ap research paper examples

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The Top 10 Most Interesting AP Research Topics

College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) program can improve your academic performance and earn you college credits while in high school. If you participate in the AP Capstone program, you’ll have to conduct research in the second course, AP Research. To succeed, you’ll need to use your academic research skills to select your AP research topics.

Selecting a topic can be the most critical part of your research project, and it can also be the most difficult. To make it easier for you, we’ve provided some of the best examples of AP research topics as well as AP research questions.

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What makes a strong ap research topic.

A strong AP research topic is well-defined. Because it will form the basis of your research, it should be clear enough that your target audience will be able to understand your project. It should also address a real-world issue relevant in the 21st century.

Tips for Choosing an AP Research Topic

Choose what interests you. Don’t just go with what’s popular or what you think will get you the highest score. Make sure the topic you select is one you clearly understand and will be able to continue even when the research process becomes difficult.
Make sure you understand the course requirements. Repeatedly refer to your assignment as you come up with a project idea. This will ensure that you have a clear grasp of what is expected of you.
Consider the timeframe of your research process. A lot goes into the research process, so make sure you start looking for a topic as soon as possible. It may not seem this way at the beginning, but the course will go by quickly.
Consider your research sources. Select a topic with a wide range of sources that you can draw from to build credible and valid evidence-based arguments.
Consult your AP advisor. Whenever you have any questions about the research process, don’t be afraid to turn to your advisor for clarification. If you find it too difficult to narrow down a topic, you can also ask for help from other students.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

A research topic is the main idea for a research project. For instance, voting apathy is a general topic from which you can derive various history research paper topics such as “voter apathy among young people.”

A research question, on the other hand, is a question that your research seeks to answer. It is more specific than your research topic. It answers the how, what, and the why of your research. For example, for the research topic above, one research question could be “What are the effects of voter apathy among young people on civic participation?”

How to Create Strong AP Research Questions

A strong AP research question should be clear and precise. In other words, the question you are posing should be focused on a specific area and the language should be simple enough that the reader doesn’t require any further explanation of what you are trying to say. However, it should not be so narrow that it can be answered with a simple yes or no.

2. The Pros and Cons of Subsidized Housing in the US

Subsidized housing is a housing policy aimed at giving low-income families access to affordable housing. This real-world issue has become quite a controversial topic. However, it is a great topic for your school project, especially if it has already been discussed in your AP Seminar course as one of the seminar topics.

3. Impact of Ocean Conservation on Climate Change

Global warming and climate change have become important topics all over the world. From a discussion of renewable energy to a study of the increase in wildfires, there are many approaches that you can take. Ocean conservation has become an important strategy in fighting climate change and would therefore be a perfect topic for an AP research paper.

4. The Role of Art Education in 21st Century Curricula

The importance of art in education has often been taken for granted. In recent decades, however, emphasis on STEM fields has raised questions about the role of art education and other humanities disciplines in modern education. Your research could focus on the benefits of art education for STEM students.

5. Food Waste Solutions in the US

According to the USDA, food waste accounts for 30 to 40 percent of the total food supply. This shows that food waste is a major environmental and economic problem. This is one of many real-world topics that would allow you to take an interdisciplinary approach, combining social sciences and environmental sciences, for instance.

6. Impact of Genetically Modified Organisms on the Environment

A genetically modified organism is a plant, animal, or other organism whose DNA has been artificially altered through bioengineering. There are many interesting albeit complex issues that can arise in research into the potential impact of GMOs on the environment.

7. Factors Contributing to Wealth Inequality in the US

Wealth inequality refers to the dissimilarities in the distribution of assets among people or groups of people. This research topic can be narrowed to focus on whether increasing minimum wages can decrease wealth inequality or on strategies for reducing the number of homeless children.

8. The Future of the Automotive Industry

Global car sales are expected to grow in the coming years. As the automotive industry is changing, this topic would be a great way to discover what these changes look like and how they will affect the industry. Selecting this for your project proposal would be a good way to build on what you learned in your AP Physics C: Mechanics class.

9. The Relationship Between Cyber Security and Ecommerce

Ecommerce is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the economy. However, as more people and businesses move to online transactions, there is growing concern about cyber security threats. A first step if you choose this topic would be to familiarize yourself with cyber security terminology .

10. Youth Voting and Civic Participation Patterns

This is an interesting research topic through which you can discuss the relationship between voting and civic participation in young people, the influence of social media on voting patterns, and whether voting trends are affected by the socioeconomic conditions of a particular youth group. One common research question is whether the voting age should be changed.

AP Research Questions

How does emotional stress manifest physically in the human body?
What political developments led to the fall of Rome?
How has cryptocurrency affected the banking industry in the 21st century?
How has social media influenced the rise of cyberbullying?
What are the effects of texting on grammar skills?

Choosing the Right AP Research Topic

As we have seen above, there are many AP research topics to choose from for your research assignment. The research paper is your primary performance task in the AP Research course, so you should take care to select a strong topic.

Completing the College Board’s AP Capstone is a significant academic achievement that will put your academic writing skills and research abilities to the test. Choosing the right AP research topic is therefore paramount in helping you build your college profile, especially if you want to get into an Ivy League School .

AP Research Topics FAQ

Your AP research paper should be between 4,000 and 5,000 words. Your evaluation will be based on not only the word count but also your introduction, content, structure, conclusion, and use and documentation of sources.

The AP research assignment is graded on a scale of one to five, depending on how well you do on your academic paper and oral defense. You can visit the AP Research student page for further information about grading.

No, there are no AP research topics that are off-limits. The AP Capstone program aims at developing students who are independent critical thinkers, so don’t shy away from a topic just because it’s controversial.

The difference between AP and AP Capstone is that AP Capstone is a two-year diploma program that requires you to take the AP Seminar and AP Research courses, whereas AP is a general term for the Advanced Placement program. College Board offers both programs.

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AP Research

Learn all about the course and assessment. Already enrolled? Join your class in My AP.

Not a Student?

Go to AP Central for resources for teachers, administrators, and coordinators.

About the Assessment

There is no end-of-course written exam for AP Research. Instead, you’ll be assessed on performance tasks you complete that are based on your yearlong research project: an academic paper (which you’ll submit online for scoring through the AP Digital Portfolio), a presentation, and an oral defense of your research. These components all contribute to your final AP score on a scale of 1–5.

Updates to AP Research Performance Task

Given the implications of ChatGPT and other similar generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools on the AP Research performance task components, we’ve updated the guidance  regarding the use of these tools. These guidelines require your teacher to attest to the authenticity of your work in order for you to receive a score on the associated performance task. Review the  AP Research Course and Exam Description for the full policy and details.

Assessment Date

Wed, Apr 30, 2025

11:59 PM ET

AP Research Performance Task Due Date

Submit your AP Research performance task as final in the AP Digital Portfolio by this date.

Assessment Components

Academic paper.

75% of Score

The academic paper should be 4,000–5,000 words long. You’ll be evaluated on the content, structure, format, and conclusions of the paper as well as your ability to properly and accurately cite sources.

Presentation and Oral Defense

25% of Score

The culminating event of the AP Research course will be a presentation of your research question, research methodology, and findings, including an oral defense that addresses a set of questions about your research inquiry. The presentation and defense take 15–20 minutes. You will also be required to answer 3–4 questions from a panel of trained evaluators and your AP Research teacher.

AP Research teachers use a scoring rubric designed by the AP Program.
AP Research teachers also take part in mandatory training from the AP Program in how to score these components.

How We Score Your Work

Teacher Scored Components

Your in-class presentation and oral defense is scored by your AP Research teacher.

Here’s how we make sure that scoring by AP Research teachers is standardized:

College Board Scored Components

After you submit your academic paper online through the AP Digital Portfolio, it is scored by trained, experienced educators called AP readers.

Assessment Essentials

Assessment preparation, ap daily videos.

Once you join your AP class section online, you’ll be able to access AP Daily videos in AP Classroom. AP Daily videos cover every proficiency and skill outlined in the AP Research Course and Exam Description. Sign in to access them.

Performance Task Samples and Scoring Information

Go to AP Central to review student samples of the academic paper, as well as scoring information for both performance tasks, from past years.

AP Research Course and Exam Description

This is the core document for the course. It clearly lays out the course content and describes the assessment and the AP Program in general.

