Inquiry & Information Literacy

Research is one of the most important skills students can develop, and I work closely with teachers to help them build a foundation they can rely on throughout their academic lives. In our library, research is not just about gathering facts. It is about curiosity, inquiry, evaluation, and learning how to move through information with purpose.

My goal is for every student to feel confident as a researcher, no matter their reading level, background knowledge, or comfort with academic tasks.

How I Teach Research

My research instruction blends direct teaching, guided practice, modeling, and hands-on exploration. Lessons are adapted for grade level, content area, and student needs. I focus on building the habits and skills that help students become thoughtful, ethical, and independent learners.

Key components of my approach include:

Inquiry & Questioning

Students begin with questions that matter to them. I guide them in:

• turning broad topics into meaningful questions

• using questioning strategies within our lessons and organizers

• making connections between curiosity and purpose
  
  

Strong questions lead to stronger research.

Source Evaluation

Students learn how to examine sources with a critical eye. I model how to:

• identify reliable, age-appropriate sources

• evaluate accuracy, currency, author expertise, and bias

• distinguish between primary and secondary sources

• recognize misinformation and unreliable content
  
  

These skills help students navigate a world where information is constant and often overwhelming.

Digital + Print Resource Use

I teach students how to use a range of tools, including:

• database search tools

• online research platforms

• print reference materials

• ebooks, audiobooks, and multimedia sources
  
  

Students learn to match the right tool to the right question.

Ethical Use of Information

Students build essential habits that carry into high school and beyond:

• citing sources

• understanding plagiarism

• paraphrasing with accuracy

• giving credit to original authors

• using AI responsibly and transparently
  
  

I help students understand that integrity matters in academic and creative work.

5. Scaffolding for All Learners

I adapt instruction for all students, including multilingual learners and those reading below grade level. Supports may include:

• leveled texts

• graphic organizers

• vocabulary front-loading

• modeled note-taking

• curated resource lists

• guided practice stations
  
  

Every student deserves access to meaningful research experiences.

6. Collaboration With Teachers

Research instruction is most effective when it’s woven into classroom learning. I partner with teachers to support:

• Social Studies inquiry projects

• Science and STEAM investigations

• ELA research units

• cross-curricular projects and PBL experiences
  
  

My role is to help teachers strengthen academic skills while keeping students engaged and confident.

Reflection

Research is a powerful way for students to build agency, curiosity, and confidence. My goal is to make the process clear, accessible, and meaningful so all students feel capable of asking strong questions, exploring information thoughtfully, and sharing their learning with pride.