| At a glance | Web Search Lesson Plan: Quick Finds Using Basic Search Features and Operators |
Table of Contents Developed by: Google Certified Teachers Cheryl Davis Kathleen Ferenz Lucy Gray Next Lesson in Module C: Learn more about Google's advanced search, including to use the following features:
| Built into Google search is a set of tools that will help students and teachers alike work more efficiently -- all from the Google search box. In this lesson, students will learn about some basic helpful tips for incorporating Google search features into their online life. Inquiry question: How can I improve my search experience by locating information more efficiently?
1. Tap into students' prior knowledge to assess how well they can navigate beyond the search box. Using a KWL chart (found in the appendix of the "Quick Finds" companion presentation to this lesson), lead a brief class discussion and quickly map out what students already know about search techniques, what they want to learn about the topic, and then fill in the last section about what they actually learned at the end of the lesson. Another option would be to have students work in pairs to fill out the KWL chart and then bring the classes back together again as a whole group for a brief discussion. 2. Point out that there is much to be learned beyond simply typing search terms into the Google search box. Begin to use the slides on "Quick Finds" to demonstrate some of the finer points of Google search features. [Slides 2 - 10] Everyday Essentials - Demonstrate how to find weather forecasts, stock quotes, times in other cities and sports scores. [Slides 11 - 19] Reference Tools - Show students how easy it is to perform calculations and unit conversions using search. Also, show them how to find information related to books and earthquakes as well. [Slides 20 - 24] Choosing Keywords - Point out that Google also checks spellings of search terms and search can also be used to identify synonyms. [Slides 25 - 31] Local Search - Model how to use local search features including finding show times and real estate listings. [Slides 32 - 36] Trip Planning - Demonstrate the Google search tools that can aid in the planning of trips. These features include currency conversion and flight tracking. [Slides 36 - 43] Search by Number - Show students how to track packages, find patent information, and identify area codes using the search by number feature. [Slide 44] Conclude by stating that search efforts can be made more efficient if students know how to employ Google search features. 3. As a way to summarize, introduce students to the Explore Search page which has videos and tips for the most popular search features currently offered by Google. 4. After viewing and discussing the slides, assign either of the following activities to your students for guided practice. Students should work in pairs as they complete the activities.
5. As an assessment, students then work individually to create a five item quiz for a classmate. Coach students to develop challenging questions that will require their classmates to use multiple search features. For instance, students might have to find a zip code and then conduct a local search using that zip code. Let students have fun with this; perhaps they can use riddles and other clues to create their quiz. Students should also create an answer sheet for this activity. 6. Students then exchange papers and take each other quizzes. 7. Wrap up the lesson by discussing the benefits of using search features. Ask students to review the class KWL chart, filling in what they have learned. Ask students when and where might they apply the strategy of using Google search features in order to obtain information more efficiently. Discuss with students how they might remember some of these strategies and point out Google help documentation . 3. Research and Information Fluency Students apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information. Students: a. plan strategies to guide inquiry. b. locate, organize, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and ethically use information from a variety of sources and media. c. evaluate and select information sources and digital tools based on the appropriateness to specific tasks. 6. Technology Operations and Concepts - Students demonstrate a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations. Students: a. understand and use technology systems. 1. Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity Teachers use their knowledge of subject matter, teaching and learning, and technology to facilitate experiences that advance student learning, creativity, and innovation in both face-to-face and virtual environments. Teachers: b. engage students in exploring real-world issues and solving authentic problems using digital tools and resources. Directions:Teams create five questions based on the criteria given below.
1) Write a question that requires users to find something related to weather. Question: Answer: 2) Write a question that requires users to locate stock quotes. Question: Answer: 3) Write a question that requires users to convert units of measure or currency. Question: Answer: 4) Write a question that requires users to locate information about books. Question: Answer: 5) Write a question that requires users to perform a complex calculation. Question: Answer: |