Services for Students with Disabilities

Students with documented disabilities may be eligible for accommodations for the through-course assessment and the end-of-course exam. If you’re using assistive technology and need help accessing the PDFs in this section in another format, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at 212-713-8333 or by email at [email protected] . For information about taking AP Exams, or other College Board assessments, with accommodations, visit the Services for Students with Disabilities website.

Guidance for Artificial Intelligence Tools and Other Services

Learn more about the AP Program’s policy on generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT).

Credit and Placement

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Find colleges that grant credit and/or placement for AP Exam scores in this and other AP courses.

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Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment

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The Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum is administered by the College Board and serves as a standardized set of year-long high school classes that are roughly equivalent to one semester of college-level coursework. Although most students enroll in an actual course to prepare for their AP exams, many others will self-study for the exams without enrolling in the actual AP class.

AP classes are generally stand-alone subjects that easily translate to traditional college courses. Typically, they culminate in a standardized exam on which students are graded using a 5-point scale, which colleges and universities will use to determine credit or advanced standing. Starting in fall of 2014, though, this traditional AP course and exam format has begun to adapt in efforts by the College Board to reflect less stringent rote curriculum and a heavier emphasis on critical thinking skills.

The AP Capstone program is at the center of these changes, and its culmination course is AP Research. If you are interested in learning more about the AP Research Course and Assessment, and how they can prepare you for college-level work, read on for CollegeVine’s Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment.

About the Course and Assessment

The AP Research course is the second of two classes required for the AP Capstone™ Diploma . In order to enroll in this course you need to have completed the AP Seminar course during a previous year. Through that course, you will have learned to collect and analyze information with accuracy and precision, developed arguments based on facts, and effectively communicated your conclusions. During the AP Research course, you apply these skills on a larger platform. In the AP Research course, you can expect to learn and apply research methods and practices to address a real-world topic of your choosing, with the end result being the production and defense of a scholarly academic paper. Students who receive a score of 3 or higher on both the AP Seminar and AP Research courses earn an AP Seminar and Research Certificate™. Students who receive a score of 3 or higher on both courses and on four additional AP exams of their choosing receive the AP Capstone Diploma™.

The AP Research course will guide you through the design, planning, and implementation of a year-long, research-based investigation to address a research question of interest to you. While working with an expert advisor, chosen by you with the help of your teacher, you will explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of your choosing and cultivate the skills and discipline necessary to conduct independent research and produce and defend a scholarly academic paper. Through explicit instruction in research methodology, ethical research practices, and documentation processes, you will develop a portfolio of scholarly work to frame your research paper and subsequent presentation of it.

Although the core content and skills remain standardized for every AP Research course, the implementation of this instruction may vary. Some AP Research courses may have a specific disciplinary focus wherein the course content is rooted in a specific subject, such as AP Research STEM Inquiries or AP Research Performing and Visual Arts. Similarly, other AP Research courses are offered in conjunction with a separate and specific AP class, such as AP Research and AP Biology wherein students are concurrently enrolled in both AP courses and content is presented in a cross-curricular approach. Alternatively, AP Research may be presented in the form of an internship wherein students who are already working with a discipline-specific expert adviser conduct independent studies and research of the student’s choosing while taking the AP Research class. Finally, some AP Research courses are delivered independently as a research methods class. In this style of class, students develop inquiry methods for the purpose of determining which method best fits their chosen topic of inquiry/research question, and each student then uses a selected method to complete his or her investigation.

Only schools that currently offer the AP Capstone Diploma may offer the AP Research course. Because it is a part of a larger comprehensive, skills-based program, students may not self-study for the AP Research course or final paper. At this time, home-schooled students, home-school organizations, and online providers are not eligible to participate in AP Capstone.

Your performance in the AP Research course is assessed through two performance tasks. The first is the Academic Paper, which accounts for 75% of your total AP score. In this paper, you will present the findings of your yearlong research in 4,000-5,000 words. Although the official submission deadline for this task is April 30, the College Board strongly recommends that this portion of your assessment be completed by April 15 in order to allow enough time for the second of your performance tasks.

The second performance task is your Presentation and Oral Defense, which accounts for the remaining 25% of your total AP score. Using your research topic, your will prepare a 15-20 minute presentation in an appropriate format with appropriate accompanying media. Your defense will include fielding three to four questions from a panel consisting of your AP Research teacher and two additional panel members chosen at the discretion of your teacher.

In 2016, fewer than 3,000 students submitted an AP Research project, but enrollment is projected to grow rapidly, since 12,000 students took the AP Seminar assessment in 2016 and most will presumably go on to submit an AP Research project in 2017. Scores from the 2016 AP Research projects reveal a high pass rate (score of three or higher) but a difficult rate of mastery. While 67.1% of students taking the assessments scored a three or higher, only 11.6% received the highest score of a five, while nearly 40% received a three. Only 2% of students submitting research projects received the lowest score of one.

A full course description that can help to guide your planning and understanding of the knowledge required for the AP Research course and assessments can be found in the College Board course description .

Read on for tips for successfully completing the AP Research course.

How Should I Prepare for the AP Research Course?

As you undertake the AP Research course and performance tasks, you will be expected to conduct research, write a scholarly paper, and defend your work in a formal presentation. Having already completed the AP Seminar course, these skills should be familiar to you. You should use your scores on the AP Seminar performance task to help guide your preparations for the AP Research performance tasks.

Carefully review your scores from AP Seminar. Make sure you understand where points were lost and why. It may be helpful to schedule a meeting with your AP Seminar teacher to review your work. Alternatively, your AP Research teacher may be willing to go over your AP Seminar projects with you. You might also ask a classmate to review your projects together to get a better idea of where points were earned and where points were lost. Use this review as a jumping point for your AP Research studies. You should go into the course with a good idea of where your strengths lie, and where you need to focus on improving.

A sample timeline for the AP Research course is available on page 36 of the course description . One detail worth noting is that the recommended timeline actually begins not in September with the start of the new school year, but instead begins in May with the completion of the AP Seminar course during the previous school year. It is then that you should begin to consider research topics, problems, or ideas. By September of the following school year, it is recommended that you have already finalized a research question and proposal, completed an annotated bibliography, and prepared to begin a preliminary inquiry proposal for peer review.

What Content Will I Be Held Accountable For During the AP Research Course?

To be successful in the AP Research class, you will begin with learning to investigate relevant topics, compose insightful problem statements, and develop compelling research questions, with consideration of scope, to extend your thinking. Your teacher will expect you to demonstrate perseverance through setting goals, managing time, and working independently on a long-term project. Specifically, you will prepare for your research project by:

Identifying, applying, and implementing appropriate methods for research and data collection
Accessing information using effective strategies
Evaluating the relevance and credibility of information from sources and data
Reading a bibliography for the purpose of understanding that it is a source for other research and for determining context, credibility, and scope
Attributing knowledge and ideas accurately and ethically, using an appropriate citation style
Evaluating strengths and weaknesses of others’ inquiries and studies

As in the AP Research course, you will continue to investigate real-world issues from multiple perspectives, gathering and analyzing information from various sources in order to develop credible and valid evidence- based arguments. You will accomplish this through instruction in the AP Research Big Ideas, also called the QUEST Framework. These include:

Question and Explore: Questioning begins with an initial exploration of complex topics or issues. Perspectives and questions emerge that spark one’s curiosity, leading to an investigation that challenges and expands the boundaries of one’s current knowledge.
Understand and Analyze Arguments: Understanding various perspectives requires contextualizing arguments and evaluating the authors’ claims and lines of reasoning.
Evaluate Multiple Perspectives: Evaluating an issue involves considering and evaluating multiple perspectives, both individually and in comparison to one another.
Synthesize Ideas: Synthesizing others’ ideas with one’s own may lead to new understandings and is the foundation of a well-reasoned argument that conveys one’s perspective.
Team, Transform, and Transmit: Teaming allows one to combine personal strengths and talents with those of others to reach a common goal. Transformation and growth occur upon thoughtful reflection. Transmitting requires the adaptation of one’s message based on audience and context.

In addition, you will use four distinct reasoning processes as you approach your research. The reasoning processes are situating, choosing, defending , and connecting . When you situate ideas, you are aware of their context in your own perspective and the perspective of others, ensuring that biases do not lead to false assumptions. When you make choices about ideas and themes, you recognize that these choices will have both intended and unintentional consequences. As you defend your choices, you explain and justify them using a logical line of reasoning. Finally, when you connect ideas you see intersections within and/or across concepts, disciplines, and cultures.

