AP Seminar

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good research question?

• It can be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no.'

• It is clear and focused.

• It requires critical thinking and exploration.

• It leads to an in-depth analysis.

Answer explanation

A good research question should encourage exploration and analysis. Questions that can be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no' lack depth and do not promote critical thinking, making this option NOT a characteristic of a good research question.

What is the main purpose of a research question in a research project?

• To summarize the research topic.

• To guide the direction of the research.

• To give a final conclusion.

• To help the reader understand the topic.

Answer explanation

The main purpose of a research question is to guide the direction of the research. It helps to focus the study, determine the methodology, and shape the analysis, ensuring that the research remains relevant and targeted.

Which of the following research questions is the most open-ended and suitable for deep analysis?

• What percentage of students graduate from high school in the U.S.?

• How has the increase in technology use impacted students' attention spans in the classroom?

• Is remote learning better than traditional learning?

• How many hours do students spend on homework each night?

Answer explanation

The question about technology's impact on attention spans is open-ended, allowing for exploration of various factors and perspectives, unlike the other options which seek specific data or comparisons.

What is a key characteristic of a research question that promotes critical thinking?

• It can be answered with a simple fact.

• It leads to an in-depth analysis of a complex issue.

• It only requires a short, one-word answer.

• It is very broad, covering many topics at once.

Answer explanation

A key characteristic of a research question that promotes critical thinking is that it leads to an in-depth analysis of a complex issue. This encourages exploration and deeper understanding, unlike simple or broad questions.

Which research question demonstrates a good balance between focus and complexity?

• What are the effects of playing video games?

• How does playing educational video games influence the development of problem-solving skills in middle school students?

• Do people like video games?

• How many hours a day do students spend playing video games?

Answer explanation

The question about educational video games is focused on a specific context (middle school students) and explores a complex relationship (influence on problem-solving skills), making it well-balanced.

What is the primary focus of the AP Seminar course?

• A) To develop research and presentation skills

• B) To study American literature

• C) To learn advanced grammar

• D) To explore creative writing

Which skill is emphasized in AP Seminar for evaluating sources?

• A) Memorization

• B) Critical thinking

• C) Speed reading

• D) Note-taking

In AP Seminar, what is the purpose of a team project?

• A) To compete with other schools

• B) To develop collaboration and communication skills

• C) To write a novel

• D) To memorize historical dates

Which of the following is a key component of the AP Seminar assessment?

• A) Multiple-choice exams

• B) Oral presentations

• C) Vocabulary quizzes

• D) Spelling tests

What type of question is most suitable for an AP Seminar research project?

• A) A question with a simple yes or no answer

• B) A question that requires in-depth analysis

• C) A question that can be answered in one sentence

• D) A question that is very broad