What+is+the+Big+6?

**The Big6™**
Developed by Mike Eisenberg and Bob Berkowitz, the Big6 is the most widely known and widely used approach to teaching information and technology skills in the world. Used in thousands of K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and corporate and adult training programs, the Big6 information problem-solving model is applicable whenever people need and use information. The Big6 integrates information search and use skills along with technology tools in a systematic process to find, use, apply, and evaluate information for specific needs and tasks. (from The Big6 website)



**1. Task Definition**
1.1 Define the information problem 1.2 Identify information needed (to solve the information problem) o What is my current task? o What are some topics or questions I need to answer? o What information will I need?

**2. Information Seeking Strategies**
2.1 Determine all possible sources (brainstorm) 2.2 Select the best sources o What are all the possible sources to check? o What are the best sources of information for this task?

**3. Location and Access**
3.1 Locate sources (intellectually and physically) 3.2 Find information within sources o Where can I find these sources? o Where can I find the information in the source?

**4. Use of Information**
4.1 Engage (e.g., read, hear, view, touch) 4.2 Extract relevant information o What information do I expect to find in this source? o What information from the source is useful?

**5. Synthesis**
5.1 Organize from multiple sources 5.2 Present the information o How will I organize my information? o How should I present my information?

**6. Evaluation**
6.1 Judge the product (effectiveness) 6.2 Judge the process (efficiency) o Did I do what was required? o Did I complete each of the Big6 Stages efficiently?

The Big 6 website has many supporting links for teaching the various skills.

The "Big6™" is copyright © (1987) Michael B. Eisenberg and Robert E. Berkowitz. For more information, visit: www.big6.com Handout created by: Barbara J. Shoemaker, School Media Specialist, Mill Road Elementary, K-2 Red Hook Central School District, Red Hook, NY