Start a Project
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There are eight steps to start the development of a project with the Lowell Milken Center: 1. Determine if you want to work with an individual or a group.
2. Choose the mode of the project
A. Performance ( Example )
B. Documentary ( Example ) C. Exhibit ( Example ) D. Website ( Example ) E. Essay ( Example )
3. Select a topic area
A. Narrow down an area of interest
B. Focus on a manageable subject
C. Look for a specific topic
D. Examine various topic lists
E. The topic should be of interest to the student
F. The topic should allow for primary and secondary resources
G. Great topics are often from your local community
H. Focus on unsung heroes for collaboration with the Center
4. Collect background information
A. Look for primary records
B. Start a filing system
C. Keep records of your research, with a tabbed notebook
5. Develop a thesis
A. Brainstorm about the thesis
B. Be willing to change your thesis as the project develops
6. Analyze your data and begin an outline of your project
A. For a performance, start an outline of your script
B. For a documentary, start a storyboard
C. For an exhibit, begin drawing an outline
D. For a website, develop an outline of the pages
7. Research
A. Secondary sources lead to primary sources
B. Categories: book, films, government records and archives, internet, journals, magazines, newspapers, oral history interviews, photographs
C. Make a list of libraries and institutions, which might help in your research
D. Make a list of individuals who might help in your research
E. Keep an updated bibliography, with a division of primary and secondary sources
8. Development of project, script, essay or outline
A. Seek many critiques
B. Perform or demonstrate your project to public audiences
C. Seek teacher input
D. Include parents in the process
E. Include your entire class, even in marginal manner
F. Meet with students on a regular basis
Contact our award winning Program Director, Megan Felt, for assistance in developing a project. |
