- Lecture: The Internet
- How to use search engines
- Computer logins
- Search engine exercise
Search Engine Exercise:
Search engines allow you to search a database of web sites and files. Google and Bing allow you to search a directory of sites that have been registered by the site owners, for example yahoo. a Meta-search engine searchers other search engines, for example ixquick.
A good searching strategy is the key to finding the information you need:
Searching Tips:
- Become familiar with more than one search engine, understand that different engines compile data differently. For example, google's boolean search technique is based upon popularity, but not always relevance
- Be as specific as possible in your search terms. Use unique words or phrases
- Use a niche site for your search, for instance amazon, or wikipedia
- Use boolean operators in a meaningful manner (and, or, not)
- Pay attention to publishing dates, file sources. Not everything on the internet is true
- Don't give up easily, adjust your search terms. Experiment to find your results
- BE A NINJA. Try using the Advanced Google Search
- BE A SUPER NINJA. Try writing Advanced Google Search terms as code right in the browser!
Search Engine Ninja Exercise:
Research the questions below using a search engine or engines. Use advanced search techniques or specific sites to discover your answers. Compile the answers to all 10 questions and email them to me at swilson@santacruz.k12.ca.us
1. What are the names of all the band members of Skid Row. What are their home towns?
2. I need to buy a new camera, it must be a DSLR. What is the best one? How much will it cost? Who sells it the cheapest?
3. What is the highest recorded temperature for Chicago in August?
4. What is the HTML Tag that defines Emphasized text?
5. When did the TV show "Twin Peaks" go off the air?
6. Suggest a good italian restaurant San Francisco.
7. What were the Oscar Nominees for Best Picture in the year you were born?
8. Who is James Burke?
9. In art, what is the definition of "Negative Space"?
10. What do the letters in HTML stand for?
Compile your answers and email them to me. Make sure you include your name and title of this exercise in the subject of your email.