For a glossary of research terms that you should become familiar with, see page 62 of the course description .

How Will I Know If I’m Doing Well in the AP Research Course?

Because your entire score for the AP Research course is determined by your research paper and presentation, which come at the very end of the course, it can be difficult to gauge your success until that point. Do yourself a favor and do not wait until your final scores come back to determine how successful you have been in the course.

As you undertake the AP Research course, there will be many opportunities for formative assessments throughout the semester. These assessments are used to give both you and your teacher an idea of the direction of instruction needed for you to master the skills required in the AP Research course. You should use these assessments to your advantage and capitalize on the feedback you receive through each. A list of possible activities used for these assessments can be found on page 41 of the course description .

Another way that you and your teacher will track your progress is through your Process and Reflection Portfolio (PREP). The PREP serves to document your development as you investigate your research questions, thereby providing evidence that you have demonstrated a sustained effort during the entire inquiry process. You will review your PREP periodically with your teacher, who will use it as a formative assessment to evaluate your progress.

Throughout the course, you will be assigned prompts and questions to respond to in your PREP. You will use this portfolio to document your research or artistic processes, communication with your expert adviser, and reflections on your thought processes. You should also write freely, journaling about your strengths and weaknesses with regard to implementing such processes and developing your arguments or aesthetic rationales.

Your final PREP should include:

Table of contents
Completed and approved proposal form
Specific pieces of work selected by the student to represent what he or she considers to be the best showcase for his or her work. (Examples might include: in-class (teacher-directed) free-writing about the inquiry process, resource list, annotated bibliography of any source important to the student’s work, photographs, charts, spreadsheets, and/or links to videos or other relevant visual research/project artifacts, draft versions of selected sections of the academic paper, or notes in preparation for presentation and oral defense.)
Documentation of permission(s) received from primary sources, if required — for example, permission(s) from an IRB or other agreements with individuals, institutions, or organizations that provide primary and private data such as interviews, surveys, or investigations
Documentation or log of the student’s interaction with expert adviser(s) and the role the expert adviser(s) played in the student’s learning and inquiry process (e.g., What areas of expertise did the expert adviser have that the student needed to draw from? Did the student get the help he or she needed — and if not, what did he or she do to ensure that the research process was successful? Which avenues of exploration did the expert adviser help the student to discover?)
Questions asked to and feedback received from peer and adult reviewers both in the initial stages and at key points along the way
Reflection on whether or not the feedback was accepted or rejected and why
Attestation signed by the student which states, “I hereby affirm that the work contained in this Process and Reflection Portfolio is my own and that I have read and understand the AP Capstone TM Policy on Plagiarism and Falsification or Fabrication of Information”

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to maintain strong communications with your teacher as you progress through the AP Research course. Not only is your teacher your best resource for learning new skills and knowledge, but also it is your teacher who will be responsible for grading your final performance tasks and as such, you should always have a strong understanding of how your work is being assessed and the ways in which you can improve it. Remember, your teacher wants you to succeed just as much as you do; work together as a team to optimize your chances.

How Should I Choose a Research Topic?

You will begin to consider research topics before the school year even starts. If your AP Research class is offered in conjunction with another course, such as those rooted in a specific subject or linked to another concurrent AP course, you will have some idea of the direction in which your research should head. Regardless of whether you know the precise subject matter of your topic, you should begin by asking yourself what you want to know, learn, or understand. The AP Research class provides a unique opportunity for you to guide your own learning in a direction that is genuinely interesting to you. You will find your work more engaging, exciting, and worthwhile if you choose a topic that you want to learn more about.

As you begin to consider research topics, you should:

Develop a list of topics and high-level questions that spark your interest to engage in an individual research project
Identify potential expert advisers to guide you in the planning and development of your research project (For tips on how to find a mentor, read CollegeVine’s “ How to Choose a Winning Science Fair Project Idea ”)
Identify potential opportunities (if you are interested) to perform primary research with an expert adviser during the summer, via internships or summer research projects for high school students offered in the community and local higher education institutions
Discuss research project planning skills and ideas with students who are currently taking or have already taken the AP Research course

You might also find inspiration from reading about past AP Research topics. One list of potential research questions can be found here and another can be found here . Keep in mind that these lists make great starting points and do a good job of getting you thinking about important subjects, but your research topic should ultimately be something that you develop independently as the result of careful introspection, discussions with your teacher and peers, and your own preliminary research.

Finally, keep in mind that if you pursue a research project that involves human subjects, your proposal will need to be reviewed and approved by an institutional review board (IRB) before experimentation begins. Talk with your teacher to decide if this is the right path for you before you get too involved in a project that may not be feasible.

Once you have decided on a research topic, complete an Inquiry Proposal Form. This will be distributed by your teacher and can also be found on page 55 of the course description .

How Do I Conduct My Research?

By the time you begin your AP Research course, you will have already learned many of the basics about research methods during your AP Seminar course. You should be comfortable collecting and analyzing information with accuracy and precision, developing arguments based on facts, and effectively communicating your point of view. These will be essential skills as you move forward in your AP Research project.

As you undertake your work, remember the skills you’ve already learned about research:

Use strategies to aid your comprehension as you tackle difficult texts.
Identify the author’s main idea and the methods that he or she uses to support it.
Think about biases and whether other perspectives are acknowledged.
Assess the strength of research, products, and arguments.
Look for patterns and trends as you strive to make connections between multiple arguments.
Think about what other issues, questions, or topics could be explored further.

You should be certain to keep track of all sources used in your research and cite them appropriately. The College Board has a strict policy against plagiarism. You can read more about its specifics on page 60 of the course description .

How Do I Write My Paper?

Before you begin writing your final paper, make sure to thoroughly read the Task Overview handout which will be distributed by your teacher. If you would like to see it beforehand, it can be found on page 56 of the course description . You should also review the outline of required paper sections on page 49 of the course description .

Your paper must contain the following sections:

› Introduction

› Method, Process, or Approach

› Results, Product, or Findings

› Discussion, Analysis, and/or Evaluation

› Conclusion and Future Directions

› Bibliography

Before you begin writing, organize your ideas and findings into an outline using the sections listed above. Be sure to consider how you can connect and analyze the evidence in order to develop an argument and support a conclusion. Also think about if there are any alternate conclusions that could be supported by your evidence and how you can acknowledge and account for your own biases and assumptions.

Begin your paper by introducing and contextualizing your research question or problem. Make sure to include your initial assumptions and/or hypothesis. Next, include a literature review of previous work in the field and various perspectives on your topic. Use the literature review to highlight the gap in the current field of knowledge to be addressed by your research project. Then, explain and justify your methodology, present your findings, evidence, or data, and interpret the significance of these findings. Discuss implications for further research or limitations of your existing project. Finally, reflect on the project, how it could impact its field, and any possible next steps. Your paper should conclude with a comprehensive bibliography including all of the sources used in your process.

Make sure to proofread and edit your paper yourself, have it proofread and edited by a friend, and then proofread and edit it again before you complete your final draft.

How Do I Prepare For My Oral Defense?

Once your paper is finished, you may be tempted to sit back and rest on your laurels. Although you’ve no doubt expended a tremendous about of energy in producing a final product you can be proud of, don’t forget that the work is not over yet. Your oral defense accounts for 25% of your total score so it should be taken seriously.

Your oral defense is a 15-20 minute presentation that uses appropriate media to present your findings to an oral defense panel. You may choose any appropriate format for your presentation, as long as the presentation reflects the depth of your research. If your academic paper was accompanied by an additional piece of scholarly work (e.g., performance, exhibit, product), you should arrange with your teacher for him or her, along with the panelists, to view the scholarly work prior to your presentation.

As you plan your presentation, consider how you can best appeal to your audience. Consider different mediums for your presentation, and how those mediums might affect your credibility as a presenter. You want to be engaging to your audience while still being taken seriously.

Following your presentation, you will field three or four questions from your panelists. These will include one question pertaining to your research or inquiry process, one question focused on your depth of understanding, and one question about your reflection throughout the inquiry process as evidenced in your PREP. The fourth question and any follow-up questions are at the discretion of the panel. A list of sample oral defense questions begins on page 52 of the course description . For a complete outline of the oral defense, see page 49 of the course description .

How Will My Work Be Assessed?

Because this assessment is only available to students enrolled in the AP Capstone program, your teacher will register you for the assessment when you enroll in the course. You should confirm with your teacher that you are registered for the assessment no later than March 1.

