WHAT IS THE BIG6?

The Big6 is a process model of how people of all ages solve an information problem. From practice and study, we found that successful information problem-solving encompasses six stages with two sub-stages under each...

1. Task Definition

1.1 Define the information problem

1.2 Identify information needed

2. Information Seeking Strategies

2.1 Determine all possible sources

2.2 Select the best sources

3. Location and Access

3.1 Locate sources (intellectually and physically)

3.2 Find information within sources

4. Use of Information

4.1 Engage (e.g., read, hear, view, touch)

4.2 Extract relevant information

5. Synthesis

5.1 Organize from multiple sources

5.2 Present the information

6. Evaluation

6.1 Judge the product (effectiveness)

6.2 Judge the process (efficiency)

WHAT IS THE SUPER3?

The Super3 contains the same basic elements as the Big6 but is written for younger students to understand.

1. PLAN (BEGINNING)

When students get an assignment or a task, BEFORE they start doing anything, they should think:

  • What am I supposed to do?

  • What will it look like if I do a really good job?

  • What do I need to find out to do the job?

Big6 Steps:

  • Task Definition

  • Information Seeking Strategies

2. DO (MIDDLE)

In the Middle the students DO the activity. This is where they read, view, tell, make a picture, etc.

Big6 Steps:

  • Location and Access

  • Use of Information

  • Synthesis

3. REVIEW (END)

Before finishing the product and turning it in, students should stop and think— Is this done?

  • Did I do what I was supposed to do?

  • Do I feel ok about this?

  • Should I do something else before I turn it in?

Big6 Step:

  • Evaluation