i have to do a research paper for journalism class. It has to be something that has to do with washington, d.c. but the topic cant be too generalo. it has to be something specific that i will be able to write 1,500 to 3,00 words. Also, the topic has to answer a "WHY" question. can you help me think of some good topics. I am drawing mind blank.

Why isn't Washington, D.C. a state?

Why are there so many lobbyists in Washington, D.C.?

Why do presidents choose a cabinet?

Other tutors may have some other ideas.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_dc

Why are no buildings in Washington, DC, taller than the Washington Monument?

Why is the Jefferson Memorial sinking? (Or is it?)
http://www.google.com/search?q=jefferson+memorial+sinking&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7SUNA_en

There are many others, which different tutors may post for you.

thank you very much. my main interest was the white house. do you have any topics with why question that i could do for that??

why was the whitehouse placed in washington d.c

Why is the White House geographically separate from the Capitol and the Supreme Court buildings?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_House

If you read the articles linked and any external links on those Wikipedia webpages, you'll undoubtedly be able to come up with other questions.

thanks, do you have any ideas that interest you that would be about 3,000 words

Crime in Washington, DC.

The history of the Washington Navy Yard.

Of course! I can help you come up with some specific and intriguing topics related to Washington, D.C., which will allow you to answer a "WHY" question. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Why has gentrification become a significant issue in certain neighborhoods of Washington, D.C.? You could explore the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to gentrification in the city.

2. Why has Washington, D.C. become a hub for political activism? You could investigate the historical, cultural, and institutional factors that contribute to the city's role as a center for grassroots movements and political engagement.

3. Why is the Washington, D.C. public school system facing challenges in providing equal education opportunities for all students? You could delve into the reasons behind the achievement gap, resource disparities, and systemic issues affecting the quality of education in the city.

4. Why is the Smithsonian Institution a vital cultural resource in Washington, D.C.? You could explore the historical background and cultural significance of the Smithsonian, as well as its impact on tourism, education, and preserving American history.

5. Why has Washington, D.C. become a leading destination for international diplomacy? You could examine the geopolitical factors, diplomatic history, and the presence of international organizations that have contributed to the city's prominence in global diplomacy.

Remember to choose a topic that interests you and that you can find ample research material for. Utilize academic databases, books, and credible online sources to gather information for your research paper. Good luck with your journalism project!