Google Your Own Search Story

Everybody loves Google, but did you know you

can use it to tell a story? This contest will
challenge both your internet search skills AND
your ability to tell a good story! You can watch
examples of a search story here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnsSUqgkDwU

1) PLAN YOUR STORY:

Although they are short, search stories have many of the same elements in most stories:
Plot, characters, conflict, etc. As you plan your story, think about:

Characters: Who is going to be the “narrator” (or searcher) in your story? What does
s/he want to do? Will anyone else be involved? This will lead to....

Plot: Generally, you will tell your story in 5-7 different “searches.” What is going to
happen? Think in terms of cause/effect--what could happen or go wrong as a result of
the search and carrying it out? Make it funny. Make it sad. Make it about zombies. Your
imagination is the only limit! But try to build in details that get an emotional response
from your audience.

The Twist in the Tale/Tail: The best stories have a fun or surprising twist at the end, and
may even lead to the beginning of a new story (Think of the Parisian Love example).

2) THE SEARCH:
Show off your information literacy skills!

1. Use different types of search for interest: images, videos, maps, books, etc.

2. Refine your search and make it more specific using Google’s added search features.
You can find a list of them here:
http://www.google.com/landing/searchtips/
http://www.googleguide.com/advanced_operators_reference.html

3. Try your different searches on Google, to see what results you get. Add or change
words (or use the search tips above) to focus results.
3) RECORDING OPTIONS:
1) Use the Google SearchStory Creator. It’s super simple, but limits you to 7 searches,
doesn’t show the cursor, and doesn’t choose specific links.
http://www.youtube.com/user/SearchStories

2) If you want to show off your technology literacy, use ScreenToaster (doesn’t seem to
load at school) or Screencast-o-matic to record your own search on your computer. Save
the video to your desktop, then upload it to Garage Band (for Mac users) or into
aviary.com to add a music soundtrack. Save and submit to the contest!

UPLOAD via Google:

When Google prompts for your user account, use the following:

email:
password:

JUDGING CRITERIA:

Plot/Story......................10 pts
Tells an interesting or engaging story that leads to a satisfactory or surprising end.

Search Variety................5 pts

Story is “told” via a variety of searches--websites, maps, images, etc.

Search skill “extras”.......5 pts.

Search takes advantage of advanced search techniques such as “define” or
limiting the search to a specific domain.

All videos (either the link OR a file) MUST be submitted to Ms. Hurd by lunch
on Thursday, March 10th to be considered for the contest.