Research the Right Way at CV Starr Intermediate School

How do you learn how to research? How do you know where to start? At CV Starr Intermediate School, Library and Media Specialist, Paul George is laying a foundation for students that will last a lifetime. 

In the library this week, George spoke to fourth graders about their State research projects. 

He explained that the most important skills for research are organization and using accurate sources. 

“The internet is a vast place and it’s important to go to credible, reliable sources,” he explained "That's why we are using a known database called World Book.”

The information in the database is significant–according to their website “the world’s largest book database”--and kid friendly with bright colors and clear headings with pictures.

To help students with organization, George had created graphic organizers with Fast Facts for: State Motto, State Song, State Tree, State Flower, State Bird, and State Nickname.

Stephanie Romero Castillo selected Arizona and was flipping back and forth between World Book and her graphic organizer.

“It’s right here under More State Facts,” she said, “Arizona’s state flower is the Sagauro Cactus–it’s a white blossom–and looks really pretty.” 

Arya Maguire, who picked Florida, was filling in another organizer ‘More State Facts’ and was tracking down the three largest cities, where on the map Florida is, and three interesting facts.

“We are doing our projects in little chunks, step by step so it doesn’t feel like it’s too much,” explained Arya.

“These are important critical thinking skills that I hope these students will carry with them,” said George. Once they gather all the information, they will learn technology skills like google slides and great a cool presentation.”

Critical thinking is one of five key attributes that Brewster hopes to instill in all of its graduates. The others are collaboration/communication, adaptability, civic responsibility and perseverance.