Decide what information you need. Break the question into keywords or short phrases to search efficiently.
Check: Do you have a list of keywords and synonyms?
Flowchart
When you cannot experiment directly, use this research route.
1) Define the question and keywords
2) Locate trustworthy sources
Use library catalogues, textbooks, scientific websites, or databases. Prefer organisations (NASA, NHS, universities) over random blogs.
Check: Who wrote this source and why?
3) Record bibliographic details
Note the author, title, publisher/website, year, and URL/page number. This allows you to cite and revisit the information.
Check: Could someone else find this source from your notes?
4) Evaluate and cross-check
Compare information from at least two sources. Check dates, evidence, and whether the information agrees with other reliable references.
Check: Does more than one trusted source support this fact?
Explanation
What are secondary sources?
Secondary sources provide information collected by other scientists. They can include textbooks, encyclopaedias, scientific websites, journals, documentaries, and databases.
Evaluating credibility
- Author expertise: Look for scientists, universities, museums, or recognised organisations.
- Date: Check when the information was published. Some topics (space exploration, health) change quickly.
- Evidence: Reliable sources cite data, references, or studies.
- Bias: Does the author have a reason to persuade you (e.g., selling a product)?
Note-taking tips
- Write bullet points in your own words instead of copying.
- Record quotations exactly and use quotation marks.
- Keep a bibliography list as you research to avoid losing track.
Key Vocabulary
- Bibliography: A list of all sources used.
- Credible: Trustworthy and reliable.
- Database: A searchable collection of articles or data.
- Plagiarism: Copying someone else’s work without credit.
- Keyword: Important word or phrase used in a search.
Why secondary sources matter
Some phenomena cannot be studied easily in the classroom (volcanoes, deep sea creatures, space). Secondary research lets you access expert knowledge and compare your findings with global data.
Examples
Example 1: Library textbook
Use the contents page to find “Plate Tectonics”. Record the book title, author, publisher, year, and page numbers.
Example 2: Official website
Visit www.metoffice.gov.uk to gather data on UK climate zones. Note the date you accessed the information.
Example 3: Scientific database
Search NASA’s planetary fact sheets for “Jupiter atmosphere composition”. Compare the values with an ESA article.
Example 4: Documentary notes
While watching a BBC documentary, pause to note key facts and the episode title. Later, verify the facts using a second source.
Practice
Answer all questions, then check your answers. Your quiz result is saved on this device.
Common Mistakes
Mistake 1: Copying and pasting
× Wrong: Copying whole paragraphs into your notes.
? Right: Summarise in your own words and record the source.
Mistake 2: Using only one source
× Wrong: Relying on a single website.
? Right: Cross-check facts using at least two reliable sources.
Mistake 3: Ignoring dates
× Wrong: Using outdated health data from 2001.
? Right: Prefer recent sources or note if information might be outdated.
Mistake 4: Missing bibliography
× Wrong: Finishing a project with no record of sources.
? Right: Keep a running list of references while you research.
Summary
- Plan keywords and questions before searching.
- Choose credible sources from experts or institutions.
- Record full bibliographic details and write notes in your own words.
- Cross-check facts across multiple sources.
- Avoid plagiarism by crediting every source you use.
Skills Checklist
- I can search efficiently using well-chosen keywords.
- I can judge whether a source is credible.
- I can take notes and record bibliographic details.
- I can compare information from different sources.