Adela

I used the URL http://bestwebquests.com/ and went under the Business and Economics content area link for Middle Schools.  There was one webquest entitled Franchise.  I used the 6 elements webquest guide to critique this site.  

Website Name:  Franchise

http://projects.edtech.sandi.net/memorial/franchise/index.htm

URL:  http://bestwebquests.com/
Introduction

This project does encourage the students to use a higher order of thinking.  Not only do they have to do research, but they have to analyze and organize that research to make a decision and present it in a presentation to persuade others to follow their lead.  The layout is not eye catching.  There are very few graphics and no variation in layout.  I feel that the background interferes with the readability.  There are more than five links and they are throughout the webquest.  They are discussed in more detail in the resources section.  The introduction draws the reader and effectively prepares the students by foreshadowing what the project is about.

Task

This is a project incorporating a real world skill.  It is motivating, interesting, exciting, and aesthetic.  The task is related to standards and states what students must do to complete the project to standard.  The task require the students to analyze information, take a position, and present their information in such an appealing way that persuades others to jump on board with them.

Process

The steps are great and are very detailed.  The students are given different roles in the project.  There is an up to date link that helps to students with time management, group work, and collecting data.  The instructions are easy to follow.  The links to the information explaining franchises and business plans are not up to date.  It is good that the sample student business plan links do work so that the students can use the examples for models.  The outline does not work; therefore, they will have to create their own template. 

Resources

Again, the links for learning about franchises, the outline for a business plan, and the information on specific franchises do not work.  When you click on the links there is an error message or the website is not found.  They all appear to be relevant links and necessary for the project, but they are not accurate.  They may no longer be up to date.  

Evaluation Tool

The students will give a presentation to their classmates in an attempt to persuade them to choose their franchise.  There is a rubric given to make the students aware of the expectations of the teacher.  It provides guidance of what is needed to complete the project to standard.

Conclusion

The students are required to reflect back on what they have worked on.  The teacher gets feedback on the process to see how the students feel about it.  Again, they have to think about their feelings and express them here whether verbally or in writing.

WebQuest rubric: