A library of Blue Ribbon sites for educators. The site is searchable by content, subject, or grade. A WebQuest presents students with a challenging task, scenario, or problem to solve. Best to topics are those that are under dispute or that at least offer a couple different perspectives. Current events, controversial social and environmental topics work well.
Students begin by learning some common background knowledge, then divide into groups.
Each student or pair of students has a particular role, task, or perspective to master. They effectively become experts on one aspect of a topic. Students must synthesize their learning by completing a summarizing act such as e-mailing congressional representatives or presenting their interpretation to the world. If you want to see a more comprehensive collection of Web Quests, check out the collections of Bernie Dodge and Tom March . Although the Internet has many useful resources, it also harbors materials that are unacceptable for schools and classrooms.