Planning

Planning and coming up with an idea should take about 10% of your total project time. It's important to do this step properly so you're ready when you start working!

STEP ONE: Decide what you want to learn about

Go through these questions to help you clarify your ideas. If you like to have a sheet to work on, you can print this one or make a copy to work on your computer!

Did your teacher give you any guidelines?

Sometimes, teachers give you some ideas about what your topic has to be. For example, if your teacher has asked you to look at the environment, that has to be your main topic. If you have a teacher guideline, write it down at the top of your page!

2. Are you looking for a TOPIC or an ISSUE?

Sometimes, you might have to present on a TOPIC: a subject we can learn or talk about. Other times, you might want to present on an ISSUE: a problem or concern you care about. Write "topic" or "issue" below your main idea and write a few key words beside it. Here is a chart to help you see the difference:

3. What are you interested in? What problems do you see?

Brainstorm a list of things you like. Ask yourself: are there problems connected to this topic? Do I see anything in my school, community, or world that I think could be better?

Write down questions about your ideas!

4. Can you change your questions into "why" or "how" questions and ask why/how questions about the issues?

Questions that start with "why" or "how" are easier to research! Now you might cross off some ideas that aren't working for you.

5. How can you take your ideas further?

Ask "what if" questions
See if nature and science make challenges
Talk to your friends and family to get ideas

6. Now can you narrow down your topic to a few key ideas?

Look at all your questions and ideas. See if some are jumping out at you as places you want to learn more or places you can make a difference!

7. If you're exploring issues - can you connect your ideas to Catholic social justice principles or the UN sustainable development goals?

A great way to choose an issue is to see if you can connect to our Catholic social justice principles or the UN sustainable development goals. This will give you lots of resources to work with.

Now collaborate and choose your focus!

Now is a great time to talk to friends, family, and your teacher to help narrow down your focus and decide what you're going to research. If you're doing your grade 6 exhibition project, you're almost ready to submit your proposal!

Finished Brainstorm Sheet:

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