Summary
Students often assume that any information on the web is reliable information and that any site with something about a topic is appropriate. This activity combines making a model of the brain (an activity that is already part of the life science unit ) with evaluating web sites to find information appropriate for the task.

Description:
This activity precedes Inquiry #2 The Brain pp. 23-31 Activity 3 “Model of the Brain” in the Teacher’s Edition of Premier Science: Behavior and Regulation. Students are given suggested web sites to evaluate in terms of finding reliable information that will help them with the task of creating a model of the brain. Students use an evaluation tool (provided) to judge each site and then record their findings on a spreadsheet (make your own or use the template and example provided) or chart. Then they can easily make decisions regarding which sites are best for the purpose.

Timeframe:
Number of sessions needed: 3 - 5 (with options) Length of time per session: 35 min.
Session 1 Introduce Activity and discuss bogus website. (Option: Create evaluation tool)
Session 2 Evaluate web sites. (option: Learn to create a spreadsheet.)
Session 3 Fill in chart or spreadsheet. Choose Web site. Using the chosen website begin to make a model of the brain per text.