The Secrets of Centenarians

Worksheet Description

This Argumentative Research worksheet is designed to guide students through the process of exploring the commonalities among centenarians, people who live to be 100 years old or more. It requires students to gather information from at least six different sources, ensuring a variety of media types, to understand what might contribute to such longevity. The students are then prompted to form an opinion on whether certain behaviors or a stroke of “good” genetic luck could increase one’s chances of becoming a centenarian. Based on their findings, students will develop a thesis statement and write a research paper, including a bibliography to document their sources.

The worksheet is teaching students how to conduct thorough research, analyze diverse sources of information, and formulate a well-argued position on a complex topic. It emphasizes the value of examining a subject from multiple media perspectives to gain a well-rounded understanding. The students learn to critically evaluate the information, synthesize their findings, and articulate their stance in a structured research paper. This exercise not only improves their research and writing skills but also enhances their ability to think critically about scientific and demographic data.