| HCC Library: Encyclopedias
Why Online Encyclopedias? Encyclopedias have always been a good starting point for research or for quick answers on any topic. Online encyclopedias still serve this purpose, and since they're online the information is regularly updated and always current. Another enhancement they offer is a link to reliable Web sites on your topic. An excellent source of downloadable pictures and video clips, online encyclopedias can help you create beautiful multimedia presentations. They are also a great place to learn about current events in a way that's easy to understand. The online encyclopedias listed here have for many years been publishing authoritative versions of this information, written just for students your age, in printed books. Try these online encyclopedias instead of Wikipedia. Which Encyclopedia? Each encyclopedia has different specialties and strengths. Also, some are written just for younger students, while others are for older students and contain much more detail. Read on to find out which is best for you. Encyclopædia Britannica Online http://school.eb.com/
Encyclopædia Britannica is world-renowned for its in-depth, scholarly information. The online edition is equally impressive. The above link allows you to search for encyclopedia articles across three reading levels or to select which level you want to search: elementary, middle, or high school. The detailed, scholarly articles are found in the high school version. A special feature of EB online is its links to magazine and journal articles and Web sites as well as many video clips and images. Grolier Online http://www.go.grolier.com/
Many of these Grolier encyclopedias are known for their child-friendly language and layout. The above link allows you to search the 6 encyclopedias below, all at once. You may also search these encyclopedias individually by clicking links below. - America the Beautiful contains historic and current information on each American state that is written for students in elementary and middle school.
- Encyclopedia Americana contains in-depth information on all topics, with particularly detailed articles on American history. Written for older middle and high school students and adults.
- Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia provides quick answers to all types of questions.
- Lands and Peoples contains country and cultural information for middle and high school students.
- The New Book of Knowledge covers all topics and is written for elementary and middle school students.
- The New Book of Popular Science is an encyclopedia of science and technology for middle and high school students. A special feature is its "Science in the News."
World Book Encyclopedia
http://www.worldbookonline.com/student/home
World Book has been the first stop for information for many American families for decades. It is written in plain English that is intended for a wide audience: both children and adults. Its extensive use of charts, timelines, and other graphics make the information even more accessible.
*Contact H.C. Crittenden Middle School's Library Media Specialist with any Questions or Comments | 
