Why High Schoolers Need to Write Research Papers

The Homeschool Highschool Podcast

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Why High Schoolers Need to Write Research Papers.

Why High Schoolers Need to Write Research Papers

Let’s talk about the often dreaded task of writing research papers in homeschooling. Is this topic taboo in your household?

We understand that while some students may enjoy the process, many find it challenging and overwhelming. However, there are several benefits of writing research papers, such as:

• developing critical thinking skills
• character development and
• preparing students for future endeavors

It is one of those things we need to embrace, imperfections and all, so let’s dive talk about it.

The Benefits of Writing Research Papers

First of all, there are academic benefits from writing research papers:

• learning about a specific topic in-depth
• practicing following styles like
  • APA
  • MLA or
  • Chicago

Seeking Outside Help

Sometimes, parents may not feel equipped to teach research paper writing, or the dynamics between parents and students may become tense during the process. In such cases, it is perfectly acceptable to seek outside help.

We encourage homeschoolers to connect with experienced writing teachers who can provide the necessary guidance and support. There are many options these days:

• classes at co-ops or umbrella schools
• asynchronous courses (like 7Sisters APA Research Paper course)
• online courses at homeschool academies like FundaFunda Academy, Dreaming Spires Home Learning or the Capable Scholar.

There is no shame in admitting that writing is not your strong suit. We all have different strengths and weaknesses as homeschooling parents. The important thing is to find support and guidance in the areas where we need it.

When we acknowledge our limitations and give ourselves permission to seek assistance, we empower ourselves and our homeschool high schoolers. Then, they can excel in areas where we may not feel confident.

Why Are Research Papers Important?

Research paper writing is not just about academic skills. It’s also about character development and critical thinking. In today’s information-rich world, we have access to an overwhelming amount of information, where facts and opinions are readily available at our fingertips.

Our teens have grown up in this information-saturated environment, but not all information is reliable or accurate. That is where research papers come in. They teach our teens how to evaluate the information they find.

It is like learning to sift through the Niagara Falls of information and discern what is trustworthy and what’s not.

Filtering Information and Broadening Perspectives

By writing research papers, our teens develop strong critical thinking skills and learn to navigate the vast sea of information available to them. They learn to filter out misleading or biased sources and recognize different perspectives on a topic.

This broadens their understanding, fosters open-mindedness, and equips them to interact with diverse ideas and people. These skills extend beyond the research paper and find relevance in everyday life. As they grow into adulthood, they will be better equipped for

• analyzing news articles
• evaluating online information or
• engaging in meaningful discussions.

Research papers offer an ideal platform for honing these skills, which are essential for their future, whether they are headed to college, the workforce, or any other path.

Builds Perseverance

Plus, research paper writing also builds perseverance. This comes from the process as it requires multiple drafts and revisions.

Writing a research paper is not a one-and-done task. It takes time to do careful research, evaluation, and synthesis of information to create a coherent and well-structured paper.

If you or your teen feel inexperienced or under-experienced in writing research papers, do not worry! 7Sisters has you covered in the realm of research paper writing! We offer research paper writing guides for:

• APA (great for a first paper)
• MLA and
• Chicago style

These guides are affordable and designed to be user-friendly, with step-by-step instructions and different syllabus options to fit your schedule.

Overcoming obstacles and completing a research paper teaches our teens that they can do hard things. It is a valuable life lesson that will serve them well in any endeavor they pursue.

Life Preparation

While some students may argue that they will never need to write a research paper outside of homeschooling, the skills they acquire during the process are invaluable.

The ability to think critically, evaluate information, and communicate effectively will serve them well, regardless of their chosen path. These skills are transferable to various situations, such as:

• verbal communication
• online discussions or
• even job interviews.

Writing research papers helps to equip students for a future that demands strong analytical thinking and effective communication.

Research Papers

As you go on the research paper writing journey, remember that it is not just an academic exercise but a preparation for life, shaping your teen’s thinking and enriching them as individuals.

Join Sabrina and Kym for this helpful discussion.

For more help on research papers, check out these posts:

• How to Help Teens Get Their Research Papers Done
• What is the Difference between Essays, Reports and Research Papers
• Co-op Activities for Research Paper Writing

Thank you to Richie Soares with Homeschool & Humor for writing this blog post and for Seth Tillman for editing the episode!

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The post Why High Schoolers Need to Write Research Papers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.