The Wonderful World of
WebQuests
Where learning comes to life!
Introduction. Task. Process. Evaluation. Conclusion
This webquest is designed to acquaint educators with the benefits and "how-to's" of conducting a webquest with your students.
Joining together as researchers, you and your partners will explore webquests as an exciting and engaging means of delivering standards-based instruction within your classrooms.
By the end of this activity, you will have:
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Phase One
Your research team will need to assign the
following roles:
1. Mouser: responsible for computer navigation
2. Recorder: responsible for writing down research findings on your team's lotus diagram
3. Supply Keeper: responsible for obtaining all supplies necessary to complete your webquest mission
Phase Two
To begin your research:
1. The supply keeper will visit the supply table to acquire the following materials:
a giant lotus diagram
one colored marker
post-it notes
2. Using your markers, the recorder will write the word WebQuest in the center box of the lotus.
3. In each of the remaining eight lotus boxes, record your answers to the 8 questions below. (One answer per box.) You will visit serveral websites in order to research this information... click on the link within each line to find the answers.
After you
have visited a website, click on the
"BACK" button in order
to return to this webquest.
| #1 | What is the definition of a webquest? |
| #2 | Who was one of the pioneers in creating the webquest concept? What university does he work with? (At this site, click on the arrow in front of the appropriate topic and then scroll down the page a bit for the information.) |
| #3 | What are the 5 main sections of a webquest? |
| #4 | Name some of the many skills children use as they engage in a webquest activity. |
| #5 | What kinds of topics lend themselves well in the use of a webquest? |
| #6 | Review this powerpoint designed for first graders on "tips for enjoying a successful webquest." In your opinion, what classroom management issues need to be considered in "webquesting?" |
| #7 | Click on the What is a WebQuest button and complete this quote by Bernie Dodge: "Students spend their time using information, not... " |
| #8 | Visit this Webquest Resource site and preview a webquest. On your lotus, list the name of the webquest, the main research focus, and your comments about the activity. |
Phase Three
1. Next, with your partner, brainstorm questions
and ideas related to the webquest concept and record your thoughts
on post-it notes.
2. Place your post-its on the chart paper labeled "Questions & Concerns"
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The Supply
Keeper will now visit the supply table to gather one webquest
packet for each team member. Please complete the feedback sheet
found in your packet and then continue on with this webquest. (FYI...typically,
in a student webquest, the Evaluation section will list the project rubric
for students to review and complete on their own.)
Hopefully this activity opened a window of ideas for application in your own personal teaching endeavors. It is a reminder of just how powerful the internet can be in creating a community of learners who work together to further their knowledge, skills and communication abilities.
"To
improve the golden moment of opportunity,
and catch the good that is within our reach,
is the great art of life" ~William
James
Enjoy these webquest sites...
References
Bernie Dodge's "The WebQuest Page"
Kathy Schrock's Guide for Educators
Design template from "Do you Haiku"
