Activity 4.1
Using Search Engines

To complete this activity about search engines, you need to familiarize yourself with a Web browser, either Netscape or Microsoft Internet Explorer. If you use Netscape, a search engine will come up, but you can choose alternatives by simply clicking on those listed on the left-hand side of the page or by scrolling down to find others. Usually, they display an empty search box. Place the pointer in the box, click, and type in keywords related to your subject. Click on Search or simply touch the Enter key, and a list of sites will appear. Be sure to try a variety of search engines while completing this assignment, and be sure to note the procedures for entering keywords and phrases because they differ in some cases.

1. Use a search engine to find a Web site for an interest group. (You might start by searching for a topic or issue that interests you to see if you find sites for groups concerned with that topic.) Answer the following questions with information from the Web site.
   1. What is the name of interest group?
   2. What is the Web address (URL)?
   3. With what issues is the group concerned?
   4. What information does the Web site provide on how to join the organization?
   5. How is the interest group using the Web site to employ a grass roots or information strategy?
2. Use a search engine to find a site that gives information about a state government agency.
   1. Describe how you found the site.
   2. What is the Web address (URL)?
   3. Describe one piece of interesting or useful information found on the site.
   4. Provide a general description of information on the page.
3. Where in cyberspace would you find information about the following? (Give specific addresses, and be prepared to discuss the steps you took to find the address.)
   1. The United States Constitution
   2. The Federalist Papers
   3. The United Nations Charter
   4. The text of the War Powers Act passed by the U.S. Congress
   5. Information on the People's Republic of China
   6. The U.S. president's daily schedule
   7. Where to buy CDs over the Internet
   8. The cheapest airline fares between Boston and San Diego
   9. Your favorite news magazine
   10. News about your favorite musical group