How to Write a Science Paper on a Scientist
Writing a science paper on a scientist is a way to better understand the role science plays in history and learn the significance of scientific concepts. Research can help you understand the process that scientists go through to conduct scientific research and make new scientific discoveries and, perhaps, pique your interest in a particular scientific field.
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Instructions
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Pre-Write
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Create a list of the information you already know about the scientist. In many cases, this can cut down on the amount of research that needs to be done.
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Write at least ten questions you must answer in your paper. Do not write questions that can be answered with "yes" or "no" or a simple fact. Focus on broader questions such as "what awards has the scientist won?" or "what was this scientist's childhood like?" Having questions to answer helps focus the research and eliminate nonessential information.
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Create an outline for you paper so that you can plug in information quickly after you have conducted your research. Most biographical papers follow a chronological sequence, starting from the birth of the scientist and ending with his death. However, some papers may focus the paragraphs on topics such as education, awards and accomplishments or controversies.
Research
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Label a set of note-cards or a packet of notebook paper with each of your essential questions, one question per note-card or sheet. This will help organize the information you find as you are conducting your research to make writing the paper much easier.
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Begin by conducting a basic search of your scientist's name using a search engine and review the results it produces. Avoid getting information from websites where visitors can edit or submit their own information. Focus on websites from universities, schools, scientific organizations or encyclopedias. As you learn new information, write it on the note-card with the question that best corresponds to the facts.
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As you are conducting you research, keep a list of any websites, books or articles you used to gather information. You can keep a separate note-card for the information or simply place it at the bottom of your notes as you write down key information. Be sure to include all titles, author names, publishers and publication dates so you will be able to accurately complete your works cited page.
Writing the Paper
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Begin your paper with an introduction that includes the scientist's name and basic accomplishments. This paragraph should pique the reader's interest in your chosen scientist without giving away too much information.
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Following the outline created during the pre-writing process, write the remainder of the paper, filling in the paragraphs with the information gained during the research process. Be sure to only include information that answers your essential questions and stick to the same topic for each paragraph. For example, the fact the scientist loves to play basketball is probably irrelevant in a paragraph about her scientific awards and accomplishments.
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End your paper with a conclusion that provides a general summary of your scientist's life and accomplishments. Include a statement about why this scientist should be considered as someone who has made an important contribution to the world.
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Create a works cited page to accompany your research paper. Each source should be listed in alphabetical order according to the author's last name. Check with your teacher to determine what format to use for citing sources. Consult the appropriate style guide for more information on how to specifically cite your sources.
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