Harris

=Web Site Evaluation for 6th Grade=

The Internet has become an integral part of every student's life at home and/or school, but not all students can discern the best site for academic research. Because these is so much information, it is important for students to be able to evaluate a Web site for content, validity and accuracy. Being able to effectively evaluate a site will enable a student to choose the best sites for research.
 * Introduction:**

A quiz of 10 true/false questions was given to the current rotation of 6th grade reading classes to determine their knowledge of Web site evaluation and their ability to discern a reliable Web site from one that is not suitable for school-related research. Nearly half of the students got four of the ten question incorrect. However, four of the question were answered correctly by more than 75% of the students. Twenty-seven students passed the quiz with 70 or above. Upon collaboration with the librarian we felt the overall results indicate that the students have some knowledge of Web evaluation but are in need of review and practical application of the evaluation criteria.
 * Pre-Assessment:**



Goals: -Apply critieria to Web site evaluation. -Select appropriate Web sites for school research.
 * Standard(s)/Goal(s):**

//Standards for 21st Century Learner//: 1.1 The student who is information literate will inquire, think critically and gain knowledge.

AASL 1.1.4 Find, evaluate, and select appropriate sources to answer questions. AASL 1.1.5 Evaluate information found in selected sources on the basis of accuracy, validity appropriateness for needs, importance, and social and cultural content. AASL 1.1.7 Demonstrate mastery of technology tools for accessing information and pursuing inquiry.

//Tennessee State Reading Standards 6th grade//: 6.1.09 Refind study skills and develop methods of research to enhance learning.


 * Instructional Objectives:**
 * Given a mock Web site, the learner will evaluate and participate in group discussion identifying the importance of Web site evaluation.
 * The learner will correctly apply the 5w's of Web evaluation to two web sites; completing an evaluation for each one.
 * The learner will demonstrate their knowledge of Web site evaluation through a presentation of one Web site to the class.

laptop projector and screen Internet Group research topics and sites The 5w's of Web site Evaluation power point
 * Materials, Media and other Resources:Teacher:**

Computers Internet Web site evaluation handout Web site evaluation rubric
 * Students:**

This lesson will take place at the computers. Students will be given time to explore one Web site that is intended for the purpose of teaching students about Web site evaluation. The teacher will allow time for students to state their observations about the site and then lead a discussion about the importance of evaluating Web sites.
 * Set Induction**

1. The students will come in and take their seat at a computer. 2. The students will be given time to explore a site provided by the teacher. 3. The teacher will lead a discussion about the site and the importance of evaluating sites. 4. Students will be divided into pre-assigned groups of 4-5. 5. The groups will assign each member an element of the 5 criteria that will be used to evaluate the sites. 6. Student groups will access and evaluate 2 sites based on assigned research topic; completing the evaluation form and rubric for each site. 7. The teacher will monitor and assist student groups as they complete their forms. 8. Groups will present one Web site to the class. 9. All groups will come together for end of class discussion.
 * Instructional Sequence:**

The teacher will show the students one site from the projector. Each group will be responsible for one criteria of the 5w's. One student from each group will be responsible for contributing their group's portion of the discussion.
 * Closure:**

Students work in groups which will benefit the students who have learning challenges. Collaboration with the classroom teacher will ensure that the students are properly grouped according to abilities. Teacher monitoring will provide further assistance. Higher level students have the option to access and evaluate a web site of their choice.
 * Adaptations and Extensions:**

The group evaluation forms, student presentations and a follow-up quiz will serve as post-assessment.
 * Proposed Assessment:**

Review and reflection of this lesson will be added after future presentation.
 * Reflection:**