Choosing a Source (T.U.R.N.)

Lesson 5 in Detective Booksy's Library and Research Curriculum

Today, we’ll be solving a big mystery: how to choose the best source for your research. We’re going to use a secret tool called T.U.R.N., which will help you pick the most trustworthy sources. Ready to uncover the clues? Let’s get started!

What Is T.U.R.N.?

T.U.R.N. is a special acronym that helps you choose the best source for your research. Let’s break it down:

T stands for Trusty.

U stands for Useful.

R stands for Right.

N stands for New.

Each part of T.U.R.N. will help you evaluate whether a source is the right one for your research.

Trusty - Is the Source Reliable?

First, we look at Trusty. You want to choose a source that’s reliable.

Is the author an expert on the topic?

Is the website or publisher known for providing accurate information?

If it’s a book or article, check if it’s been reviewed or widely accepted as a good source.

Remember, detectives—reliable sources help us solve the mystery!”

Useful - Does It Help with Your Research?

Next, let’s look at Useful. We need a source that actually helps with your research.

Does it give you the right information?

Is the source detailed enough to answer your research question?

Does it explain things clearly and in a way you can use for your project?

If the source doesn’t help you solve your research mystery, it’s not the right one!

Right - Is the Information Accurate and Verifiable?

Now we check if the source is Right. Right means the information is accurate and verifiable.

Is the information correct?

Can you check the facts from other sources?

Does the source provide evidence, citations, or references to back up its claims?

We need to be sure the facts are correct, detectives!

New - Is the Information Recent?

Finally, we look at New. You want a source that’s up-to-date with the latest information.

How recent is the source?

Does it reflect current understanding or discoveries in the field?

Is it up-to-date with the latest facts or changes on the topic?

For example, in science, new information is always coming out—so a source needs to be recent to stay accurate.

Putting T.U.R.N. Into Action

Here’s how you can use T.U.R.N. when you’re looking at sources:

Ask yourself:

Is it Trusty—reliable and reputable?

Is it Useful—does it help with your research?

Is it Right—accurate and verifiable?

Is it New—recent and up-to-date?

Answer these questions and you’ll be ready to choose the best source for your research.

Great work today, detectives! You’re now experts at choosing the best sources for your research using T.U.R.N. Keep this tool in your mental detective kit as you tackle future research missions. See you next time—happy researching!

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