In K-3, we begin work with students on basic learnings that relate to the concepts of relevance, purpose, and authority. These are three core characteristics that are important for skilled evaluators to consider when researching and searching online.
Use the “RPA Magnifying Glass” to help students evaluate the sources and findings from their online research.
Have students consider these questions:
Does it fit?
Does this source have what we need?
Is it “true for everyone” or is it “true for me?"
Is it fact or opinion?
Where did it come from?
Who is the author?
What type of website is it?
.com, .edu, .org, .gov
Be certain to USE Kathy Schrock's "5W's of Web Site Evaluation" handout. (Also see this example in action.)
She even has a handy pre-made bookmark version on her Critical Evaluation Guide to Everything site!
Common Sense Education's K-12 Digital Citizenship Curriculum includes valuable and easy-to-use materials in grade-differentiated units (including K-2).
Look for the "Information Literacy" filter to locate activities, worksheets, and lessons to support skill-building in FINDING, EVALUATING, CREATING, & COMMUNICATING with technology.
Consider making your own QR CODES for any online destinations using this web app: