Reference Source Adds Interactive Geography Tool
Grolier Online has introduced the latest addition to its America the Beautiful reference source. State-by-State is a new tool for grades 4 and up that allows students to learn about the United States in a fun, illustrative way. More than 1,000 colorful, easy-to-read, interactive articles provide the latest information about states, including history, economy, government, spotlights, teacher resources, geography, culture, cities, fast facts, Web sites and classroom activities. The full America the Beautiful online database also features facts on presidents, cities, natural wonders, profiles of important people in each state, Native American tribes, famous places, colleges and almanacs.
Students can use the source to compare and contrast events in history using 60 timelines that put everything into historical perspective using various methods, including a comparison of state events; the ability to link directly to articles from each state's timeline; and comparing American history to world history, science and technology, the arts or the printed word. America the Beautiful also features games, such as quizzes, picture puzzles and brainteasers, which help students retain the knowledge they gain.
Panoramas and audio slide shows make teaching and learning even more hands-on. Students can easily print the more than 2,500 photographs and 400 full-color interactive maps. In addition, students can access a variety of maps from those that illustrate topography, natural resources, historical events, population and economic pursuits. The site (www.go.grolier.com) is offering free access for two months. Just type in "top" for the user name and "dog" for the password. Grolier Inc., Danbury, CT, (203) 797-3500, www.gi.grolier.com.
This article originally appeared in the 11/01/2001 issue of THE Journal.