Research Papers/Projects Using
Big Six Skills
Locate what you really need! Avoid information overload!
Use this smarter solution!
****************************************************************
The Big6 is the "most widely known and most widely used approach to teaching information and technology skills in the world." This process has been developed by Mike Eisenberg and Bob Berkowitz . It is a systemic way to find, use, apply, and evaluate information.
1. Task Definition
WHAT IS NEEDED? Follow teacher's directions or outline
2. Information Seeking Strategies
BRAINSTORM POSSIBLE SOURCES
Libraries (school/public) use OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) to locate non-fiction/fiction/biographies/reference (encyclopedias, atlases,almanacs, dictionaries, etc), along with online sources/web sites, newspapers, magazines, textbook, maps, globe, interview an expert, other sources
3. Location and Access
FIND QUALITY SOURCES AND FACTS/INFO NEEDED
Are sources accurate/dependable? Encyclopedias are great place to start...
4. Use of Information
READ, VIEW, LISTEN - TAKE SPECIFIC NOTES
Use your own words - DO NOT PLAGIARIZE!
Write down sources used for work cited. Use www.easybib.com .
Does what you are writing make sense to you?
5. Synthesis
ORGANIZE & PRESENT INFO
Note-taking cards, outline, rough draft
Introduction -"Hook" your audience! Make it appealing! AVOID: "My report is about....."
Main Body - Use complete sentences organized into quality paragraphs based upon assignment.
Conclusion - Finish strong! Follow all directions. Use an appropriate quote or tell something amazing about report/project.
Proofread - Check spelling, neatness, etc.
Review final copy - Written report, Power Point, Inspiration, Oral Report, etc.
Practice all oral reports aloud several times. Speak slowly. Use loud, clear voice! Use eye contact! Be confident! Be supportive of peers!
6. Evaluation
JUDGE FINAL PRODUCT/PROJECT and INFORMATION PROBLEM-SOLVING PROCESS
What worked well?
What could be improved next time?
***********************************************************************
The Big6 will help you make decisions and conduct research
every day - at home, at school, at work!