Step 1: Identify and Develop Your Topic
To begin the research process, state your topic. While your topic may change and evolve with further research, it is useful to begin by defining a research question.
1) Define Your Research Question
What is the focus of your research? If you are interested in learning about the topic of heraldry, for example, you might pose the question, “What information do you need to survive the Canadian wilderness?”
2) Identify Keywords
Use a variety of resources to identify main concepts, keywords and synonyms connected with your topic.
Classroom Textbooks
Look up your topic in classroom textbooks (e.g. science, history, English, mathematics). Be sure to check the index at the back of every book. How is the topic organized (e.g., wilderness, survival, Canada)? What key words are identified in the textbook chapter(s)?
Dictionaries
Look up your topic in dictionaries. Be sure to check a variety of dictionaries and to notice the difference between and among the definitions. Be sure to check print dictionaries as well as online tools. Here is set of online tools:
Merriam Webster Online Search | Cambridge Dictionaries Online | AskOxford | MSN Encarta Dictionary
Synonyms
Once you outline a set of key words, check for synonyms. What other terms are relevant to your topic? Here is a set of online tools:
Roget's II: The Online Thesaurus | Merriam Webster Online Search: Thesaurus | MSN Encarta Thesaurus
3. Document Keywords & Synonyms
Use a graphic organizer to document all of the key words and synonyms that you identify. Two wonderful tools are outlined below.
3M List of Search Terms from Step Zero: What to Do Before Searching
On blank piece of paper, draw three columns and label each one Must, Might, and Musn’t. The Must column contains search terms that should appear on every relevant web page. The Might column is designed for words that may be of use in an online search such as synonyms. The final column, Mustn’t, is reserved for words that are connect to your search topic but not of use to you. It is an excellent tool for middle school students. This tool was developed by Bernie Dodge (WebQuest.Org, 2008).
Search Terms | |
File Size: | 26 kb |
File Type: | doc |
American Library Association Search Strategy Plan
The
American Library Association developed a clear and concise strategy plan for use in K-12 classrooms. It asks students to identify the topic, document keywords, and then refine the research process.
ALA Research Strategy Plan | |
File Size: | 6 kb |
File Type: |