[I don't want to be like everyone else!] Recommended independent research topics for high school students
When it comes to summer break independent research projects, many high school students struggle to choose a topic.
Independent research can be especially time-consuming and challenging.
But don’t worry! Here, we introduce interesting independent research ideas recommended for high school students.
Some involve using fire or slightly more complex methods, so you’re sure to find something that interests you.
From experiments using familiar materials to hands-on crafts, there’s a wide range—from simple projects to those that take more time.
Dive in and turn your project into a fulfilling experience.
Have fun and learn a lot along the way!
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[Stand Out From the Crowd!] Recommended Independent Research Topics for High School Students (11–20)
Principle of the maglev (linear motor) train
The linear motor car, scheduled to open in Japan in 2027.
Let’s try a science project to explore the principles of this vehicle, which differ from those of the Shinkansen! Make rails using magnets and metal, and run electricity through them with a battery.
A linear motor car moves using a force called the Lorentz force, which arises from the interaction of magnetism and electric current.
For what you run on the rails you make, use something very light, like a piece of sponge.
Simply placing the sponge on the rails will make it move! While this is a simplified experiment, it demonstrates the principle of the linear motor car.
It might be challenging, but it’s definitely a project worth trying and writing up!
Camera craft
Let’s try making a camera using a milk carton.
A camera is handy for taking photos and preserving memories.
It’s a simple version, but you can make it yourself.
You’ll use a milk carton, a plastic bag, a magnifying glass to act as a lens, and black construction paper.
First, cut off the top and bottom of the milk carton.
On one end, fold the edges inward about 1 cm on all four sides, then cover it with a cut piece of plastic bag and secure it.
Next, make a tube out of black construction paper that’s just a little larger than the milk carton, and fold in the edges on one end in the same way.
Fix the magnifying glass there, and then insert the milk carton you prepared earlier into the inside of the tube to finish.
Take it outside and experiment to see how it looks!
Let’s make a professional kalimba
It would be fun to make a genuine musical instrument using items you can get at home improvement stores or online, wouldn’t it? This time, we’ll introduce a handmade, authentic kalimba.
A kalimba is a traditional African instrument played by plucking thin metal tines attached to a box or board.
Using a box or board allows the sound to resonate.
Let’s try making one by building a wooden box and attaching thin rods.
Specialized kalimba metal tines, called kalimba keys, are also available from online retailers.
Master the playing technique, and let your kalimba produce beautiful tones.
Let’s draw patterns using parametric variables
It’s an idea to draw patterns using parametric equations.
If you’re a high school student, you’ve probably seen problems where you sketch the outline of a curve and find areas using parametric equations.
By slightly changing the basic formulas, you can generate a wide variety of curves, so try experimenting.
There are some well-known shapes like the astroid, logarithmic spiral, and Lissajous figures, so it’s a good idea to start with those.
Compile the formulas and images of the patterns and submit them as an independent research project.
SDGs
SDGs stands for Sustainable Development Goals, an initiative to continue taking action so that all living beings can live safely, securely, and happily on Earth forever.
The goals aim to solve every issue the world faces—not only environmental problems but also human rights, poverty, and more.
At first glance it may seem difficult, but the SDGs include 17 goals, and there are many actions anyone—from children to adults—can start right now.
For example: saving electricity and water, reducing food waste, and donating items instead of throwing them away.
It’s also fine to simply share and spread SDG-related efforts on social media.
Why not learn more about the SDGs and try working on what you can do yourself over the summer vacation?
Fibonacci numbers
The Fibonacci numbers refer to a sequence like “0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21…” in which each number is the sum of the two preceding ones.
These Fibonacci numbers are not only a topic of discussion in mathematics; it is also said that arrangements found in nature—such as the scales of pinecones and the pattern of sunflower seeds—can be explained by them.
It seems interesting to investigate and summarize where this mystical-seeming Fibonacci sequence is hidden in the natural world and how it is utilized in artificial contexts.
[Don’t Want to Be Like Everyone Else!] Recommended Independent Research Topics for High School Students (21–30)
Slime Mold Maze
I also recommend the slime mold maze, where you can enjoy a truly mysterious sight.
To start, slime molds are, simply put, single-celled organisms that can move and proliferate like animals.
They’re also known for being able to find the correct path when placed in a maze.
It’s fascinating that a single-celled organism can solve a maze, isn’t it? How about researching the mechanism behind that? Even just recording how it solves the maze can be plenty of fun.
You could also try another approach: make the maze as complex as possible and challenge the slime mold with it.
