Research Skills — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
I used the index to read the chapter titles before picking a topic.
Corrected: I used the table of contents to read the chapter titles before picking a topic.
The corrected sentence is: "I used the table of contents to read the chapter titles before picking a topic.". The original sentence "I used the index to read the chapter titles before picking a topic." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
2. Fix the sentence:
A dictionary is the best place to find a map of the United States.
Corrected: An atlas is the best place to find a map of the United States.
The corrected sentence is: "An atlas is the best place to find a map of the United States.". The original sentence "A dictionary is the best place to find a map of the United States." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
3. Fix the sentence:
To find out what the word habitat means, I should check the table of contents.
Corrected: To find out what the word habitat means, I should check the glossary.
The corrected sentence is: "To find out what the word habitat means, I should check the glossary.". The original sentence "To find out what the word habitat means, I should check the table of contents." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A reliable source gives facts that are true and can be trusted.
A reliable source provides accurate, trustworthy information that you can use in your research.
2. An encyclopedia is a book or website that has articles about many topics.
An encyclopedia contains articles about many different topics and is a good research source.
3. Before writing a report, you should first pick a topic to research.
The first step in research is choosing a topic that you want to learn more about.
4. A report paragraph should include a topic sentence and supporting details.
Supporting details are facts and examples that back up the main idea in your topic sentence.
Part C: True or False?
Read each statement. Circle True or False.
1. An index lists topics in alphabetical order with page numbers.
True False
An encyclopedia has articles about many different subjects and is a reliable research tool.
2. You should copy sentences word for word from a book into your report.
True False
You should always pick a topic first so you know what to look for in your sources.
3. A glossary is usually found at the back of a nonfiction book.
True False
A well-written report paragraph starts with a topic sentence and includes details that support the main idea.