Webquest 101 - Before you begin...

pzl-pcs.gif (2364 bytes) Webquest 101 – Putting Discovery into the Curriculum

Before You Begin

Before you even turn your computer on, think about your webquest in the way you would any other lesson and ask these questions:

What do I want my students to learn as a result of this lesson?
Why is this information important?
Where does the information fit into the specific context of this unit?
How does this information fit into the broader curriculum? How can this information help students make connections across subject areas? For an example, take a look at Discover the Renaissance - a webquest to broaden students' understanding of this historical period.

For Example

Let’s take a look at three examples of how webquests can help meet instructional objectives in creative fashion.

Elementary - Ancient Egypt - Here's an extensive webquest created by a teacher in Massachusetts for his elementary students. This quest has lots of different layers and pathways. It's almost an adventure in itself.

Middle School – Wolves in Yellowstone - This site asks students to examine a number of sites dealing with the return of wolves to Yellowstone Park. After collecting their information, students must formulate their own response to the question of whether wolves should be reintroduced to the park.

High School – Dream Car Project – This project teaches Algebra skills in a very practical application: shopping for a new car. The topic is a sure winner with high school students.

Introduction	Characteristics	Before Beginning	Designing	Searching
Reviewing	Organizing	Packaging	Trying it Out	Presenting Results