1.
FAQs from the Search Maps, Sidell 6th Period 10/22/15
Search Terms: How do I find and develop
them?
•Read articles more deeply and “mine” the
vocabulary to incorporate into new
searches.
•Use the database search tips we’ve added
to the LibGuide---lots of great examples of
Boolean searching, using keywords vs.
subject searches, and harnessing the
power of “Advanced Search” in the
databases. See me if you need a hard copy
of any of these tips.
•Dig in deep---this is a process of reading,
browsing, thinking, and we won’t hit the
jackpot right away!
Finding Information/Key Ideas in Your
Articles: How Do I Do That?
•Read texts closely; email to
hamiltonb@fultonschools.org if you need
something printed today.
•Annotate your articles as you read and jot
ideas on the search map.(see my printed
handouts on annotating!)
•Your job is to do the critical thinking---you
need to know the basics about your topic
before you can compre the hysteria/abuse
of power related to that event to the play.
You will be connecting the dots—the
articles are there to give you the evidence,
data, and/or facts to help you do that.
Rarely will you find something specific to
your topic that is going to explicitly lay out
“the answers” for you. 
•Consider making a Venn diagram or
graphic organizer to help you see patterns
of ideas/connections. I can provide you
one.
My Database Didn’t Have What I
Wanted/Didn’t Have “Good” Information
•It is OK to move on to another database.
We have the expectation you will need to
search at least 2-3 databases and possibly
more. Some will have more than others
on a particular topic.
•Check your search terms (see box 1)
•Have you tried more than 1-2 search terms
or phrases? You have to read, browse,
map, and/or annotate to build your
knowledge of the topic, and consequently,
relevant search terms/phrases.
•What is it you need to know about your
topic? Think of the 5Ws (who, what,
where, when, why/how) as your starting
point. The annotation handouts can also
be helpful.