A research project on biomes is often assigned as part of the study of the life sciences. Given a specific biome, such as the desert, rain forest, ocean or tundra, students research various types of information. Guideline topics for biome research include location, plant and animal life, climate and the environmental threats that are challenging their existence. Biome projects reinforce map skills and various life science concepts.
Measurement projects are an interesting extension of the math curriculum. The study of measurement dates back to ancient civilizations such as Rome, Greece and Babylonia. Assign students specific research, such as early use of distance, weight or capacity. Tell students to research the origin of common terms such as inch and foot along with rare measurements such as fathom and cubits. Units of measurements that started out as body parts and evolved into specific measurements are interesting to explore. Time lines are a great way to classify the information obtained about the history of measurement.
Research projects about explorers are a common extension of a social studies class. Students identify a specific explorer and research his voyages or journeys. Examples include early sea explorers such as Columbus and Magellan. Land exploration, such as the Lewis and Clark expedition, also makes a good research topic. Compare and contrast modern day space explorations to past explorers. Research guidelines include the sponsoring country, mapping of the journey route and discoveries and outcomes. Use a time line for a visual display.
Many of the literature classics have more than one version. A language arts project that extends this concept is to research various versions of a classic story, such as "Cinderella." Students research versions of "Cinderella" from different countries, cultures and eras and explore comparisons between plot and characters. While there may be differences, the underlying theme of the story is similar. Extended the project by assigning the writing of a modern day version of the story that has been researched.