Write a research paper on the origins of the English language. Focus on the fall of the Roman Empire in the West and the subsequent invasion of England by the Jutes, Angles and Saxons in the 5th century. Focus on how this new language differed from the continental Germanic languages and any distinctive features. You could also research how this new language was able to assimilate into the existing dialects of the early English.
You can also trace the historical development of the English language for a research paper. Focus on specific periods, like Old English (500-1100 A.D.) and the impact of the 8th-century Viking raids on the English language. Alternatively, focus on Middle English (1100-1500 A.D.) and the effects of the Norman Conquest of 1066. You could also research development from 1500 A.D., known as Early Modern English. Consider, for instance, how London's dialect became the standard in England or how the Industrial Revolution shaped the language.
Another idea for a research paper is to study how the English language has linguistically influenced other cultures and countries. Focus on American English and how the Puritans shaped the dialect of Massachusetts or the English Royalist influence on the dialect of Virginia. Other topic ideas include the development of African-American English, Trinidad French Creole or Aboriginal English.
Gender is another topic idea for a research paper. According to the Writing Center at the University of North Carolina, the English language is instrumental in maintaining gender inequality. Consider, for example, the traditional emphasis on using masculine nouns and pronouns in situations where gender is unclear or a subject refers to both sexes. Discuss how the increasing influence of women in the public sphere has affected language or how the choice of words can be gender-sensitive, such as the use of "fireman" instead of "firefighter."