacy rates?
While a previous question on literacy helps look at its financial impact, this question considers how literacy can be improved. Public libraries are slowly dwindling, but as accessible spaces, they may help literacy programs. This research question considers the role of public libraries as third spaces and whether they have a notable role in improving literacy.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Can entrepreneurship be taught in a formal setting?
While management and businesses are taught at universities, not all successful entrepreneurs have attended business school. In fact, many dropped out. This research question examines whether entrepreneurship is a more theoretical concept or skill that is honed by practice.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
The advantages and disadvantages of using formula to feed babies
Infant nutrition is a crucial topic for their survival and development. There seems to be a clear divide among those who support breastfeeding and those who believe formula is better. This research question does not invalidate breastfeeding but looks at the potential benefits and drawbacks of formula.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
A comparison of the resistance to corrosion between steel and brass
Alloys are a combination of different metals. They provide unique benefits that the original metals may not. As alloys, steel and brass have different properties. This study discovers whether these alloys are resistant to corrosion and which alloy resists to a greater degree.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Intermediate
Is it truly impossible to sink in the Dead Sea?
The Dead Sea is famously known to be a body of water in which one cannot sink. This research question helps you learn whether it is truly impossible to sink in the Dead Sea. You will also learn what water properties give it this unique characteristic.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The efficacy of car seatbelts in reducing the risk of fatal injuries
Safe driving is difficult without seatbelts. While they are not 100% effective, they significantly minimize the risk of harm. Use this research question to explore how seatbelts reduce the possibility of fatality in accidents.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Video Assistant Referee technology and its application in soccer
Video Assistant Referee or VAR has been used in soccer to help referees make goal-related decisions. However, it is not without its controversies due to its flaws. This research question examines how VAR technology works and how it is applied to soccer.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How does antivenom work?
Antivenom is used to treat the venom from snakebites. The kind of antivenom used depends on the kind of snake that bit the patient. This study examines how antivenom works to counteract snake venom and why it varies.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What makes a person an early bird or a night owl?
Some people find it easier to wake up and be productive in the morning, whereas others prefer staying up later. What causes this difference? This research seeks to uncover the genetic, environmental, or other causes behind people being early birds or night owls.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Why was Pluto reclassified as a dwarf planet?
Pluto was initially considered the 9th planet in our solar system. Eventually, it was reclassified as a dwarf planet. This study researches the classification system of planets and what makes Pluto one.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do vinyls play music?
While streaming is the modern way of listening to music, CDs and vinyl were popular before. Vinyls are large, flat discs with grooves. This research question explores how these grooves are created and how they allow vinyl to produce sound.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
What gives gold its economic value?
Gold is a precious metal considered valuable almost throughout the world. In fact, it is also stored by countries to protect against global economic vulnerabilities. Study the history of gold and what gives it the value it has acquired today. What makes it different from other metals, and why do people and governments invest in it?
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
The development of robotics for use in performing surgery
Surgery is a high-skill endeavor with no room for error. Today, machines are being developed and trained to perform surgery or allow surgeons to operate from a different place. Trace the evolution and uses of robotics in medicine and surgery.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How are crowds managed at amusement parks?
Amusement parks are a fun activity for people of all ages. As such, they can be extremely crowded, especially in the summer. This study looks at crowd management and how amusement parks are designed to prevent dangerous crowding while facilitating a fun experience for all.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
Why are there so many different kinds of dogs?
Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds. As a house pet, they have been domesticated for a long time. Explore the biology of different dog breeds and why they are so diverse.
Materials/investment required: None
Suitable for: Beginners
How do seasonal changes affect mental health?
The dark and cold seasons often make us feel lethargic, whereas warm weather uplifts our mood. In fact, there is a clinical condition called seasonal affective disorder that is affected by a change in seasons. Study the psychology behind the impact of seasons on mood and individual mental health.
Materials/investment required: None
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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