Instructions

1. Start

Click START to begin. You'll be presented with a student’s topic area and a question to help brainstorm other ideas.

2. Reflect

Reflect on the example in green where a question modeled on one of the 5 W’s and 1 H (Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How) is being asked.

3. Select

Select the response that might best respond to the question.

4. Form Questions

Before moving on to the next question, consider how we might form other questions to help brainstorm topic ideas and strengthen the search.

5. Share Ideas

Be prepared to share your ideas of a different question to help this student.

6. Explore More

Click Next to tackle a new brainstorming challenge. Effective problem-solving requires practice, curiosity, and an open mind!

Brain Stormz game

Brain Stormz

Overview of the benefits of uses the 5 W's and 1 H

Using the 5 W’s and 1 H

Using the 5 W’s and 1 H helps identify key aspects of a topic, uncover knowledge gaps, and ensure a well-rounded, analytical approach to research. These questions encourage deeper exploration, source evaluation, and critical thinking—essential skills for developing strong, credible arguments.

1. Who? – Identifying the key individuals or groups involved in [topic/issue] helps us understand roles, responsibilities, and influences.

2. What? – Defining the core issue, object, or concept in [topic/issue] clarifies its nature, scope, and significance.

3. Where? – Determining the location, context, or setting of [topic/issue] helps us understand environmental and situational factors that impact it.

4. When? – Establishing the timing, sequence, or historical context of [topic/issue] allows us to see patterns, trends, and causal relationships over time.

5. Why? – Exploring the reasons, motivations, or causes behind [topic/issue] provides deeper insight into its origins and implications.

6. How? – Understanding the methods, processes, or mechanisms of [topic/issue] enables us to develop solutions, strategies, or improvements.

Associated Press. The Associated Press Stylebook 2017 and Briefing on Media Law. Edited by Paula Froke et al., 52nd ed., The Associated Press, 2017.

Games: Brain Stormz