Comparing Search Engines with Subject Directories

COMPARING INTERNET SEARCH TOOLS

The purpose of this exercise is to allow you to investigate how subject directories and search engines

Differ. Log onto dir.yahoo.com, and then log onto www.google.ca . Complete the worksheet by using

the search strings listed along the top of the page. Fill in the number of hits in each cell of the worksheet.

Note: DO NOT USE QUOTATION MARKS FOR THE PURPOSE OF THIS EXERCISE.

PART A: SEARCH STRINGS

Search Parameters / Teen drug abuse / acid rain Canada / repetitive strain injury /

Canadian poets biography

Subject Directory
<dir.yahoo.com>

Search Engine

<www.google.ca>
<www.yahoo.com>

Advanced Search

Language- English
Language- English
Updated- 6 Months
Language- English
Updated- 3 Months
Language- English
Updated - 3 Months
Domain-Don’t/Only .com
Language- English
Updated- 3 Months
Domain- Only .org
Language- English
Updated- 3 Months
Domain- Only .edu

Student Name: ______

PART B: PERSONAL REFLECTION

In the space below, comment on the similarities and differences between Search Engines and Subject Directories. How does each work?

As well, elaborate on the advantages and disadvantages of each type of search tool. Make sure that you add your own ideas and opinions

to your commentary.