Step 1: Listing

List down some possible topics that come to mind or interest you.  cloning, MSC, sports, computers, teen problems......

Topics to avoid  factual topics that leave little or no discussion medical topics - heart disease, AIDS  process - method of human cloning, rubber production, creating a computer. personal issues - subjective and not a research  creates very little opportunity for analysis e.g. why rap music is the best? trivial topics - no in depth subject to cover can be one sided.  mostly factual with little analysis e.g. Why Manchester United is the best soccer team in the U.K.? Too Broad- 2000 word limit prevents you from presenting a good paper Computer hardware and its future developments Greenhouse Effect and its dangers to Earth Malaysian Education System Controversial topics - you are not the expert to be able to analyze objectively you may be subjective in your approach to the paper don't wish to visit you in jail either (political topics) this is only a research paper for class - not worth getting others upset over it. e.g. Should the Opposition parties in Malaysia have more power? e.g. Should abortion be legalized? e.g. Should the racial quotas in Malaysia be eradicated? No Biographies - mainly factual information written by others  you are also not an expert on the person e.g. Mother Teresa, Princess Diana, Dr. Mahathir Bias Topics - usually turns up to be a one sided argument e.g. Is Mahathir the best Prime Minister Malaysia has ever had? some people may agree/disagree and they may rely on personal views and not facts.  e.g. A country should have only one religion so as to create harmony. ( religion may pay a part in the instability in some countries but other factors may contribute to the problem too)

Step 2: Brainstorming Chart

brainstorming helps you come up with most relevant issues for your topic. You can then choose the issue in which you will like to do your research. You could combine 2 or 3 issues and use it as your topic.

sample chart

Step 3: Narrowing Down

	From your general topic you will have to narrow down your topic so that you can have the room to analyze and synthesize the topic with support and details without exceeding the 2500 word limit.
	Narrowing down process also allows you to go back if you are not successful in finding support in the area you wish to research.
	This process also helps me assist you in the angle of research you should aim for later.
	Process:

Problems with cloning Problems with cloning humans Ethics behind cloning humans Ethics behind cloning humans for organ transplants

Step 4: Focus Question

Is it ethical to clone humans for body parts?

Step 5: General research

go to the library or browse the internet to get some ideas and resources on issues you have on your brainstorm chart. The research will also help you find the relevant point you could use for your general outline.

Step 6: Present your proposal for RS

fill out your RSP sheet completely and get it approved.