Trash-N-Treasure Note-taking

Note-taking is like going on a treasure hunt. The pirate's treasure map itself is like the article or chapter of the book containing information about the topic. The X on the map, which marks the exact location of the buried treasure, is the section containing the needed information or answers to your questions. Just like the pirate must dig for the treasure chest, tossing aside dirt, weeds and rocks (trash), a researcher must dig to find words that help answer the questions (treasure words). "Toss aside" any unnecessary sentences, phrases, and words (trash words). These words are not trash to the original source, only to the researcher because they do not answer the questions.

Taking Good Notes

1. Decide what you want and need to know. (use your assignment to choose keywords and sub-topics)

2. No full sentences unless using a direct quote. Write just the details in chosen format.

3. Put details under correct sub-topic - one topic per card or column.

4. Add additional special topics as needed.

5. Refer back to your assignment often to help choose important details and fill in any gaps in your research.

6. Write down complete Works Cited information before moving to next resource including page numbers. PRINT NEATLY.

7. Choose your next resource and continue following these steps.