Lesson 2 - Internet Search Engines
Lesson 2 - Internet Search Engines
Lesson 2 - Internet Search Engines
Objectives:
Teachers should be able to use a search engine (UNESCO ICT-CFT, TL.4.f).
In Module 1, Unit 1, you learnt the basics about the Internet and searching. You were given
an opportunity to complete a basic activity on searching the WWW. In this unit you are going
to build on this knowledge by developing an understanding of Boolean logic and the way in
which it can be used to refine searching skills and techniques.
The best way to refine your searching skills and techniques is to ensure that you understand
the basics of Boolean logic. Take some time to understand the basics by reading through the
resources below.
Boolean Logic
The Internet is a vast computer database. As such, its contents must be searched according
to the rules of computer database searching. Much database searching is based on the
principles of Boolean logic. Boolean logic refers to the logical relationship among search
terms, and is named for the British-born Irish mathematician George Boole. On Internet
search engines, the options for constructing logical relationships among search terms often
modify the traditional practice of Boolean searching1.
1
Cohen, L. (2011). Internet tutorials – your basic guide to the internet. Retrieved from
http://www.internettutorials.net/.
1
MODULE 2: CURRICULUM & ASSESSMENT
Now that you have an understanding of Boolean Logic, you need to know how it can be
applied in order to generate successful search results.
We've explored some basic search techniques and these should cover many of your search
needs. Yet there is much more available. Many search engines offer a variety of other options
to help you retrieve the results you want. Google, in particular, offers all kinds of specialty
searches.
Complete the following sections of the Google Guide interactive tutorial ‘Part I: Query Input’:
Interpreting Your Query [CC BY-NC]
Crafting Your Query [CC BY-NC]
Google’s Advanced Search Form [CC BY-NC]
Using Search Operators [CC BY-NC]
2
Cohen, L. (2011). Internet Tutorials – Your Basic Guide to the Internet. Retrieved from
http://www.internettutorials.net/.
3
Blachman, N, & Peek , J. (2008). Google guide - experienced users. Retrieved from
http://www.googleguide.com/experienced_users.html.
2
MODULE 2: CURRICULUM & ASSESSMENT
1. Visit www.google.com and type in the following search terms. In the results column, list
the title of the first three results that come up.
AND logic
Search Terms Results
Poverty 1.
2.
3.
Crime 1.
2.
3.
poverty AND crime 1.
2.
3.
2. Visit www.google.com and type in the following search terms. In the results column, list
the title of the first three results that come up.
OR logic
Search Terms Results
College 1.
2.
3.
University 1.
2.
3.
college OR university 1.
2.
3.
college OR university OR campus 1.
2.
3.
4
Alabama Dept. of Education. (2011). Alabama learning exchange. Retrieved from
http://alex.state.al.us/lesson_view.php?id=11203.
3
MODULE 2: CURRICULUM & ASSESSMENT
Visit www.google.com and type in the following search terms. In the results column, list
the title of the first three results that come up.
NOT logic
Search Terms Results
Cats 1.
2.
3.
Dogs 1.
2.
3.
cats NOT dogs 1.
2.
3.
3. Go to www.google.com and type in the following search terms. In the results column,
list the title of the first three results that come up.
4. Go to www.google.com and type in the following search terms. In the results column,
list the title of the first three results that come up.
4
MODULE 2: CURRICULUM & ASSESSMENT
5. Go to www.google.com and navigate to the advanced search section. Type ‘apple’ in the
‘all these words:’ search field and ‘mac’ into the ‘any of these unwanted words:’ search
field.
5.1 Which operator do you think the Google Advanced Search is making use of?
A: AND
B: OR
C: NOT
D: NEAR
Resources:
Cohen, L. (2011). Internet Tutorials – Your Basic Guide to the Internet. Retrieved from
http://www.internettutorials.net/.
Blachman, N, & Peek, J. (2008). Google Guide – Experienced Users. Retrieved from
http://www.googleguide.com/experienced_users.html.
Alabama Dept. of Education. (2011). Alabama Learning Exchange (ALEX). Retrieved from
http://alex.state.al.us/lesson_view.php?id=11203.