Brief Description of the Unit:  

In this library skills unit, students will learn about the Dewey Decimal system of organization, and how to use library reference materials such as almanacs, atlases, encyclopedias, dictionaries, and the Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature.   The purpose of this unit is to  equip students with the library skills and knowledge necessary to be able to effectively use these skills to conduct research. 

The library skills unit is divided into eight modules of instruction, each covering  a different library skill.   In addition to the eight modules of instruction, the culminating activity is a webquest where students are involved in researching information about Louisiana. 

This lesson is designed for 7th and 8th grade students in Language Arts or related classes who are studying a unit on library skills.    However, the lessons may be easily adapted and used for other age groups, both younger and older.     

To complete this distance learning unit, students will need access to computers with Internet access.  Students need only possess a  proficiency with the use of computers and the Internet.  Students should experience a minimum of problems in completing this unit project.  However, students who are self-motivated, able to set individual learning goals,  and work with a minimum of assistance will most successfully interact with this independent learning environment.   No specialized skills are needed for completion of this project. 

Each module is expected to consume one class period (45-50 minutes).  The anticipated time required to complete the entire unit is about ten to twelve 45-50 minute sessions.   

Upon completion of this unit, the student will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to use library resources to conduct research on a topic.

• The student will demonstrate knowledge of and proficiency in the use of the library card catalog to find sources of information.
• The student will demonstrate knowledge of and proficiency in the use of the Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature to location information found in periodicals.
• The student will demonstrate knowledge of and show proficiency in the use of the almanac, encyclopedia, and dictionary to locate information.
• The student will demonstrate knowledge of and show proficiency in the use of  the Dewey Decimal System to locate information in the library. 

• Web-posted Powerpoint presentation
• I used a Powerpoint presentation in Module 1 to present information about the Dewey Decimal System. 
• Webquest
• I used a Webquest as a culminating activity.  Through the webquest, students apply their library knowledge and skills in researching information about Louisiana.
• Online Quizzes and Practice Quizzes
• I used several online practice quizzes to give students an opportunity to self-assess their knowledge of the information presented within that module.  These quizzes were self-checking and designed to provide instant feedback to the students.
• I used several online quizzes to assess student knowledge of information presented within that module.  The results of these quizzes are emailed to the teacher for evaluation purposes. 
• Web-Posted Digital Video
• I used video to present information to the students on the Dewey Decimal System.