Using Reference Sources

January 20114th Grade

Which one should I use?1. Almanac2. Atlas3. Dictionary4. Encyclopedia5. Library Database6. Science

Magazine7. Thesaurus

1. Almanac

Almanac

A book of facts (lists, tables, and articles) published annually.

Use it to look up weather forecasts, astronomy, population, and other statistical information.

Almanac Question

What was the number #1 news topic of 2008?

2. Atlas

Atlas

A book of maps.

Use it to find specific places (like a state, country, part of the world) as well as other information about these places.

Atlas Question

What is the largest country in South America?

3. Dictionary

Dictionary

Helps with words.

Use it to find definitions, spelling, pronunciation, and part of speech. Some will have a sample sentence.

Dictionary Question

What is the definition of obligation?

4. Encyclopedia

Encyclopedia

Gives general information and facts on people, places, things, and events.

Use it to research a general topic for a report.

Encyclopedia Question

How many kinds of ants are there?

5. Library Database

Library Database

Offers access to many types of online reference sources.

* Alabama Virtual Library*

Use it to research general and specific information on a topic.

Library Database Question

Who was Langston Hughes?www.avl.lib.al.us

6. Science Magazine

Science Magazine

A print publication with science-related articles.

Use it to read articles with up-to-date information. Also contains illustrations.

Science Magazine Question

Which insect does not have heart chambers?

7. Thesaurus

Thesaurus

Helps with finding words with similar meanings.

Use it to find synonyms and antonyms to make writing more varied.

Thesaurus Question

List two synonyms for the word knowledgeable.

QUIZ– Which reference source would you use…

1. to read about the history of Haiti.

2. to find out the meaning of the word earthquake.

3. to see where Haiti is.4. to find a word similar

to disaster. 5. to learn about the

current leader of Haiti.

6. to read about and see photos of the recent earthquake in Haiti.

7. to find out the population of Port-au-Prince.

A. ThesaurusB. EncyclopediaC. Library DatabaseD. DictionaryE. Science MagazineF. AtlasG. Almanac