RESEARCH FOR KIDS!  IT’S FUN, NOT A PAIN!

By

Linda M. Penn

 

            First of all – We can’t believe everything we read on the Internet!  Surprise, surprise!  As your children grow and mature in their research skills, please help them by reminding them of this fact.  Researching may require more intense research just to make sure your presumed “facts” are indeed supportable.

 

           

1)    The source for your information needs to be credible – up-to-date, in-depth information from trusted experts.

2)    If the website asks for any personal information, GO TO ANOTHER SITE!

3)    Narrow your search.  Example:  My search for George Washington showed TEN PAGESof WEBSITES, but my search for George Washington at Valley Forge only showed TEN WEBSITES.

 

Research skills are begun in the primary grades with exposure to lots of

non-fiction picture books.  These kinds of books are almost 100% sure to be an enjoyment to kids.

 

            Around the third grade is where the more advanced research skills are begun to be taught.  Some kiddos feel overwhelmed with:  taking notes, weeding out the junk websites, finding what’s the most important info, keywords, copyrights, citations, sharing the info by oral or written presentation, report, letters, etc.  NOT FUN?

 

            My advice is to allow the students to take time to develop research skills before expecting them to go to a computer on their own and develop an intense research project.  This will give the kids confidence in their search techniques and it becomes fun!  AWAY GOES THE FEAR OF RESEARCHING!

            For more help, search “research skills for children” and lots of websites are shown.

 

            COME BACK THE FIRST WEEK OF NOVEMBER:  “REMEDY FOR LOW SELF-ESTEEM” 

 

BE SAFE!  BE CURIOUS!  BE COURTEOUS!

 

Copyright 2016 All Rights Reserved Linda M. Penn