Since it is April 1st…
We all know the importance of teaching children to be critical of information and to question its reliability. With the whole issue of e-safety it is even more important that children realise that just because something is on screen, doesn’t automatically make it true or accurate.
Unit 5C of the QCA scheme of work is a great place to really focus on this issue. However, it is important that children are made aware of these issues earlier. A great way to do this is the use of bogus websites. The following are a list of bogus/hoax websites that at first glance are very convincing. It might be interesting to allow the children to explore and use one of the websites without telling them it’s a hoax site. Perhaps as part of a study of non-fiction texts they could research the Tree Octopus to evaluate an on screen text. Or incorporate the Explorers website in a list of other ‘real’ websites that children use to investigate and gather information. After a while, ask them how they feel about what they’ve found out.
Velcro Harvest – information about California’s Velcro crop which is being affected by drought and disease.
Pacific Tree Octopus – fascinating and detailed information about the endangered and rare Pacific Tree Octopus with amazing pictures.
Dog Island – A sanctuary for unwanted dogs. Check out the wonderful photographs of the dogs now free and happy.
All about explorers – Discover some facts about the world’s greatest explorers – many of which aren’t wildly known!
Boilerplate – discover the amazing Victorian mechanical man. A very detailed website with amazing details and early photographs.
Buy Dehydrated Water – sign up for a free sample and discover more about this amazing product.
Porthemnet Beach – the world famous Cornish beach that hit the headlines last year.
As usual, please check websites carefully before using them to ensure suitability for the children you’re using them with.
