"…students systematically gather information to
support the focus developed in the previous stage."
(Donna, 2002,
p. 20)
ISP Stage
Students select information relevant to their personal
focus, making detailed relevant notes during this collection phase. The
information defines and supports the focus. Deeper knowledge and a sense of
ownership of the specific inquiry are evident here as they interact with the
information they have found. Guidance with structuring ideas is needed here so
that students can best demonstrate their understanding (e.g. analysis, how to
work with information ethically, and incorporating evidence) (Kuhlthau 2004; Kuhlthau,
Maniotes & Caspari 2007).
Year 6 History Inquiry
The task in this stage is to gather, review and record
information that defines, extends and supports the focus. Students develop a
sense of ownership and expertise.
Using primary and secondary sources, such as those
mentioned below, students use
mindmapping, graphic organisers and notetaking skills and tools, to record
their findings in preparation for creating the presentation.
ISP and WEB 2.0 in the classroom
During this stage students would work independently to
gather information specific to their focus. They may conduct interviews with immigrants
– face to face, via email or in live online discussion, use online sources
and/or books. Students take more detailed notes at this stage which they might
organise using an online concept mapping tool such as Mindmeister or
Webspiration or a wiki. The teacher would revisit the ethical use of
information sources, and may introduce an electronic bibliography at this stage
to help their students record sources of information. Note making skills would
also be explicitly addressed at this point to avoid students plagiarising by
cutting and pasting information for their presentation.
Tools for students
Tools for teachers
