Recognizes the need to find information to fill the gaps in his/her knowledge; begins to understand the value of finding information to support own ideas and opinions

Recognizes the value of using information to strengthen his/her own arguments; articulates focuses research questions

Articulates a focused research question; reevaluates it for clarity or precision; refines the question; considers the costs and benefits of completing a particular research project in light of available financial resources

Understands that there are differences among information sources; can search several kinds of sources to retrieve information

Identifies the most appropriate sources to answer the research question; develops effective search strategies that may be unique to each source

Understands how information is produced and disseminated; develops and implements a search strategy appropriate to the discipline

Reviews information retrieved to assess the reliability of each source; considers whether or not the amount of information is sufficient to address the issue

Reviews information retrieved to assess the reliability of each source; determines ways of modifying search strategies to ensure that information is sufficient to address the issue at a level appropriate for a senior

Reviews information retrieved to assess the reliability of each source; modifies search strategies to ensure that the information retrieved is as comprehensive as possible

Including: the learner achieves understanding, then incorporates selected information in his/her knowledge base and value system

Examines and compares information from various sources; determines the probable accuracy and reliability of the content; identifies and author's thesis and the basic structure of information; avoids immediate agreement or disagreement with the information

Analyzes information and evaluates point of view; considers contradictory information; recognizes prejudice, deception, or manipulation; compares new information with prior knowledge; draws conclusions based on the information retrieved; develops a critical response to the information

Understands the value of the information within a discipline or profession, its contradictions, the author's research methodology, and other unique characteristics; selects information that provides the evidence needed at a professional level; skillfully integrates new information with prior knowledge

Organizes content to support the purposes of the students product; develops topic in essay or other format; communicates cogently; can prepare an annotated bibliography; and uses the designated editorial style appropriately

Effectively organizes content in support of the purposes of a product, using multiple sources; chooses a communication medium that best supports the purposes of the assignment; and uses an editorial style appropriate to the specific discipline involved

Expertly organizes content in support of the student's product of performance; produces new knowledge in the discipline or develops new strategies as a practitioner; and considers the value of further research using alternative methods or strategies

Understand what plagiarism is and does not plagiarize; uses appropriate documentation style for citing sources

Observes copyright laws; understands issues of privacy, information security, censorship, and freedom of speech

Understands issues of intellectual property, copyright, and the fair use of copyrighted material, human subject research, and other emerging or reemerging ethical issues