The ABC’s Of Search Engines Lesson 1 Know Your Topic

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. Background

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. Objective

Step 1 Start by taking a piece of paper, at the top write the title or main idea. (Example: Our Solar System) Lesson Planning and thinking ahead is very important in the research process. You need to have a question, before you can find the answers. Let’s look at the first strategy known as KWL.

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

Step 3 KWL K - This is where you write down what you already KNOW about the topic.

Step 4 KWL 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 KWL 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.

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?…) The second strategy is known as brainstorming.

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.

Solar System Life Plants Animals People Constellations Astronomy Stars Planets Order Size Photos & Facts Travel Past (history) Present Future Here is an example of a concept map

Be sure to check your spelling carefully. You won’t find it, if you don’t 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. For ALL 3 Strategies

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.