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Research Process & Materials

 

GPS Research Process Flow

 

GPS Research Materials, adapted from the Big6© Process

  • Understanding the Assignment 
  • Step 1: Task Definition 
    • What do I do?
    • Includes topic identification, level 1 & 2 questions, and level 3 question/EQ
    • Graphic Organizer via Google Slides
       
  • Step 2: Information Seeking Strategies 
    • What do I need?
    • Includes EQ, keyword generation, and identification of potential sources
      • Order of Research - What Resources Should I Check First?
        • Destiny (books), then

        • Subscription Research Databases (on LMC homepage), then

        • Destiny Discover/WebPath Express for curated websites, and finally

        • Google, Kiddle, or other search engines

    • Graphic Organizer via Google Slides
       
  • Step 3: Location & Access 
    • Where do I look? 
    • Includes EQ, keywords, initial database & search engine use, selection of specific resources w/ website evaluation, and collection of citation information
    • Graphic Organizer via Google Slides
       
  • Step 4: Use of Information
    • Write it all down...
    • Includes note-taking/paraphrasing, drafting, final citations
    • Graphic Organizer via Google Slides
       
  • Step 5: Synthesis
    • Put it all together! 
    • Creation and publication of final product dependent on the project
       
  • Step 6: Evaluation 
    • Check your work!
    • Includes use of project rubric, and happens after every step - it's a cycle, not a linear process
    • Graphic Organizer via Google Slides

 

Research Resource Order

  1. Destiny (books)

  2. Subscription Research Databases (on LMC website)

  3. Destiny > Destiny Discover > WebPath Express for curated websites

  4. Google, Kiddle, or other search engines

You may assume resources found through 1 & 2 are good for research, but you must cite your sources.

If you find a resource via Resource Type 3 or 4, you must:

  • use C.A.R.S. checklist (Step 3) to evaluate the source to see if it’s credible, accurate, reasonable, and supported; AND

  • cite your sources!  (Citation)