Introduction
Hello and
welcome all you investigators! The government has
just come to you with the exciting job of solving some
of the world's greatest mysteries surrounding famous
people and events. You will decide for the world,
"What Really Happened," and then put together a press
release for newspapers worldwide. Good luck,
Sleuths!
The Task
Groups of 3-4
investigators will look on the Internet to find articles
about various mysteries. Each group will be
assigned a different topic to research. Once your
group of investigators has looked at at least 3
different articles surrounding your mystery, you will do
some writing about your topic.
The Process
After you
receive your mystery to research, divide your research
party into different roles. First, you will need a
HEAD RESEARCHER. This person will be
responsible for finding good websites to use in the
research process.
Next, you will need a RECORDER. This person
will record all of your sources in MLA format. He
or she will also take notes as the group discusses.
Finally, each group will need 1-2 CREATIVE
COORDINATORS. These folks will be the brains
behind how you present your Press Release to the world.
As soon as
you've divided the tasks, begin by searching out, and
reading various articles. (Remember to record the
sources in correct MLA format) (This needs to be
included on your press release.)
Once you've
decided on "what really happened," type a brief, 1-page
press release that tells the world the answer to the
mystery. A press release is a news article.
Remember to use your news writing skills. (12-size font, double spaced)
Finally, glue
your article to a piece of large paper (posterboard,
which will be provided) and decorate it
appropriately to aide visually to your presentation of
this mystery, and the solving of it.
Topics & Research
Below each
category are some recommended websites to find
information. Also, please search the Internet on
your own to find out information. Be sure that the
website you are using isn't a "joke website," but,
instead, a real website with good information.
Citation Machine
(Click here to receive
help when you cite your sources.)
Evaluation
Each student will be graded based upon the group's
performance. However, if there is any student who
is not putting in his or her fair share of the work,
that student will be dealt with on an individual basis.
See Rubric
for precise grading information:
|
Topic |
Score
Low End
High End |
|
How well was your time used in
the computer lab? |
1
2
3
4
5 |
|
How thorough was the research
you did over your topic? |
1
2
3
4
5 |
|
Were your sources cited in MLA
format on your press release? |
1
2
3
4
5 |
|
How well-written was your
article (grammar and conventions) |
1
2
3
4
5 |
|
How completely did your article
discuss your topic? |
1
2
3
4
5 |
|
How polished was your visual aid
(poster with article)? Did it add to your
presentation? |
1
2
3
4
5 |
|
Total Points Earned |
/30 points |
Conclusion
Congratulations! You should be pleased!
You have discovered the truth behind some very
controversial topics.
For more sleuthing, search on the Internet for some
more "what really happened?" topics.
|
