Inquiry+Steps

=**Inquiry steps to follow:**= Step 1. Define your topic. Write down a general area that you would like to research. You could begin this with a statement such as ' I would like to find out about. . . ..


 * Step 2.** Write down what you know about your research topic already.


 * Step 3.** Develop 3 or 4 ' smart ' open research questions that will guide your research. Begin this process by brainstorming all possible quetions on your topic, and looking for common strands or threads within them.


 * Step 4.** Identify possible sources of information. List what sources you could use to find the information you need. If your sources are mainly websites, write down what kind of information you could expect to find at each one - and how useful it could be.

This document will help you plan your research.


 * Step 5.** Gather and organise your information. Research your questions. As you find relevant information, make sure that it is linked to the appropiate question - and to the source. This research log will help you plan your time. [[file:Research log.docx]]


 * Step 6**. Synthesis. Review your information. Create at least one key idea for each of your key questions. Decide on how you will use the information you have gathered to support this key idea. You could, for example, put numbers next to each piece of evidence to show the order in which you will use it.
 * Step 7.** Evaluate your research. What went well - why do you think it went well ? What was difficult for you ? What would you do diffeently next time and how would this help ?

You are now ready for the ' creative ' phase where you use your information to present something that is truly original in an electronic form of your choice.