The ABCs Of Search Engines

Lesson 1 Know Your Topic

Background
Oh, boy...You need to find information on something fast but where do you begin?

Simple, start by thinking of exactly what it is that you want to find out.

Objective
By the end of this lesson you will know:
The importance of thinking and planning ahead in the research process. Three strategies that you can use in planning. The importance of checking your spelling.

Lesson
Planning and thinking ahead is very important in the research process. You need to have a question, before you can find the answers. Lets look at the first strategy known as KWL.

Step 1 Start by taking a piece of paper, at the top write the title or main idea. (Example: Our Solar System)

Step 2
Make a table and divide it into 3 columns, with the headings K, W and L

L
NOTICE the headings KWL

Step 3

K - This is where you write down what you already KNOW about the topic.

Step 4

W - This is where you write down what you WANT to know about. This is a list of questions you have about your topic.

Step 5

L - This is where you write down what you LEARNT. This step is done after the research and reading, we will learn more about this step later on.

The second strategy is known as brainstorming. Step 1 Start by taking a piece of paper, at the top write the title or main idea. (Example: Our Solar System)

Step 2 Then list all the things you want to find out about it. These can be simple words or questions you want answers to. (Example: What are the names of planets, maps, stars, constellations, what is the distance from Earth?)

You have probably done this before, and might have called it: Jot notes or Brainstorming

Another way to plan ahead is to make a concept map.

This is where you write the topic in the centre of the page
Then, from the centre you write ideas that are connected to the main topic, Connect these ideas and words with lines showing how they are related.

Here is an example of a concept map Constellations Plants Animals People

Astronomy

Stars Solar System

Life

Order

Planets

Future

Size
Photos & Facts

Travel Past (history)

Present

For ALL 3 Strategies

Be sure to check your spelling carefully. You wont find it, if you dont spell it properly.

The thinking process of planning ahead WILL save you time. So, take the time to do it properly. It will also prepare you to know more about what answers you need to find.

Writing out your ideas, and knowing exactly what you want is a VITAL step in a successful search.

Planning for success will not only save you time, it will save you from getting lost and sidetracked from information overload.

Remember to:

Write down the main idea (title)

Decide to KWL, brainstorm or make a concept map. Then check your spelling!
You are now ready to complete the activity sheet for Lesson 1.