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Q3 Web Site Evaluation Step 3

9. Web Site Evaluation

Is it a Hoax or Not? 

1. There are websites that are designed to fool people and make them think what they have posted is real. It is easy to fall for the hoax because they make their website look so real. They will even create articles about the topic and link to articles to make the site look legitimate. 

2. Test your knowledge using this popular hoax site. Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus

3. Please use the following form to evaluate the Tree Octopus website or another website that your teacher may choose for you. Check out these popular hoax websites as an alternative. 

4. Save the form to your File Space or return it to your teacher in Google Classroom.  

5. Many people pass scams and hoaxes on to others. Don't be part of the problem! 

  • Always evaluate the author and source
  • Be skeptical especially if something does not sound right
  • Check the sources on the website 
  • Don't forward until you fact check


Would you like learning more about evaluating web content?
Here are several resources to check out.

List of Popular Hoax Websites 

Fact Monster- research site for students

MITECS  Michigan Integrated Technology Competencies for Students, and

ISTE Standards for Students

1. Empowered Learner
a. Articulate and set personal learning goals, develop strategies leveraging technology to achieve them and reflect on the learning process itself to improve learning outcomes
b. Build networks and customize their learning environments in ways that support the learning process

2. Digital Citizen
b. Engage in positive, safe, legal and ethical behavior when using technology, including social interactions online or when using networked devices
c. Demonstrate an understanding of and respect for the rights and obligations of using and sharing intellectual property

3. Knowledge Constructor
a. Plan and employ effective research strategies to locate information and other resources for their intellectual or creative pursuits
b. Evaluate the accuracy, perspective, credibility and relevance of information, media, data or other resources
c. Curate information from digital resources using a variety of tools and methods to create collections of artifacts or solving authentic problems