The document provides guidance on researching using the TMS library, including the basic Big6 steps to research such as defining the task, locating resources like books, databases and the internet, using resources wisely by taking notes and citing sources, and evaluating your work. It then gives specific instructions on searching the online public access catalog (OPAC) and databases subscribed to by TMS like Encyclopedia Britannica, as well as tips for effective internet searching using Google.

1. How to Research TMS Library 2009

2. Big6 Basic Steps to Research Define your task Review instructions Brainstorm topics that interest you List Resources Books Databases/Encyclopedias Internet Locate Resources School Public Library Online

3. Big6 Basic Steps to Research Use Resources wisely Take notes Cite sources Synthesize information Review instructions Organize info. – use writing process steps Include bibliography Evaluate yourself

4. Researching using books Search the OPAC Locate the index Look for specific names, dates Widen to regions, time periods, types Look at the table of contents Reference titles are often multi-volume Find the volume with the alphabet Or the index for the entire set Skim for key words, don’t read every page

5. Researching using databases TISD subscribes to several databases Step One: get on the internet and go to the TISD website – www.taylorisd.org Scroll down to “More Links” section and click on “Digital Knowledge Central” Click on “Encyclopedia Britannica” Username: taylorhis Password: Ktwelve See handout for other database resources

6. Researching using Internet Google search tips Put “” around specific phrases – “Galveston hurricane” Use Advanced search to narrow results Use Google news archive for newspaper stories Pay attention to the source-Is it free? Is it unbiased? .com .org .gov