The Big 6 An Information Problem-Solving Strategy © Big6 Associates

1 TASK DEFINITION Define the problem *Create the Essential Question *Create sub-questions that will lead you to answer the Essential Question *Brainstorm keywords and related words that will lead you in your search for the information

2 Information Seeking Strategies Determine All Possible Sources *Select the best sources Books Reference Books Encyclopedias Database Articles Internet Sites Videos

3 Location and Access Locate and Collect All Sources *Gather all sources together *Find the information you need to answer your sub- questions within the sources (Use the Table of Contents and Index)

4 Use of Information Extract Relevant Information *Read, View, and Listen to your information sources *Find the treasure among the trash: the information you need within the source *Use Note-Making strategies (Summarize, Boil Down, Trash-N-Treasure)

5 Synthesize Organize the Information *Decide how you will write your information in your research paper (use graphic organizers, outlines, or idea webs) *Organize all your notes- from all your sources- together in one rough draft

6 Evaluation Judge your research paper *Revise and edit (Read your paper to yourself-check for errors) *Ask yourself 1.Did I include all of the information I found? 2.Did I answer my sub-questions? 3.Did I answer my Essential Question? *Print a Final Copy INCLUDE 1. A cover page 2. A Works Consulted

The Visual Presentation Decide the format of your visual: poster, PowerPoint, etc. Decide which key facts you will highlight in your visual Create your visual Write notes on cards to remind you of what to add to your key facts when you present Practice saying your presentation to someone in your class