Cited!: Identifying Credible Information Online (Digital and Information Literacy)
Digital And Information Literacy Series
on Goodreads (9)
What’s inside...
The book 'Cited!: Identifying Credible Information Online' by Larry Gerber is a comprehensive guide that helps readers navigate the complexities of digital literacy by providing practical strategies to assess the credibility of online sources. It covers topics such as the importance of peer review, recognizing bias and propaganda, and employing critical thinking skills. The book also highlights the use of reputable databases and fact-checking tools to verify information. Aimed at students, educators, and the general public, it empowers readers to make informed decisions about the information they encounter on the internet. The skills gained from this book are crucial for students' academic life beyond junior high and high school, enabling them to distinguish valid, factual information from unsourced statements, misinformation, and falsehoods.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-13
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways you can tell if the information you find online is trustworthy?
Why do you think it's important to check the credibility of digital information?
How might sharing unreliable information affect other people?
Can you think of a time when you or someone you know encountered misleading information online? What happened?
What steps will you take in the future to make sure the information you use is credible?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal anecdote about encountering misinformation online, emphasizing the consequences and learning outcomes.
Encourage your child to express their opinions and thoughts freely, validating their feelings and building trust.
Use examples from the book to illustrate key points, and ask your child how they could apply these lessons in real-life scenarios.
Keep the discussion interactive by asking follow-up questions based on your child’s responses, promoting deeper thinking and understanding.
Praise your child’s efforts to understand the importance of credible sources, reinforcing their learning and boosting their confidence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: The book teaches children how to differentiate between credible and non-credible information online, fostering an analytical mindset.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this skill to assess the reliability of information found in homework, projects, or general browsing.
Example Lesson: Research skills
Explanation: Through engaging examples, children learn the importance of cross-checking facts and sourcing information from reputable sites.
Real-World Application: This empowers them to conduct thorough research for school assignments or personal knowledge acquisition, ensuring they base their conclusions on solid evidence.
Example Lesson: Internet safety
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of being cautious about sharing personal information online and recognizing safe digital spaces.
Real-World Application: Children can use these lessons to navigate social media and other online platforms more safely, protecting their personal information.
Example Lesson: Ethical online behavior
Explanation: It discusses the consequences of spreading false information and encourages responsible online communication.
Real-World Application: This lesson guides children to become conscientious digital citizens who contribute positively to online communities.