Shorter school dictionary - John McIlwain

For children aged 10 and over, this best-selling practical dictionary contains all the dictionary features essential for today's upper primary users, plus built-in language support. Full definitions and examples give the user maximum guidance in understanding and choosing the correct word for their writing or reading.

Part of the new Children's Dictionary range from Collins, Collins Shorter School Dictionary has been especially designed to support the language and literacy needs of children aged 10+.

This thoroughly up-to-date dictionary supports National Literacy and Numeracy Strategy objectives and key vocabulary, and includes vocabulary for cross-curricular subjects such as science and geography. Special topic sections at the end of the dictionary provide even more support.

It develops and reinforces essential dictionary features such as extended entries with multiple definitions, parts of speech (verb, noun, etc), derivations and inflexions (plurals, comparative forms, tenses of a verb,etc), guidewords and related words.

It provides etymologies for words from both modern languages and cultures and more ancient origins. Synonyms and antonyms are highlighted for common and overused words. Word families are grouped together in word family boxes. Common prefixes and suffixes are highlighted and defined.

A step-by-step user's guide to the dictionary shows children essential features of the dictionary and how to use them. Appendices include wordbanks and grammar help.

Usage tips, fascinating facts and word games are provided thoroughout the dictionary to stimulate the user. The design and content has been carefully tailored to enable children to progress smoothly to using Collins New School Dictionary and Collins adult dictionaries.