Information: dictionary, encyclopedia, books on the subject, Internet (Use
Noodletools to find the best search engine), subscription databases available through the school’s website:
Ebsco, pictures, radio broadcasts, online books),
• When you use the Internet as a resource, make sure you can identify who is creating or sponsoring the website. If you can’t tell, don’t use it. The information may not be accurate.
3. Location and Access
3.1 Locate sources (intellectually and physically)
3.2 Find information within sources
Don’t forget these helpful hints when searching for information:
• Look up people by their last name
• You don’t have to find a whole book on the subject, for example, you might find information on “snakes” in a book about reptiles or an animal encyclopedia. Think about broader categories your topic might fit into.
• Always check the index first to see if your topic is in the book (the index is usually in the back of the book). The Table of Contents may also give you some help in finding your topic in a book.
• Don’t wait until the last minute to do your research!
4. Use of Information
4.1 Engage (e.g., read, hear, view, touch) the information in a source
4.2 Extract relevant information from a source
This involves actually reading your sources and taking notes. Check with your teacher on how you should be taking notes: note cards, note taking worksheets, double journal, etc. Make sure you get bibliographic information for your Works Cited Page.
Helpful hints:
• This part usually takes the most time.
• Sometimes you will have to change the focus (broaden or narrow) of your topic when you discover you can’t find all the information you need.
5. Synthesis
5.1 Organize information from multiple sources
5.2 Present the information
This is the part where you actually write the report. If you have performed good research, this should be the easiest part! Make sure you review the assignment requirements before starting, so you remember what to do.
6. Evaluation
6.1 Judge the product (effectiveness)
6.2 Judge the information problem-solving process (efficiency)
Before you turn in your work, you should review it for the following:
• My work is typed
• I have used spell check and grammar check on my document
• I have followed the AUHSD Research Paper Guidelines
• I have given credit for my sources in a Works Cited Page
• I have proof read my finished project at least 2 times
• I have reread the directions to make certain everything is done correctly
• I think about my work and how I can improve on the next assignment
Resource Files: