Research-Based Writing

What Is Research-Based Writing?#

Research-based writing means finding information from sources, organizing it, and writing it in your own words to teach others about a topic. Scientists, journalists, historians, and students all do research writing.

Why Learn Research Writing?#

Research writing teaches you how to:

• Find accurate information from reliable sources
• Organize information clearly
• Write in your own words (not just copy and paste!)
• Give credit to the people whose information you use
• Become an expert on a topic you are curious about

Types of Sources#

A source is any place you get information. In Grade 3, you will use:

• Books — encyclopedias, nonfiction books, textbooks
• Magazines — science, nature, or current events magazines for kids
• Trusted websites — educational websites like National Geographic Kids, NASA Kids, or Britannica Kids
• Videos — educational documentaries or videos from trusted organizations
• Interviews — asking an expert in person or by email

Reliable vs. Unreliable Sources#

Not every source is trustworthy! Good researchers check:

• Who wrote it? Is the author an expert?
• When was it written? Is it recent enough to be accurate?
• Why was it written? Is it meant to inform, or to sell something?
• Is it from a known organization? Museums, universities, and government sites are usually reliable.

Using More Than One Source#

Always use at least two sources for your report. When two different sources agree on a fact, you can be more confident it is accurate. If they disagree, you need to investigate further.

Research is like being a detective — you gather clues (information) from many places and piece them together to tell the full story!