1. Where’d You Hear That ?! Evaluating Websites

2. Why should I bother to evaluate a website? Because ANYONE can create a website! You need to know whether the information you are using is accurate and up-to- date. Your source should be an expert on the topic!

3. Evaluate using the Five W’s: Who What When Where Why

4. Who? Who is the author? Does he or she have expert knowledge of this subject? Is there information about the author available on the site? What about contact information? Is there information about the author available elsewhere? (biography, education, resume)

5. What? What is the main purpose of the site? Information? Entertainment? Sales? What else might the author have in mind for the site?  Is there advertising?  Does the site reflect personal bias? What kind of information is included? BUYmySTUFF.com

6. When? When was the site created? When was the site last updated? Are the links active?

7. Where? Where does the information come from? Does the author credit his sources? Do the sources check out? Check the web address: Does an organization, institution or person’s name appear in the address? Check the domain of the address:.com – commercial site.edu – educational institution sites.gov – government sites. net – anyone can buy this site.org – non-profit sites (but not always)

8. Why? Why should I use this source of information? Does it meet my needs? Is it the best source for me?

9. Putting your skills to work! In teams of two or three, explore one of the suggested websites and ask yourself the 5 W’s. Decide whether it is a trustworthy and reliable site for information. Be ready to support your decision!