You will submit your final paper and complete your oral presentation no later than April 30, at which point your teacher will submit your work and scores through an AP Digital Portfolio. Your presentation will be scored by your teacher alone. Your paper will be scored by your teacher and validated by the College Board.

You may find the scoring rubric from the 2016 performance tasks available here . You may find a collection authentic student research papers and scoring explanations available here .

Preparing for any AP assessment can be a stressful process. Having a specific plan of attack and a firm grasp of how your work is assessed will help you to feel prepared and score well. Use CollegeVine’s Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment to help shape your understanding of the course and how to complete your performance tasks effectively. When submission day arrives, you should feel better prepared and informed about the work you have produced.

For more about information about APs, check out these CollegeVine posts:

• Can AP Tests Actually Save You Thousands of Dollars?

• Should I Take AP/IB/Honors Classes?

• How to Choose Which AP Courses and Exams to Take

• What If My School Doesn’t Offer AP or IB Courses?

• Are All APs Created Equal in Admissions?

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Academic Paper: Discussion and Analysis

5 min read • june 18, 2024

Dylan Black

Introduction

After presenting your data and results to readers, you have one final step before you can finally wrap up your paper and write a conclusion: analyzing your data! This is the big part of your paper that finally takes all the stuff you've been talking about - your method, the data you collected, the information presented in your literature review - and uses it to make a point!

The major question to be answered in your analysis section is simply "we have all this data, but what does it mean?" What questions does this data answer? How does it relate to your research question ? Can this data be explained by, and is it consistent with, other papers? If not, why? These are the types of questions you'll be discussing in this section.

Writing a 🔥 Discussion and Analysis

Explain what your data means.

The primary point of a discussion section is to explain to your readers, through both statistical means and thorough explanation, what your results mean for your project. In doing so, you want to be succinct, clear, and specific about how your data backs up the claims you are making. These claims should be directly tied back to the overall focus of your paper.

What is this overall focus, you may ask? Your research question! This discussion along with your conclusion forms the final analysis of your research - what answers did we find? Was our research successful? How do the results we found tie into and relate to the current consensus by the research community? Were our results expected or unexpected? Why or why not? These are all questions you may consider in writing your discussion section.

Why Did Your Results Happen?

After presenting your results in your results section, you may also want to explain why your results actually occurred. This is integral to gaining a full understanding of your results and the conclusions you can draw from them. For example, if data you found contradicts certain data points found in other studies, one of the most important aspects of your discussion of said data is going to be theorizing as to why this disparity took place.

Note that making broad, sweeping claims based on your data is not enough! Everything, and I mean just about everything you say in your discussions section must be backed up either by your own findings that you showed in your results section or past research that has been performed in your field.

For many situations, finding these answers is not easy, and a lot of thinking must be done as to why your results actually occurred the way they did. For some fields, specifically STEM-related fields, a discussion might dive into the theoretical foundations of your research, explaining interactions between parts of your study that led to your results. For others, like social sciences and humanities, results may be open to more interpretation.

However, "open to more interpretation" does not mean you can make claims willy nilly and claim "author's interpretation". In fact, such interpretation may be harder than STEM explanations! You will have to synthesize existing analysis on your topic and incorporate that in your analysis.

Discussion vs. Summary & Repetition

Quite possibly the biggest mistake made within a discussion section is simply restating your data in a different format. The role of the discussion section is to explain your data and what it means for your project. Many students, thinking they're making discussion and analysis, simply regurgitate their numbers back in full sentences with a surface-level explanation.

Phrases like "this shows" and others similar, while good building blocks and great planning tools, often lead to a relatively weak discussion that isn't very nuanced and doesn't lead to much new understanding.

Instead, your goal will be to, through this section and your conclusion, establish a new understanding and in the end, close your gap! To do this effectively, you not only will have to present the numbers and results of your study, but you'll also have to describe how such data forms a new idea that has not been found in prior research.

This, in essence, is the heart of research - finding something new that hasn't been studied before! I don't know if it's just us, but that's pretty darn cool and something that you as the researcher should be incredibly proud of yourself for accomplishing.

Rubric Points

Before we close out this guide, let's take a quick peek at our best friend: the AP Research Rubric for the Discussion and Conclusion sections.

Scores of One and Two: Nothing New, Your Standard Essay

Responses that earn a score of one or two on this section of the AP Research Academic Paper typically don't find much new and by this point may not have a fully developed method nor well-thought-out results. For the most part, these are more similar to essays you may have written in a prior English class or AP Seminar than a true Research paper. Instead of finding new ideas, they summarize already existing information about a topic.

Score of Three: New Understanding, Not Enough Support

A score of three is the first row that establishes a new understanding! This is a great step forward from a one or a two. However, what differentiates a three from a four or a five is the explanation and support of such a new understanding. A paper that earns a three lacks in building a line of reasoning and does not present enough evidence, both from their results section and from already published research.

Scores of Four and Five: New Understanding With A Line of Reasoning

We've made it to the best of the best! With scores of four and five, successful papers describe a new understanding with an effective line of reasoning, sufficient evidence, and an all-around great presentation of how their results signify filling a gap and answering a research question.

As far as the discussions section goes, the difference between a four and a five is more on the side of complexity and nuance. Where a four hits all the marks and does it well, a five exceeds this and writes a truly exceptional analysis. Another area where these two sections differ is in the limitations described, which we discuss in the Conclusion section guide.

You did it!!!! You have, for the most part, finished the brunt of your research paper and are over the hump! All that's left to do is tackle the conclusion, which tends to be for most the easiest section to write because all you do is summarize how your research question was answered and make some final points about how your research impacts your field. Finally, as always...

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170 AP Research Topics For Your Paper

As you may already know, AP Seminar is across multiple disciplines of study. It primarily explores how students can achieve critical thinking abilities through collaboration and thorough academic research. AP Seminar also helps the student understand real-world issues from different lenses.

This way, you get to understand how the world works through multiple perspectives. AP Seminar usually covers team projects, individual papers, oral presentations, and the exam at the end of the course. How do you prepare for your project, paper, or oral presentation without essential AP research paper topics?

It would help if you have AP research topics ideas and perhaps, AP research questions. You need AP seminar topics that help you develop your analytical and creative research and writing skills. You will find them in this content. However, before that, what must be found in a good AP research paper?

Characteristics of a Good AP Research Paper

Writing a good research paper requires analyzing previous academic papers and improving your knowledge about what you want to write. While writing your research paper, take notes of these:

A Good Papers Must be Relevant in the Long Term This means you should not write on something that will no longer be relevant in two years. In other words, think about Shakespeare. Or better still, think about writing something that many other writers and researchers will reference. Your logic must have no noticeable unclear gap. Your research must also pass through a thorough assessment process to ascertain that everything in your paper is relevant to the present and the future. If you are writing something about history, you should apply logic and thought to the sources you pick and write about them.
Backup Your Research with Valid Sources Every research paper without an external source is poor. Especially when you quote facts, your good sources make your paper appealing and worthy of application or study by different generations. Your paper must include all the facts it needs to pass each point. This is also important because having solid references means that you consulted excellent sources and adopted their information while writing your paper.
Have Great Research Questions Research questions sometimes turn your paper around. This is because your AP research questions must be well thought of and dynamic to the issues you’re writing about. When you choose from AP seminar themes available to you or the AP research topic ideas of your choice, asking yourself questions your research will answer makes it easy to focus. Your research questions influence your research, and they make writing easy too.
Your Research Must be Specific You can only master how to stay relevant by writing on specific issues. For example, if you want to write about coronavirus, you should not make the mistake of treating a general topic. Instead, narrow it down to your environment or a controversial issue. The Atlantic recently published a long-form essay about a hospital overwhelmed with patients. They eventually had to use their ambulances for some operations. That is an example of a research that treats a specific issue, not a generic one.
Your Research Must be Well Structured and Concise This is perhaps the most critical part of your work. If you have an excellent paper, it will only reflect when you have a great structure. As you know, your paper must have an introduction, the main body, and the conclusion.

The introduction is where you discuss the general concepts and the target of your paper. You can also discuss why it is essential to examine the topic; this could be your problem statement. Your main body is where you disassemble and reassemble your facts, make your arguments, and pass your message. Note that you will answer all your research questions in this section, which is why the section is most important while writing a paper. It will help if you back every fact up with solid references. Your conclusion is where you sum everything you’ve raised and discussed. You may attach a quick call to action to the necessary authorities, depending on what you’ve written. However, if you have just sensitized your readers with your project, your conclusion should end with a perfect sentence or paragraphs that stays with your readers.

