Viewing exemplary webquests is a good way to get started on your own. Go to the main WebQuest page and click the words "Find WebQuests" on the left navigation bar. Using the Curriculum/Grade Level Matrix (in the middle of the page), spend a few minutes viewing 2 or 3 WebQuests in your content area. You can also see interviews with teachers who have used WebQuests here.
Hopefully, you're beginning to formulate an idea for a "hook" for your own WebQuest. It may be related to work you have already done in our class or work you are currently completing in other courses. It could even be something completely new in your content area. After you have some ideas together, review the WebQuest assignment so that you are clear on what is expected. Before Tuesday's class, you'll want to identify your WebQuest topic. Use this website to help you in the selection process.
Generally, a good WebQuest topic should have some inherent complexity, such as controversial issues, multiple perspectives, unknowns, etc. The topic needs to have your students take information in and transform it, using their own judgement and creative problem-solving techniques -- a LoTi level 4 or higher -- the learning should be authentic. Certain topics tend to lend themselves more to the WebQuest format than others.
For Tuesday:
- Find 2 resources from the sites shared in class (Thinkfinity and GALILEO K-12) and add them to your WebQuest webpage. Explain why you chose these sites: how they relate to your subject area, how students could use them for learning, how you might be able to use them in your WebQuest.
- Go to the QuestGarden website and set up a 30-day trial account.
- Complete the "Goals and Context" section of your WebQuest for Tuesday. You'll be sharing your topics with the class.
