Big 6 Research Process

1.1 Define the information problem
1.2 Identify information needed 2.1 Determine all possible sources
2.2 Select the best sources 3.1 Locate sources (intellectually and physically)
3.2 Find information within sources 4.1 Engage (e.g., read, hear, view, touch)
4.2 Extract relevant information 5.1 Organize from multiple sources
5.2 Present the information 6.1 Judge the product (effectiveness)
6.2 Judge the process (efficiency)

Make sure you have your Big 6 organizer to keep you on task. Ask your teacher or Mrs. Hitchcock if you need one.

	What am I supposed to do? What Information do I need in order to do this? Create good guiding research questions. - Good questions lead to more information bad questions lead to a dead end. - Good questions ask "why", "what if" or "how" and require an explanation while bad questions lead to only one answer. - Good questions make you investigate further while bad questions lead to a "yes" or "no" answer. - Good questions make you think of more ideas while bad questions keep you thinking of more questions.

	What sources can I use to find my information? What are the best sources I can use to find this information? This is a mental process to identify sources. Remember to use DISCUS first. Any internet sites used must be evaluated first.

	Where will I find these sources? This is the physical process of actually going somewhere to get your information. How do I find the sources in the media center? Remember to use the library catalog and reference section. Use your key word to search. How do I locate the information in the book, encyclopedia or database? Remember to use the Index. Also remember to locate subtitles and words in bold and italics. Use your scanning techniques to locate key words.

	Read, listen or view your information. How will I record the information that I find? Remember to write your question first, then record your source information and then answer the question. How will I give credit to my sources? Use the guide given to you by your teacher. A link to the guide can be found on the media center home page.

	How will I organize my information and show my results? Are you creating a paper, presentation, performance or other project? Remember to gather all needed materials and create a timeline for when things are due. Be sure to give credit to your sources.

	Review your project and make sure you have included all steps and necessary information. Make sure you have answered all questions, that your work is neat and that you have included your name.