The table below provides some examples showing the difference between unclear and unfocused research questions and those that are appropriately clear and focused, lending themselves to in-depth research.
|
Unclear, unfocused, and unarguable research questions |
Clear, focused, narrow research questions lending themselves to in-depth research |
| What was the impact of Ho Chi Minh's allegiance to Lenin? | To what extent was nationalism the guiding factor in Ho Chi Minh's adoption of Leninism in 1920? |
| How effective was Nazi propaganda in controlling its people? | How effective was Nazi Youth propaganda in terms of indoctrinating German citizens aged 14-18? |
| How important is chlorophyll to plant life? | What is the effect of different concentrations of kinetin on leaves aging and the biosynthesis of chlorophyll? |
| How did the Greeks win victory over the Persians from 480 to 479 BCE? | To what extent was the Battle of Thermopylae the most significant factor in the Greek victory over the Persians? |
| How does interactive software impact classroom learning? | In what ways does the use of e-learning platforms such as Google Classroom improve the literacy skills of students aged 5-10? |
Source: Lekanides, K. (2016). Extended Essay Course Companion. Oxford University Press.
Source: West Sound Academy. (n.d.). Step 5: Draft a Research Question. https://libguides.westsoundacademy.org/ee/draft-a-rq