Video Game Developement

• Video games are a popular form of entertainment for today's youths. They delve into them and play with an intensity that borders on fanaticism. But where do the games come from and how are they developed? Middle school students can research the topic of video game research and development by contacting some of the developers of their favorite games by email or telephone. They can ask about development from the game's preliminary stages through its final process of marketing and sales.
  
  

Sports

• Sports have been a popular pastime for young people throughout history. A middle school student can research the beginnings of one of his favorite sports such as baseball, football or soccer. Ideas include how the game was first formed and how it has changed since its inception. If he is more interested in a single sports player, he can write an essay on the player's life and how she became involved in the sport.
  
  

Hobbies

• Middle school students can also consider their hobbies as a focus for their research essay. Students who like to paint and color could write about an artist, his style of art and how his works impacted the art world. Students who enjoy cars and airplanes could research and write about jet engine development or the different makes and models of automobiles.
  
  

The Environment

• Middle school students who are becoming more aware of environmental issues could focus their essay on global warming, recycling or alternative fuels. Resources for information include local environmental groups or the Environmental Protection Agency. The Internet is also an invaluable source of information when it comes to environmental issues.