Student Inquiry and Research Program Details
Writing The Final Report
Preparation
Before writing the final report on the investigation, the student should consider a number of focusing questions about the overall experience. It may be helpful to consult with the advisor for additional perspectives. Where did the investigation start? Where did the investigation go? What answers were found? What did you do and learn? How do you know that your learning is valuable? What did you learn about the investigation process; about directing your own learning?
Content of Final Report
The final report should begin with the investigation abstract; this is the overall summary of the investigation. Include background and rationale for the investigation, using the abstract as the starting point but expanding and focusing as needed. The heart of the report is contained in what you accomplished. What methods and materials were used? What data was collected and analyzed? What is the product (e.g. curriculum, creative writing specimen), scholarly analysis, and conclusions reached? How does your data support your end product? Did you answer your focusing question? A final bibliography must also be included; this may be an annotated bibliography, updated as a result of advisor input and investigation direction.
The content of the final report will be different for each student, based on the chosen topic and field, though it should be clearly based on the investigation proposal. Guidance on content for a Fine Arts Investigation Paper, a History Investigation Paper, and a Scientific Investigation Paper will assist the writer in producing a meaningful final report. Please consult your advisor for additional input while preparing this final report.
Completed Final Reports
The completed final report is reviewed by the advisor and then submitted by the student to the Coordinator of Student Inquiry and Research. The final report is a key input to determining the student's grade and academic credit for the investigation; final reports of sufficient quality may also be eligible for public exhibition and presentation outside of IMSA.
Review of the completed investigation, external from IMSA, is strongly encouraged. The final report serves as the foundation for external review of the investigation. The advisor and Coordinator of Student Inquiry and Research will assist the student in finding and pursuing additional opportunities, such as publication, competition, juried show, and public exhibition and presentation.