First School Dictionary (First Picture Dictionaries)

Offers simple definitions of common words with sample sentences, illustrated guides to clothing, body parts, and other items, and lists of words about time, those used in questions, and other frequently-used terms.

Younger children can build their vocabulary with First School Dictionary, illus. by Stephanie Strickland and Sebastian Quigley. Each page features drawings and photographs and a vertical listing of the complete alphabet on the side. A section at the end offers lists of frequently used words, pronouns, etc.

Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

These are two entries in the Barron's Dictionaries for Children series. Both offer clear definitions often accompanied by colorful illustrations or photographs. The dictionaries reflect the sophistication and needs of the intended age group. First School Dictionary, designated for ages five and up, has larger print, fewer definitions, and cartoonlike illustrations. The guide words at the top of each page are highlighted in a yellow box. An alphabet line runs down the outer edge of each page, with the appropriate initial letter of the alphabet highlighted to help find definitions. Plurals and tenses are provided along with a definitions. To enhance the definition, a sample sentence might be provided.

Intended for children ages six and up, Junior Dictionary uses a smaller print size. There are more words defined and more sophisticated illustrations, including a greater number of photographs. In addition to definitions and spellings, the part of speech is provided, as are irregular forms of words, some pronunciations for homographs, and labels such as "formal," "informal," or "trademark."

Each book ends with supplemental pages that provide additional information in a visual format. Like the definitions, these pages reflect the intended audiences. For example, although both dictionaries have a page showing parts of the body, the child used as a model is younger in First Dictionary than in Junior Dictionary. The pages in First School Dictionary are illustrated by larger pictures, while the pages in Junior Dictionary include such features as grammar hints and vocabulary builders.

Smaller and more basic than other dictionaries serving the same age groups, these offerings might be considered as supplemental purchases by school and public libraries. RBB
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved