This document outlines 6 steps for dissecting and answering a research question: 1) define the question, 2) identify key terms, 3) determine the main learning, 4) generate smaller questions from terms, 5) research answers to smaller questions, and 6) answer the overall question using the research. An example research question is provided about how maps, globes and other tools help humans understand spatial relationships. Smaller questions are generated about how maps, globes and GPS specifically help with spatial relationships, and answers to these questions demonstrate how the tools can be used to understand object locations.

1. 6 Steps to dissecting, understanding and answering a
research question.

2.  You have been given a research question or you have
written one of your own – now what?
 Example Question:
 How do maps, globes, geospatial technologies, and
other geographic tools help humans understand
spatial relationships?

3. Example Terms List:
 Map
 Globe
 Geospatial technology
 Geographic Tools
 Spatial Relationships
 Definitions:
 Representation of an area
 A round object on which a the
earth is displayed
 Equipment used in visualization,
measurement, and analysis of
the earths features
 Are types of maps, globes and
measuring devices used in the
study of geography
 How some object is located in
space to some reference object

4.  What is the main learning or teaching to be gotten
from answering this question – What should you know
after research?
 Example Question:
 You should be able to use different tools of geography
to explain how different objects in space are related to
other objects in space.

5.  Use the terms to write smaller questions
 Example:
1. How does a map help me understand where things
are located in space in reference to other things?
2. How does a globe help me understand where things
are located in space in reference to other things?
3. How does GPS help me understand where things are
located in space in reference to other things?

6.  Find the answers to each of the smaller questions.
 Example: How does a map help me understand where
things are located in space in reference to other things?
 A map gives a picture of land, it uses coordinates to offer
exact location of objects on earth. A map can offer me a
smaller view of where things are located in relation to other
things depending on how far I zoom or what I am looking
at. They can show me animal habitats, cities, desserts,
mountains, and political boundaries.

7.  Look at what you need to know when done with the
research – does your answer help you understand or
provide an example to demonstrate your idea?
 In the example:
 Of how maps help me understand spatial relationships
I think my research gave me some good examples.

8.  Answer the question in your own words using your
research to support the ideas you present in your
answer.
 Example: