English for Young Learners

Free English language teaching & learning materials

Webquests

What are they? * How can I use them in the classroom?

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What is a WebQuest?


A WebQuest is an 'inquiry-oriented lesson format in which most or all the information that learners work with comes from the web' (See http://www.webquest.org). In other words it is a project in which you
  • collect information from a variety of sources
  • present that information in a variety of ways.
  • work in teams to collect, collate and analyse information
  • apply knowledge gained in a variety of contexts
  • draw on skills and knowledge gained in other subjects
  • make judgements in selecting materials
  • fun listening and watching materials
There are two WebQuests on this site. Rocky's Long Walk is aimed primarily at younger learners up to the age of 11. The Beatles WebQuest is broadly suitable for the 11+ age group.

Is the content of the young adult material also suitable for confident younger children
There is no reason why confident younger readers should not attempt the materials aimed at Young Adults. Similarly older children with a lower language level or reluctant readers may prefer to try the shorter, simpler texts before moving on.

In terms of content, the aim has been to proved fun materials suitable for all.
Think of a webquest as a project. Ideally it should be completed by small groups of students but it can be adapted for individuals.

The emphasis is on working in groups and using the internet. Students can use innovative approaches to presenting information depending on the resources available to them. These can include high tech resources (e.g video, audio etc) but can also use the simplest materials (e.g hand written notes and drawings.

Webquest can be largely classroom based (providing learners have access to the internet). Alternatively can complete tasks as homework or term projects.


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