Now that you know all these, consider these AP seminar research paper topics for your project, paper, or oral presentation. On the other hand, remember you can buy thesis online from our professional helpers team and never worry about your grades.

AP Seminar Themes

AP Seminar themes are the usual subject of discourse that often appear in any AP Seminar. These themes unite all the courses you study during your one year long course. You can consider these AP research topics:

The ethics of algorithms on social media
Controversial supreme court ruling based on public opinion
Environmental injustice and consequences on real estate
The challenges of typo errors
Overview of genetics
The cause of food waste
Universal adult suffrage and the fault in the system
#MeToo movement and the challenges
The issues on wealth inequality
Agree or disagree with Francis Fukuyama’s The End of History.”
Social class exists in communist societies
Communism is the feasible system of the future
Art and education
Music and education
The significance of entertainment in the workplace.

AP Seminar Topics

These are direct AP seminar research topics that you can use for your paper. The best topics are often intriguing enough to impress your teachers for your dissertation or thesis. You can use these to create the perfect paper:

Food waste management in Ukraine
How the naval power of China is not enough over Taiwan and its allies
Low lying islands and global warming
The differences in Chinese GDP between 1978 and 2020
How global warming affects countries that contribute less to it
The rise in the creation of energy-efficient cars
Genetically modified plants ruin nature: discuss
Pesticides cause more harm than good: discuss
Saving money in college is underrated
Significance of electric cars to the future
A study on three robots and the prospects for the future workplace
Gun control is impossible: discuss
Intensive farming may not end hunger: discuss
Examine the output of three countries and their wealth
How much has the world achieved gender equality?
Discuss why the demand for tech is a challenging issue
Compare and contrast the labor market in the US and Germany
Would you say China is the superpower of sustainable batteries
Study the rising sectors in the world and their consequences
Will petroleum, not batteries, be vital in 2030?
Homework is overrated
What are the controversies around the statement “I am self-taught.”
Significance of noise pollution
Quantum entanglement: discuss
China and its tech products
UK and software growth
Is Africa forgotten?
Challenges between black Americans and African Americans
Aside from COVID-19 and omicron, what are globally threatening issues?
Abortion is unethical: discuss.

AP Research Topic Ideas

As a research student, you may also want to consider good ideas to develop for your paper. Your AP research topic ideas must aid your analytical skills. It should also help you create interesting perspectives about issues. You can consider:

How the ozone layer protects the planet
The best way to address global warming
A study of Elon Musk’s education system
A study of the Swiss educational system
Challenges of education in the UK
Challenges on education in the US
Study how prison changes people
Discuss recent aquatic discoveries
How to answer to Brazil’s deforestation
The effects of deforestation on global health
The rise and evolution of taxes
Is the US the world police?
Trace world religions: is there a peaceful religion?
Discuss how Jews weaponized the Holocaust narrative in Palestine
Discuss why some courses are compulsory
Examine the problem with obesity
Discuss what it means to be in denial
Analyze US’s withdrawal from Afghanistan
Human right over national security: discuss
Is the EU sustainable?
Discuss the activities of CNN’s Jeff Zucker
Why is history important?
Is philosophy a foundational discipline for all disciplines?
Examine measures to prevent a WWIII
Lessons from the failure of Right 2 Respond in Syria
Discuss the challenges of mandatory service
Was the Cold War indeed a cold war?
What does the world know about Antarctica?
Debt diplomacy: discuss
An overview of terrorism.

AP World History Research Paper Topics

World history can be broad yet interesting. World history is interesting when you apply rational thought and philosophy into the aspects of the past that matter and those that don’t. These are some good AP world history research paper topics:

Effects of the industrial revolution
The evolution of German industries
The Crusaders are the same as the Jihads: discuss
The struggle for democracy
French revolution and consequences on Europe
The US independence and consequences on Europe
The decolonization of Europe led to the colonization of Africa
British imperialism and challenges
Mongols and relevance in history
What are the similarities and differences in the civilizations of Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia
Discuss the hegemony of the Ottoman Empire
Discuss the evolution of contemporary politics
Examine history and religion
How Hitler could have won WWII
How Asia changed post-WWI
The symbols in Ancient Egypt
The symbols in Mesopotamia civilization
How agricultural revolution affect the world
The rise of industries in Japan
The growth of armament and present challenges
Water challenges in the Middle East
The Middle East is a vital region to the globe: discuss
Would you say Muammar Gaddafi of Libya was a great leader?
Examine the disunity in the Arab League
Mortification in Ancient Egypt
The Jews and the world
The cyclical nature of history
Sexual revolution and trends
Nudity and its politics
Child trafficking in India.

AP US History Research Paper Topics

To engage in more direct research, you may want to integrate your thoughts into interesting AP research topics. These are topics about current and past events in US history:

Differences between presidents Trump and Clinton
The US and the Great Depression
US interference in the Suez Canal crisis
US foreign policy to Libya under Gaddafi
The US before and after 9/11
Religions of the Native Americans
The fiction in Salem Witch Trials
Women’s role in America’s independence
Women’s role in the Renaissance Europe
Sexual revolution as feminism
Industrial revolution in America
The causes of slavery in the Americas
America will always fight wars: discuss
The reasons why America built up its armies
The evolution of labor unions in America
An overview of the Cuban Missile Crisis
The US and social media policy
US and gender inequality
Corruption in the US
Gangsterism in the US
George Floyd and the consequences of his death
The effects of the Mississippi River Flood
CIA and the murder of Congolese Patrice Lumumba: justifiable?
Ideological challenges in US history
Indigenous technology in the American Civil War
The effect of Hurricane Katrina
An overview of a mass shooting in any location of your choice
Environmental crisis in the US
Was the Cold War necessary?
Criticize the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

AP Capstone Research Topics

AP Capstone involves the assessment and overview of all the courses during your AP Seminar. It examines your knowledge of different theories and how you can apply them. You can choose these topics for your paper:

The US and its ethnicities
US and religious duplicity
Vaccines and their benefits in the US
How does the US control the UN
Bullying and its impacts
How social media affects students
Food insecurity and challenges of the contemporary world
The future of the automobile
The future of automation
Does Elon Musk do something similar to Mark Zuckerberg?
Extreme sports: what’s the thrill?
The history of vaccines
Is America truly democratic
Discuss the overaction of lawmakers on the Janet Jackson Superbowl performance saga
Is the UN a toothless bulldog?

AP Biology Research Topics

Biology is an integral part of the world and a relevant course in your AP Seminar. You can choose to discuss any of the following interesting topics:

Critically analyze how the human body works.
Discuss the correlation between the way Ancient Egyptians preserved their dead and the way it is done today
How has the research and writings of the Romantic Era achieved some changes in the biology of contemporary society?
What is the most common thing that weakens the human immune system?
The HIV/AIDS epidemic and the vulnerability of the human society
The scientists’ struggle in preventing the spread of the virus before, during, and after COVID-19
Assess the importance of genetics, if any, in the creation of robots with emotional abilities like humans
Assess how stress affects the immune system and how a strenuous activity as sex helps ease stress
Speak with any five persons and evaluate why some people have refused to take the COVID-19 vaccine
Discuss how bacteria affect the body and its consequences
Evaluate how animals communicate
Trace the evolution and trends in the discovery that the heart controls human life, not the brain
A study of how white blood cells work and fight diseases
Should DNA tests be made accessible for the public?
Cell division and how to teach how it works to pupils
Examine the process of photosynthesis on plants
The trends and discoveries of cancer treatments
Read five pieces of literature on different perspectives on genetics and appraise them.
Analyze how the red blood cells convey oxygen
Appraise the structure of the human body.

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AP Research

Guidance for artificial intelligence tools and other services, assessment overview.

In AP Research, students are assessed on the academic paper and presentation and oral defense of research. The academic paper is 4,000–5,000 words, and the presentation and defense take approximately 15–20 minutes.

Encourage your students to visit the AP Research student page for assessment information and practice.

Participate in the AP Capstone Diploma Program

To offer AP Research, schools must sign up to participate in AP Capstone , and teachers need to attend mandatory summer training. Visit the AP Capstone Diploma program page for more information.

Assessment Dates

Wed, Apr 30, 2025

11:59 PM ET

Deadline for Students to Submit AP Research Performance Tasks

Assessment format.

