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Life Science Work-Text

Publisher: Amsco
Author: Milton S. Lesser
Review last updated: 2009		 Instant KeyPublishers InfoPricing

Life Science Work-Text

This life science book is an easier option than the BJUP Life Science. First of all, it is a worktext with instruction, lab activities, and questions all in one book. Each unit begins with lab activity. These include such things as microscope work, dissecting, fairly simple chemistry experiments, plant activities, physical tests, and growing cultures. Most of these should pose little difficulty for home use, although they require the acquisition of a microscope, specimens, and a minimal amount of lab equipment. Questions and charts for data recording are included with the lab activities.

Instruction is not as comprehensive as in the BJUP text, although it will be sufficient for junior high and, in some cases (i.e., special education or students functioning below grade level), for senior high.

Topics range from cells through a wide range of plants and animals, the human body (studied by body systems as well as under other headings), reproduction, heredity, genetics, energy for living things, food production, ecology, and conservation.

The book is illustrated, primarily with black-and-white line drawings. It is softbound and printed on inexpensive paper, both of which keep the cost very reasonable. You will need the answer key which is also very inexpensive.

The emphasis on lab activity (and the fact that it is right there at the beginning of each unit) makes this a good choice for Wiggly Willys who need hands-on involvement.

Evolutionary content offers some problems throughout the book, and particularly in a discussion about dinosaurs. The dinosaur feature is one of a number of "Science, Technology and Society" features scattered throughout the book. These are the most likely to expose worldview clashes such as the evolution/creation debate, and they can either be omitted or used for discussion without detracting from the course.

An answer key is available from Amsco for $3.

Pricing

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        • Instant Key

        • Learning Styles: all but especially Wiggly Willy
          Suitable for:            one-on-one or group with quite a bit of independent work
          Audience:           junior high or special ed high school
          Need for parent/teacher instruction:            high for lab work
          Prep time needed:           moderate to high for lab work
          Need for Teacher's Manual:  answer key only
          Religious perspective:           secular

        Publisher's Info

        • AMSCO School Publications, Inc.

          315 Hudson Street,
          New York, NY 10013-1085
          (212) 886-6500
          (800) 969-8398
          www.amscopub.com