Evaluating Websites 1. Authority Writer qualifications, “publisher” reputation 2. Accuracy Reliable, free from error, checked by editors 3. Objectivity Point of view, minimum bias, how much is an attempt to persuade 4. Coverage Scope, depth 5. Currency Information up-to-date, publication date labeled

Web Site Evaluation www. Authority: What is the author’s or organization’s qualifications? Has the site been reviewed by an online reviewing agency or won awards? What domain is used? o Government:.gov,.mil o Educational: edu o Nonprofit:.org o Commercial:.com Accuracy: Is the information correct? Is the information consistent with other published material on the topic? Are there political or ideological biases? What motivation does the author have for placing this information on the Net? Does the site contain any obvious biases, errors, or misleading omissions? Objectivity: Is the purpose (inform, persuade, sell, entertain) of the site indicated on the home page? Could that purpose cause the web author to be biased? Does the author use references to show that she has done research? Appropriateness: Are the concepts and vocabulary relevant to your needs? Is the organization and design easy to understand and use? Is the text fluent and easy to understand? Are terms used that are subject specific and difficult? Currency: What is the date of publication or update? Are there dead links?

Step One: Pose your topic as a question! What are some interesting facts about suicide? What would someone in high school want or need to know about it? What statistics will support my case? These questions give you a purpose for your reading and allows you to filter out irrelevant information.

Step Two: Brainstorm what you already know What do I know about suicide? Teens often forecast their suicide before they do it. Teens may lack the skills needed to cope. Teens believe there are not other choices. Teens feel they do not have anyone to talk to.

Developing Keywords Organize by concepts Plan a variety of strategies Determine best sources Look at your brainstorming…any keywords that you think might work?

Step Two: Brainstorm what you already know What do I know about suicide? Teens often forecast their suicide before they do it. Teens may lack the skills needed to cope. Teens believe there are not other choices. Teens feel they do not have anyone to talk to.

Step Four: Search for appropriate resources. 1. EBSCO Host, located in Badgerlink Academic Search Premier Masterfile Premier Student Research Center 2. SIRS

Step Five: Critical Research and Notetaking Suicide Interesting factsInteresting quotes Call for actionOther Source 1 2 3