The AP Research assessment has consistent weighting and scoring guidelines every year, so you and your students know what to expect.



Academic Paper (4,000–5,000 words)	College Board scored	75%
Presentation and Oral Defense (15–20 minutes total for both the presentation and 3–4 questions from a panel of 3 evaluators that follows).	Teacher scored	25%

Guidance for Hosting Student Presentations

See the rules and guidelines for hosting your students’ presentations whether your school is teaching remotely, in person, or in a hybrid setting.

Samples and Scoring Guidelines

Ap research past exam questions.

View sample responses and scoring guidelines for the through-course performance tasks from past years.

Score Reporting

Ap score reports for educators.

Access your score reports.

AP Research Topics: History, Chemistry, Psychology & More

Have you ever found yourself so wrapped up in a project that you forget to check the time? That's what happens when you choose the right AP Research topic. Whether you're curious about how technology shapes our lives or fascinated by the ways people think, picking good AP research paper topics can make your experience more than just another assignment—it can be an adventure.

AP Research is a course that lets high school students dig deep into a subject they care about. It gives you a chance to think critically and create something truly your own. But before you get started, you need to choose a topic that not only sparks your interest but also meets the course requirements. That's where we're here to help.

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What Does AP Research Do

AP Research allows you to take control of your learning. You'll learn how to ask the right questions, gather and analyze data, and present your findings in a way that's both clear and compelling.

One of the best parts is the freedom it offers. You're not just following a textbook—you're exploring something that genuinely interests you. This exploration can lead to impressive results, like the students who've used EssayPro's resources to write top-notch research papers. By connecting with experts and using reliable tools, they've turned their curiosity into polished projects that stand out.

Whether you're interested in social issues, science, or the arts, AP Research helps you develop skills that go beyond the classroom. You're able to solve problems and communicate your ideas effectively—all essential skills for college and beyond. And with the right support, like the guidance from EssayPro, you can take your research to the next level.

Don't miss out—check out our related article on why is critical thinking important for students and see how these skills can improve your AP Research process.

The List of AP Research Topics

Now that you know what this research is all about, it's time to find a topic that speaks to you. Having a good list of ideas can also make the process easier. Below, our expert admission essay services team gathered a selection of AP research paper topics that are not only interesting but also offer plenty of opportunities for deep exploration.

Best AP Research Topics

How do urban heat islands affect local weather patterns and public health?
The impact of early childhood education on long-term social and emotional development
What are the effects of climate change on global water resources and availability?
How do social movements utilize digital platforms to mobilize support and influence policy?
The role of genetic engineering in agriculture: benefits and ethical concerns
How do cultural differences influence the effectiveness of mental health interventions?
The effects of gamified learning on student engagement and retention in STEM subjects
How does the rise of remote work affect team dynamics and productivity?
The influence of historical narratives on modern national identities
What are the psychological and social impacts of long-term space travel on astronauts?
The role of artificial intelligence in personalized medicine and its potential for transforming healthcare
How do different teaching methods impact students with learning disabilities?
The impact of environmental sustainability practices on corporate social responsibility
What are the effects of food labeling on consumer behavior and dietary choices?
How do societal attitudes toward aging affect elderly care and policies?
The role of traditional knowledge in contemporary environmental conservation efforts
How do different approaches to urban design influence community well-being and social interaction?
The impact of digital detox practices on mental health and productivity in the workplace
What can be learned from studying the long-term effects of major historical pandemics on societies?
How do contemporary art movements challenge traditional notions of aesthetics and value?

Good AP Research Topics

Here are some more good topic choices curated by EssayPro. If you've found one you love, our experts are ready to offer help with writing an essay .

How does the design of public spaces impact community engagement and safety?
The influence of storytelling techniques on public awareness of social issues
What are the effects of dietary changes on cognitive function in older adults?
How do global supply chain disruptions affect local economies and businesses?
The impact of bilingual education on cognitive development and academic performance
How does exposure to different cultural perspectives shape attitudes toward global issues?
What are the psychological effects of participating in extreme sports or adventure activities?
How do social and economic factors influence access to clean drinking water in developing countries?
The role of artificial intelligence in detecting and preventing cyber threats
How do virtual communities influence real-world social interactions and relationships?
The impact of renewable energy adoption on rural versus urban areas
What are the effects of early intervention programs on children with developmental delays?
How do different types of exercise affect mental health and stress levels?
The influence of political satire on public opinion and political engagement
What can be learned from the success and failure of international environmental agreements?
How do personal finance education programs impact financial decision-making and stability?
The effects of digital media consumption on attention spans and learning abilities in adolescents
How does the portrayal of diversity in media affect societal attitudes and inclusion?
The role of community gardens in promoting local food security and social cohesion
What are the benefits and challenges of integrating technology into traditional classroom settings?

AP Seminar Topics

These AP Seminar research topics are sure to inspire and engage you. They're practical and interesting, perfect for exploring important issues.

How has the rise of influencer culture altered consumer trust in advertising?
The impact of urban farming initiatives on food security in densely populated cities
What role do emerging technologies play in the future of remote education?
How does the portrayal of mental health in media affect public perceptions and stigma?
The influence of digital privacy concerns on the development of new technologies
How do alternative justice systems, like restorative justice, impact community rehabilitation?
The effects of gamification on student motivation and learning outcomes in education
What can the evolution of language in internet memes tell us about cultural shifts?
How do local art movements contribute to global conversations on social justice?
The role of wearable technology in personal health monitoring and its implications for privacy
How does the concept of 'ethical fashion' challenge traditional fashion industry practices?
What are the psychological effects of participating in online communities versus physical communities?
The influence of microdosing psychedelics on creativity and productivity in professional settings
How do fictional narratives in popular media shape our understanding of historical events?
The impact of virtual reality therapy on treating phobias and PTSD
What role does citizen science play in advancing environmental research and policy?
How do different cultures approach the concept of work-life balance, and what can we learn from them?
The effects of digital art on the traditional art market and artist recognition
How does the rise of autonomous vehicles impact urban planning and traffic management?
The role of narrative in shaping public perceptions of scientific research and technology

AP World History Research Paper Topics

How did the Silk Road influence cultural exchange between Asia and Europe?
The impact of the Mongol Empire on global trade and communication
The role of women in ancient Egyptian society
What led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
Exploring the causes and effects of the Protestant Reformation
The significance of the Magna Carta in shaping modern democracy
How did the Black Death reshape European societies in the 14th century?
The rise and fall of the Byzantine Empire
What were the key factors in the success of the Ottoman Empire?
The influence of Confucianism on Chinese government and society
How did the Age of Exploration change global economies and cultures?
The impact of colonialism on Indigenous populations in the Americas
What were the causes and consequences of the French Revolution?
The development and spread of Islam during the Middle Ages
How did the Industrial Revolution transform societies in Europe and beyond?
The influence of Greek philosophy on Western thought
What were the driving forces behind the unification of Germany?
The role of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in shaping the modern world
How did World War I lead to major political changes in Europe?
The cultural and technological achievements of the Gupta Empire in India

AP US History Research Paper Topics

The causes and effects of the American Revolution
How did the Louisiana Purchase shape the future of the United States?
The role of women in the American Civil War
What were the main challenges faced by the early colonies in America?
The impact of the Emancipation Proclamation on the Civil War
How did the Gold Rush influence westward expansion in the United States?
The significance of the Monroe Doctrine in American foreign policy
What were the key factors leading to the Great Depression?
The influence of the Harlem Renaissance on American culture
How did the Civil Rights Movement change American society?
The causes and consequences of the Mexican-American War
What role did the New Deal play in America's recovery from the Great Depression?
The impact of World War II on American domestic life
How did the Cold War shape US foreign and domestic policies?
The significance of the Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education
What were the driving forces behind the Women's Suffrage Movement?
The effects of the Vietnam War on American society and politics
How did the Watergate scandal change public trust in government?
The influence of the Industrial Revolution on urbanization in America
What were the causes and outcomes of the American involvement in World War I?

