Question Everything! An Investigator’s Toolkit

This is a well thought out, interesting book which will encourage children to ask questions and think for themselves about the information they encounter.

Each double page spread covers a different aspect of the theme, for example showing how the same news story can be written in different ways and how scary headlines might sensationalize an event. Key concepts such as the difference between facts and speculation and bias are clarified and how to spot different types of fake news. Each page offers examples, poses questions and reassures.

Key words such as ‘disinformation’, ‘endorse’ and corroborate are highlighted and there is also a glossary included at the back of the book.

Question Everything provides guidance for children on how to go about their own research, understanding the difference between a primary and a secondary source, the importance of checking sources and facts to ‘corroborate’ your story and how to put ideas into your own words.

The format reflects the message that information can be presented in varied ways. It is highly accessible with a clear layout.

This slim volume provides a very useful guide designed to help children develop critical literacy skills and navigate the amount of information we are bombarded with. There is guidance on how to avoid being drawn into unpleasantness on social media and ways to stay safe online. It is interactive and includes activities throughout, such as how to find up to date information or write a news story and even suggesting having a 1980s party, ie with no possibility of taking ‘selfies’!