There are various strategies to help one determine useful search terms, as well as broadening or narrowing them. Many of these strategies are based on brainstorming questions regarding the topic, e.g. as suggested by Lilian Wehmeyer in The School Librarian as Educator (1986). She suggests that students ask themselves these main questions:
- Is there another way to SPELL or SAY it (synonyms)? Is there a LARGER topic that might include your topic? Does the topic include a SMALLER topic that might be worth looking up? Does your topic OVERLAP another subject?Are there any DATES, LOCATIONS, and/or specific NAMES related to your topic?
- Does your topic include a FAMOUS PERSON? Where and when did this person live? What is he/she famous for?
The answers to these questions will provide you with ideas for search terms to use.
If you do not find resources that will supply you with sufficient information on your topic, you need to revise their terms by broadening or narrowing them. The use of Boolean Logic ("and", "or", "not") may be particularly helpful in this regard.
Teachers and trainers are welcome to use the PowerPoint presentation on this page when speaking to their students about plagiarism. Please note that you need Internet Explorer to view this presentation.
