Journal 8

Find the Truth About the Pacific Tree Octopus (NETS - 1, 2, 3)

Ferrell, K. (2011, August). Find the truth about the pacific tree octopus. Learning and Leading WITH TECHNOLOGY, 39(1), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-august-2011.aspx


Often when doing research, students are confused about whether or not sources are truly factual.  Much of the information found  online are misleading, inaccurate, and come from non-reputable sources.  A teacher gave his students a research project with various topics; the students later realized that some of the information they found was false.  The teacher then discussed the topic of false information and ways in which to avoid it.  He explained that by using certain key words, such as ‘who, what, where, when, and why’ would aid in finding accurate information.

What are ways to find factual information on the Internet?

Websites with the URL suffix . edu and .org tend to be more reputable sites.  Using the key terms ‘who, what, when, where, and why’ when performing searches also aids in more accurate results.

How can this lesson plan be incorporated into other classrooms?

Teachers can use this lesson plan as an introduction to a research project.  The teacher can assign a few topics to investigate, then the students can share their information with each other in order to distinguish the accuracy of their information.  The teacher can then discuss the 5W key words, as well as explain the URL suffixes.