AP Lang Research Paper Topics

How does the use of rhetorical questions in speeches influence audience engagement?
The role of persuasive language in shaping public opinion during elections
How does the choice of narrative perspective affect a reader's connection to a story?
The impact of social media on modern journalism and news reporting
What are the linguistic techniques used in effective political debates?
How do advertising slogans use language to create brand identity and consumer loyalty?
The influence of Shakespeare's use of imagery on modern literary analysis
How does the use of irony in literature enhance thematic elements?
The role of dialogue in character development in contemporary novels
How does language in public health campaigns affect community behavior and awareness?
What are the rhetorical strategies used in motivational speeches to inspire action?
The impact of tone and mood in setting the atmosphere in Gothic literature
How do different genres of writing, such as satire and tragedy, affect reader perception?
The role of metaphor in political rhetoric and its impact on policy discussions
How does the structure of an argumentative essay influence its persuasiveness?
The effects of language simplification in educational materials on student comprehension
How do authors use symbolism to convey deeper meanings in their works?
The influence of cultural context on the interpretation of literary texts
What are the effects of direct vs. indirect speech on character relationships in drama?
How do historical speeches reflect the values and concerns of their time periods?

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AP Environmental Science Research Paper Topics

The impact of deforestation on global biodiversity
How does climate change affect polar ice caps and sea levels?
The role of renewable energy in reducing carbon emissions
What are the environmental consequences of plastic pollution in oceans?
The effects of industrial agriculture on soil health
How does urbanization contribute to habitat loss and species extinction?
The importance of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance
What are the challenges and benefits of sustainable farming practices?
The role of environmental policies in protecting endangered species
How does air pollution impact human health in urban areas?
The significance of the ozone layer in protecting life on Earth
What are the environmental impacts of fracking on water resources?
The effects of climate change on coral reef ecosystems
How does deforestation contribute to climate change?
The importance of conservation efforts in preserving biodiversity
What are the environmental benefits and challenges of electric vehicles?
The role of national parks in protecting natural resources
How do invasive species disrupt local ecosystems?
The impact of overfishing on marine life and ocean health
What are the environmental and social implications of e-waste?

AP Chemistry Research Paper Topics

The process of photosynthesis and its chemical significance
What are the effects of heavy metals on human health?
The chemistry behind pharmaceuticals and drug development
How do detergents and soaps work at the molecular level?
The significance of oxidation-reduction reactions in energy production
What are the chemical principles behind climate change mitigation efforts?
The role of catalysts in speeding up chemical reactions
How do acids and bases interact in everyday life?
The importance of the periodic table in modern chemistry
What are the environmental impacts of chemical fertilizers?
The chemistry behind renewable energy sources like solar cells
How do chemical bonds determine the properties of substances?
The significance of pH in maintaining biological systems
What are the applications of nanotechnology in medicine?
The process and importance of water purification techniques
How do greenhouse gases contribute to global warming?
The role of chemical reactions in food preservation
What makes enzymes so crucial in biochemical reactions?
The chemistry of batteries and how they store energy
How do polymers impact everyday products and the environment?

AP Biology Research Topics

How do genetic mutations contribute to evolution?
The role of enzymes in cellular processes
What are the effects of climate change on animal migration patterns?
The significance of the human microbiome in health and disease
How do plants adapt to extreme environmental conditions?
The impact of antibiotic resistance on public health
What are the mechanisms of gene expression and regulation?
The role of natural selection in shaping species diversity
How do hormones regulate growth and development in organisms?
The process of photosynthesis and its importance in the carbon cycle
What are the effects of habitat destruction on biodiversity?
The role of the immune system in defending against pathogens
How do organisms maintain homeostasis in varying environments?
The impact of invasive species on native ecosystems
What are the genetic factors involved in inherited diseases?
The process of cell division and its significance in growth and reproduction
How do environmental toxins affect the nervous system?
The role of symbiotic relationships in ecosystems
What are the effects of pollution on aquatic life?
The significance of epigenetics in gene expression and inheritance

AP Research Psychology Topics

How do different parenting styles impact child development?
The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance
What are the psychological impacts of social media addiction?
The role of genetics vs. environment in determining intelligence
How does mindfulness meditation influence stress levels?
The effects of early childhood trauma on adult mental health
What are the cognitive benefits of bilingualism?
The impact of exercise on mental health and mood
How do stereotypes and prejudices develop and affect behavior?
The role of attachment theory in understanding romantic relationships
What are the psychological effects of prolonged isolation?
The influence of parental involvement on academic achievement
How do cognitive biases affect decision-making?
The effects of music therapy on anxiety and depression
What are the psychological mechanisms behind placebo effects?
How does exposure to violent media influence aggression?
The role of self-esteem in coping with life challenges
What are the effects of nutrition on cognitive function?
How does early intervention in autism spectrum disorder affect developmental outcomes?
The impact of stress management techniques on overall well-being

AP Capstone Research Topics

How did the rise of digital nomadism change the concept of work-life balance?
The impact of virtual reality on empathy and understanding of social issues
How do small, community-based conservation efforts contribute to global environmental change?
The role of crowdfunding in transforming startup culture and innovation
What can ancient agricultural practices teach us about modern sustainable farming?
How do storytelling techniques in video games influence player behavior and decision-making?
The effects of cross-cultural exchanges on traditional art forms in the digital age
What are the social and psychological impacts of living in a hyper-connected world?
How do grassroots movements influence national policy changes?
The role of biohacking in personal health and ethical considerations
How do urban green spaces impact community well-being and social interactions?
The influence of speculative fiction on real-world scientific advancements
What are the psychological effects of experiencing extreme weather events on communities?
How do traditional storytelling methods in indigenous cultures address modern social issues?
The role of augmented reality in enhancing educational experiences and learning outcomes
How do cultural festivals contribute to local economic development and global awareness?
The impact of immersive theatre on audience engagement and social change
What can historical patterns of migration reveal about current refugee crises?
How do alternative economic models, like time banking, challenge traditional concepts of value and work?
The effects of digital detox programs on mental health and productivity

AP English Language Research Paper Topics

How does rhetoric influence public opinion in political speeches?
The role of satire in social and political commentary
How do language and style vary between formal and informal writing?
The impact of social media on modern communication practices
How does persuasive writing shape consumer behavior in advertising?
The use of metaphor in shaping cultural narratives
What are the linguistic features of effective storytelling in literature?
How does the choice of diction affect the tone of a piece?
The role of rhetorical devices in Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches
How do different genres of writing influence reader perception?
The impact of globalization on language and communication styles
How does the structure of a persuasive essay affect its effectiveness?
The use of imagery and symbolism in shaping the reader's emotions
How does the language used in news media influence public understanding of events?
The role of ethos, pathos, and logos in crafting compelling arguments
How does narrative voice affect reader engagement in memoirs and autobiographies?
The influence of historical context on the language of classical literature
How do language and rhetoric contribute to the development of national identity?
The effects of censorship on literary expression and freedom
How do authors use rhetorical strategies to address social justice issues?

Characteristics of a Good AP Research Paper

Strong AP research topics stand out due to several key features that ensure their impact. Here's what to keep in mind:

Timeless Relevance: Select a topic that maintains its significance over time. Avoid subjects likely to become outdated quickly. Instead, focus on issues with long-term importance that can be referenced by future researchers.
Supported by Credible Sources: Your research must be backed by reliable sources. For example, research supported by academic databases like JSTOR or publications from trusted institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) adds credibility.
Clear and Insightful Research Questions: Good questions help define the scope of your paper and shape your analysis, ensuring that your research is both relevant and insightful. For example, if your topic involves the impact of digital marketing, questions inspired by case studies from companies like Google or Adobe can provide a structured framework for your analysis.
Specific Focus: Narrow your topic to address specific issues, avoiding overly broad subjects. For instance, if researching the effects of climate change, focus on a particular aspect such as its impact on urban agriculture.
Logical Structure and Clarity: Ensure your paper has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Each section should flow logically, with well-organized arguments and evidence. A clear structure helps readers follow your argument and enhances the overall readability of your paper.

By considering these pointers suggested by EssayPro, your paper will make a valuable contribution to your field of study. It'll also be easy for you to draw on the best practices and examples from leading research institutions and industry experts.

