Encyclopedia

High school (ages 12+)
Thinking & Learning

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/encyclopedia

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the organizational principle?Alphabetical arrangement is common, supplemented by cross-referencing and, in digital forms, hyperlinking
2. What is the core function?To synthesize, organize, and disseminate comprehensive, authoritative information across diverse subjects
3. Why did people start making encyclopedias?People wanted to gather and share knowledge so that everyone could learn and think about ideas together.
4. How do encyclopedias help students?They give clear explanations, background information, and reliable sources that help students study and develop critical thinking.

Disseminate: To spread information widely and systematically.
Paradigm: A typical example or pattern of something; a model.
Algorithmic Bias: Systematic and repeatable errors in a computer system that create unfair outcomes.