The Thoughtful Researcher: Teaching the Research Process to Middle School Students [Paperback]

Virginia Rankin (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 1563086980 | ISBN-13: 978-1563086984 | Publication Date: June 15, 1999

How are students to become question generators, note takers, efficient planners, critical users of information, and creators of quality products? This book takes an instructional approach with a broad range of activities that can be used to develop these qualities in students. Moving beyond the usual theoretical discussions of the research process, Rankin provides learning activities to help middle and junior high students develop the skills necessary to carry out the steps of the research process. She also explores the roles of time management and the visual display of information and she outlines techniques that can help practitioners reach their own insights and conclusions about teaching the research process. Rankin's straightforward text is illustrated with numerous anecdotes and examples which make for a practical and fascinating read.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

With the goal of creating independent, self-directed learners, Rankin supplies strategies for teaching the research process, from "presearch" questioning through the assessment of finished products. Believing that students should think critically at every stage of a project, she devotes a thorough analysis to such elements as managing time, reading for information, and preparing visual presentations as well as to the more traditional research components of searching and note taking. A clear understanding of the habits and frustrations unique to middle schoolers gives authority to the numerous handouts, activities, and practical suggestions provided. While no single chapter addresses technology specifically, all of the advice relates to both print and electronic resources.
Debbie Johnson, Richardson West Junior High School, TX
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Teacher-librarian Rankin, who has spent years collecting data and observing students engaged in library research, shares her insights and methods with the library and education community. She offers concrete suggestions (and 16 reproducible handouts) for researching a topic, generating questions, planning a project, managing time, searching for information, evaluating sources, note taking, mastering thinking skills, selecting a presentation format, and assessing the product and the process. She also describes how she was able to break down the research process into discreet, teachable tasks. Although aimed at the middle-school market, Rankin's suggestions can be applied to other levels as well. A must-have resource for school libraries serving grades 5-9, this will be welcomed by classroom teachers and teacher-librarians. Kay Weisman

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Product Details

• Paperback: 211 pages
• Publisher: Libraries Unlimited (June 15, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1563086980
• ISBN-13: 978-1563086984
• Product Dimensions: 11 x 8.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #499,611 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good Tool for Educators, May 21, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: The Thoughtful Researcher: Teaching the Research Process to Middle School Students (Paperback)

The Thoughtful Researcher is a great tool for any educator. It gives strategies that are easy to use. The format is setup so that information can be found quickly. Some of the information was common sense, however, it could be used as a review for both new and veteran educators.