How to Do Research: A Step-By-Step Guide: 1b. Develop Research Questions

Once you have selected a topic, the next step is to develop research questions.

• Write down what you already know or don't know about the topic.
• Use that information to develop questions.
  • Use probing questions. (why? what if?)
  • Avoid "yes" and "no" questions. 

What do or don't I know about the Endangered Species Act (ESA)?

I know:

• it's a law that protects animals and habitats that are in danger of extinction.
• at one point bald eagles and grizzly bears were on the list.
• there has been a lot of controversy about adding polar bears to the list.

I don't know:

• what it takes for an animal to be removed from the list.
• what the penalties are for violating this act.
• if it protects only habitats within the U.S.

Research Questions

• What was the ESA designed to protect -- animals only or ecosystems, too?
• What animals/habitats outside of the United States are covered by the act?
• What other countries have legislation to protect animals/habitats?
• What animals are currently on the endangered species list?
• How does an animal get added/removed from the list?
• What penalities are imposed on those who violate the act?