Teaching Systems Biology

Gr 10 Up—From the smallest part of an atom to the largest elephant, biology is explored in this entertaining, fast-paced program designed to pique the interest of students. Viewers are guided through seven modules, with three to seven chapters each, running the gamut from molecular and cellular biology through systems biology and ecology. Information is provided in a sequential manner, interspersed with humorous vignettes. Graphics and limited animation help to explain difficult concepts, and humor is used to make cross-curricular connections. Unusual examples also illustrate concepts. For example, blood-sucking and vegetarian vampires explain dominant and recessive homozygotes and heterozygotes. A separate CD contains a graphic organizer to promote active viewing, critical thinking questions to inspire cross-curricular learning, classroom activities, an answer key, and a video script. Each chapter can be used individually in a classroom setting to introduce a topic, offer supplemental information, or provide a review of material. Since so much information is covered in a short time, the actors speak quickly and occasionally are difficult to understand. Also, the sound quality of the video varies over the course of the presentation. Overall, though, this successful series can supplement the biology curriculum.—Ann Brownson, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston