Process
  1. Students will examine and evaluate the selected Internet resources.
  2. Students will consider the following areas as they evaluate their sites. As they examine each site, they will record any relevant information in their evaluation chart.

  3.  
    Design:
    • You can tell from the first page how the resource is organized and what options are available.
    • The type styles and background make the page clear and readable.
    • The links are easy to identify.
    • The links are logically grouped.
    • The layout is consistent from page to page.
    • There is a link back to the home page on each supporting page.
    • The links are relevant to the subject.
    • The page's presentation is eye-catching. 
    • The site engages the visitor to spend time there.
    Content:
    • The information is useful to the topic and/or student interest.
    • The information on the topic is thorough. 
    • The information is accurate. 
    • The information is up to date.
    • Sources for the information are clearly listed so they can be verified.
    • The purpose of the page is obvious. 
    • The information is in good taste. 
    • The page uses correct spelling and grammar.
    • There are no typographical errors.
    • The page is age appropriate for content and vocabulary for its intended audience.
    Technical Elements:
    • You can connect quickly to the page. 
    • The page is available through search engines. 
    • The page loads quickly. 
    • You can choose whether to download smaller images, text-only, or non-frame versions. 
    • Sounds, graphics or video enhance the site's message.
    • The icons clearly represent what is intended. 
    • The resource has the date of last revision posted.
    • The resource has been updated recently.
    • Frequency of planned updates and revisions is stated.
    Authority:
    • The authors are clearly identified. 
    • The authors and/or maintainers of the site are authorities in their field.
    • There is a way to contact the author(s) via e-mail or traditional mail.
    • You can easily tell from the domain name where the page originates.
    • Any biases towards the subject matter can be easily identified. 
    • The page is free from stereotyping. 
     
  4. Once the members of each group have all evaluated the sites, they will discuss their ratings within the group.
  5. Each group will select a recorder to take notes on group discussion and to record the group's ratings, and a discussion leader whose job it will be to make sure each member gets a chance to contribute and to lead the group toward reaching a consensus about the best and worst sites.
  6. Each student will be prepared to discuss/compare the group's findings and ratings with the rest of the class during the class discussion period.


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