5th Grade Computer Class

Blackburne Library >> Middle School Pathfinders >> Encyclopedia Searching

Searching for information: Using Encyclopedias

Questions to think about:
What kinds of information can you find in encyclopedias?

Why are encyclopedias good sources to use?

How can you find articles in a print encyclopedia? and online encyclopedia?

How are the articles arranged?

How can I find the information I need?

Steps to take:
1. Decide what information you need to find

2. Choose some key words or search terms you can use for searching for your topic

3. Click the link for the online encyclopedias and re-enter your First Class ID and password

4. Choose an online encyclopedia

5. Enter the search terms in the search box

6. Locate the article about your topic

7. Notice parts of the article which are in bold print; is there an outline for your article? Are there illustrations such as maps, photographs or drawings?

8. Have you been able to locate three facts which you did not know before? Write them down on the form provided.

9. Is there an author listed for your article?

10. For your bibliography, write down the author's name (if there is one), title of article, title of encyclopedia, and the year it was published.