• More information on the research model below can be found at the Big6 Homepage .

• These six steps are simple organizers for any research or information gathering task.

• Utilizing a common model for student research provides a framework that fosters independence, confidence and reinforces organizational skills.

Sample Lesson

What am I supposed to do?

Class project information goes here.  The LMC staff will type in your information, scan in your information, or provide a link to your own class web page if you have posted the information  there.

What information do I need? 

Class project information goes here that provides specific directions reminding student researchers about the questions or inquiry that should direct their research.

What are the possible sources of information?

This provides students with a list of suggested print resources as well as subscription databases and Internet  links that may be useful to their research.  Students can be guided to specific titles, general areas of the library, or simply to the Library Online Catalog.

Depending upon the level of research sophistication,  information can be very specific or can provide only broad  considerations for more advanced researchers

Where will I find these sources?

Directions placed here would:

• Suggest areas in the reference or more general collections that provide resources on the assigned topic or  suggest the use of the Maverick Library Catalog  resources

• Notify students of materials on reserve for their class

• Provide information about subscription databases useful to their project and list live links to these subscription databases

•  List appropriate Internet links selected by the teacher & librarian thus providing easy student access to these resources

Students are able to independently review where materials are found or continue their research at home through Internet Links and subscription databases.  Home  passwords are available for most of our subscription databases and may be picked up at the Circulation Desk.

How will I take notes or record this information?

Information pertinent to your assignment goes here to remind students of specific criteria or methods to be  employed while taking notes

How will I evaluate this information?

If needed, reminders of criteria for resources or information needed would go  here.  For more advanced researchers, reminders that criteria such as currency, accuracy, and credibility are important to consider when  gathering information from non-subscription Internet sites would be placed here.

How is my information best presented or prepared for others to see?

This serves as a reminder to students to keep in mind the teacher's criteria for the final product throughout their research process.  If the choice for the final product is open-ended, then thought should be put into what final  presentation or product will best "showcase" the information gathered.

How will I credit my sources?  (Works Cited page)

Information about citing sources and Internet links such as EasyBib.com are placed here to help students complete their Works Cited page.

Criteria goes here that allows students to self-check and evaluate their research and final product before handing in or presenting their research.