Science Topics for Term Paper

Thinking of an original term paper idea can be one of the hardest aspects of writing.

Coming up with an original, creative term paper idea is a difficult prospect, especially in open-ended assignments that give free rein to choose whatever you like. The most important thing to consider is to select a topic that is interesting enough to you personally to maintain your interest throughout the length of the paper.

Air Pollution

One often undertaken topic is air pollution. This topic is an important issue of our time and well-explored for a reason. However, a topic as broad as this invites plenty of opportunity for creative thinkers to offer an original slant. Perhaps the most politically relevant angle is how solutions for air pollution relate to economic growth. Landfills and waste, or even specific components of waste such as disposable diapers or decaying plastic, can also provide interesting subject material.

Animal Testing

Animal testing and the alternatives that accompany it is another broad topic that will need refinement before choosing a thesis. When, if at all, is it reasonable to test on animals for the benefit of humanity? The issue of alternatives can also make an interesting case. The processes of rational drug design and data mining don't involve testing on animals, but their absolute effectiveness sometimes remains in question. A paper that explores alternatives to animal testing with regards to their effectiveness could find some interesting data.

Human Cloning

Human cloning was a major issue in the news a number of years ago, but the issue is not likely to go away with time. If you want to be more specific, consider the ramifications of cloning a human cell--a liver, a stomach or a brain. Where is it necessary (if at all) to draw an ethical line. There are thousands of potential benefits to human cloning, but considering if the benefits are worth the price could make for an interesting paper.

Life on Other Planets

As the Hubble Telescope continues to find a plethora of Earthlike planets in nearby solar systems, the issue of life on other planets is being pushed to the forefront of astronomical studies. What is required for life, and what are the chances of those components being found in neighboring solar systems? It may be possible to draw hypotheses as to what can be found in these faraway places by using our solar system as a guide.

References

• The Science Forum: Paper Topic Ideas
• Northwest Missouri State University: Hot Paper Topics
• Experiment Resources: Research Paper Topic Ideas