Original PromptCreate a 7th grade lesson focused on developing strong research questions that will guide student inquiry into their self-selected topics of personal interest. Students should learn to craft open-ended, focused questions that move beyond simple facts to explore deeper connections, causes, and significance related to their chosen subject. The lesson should teach students to distinguish between thin questions (easily answered with basic searches) and thick questions (requiring analysis, synthesis,...
This lesson focuses on the critical differentiation between thin and thick research questions. Thin questions seek straightforward answers, primarily factual in nature, while thick questions are open-ended, requiring deeper analysis and critical thinking. The lesson guides learners through understanding this distinction, creating original research questions, and applying techniques to transform basic inquiries into thought-provoking, analytic challenges. Activities include sorting sample questions, drafting thick questions, and considering alternative perspectives on topics to enhance research depth and inquiry skills.