Introduction
Aim
Rationale
Audience
Pre-requisites
Subject-Matter
Goals and Objectives
Instructional Plan
Materials
Assessment/Evaluation
Appendices

      The purpose of this module is to develop a fundamental understanding of what and how to research a science project topic.   Given a graphic aid, students will practice brainstorming to develop key words to help aid in the search process.  They will use a search engine to find information  relevant to the topic. Students will also be shown how to bookmark appropriate information once it is located and to use links to manuver back and forth within this module.

Note:  The research step of the scientific method was created first because my 8th grade students needed this information for the upcoming school year.  Completing a science fair project is a requirement for graduation.  Hopefully, I will add the additional steps during the school year.
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Aim:

     To assist students in becoming proficient researchers for their science fair topics.

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     Students in grades 6th through 8th are required to complete a science fair project.  Less than 5% of the special needs students, specifically learning disabled, successfully complete projects.  Many of them find the research step to be the most challenging.  Either they don't know what to research or how it should be approached.  Therefore, it is my intent to help facilitate this dilemma.

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     This module was designed for special needs students, specifically learning disabled, grades 6th through 8th.

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     Some typing skills would be beneficial, but not required.  Some knowledge of the scientific method.

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       Scientific Process

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Goals and Objectives:

     Upon completion of this module, students will:

• become familiar with internet language
• identify topic to be searched
• add bookmarks
• use a search engine to locate information for a science topic
• use links to access sites within this module

    This module provides a simple,  guide to assist students in developing the research aspect of their projects.  Students should have been taught the scientific method by the science teacher, so this serves as  an interview or reinforcement.  Students will be given a science question and from that they will develop key words by using a graphic aid.  The teacher should be available to provide key words if the student finds this difficult to do.  A page describing how to add a bookmark will follow.  At this point, students can begin using a search engine.

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    A computer with internet connection
      Pencil or Pen

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     Students are assessed throughout this module.  The activities presented will demonstrate proficiency of the objectives given.

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Resources:
The Scientific Method
The Steps of a Science Fair Project
What is Science?

Glossary

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