Learning Targets: Today I will learn how to conduct advanced searches in the databases so that I can gather reliable sources for my project.
I'll know I'm successful when I complete the activities, find reliable information, cite my sources, and begin assembling my text set.
Note: You will receive a copy of a Research Checklist to guide you through the research process.
Keyword brainstorm
Advanced searching in databases, using Boolean Operators
Social Issues Research & Notes
Activist Research & Notes
Final Reflection
Databases - Reasons & Keywords
Discuss: What are the benefits of using academic databases?
Brainstorm: Collaboratively create a list of keywords relating to each group's topic; add the keywords to the group planning document. See this example for details.
Don't know how to begin? Open a new browser and use Google to help with the brainstorm. For example, what are some keywords for researching extreme poverty?
Tips & Tricks
Always create a list of keywords before researching in a database.
Use the "advanced search" feature to target your search and save time!
Limit your publication date to ensure you have current information.
Begin by selecting a Reference Article; this source will give you an overview of a topic.
Cite the source and download a copy of the article for future use.
Your turn! Social Justice Research:
Open one of the recommended databases or websites and search for the social justice issue you selected as a focus.
Research options:
If you research in a database, select a Reference article from the last five years.
If you research on the UN Sustainable Development Goals website, select the goals that correspond to your research topic.
Select at least two relevant articles; for each, do the following:
Add the MLA citations to today's assignment document, using using one of these options.
Read and annotate the articles.
Answer all the questions in the "Social Justice Group Notes" section of today's assignment. (Open your copy of the assignment through your English teacher's Canvas page).
Share Your Learning
What have you learned so far?
Over the next five minutes, share what you've learned with your group AND listen to what they learned. What information do you still need to find?
Activist Research
Activist Research:
Find biographies for the activists you selected (most likely the source you used during our exploration of potential topics).
Select at least two relevant articles; for each, do the following:
Add the MLA citations to today's assignment document.
Read and annotate the articles.
Answer all the questions in the "Activist Individual Notes" section of today's assignment. (Open your copy of the assignment through your English teacher's Canvas page).
Additional Articles
What other information do you need?
At this point, you should have enough information to complete your assignment. If that's not the case, you have two choices:
Gather additional sources from a recommended database or website. Use keywords to search for news articles, audio, or additional reference materials.
Search Online - If you decide to search for information on the Internet, apply the SIFT Lateral Reading strategies to fact check your information!
Return to the skill document and complete the reflection (you will receive your paper from our first class).