Tips for Choosing an AP Research Topic

Here are some useful tips to help you choose standout AP research topic ideas:

Examine Current Trends: Look at recent news, technological advances, or social movements for inspiration. Topics like the effects of remote work on productivity or the rise of sustainable fashion can be both timely and impactful.
Reflect on Your Passions: Whether it's a hobby, a cause, or a field you're curious about, your enthusiasm will make the research process more enjoyable and your writing more compelling.
Seek Out Gaps in Existing Research: Identify areas where there's a lack of information or where current research is outdated. For example, if you notice few studies on the psychological effects of digital detoxes, that might be a unique angle worth exploring. EssayPro can also help you find existing research and identify gaps that need further investigation.
Consult with Experts: Talk to teachers, mentors, or professionals in fields you're interested in. Their insights can help you identify important topics. You might also find useful examples and advice from Essaypro's expert writers.
Consider Practical Applications: Choose a topic with real-world applications or implications. Researching the impact of new educational technologies on classroom dynamics, for example, can provide valuable insights and practical solutions.
Look at Your Local Community: Local issues or events can offer unique and relevant topics. Investigate how local policies affect community health or how a local environmental issue is being addressed. These topics can provide fresh perspectives and direct relevance.
Use Personal Experience: Leverage your own experiences or observations. If you've noticed a trend or issue in your daily life, such as the impact of social media on teen behavior, it can provide a unique and personal angle for your research.

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How to Find a Good Research Topic in AP Research?

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Annie Lambert

specializes in creating authoritative content on marketing, business, and finance, with a versatile ability to handle any essay type and dissertations. With a Master’s degree in Business Administration and a passion for social issues, her writing not only educates but also inspires action. On EssayPro blog, Annie delivers detailed guides and thought-provoking discussions on pressing economic and social topics. When not writing, she’s a guest speaker at various business seminars.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Grey, S. (2024, August 7). What Is The AP Capstone Program? Everything You Should Know. Forbes . https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/online-colleges/what-is-ap-capstone/

Astronomy Research Topics: 200 Best Choices

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AP Research Performance Task Sample and Scoring ...
Download PDFs of sample academic papers and scoring guidelines for AP Research assessment. See how papers are scored based on topic, quality, and presentation.
PDF AP® Research Academic Paper
Some examples of. foods consumed. while abiding to the diet include fish, nuts, legumes, and eggs (Shi, El-Obeid, Li, Xu, Liu, 2019). According to the pre-existing research, the richness in natural foods plays a role in increasing.
PDF AP Research Academic Paper
This web page provides a sample academic paper and scoring commentary for the AP Research performance task. The paper explores the growth of double bottom line organizations in the Indian construction industry and uses scholarly sources and evidence to support its argument.
PDF AP® Research Academic Paper
See how a student responded to a research question about the evolution of Barbie movies and received a score of 5. Learn from the scoring guidelines and commentary on the academic paper format, method, argument, evidence, and communication.
PDF AP Research Academic Paper
Score of 1 Score of 2. Report on Existing Knowledge. Presents an overly broad topic of inquiry. Situates a topic of inquiry within a single perspective derived from scholarly works OR through a variety of perspectives derived from mostly non-scholarly works. Describes a search and report process.
PDF AP® Research Academic Paper
One inhibitEX Tablet was. added to each sample, vortexed until completely suspended, then sample incubated for one. minute at room temperature to allow extraction inhibitors to absorb into the inhibitEX matrix. Following, a six-minute centrifugation step pelleted unwanted stool particles and inhibitors.
PDF AP Research Academic Paper
This document provides a sample academic paper and scoring commentary for the AP Research performance task. It shows how students can conduct scholarly and responsible research and articulate an evidence-based argument on a topic of inquiry.
PDF Sample Student Responses and Scoring Notes DRAFT
Component. Scoring Method. Weight. Academic Paper (AP) 4,000-5,000 words. idated75%Presentation and Oral Defense (POD)(15-20 minutes total for presentation followed by three or. valuators).Teacher scored25%Task GuidelinesStudents develop a research question/project goal on a topic of th.
PDF AP Research Student Samples from the 2016 Exam: Academic Paper
4 Research Design. The paper presents a summary of the approach, The paper describes in detail the approach, The paper provides a logical rationale by explaining the method, or process, but the summary is method, or process. alignment between the chosen approach, method, or oversimplified. process and the research question/project goal. 3 5 7.
PDF AP Research Academic Paper
Score of 5. Rich Analysis of a New Understanding Addressing a Gap in the Research Base. Focuses a topic of inquiry with clear and narrow parameters, which are addressed through the method and the conclusion. Explicitly connects a topic of inquiry to relevant scholarly works of varying perspectives AND.
PDF AP Research Academic Paper
This web page provides a sample student response and scoring commentary for the 2021 AP Research academic paper. The sample explores the perceptions of Pakistani immigrants in the Zurich Canton on the India-Pakistan conflict and uses scholarly sources and methods to support its argument.
The Top 10 Most Interesting AP Research Topics
Ocean conservation has become an important strategy in fighting climate change and would therefore be a perfect topic for an AP research paper. 4. The Role of Art Education in 21st Century Curricula. The importance of art in education has often been taken for granted.
AP Research Assessment
25% of Score. The culminating event of the AP Research course will be a presentation of your research question, research methodology, and findings, including an oral defense that addresses a set of questions about your research inquiry. The presentation and defense take 15-20 minutes. You will also be required to answer 3-4 questions from a ...
Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment
Your performance in the AP Research course is assessed through two performance tasks. The first is the Academic Paper, which accounts for 75% of your total AP score. In this paper, you will present the findings of your yearlong research in 4,000-5,000 words.
PDF AP Research Performance Task Rubric: Academic Paper (v. 1.0)
The paper describes in detail the approach, method, or process. 5 The paper provides a logical rationale by explaining the alignment between the chosen approach, method, or process and the research question/project goal. 7 . 5 Establish Argument . The paper presents an argument, conclusion or understanding, but it is simplistic or inconsistent,
Academic Paper
Light. AP Research. Unit 1 - Question & Explore. Unit 2 - Understand & Analyze. Unit 3 - Evaluate Multiple Perspectives. Unit 4 - Synthesize Ideas. Unit 5 - Team, Transform, & Transmit. The Academic Paper. Academic Paper: Introduction.
PDF AP Research Academic Paper
This document provides a sample student response and scoring commentary for the AP Research academic paper performance task. It shows how the student generated a research question, explored scholarly works, articulated an argument, and communicated the paper effectively.
PDF AP® Research Academic Paper
This paper will discuss the issue of the public's knowledge of the differences between sex. and gender and how it has affected mindsets in the Northwest Florida area. The research question. I am addressing is, "What do people in the Northwest Florida area ranging from high school.
170 AP Research Topics For Your Paper
AP Seminar themes are the usual subject of discourse that often appear in any AP Seminar. These themes unite all the courses you study during your one year long course. You can consider these AP research topics: The ethics of algorithms on social media. Controversial supreme court ruling based on public opinion.
164 Fantastic AP Research Topics for Every Research Students to
Miscellaneous AP Research Topics. - Banks' role in a healthy economy. - Data encryption algorithm discussion. - E-commerce risks and research. Internet of Things- Evaluation. Data Mining for 2021. - China's wealth inequality. - The US bans abortion. - The ethics of the death penalty.
AP Research Assessment
Assessment Overview. In AP Research, students are assessed on the academic paper and presentation and oral defense of research. The academic paper is 4,000-5,000 words, and the presentation and defense take approximately 15-20 minutes. Encourage your students to visit the AP Research student page for assessment information and practice.
AP Research Topics: EssayPro's Carefully Curated List
Below, our expert admission essay services team gathered a selection of AP research paper topics that are not only interesting but also offer plenty of opportunities for deep exploration. ... It'll also be easy for you to draw on the best practices and examples from leading research institutions and industry experts.
PDF AP Research Academic Paper
AP® RESEARCH 2017 SCORING GUIDELINES Performance Task Rubric: Academic Paper. NOTE: To receive the highest performance level presumes that the student also achieved the preceding performance levels in that row. ADDITIONAL SCORES: In addition to the scores represented on the rubric, readers can also assign scores of 0 (zero).
PDF AP Research Academic Paper
This document provides a sample academic paper and scoring commentary for the AP Research performance task in 2017. It shows how the paper addresses the research question, explores the literature, develops the argument, uses evidence, and applies conventions.

The Top 10 Most Interesting AP Research Topics

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Top 10 AP Research Paper Topics

2. The Pros and Cons of Subsidized Housing in the US

3. Impact of Ocean Conservation on Climate Change

4. The Role of Art Education in 21st Century Curricula

5. Food Waste Solutions in the US

6. Impact of Genetically Modified Organisms on the Environment

7. Factors Contributing to Wealth Inequality in the US

8. The Future of the Automotive Industry

9. The Relationship Between Cyber Security and Ecommerce

10. Youth Voting and Civic Participation Patterns

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