World War II Thesis Paper (Konstandakis)
Created by Stacy Kitsis, Arlington High School Librarian. Last updated: February 8, 2018.
Recommended Sources
Databases
Note: Database passwords are available online and at the front desk.
Encyclopaedia Britannica - general background
US History in Context (Gale) - topics, events, and people in US history
American History Online (Facts on File) - topics, events, and people in US history
World History in Context (Gale) - world history database
Biography in Context (Gale) - great if you are focusing on a person
E-Books
Gale Virtual Reference Library - reference e-books for history
Destiny Discover - e-book platform with some great history content
Books
AHS Library Catalog - actual books (we have some great ones!)
Minuteman Catalog - more great print material at Robbins
Source: Buffy Hamilton.
Class Resources
Remember, your goal is to learn vocabulary and big ideas about your topic before you start focusing questions, taking notes, etc.
Search mapping template
Search mapping sample
Exit ticket instructions
Source: Pre-search mapping lesson adapted from Buffy Hamilton and Norcross High School librarians.
Day One: Pre-Search Mapping
Why take the time to do pre-search mapping?
Be more intentional in thinking about search terms/phrases
Build vocabulary about the topic
Create a more robust/helpful search with better results
Be mindful of exploring variety of resources
Learn enough background to ask meaningful questions
What's the pre-search mapping process?
Track search terms/phrases
Identify sources of information
Skim and scan 2-3 articles or resources per information source
Record terms, big ideas, concepts, NOT take notes or focus on facts
See, think, and wonder with your group members
What will it look like?
Student exemplars
Sample pre-search strategy map made by a librarian colleague:
Questions, comments, concerns? Email me at skitsis@arlington.k12.ma.us.