This document provides an introduction to using WebQuests with students. It defines a WebQuest as an inquiry-oriented learning activity based on an engaging task or problem that uses predefined web resources and requires students to transform their learning. It outlines the typical building blocks of a WebQuest, including an introduction, task, process, resources, evaluation, and conclusion. It also discusses evaluating WebQuests and finding or creating WebQuests using simple tools. The document aims to explain how teachers can use WebQuests to explore difficult curriculum topics by engaging students in tasks that require processing online information.

1. An Introduction to Internet WebQuests Presented by Susannah Azzaro [email_address]

2. Essential Question How can I use a WebQuest with my students to explore something in the curriculum that is difficult to teach and hard to learn?

3. What is a WebQuest? Inquiry-oriented learning activity Web-based Based on engaging task or problem Pre-defined resources from Web (and others) Transformation of learning

4. Short Term One to three classes Long Term One week to one month Two Types of WebQuests Depending on…. Grade level Complexity of Task

5. 1. Internet Safety 2. Higher Order Thinking / Transformation 3. Scaffolding 4. Cooperative Learning 5. Authenticity Top Five Reasons To Use WebQuests

6. WebQuest Building Blocks Introduction Task Process Resources Evaluation Conclusion

7. Introduction Purpose: Prepare and hook students Embed the essential question Style: Set stage with role or scenario; or Provide short advance organizer or overview Example: The Crucible

8. The Task End result of learners’ activities learners must process and transform info mystery solved new product designed summary to be created journal account debate to be performed Example: Elizabethan Theater

9. The Process Steps students go through to complete task Include roles, resources, any necessary collaboration in this section Separate resources by roles to prevent student confusion. Example: Return of the Great Game: Crisis in Central Asia

10. Evaluation Describe how learners’ performance will be evaluated. briefly summarize criteria; or link to separate rubric document; Should evaluate accomplishments of objectives listed in lesson. Example: Biotech, Inc.

11. Conclusion Summarize what learners will have accomplished or learned by completing WebQuest. Optional: Include rhetorical questions or additional links. Example: A City in Space

12. Evaluating WebQuests 1. Does essential question match up with grade-level benchmarks? 2. Does introduction have engaging hook? 3. Do roles match up with process? 4. Does process require a transformation of knowledge? 5. Are resources appropriate for grade level? 6. Do web resources offer enough information to complete project successfully?

13. Finding WebQuests

14. Simple Tools for Creating WebQuests QuestGarden Filamentality zWebQuest PHPWebQuest TeacherWeb Wikis Wikispaces Google Sites PBWiki WetPaint

15. Essential Question How can I use the Internet WebQuest model with my students to explore something in the curriculum that is difficult to teach and hard to learn?