All research assignments vary. There are two typical types of research papers: Argumentative and Analytical.
In an argumentative research paper, the topic will be explored. In addition to the topic, the student will explore and form a position or opinion that will be argue regarding the students selected topic. This begins with a thesis statement and tries to persuade the reader to accept the perspective of the writer and thesis of the paper presented.
The analytical research paper states the topic the student will be exploring. It is usually in the form of a question starting with a neutral position. The body of the paper presents various forms of factual information. The student will state their conclusion based on the findings from their research throughout the writing process of the paper. This provides a well supported critical anaylsis without the need to convince the reader to believe the viewpoint, thesis, perspective or topic one is trying to argue. This is more factual.