WGBH Boston

Appropriate for grades 4-8 this magazine-style video presentation goes behind the scenes of complicated, contemporary scientific theories and research projects, which students can easily relate to and understand. Each fast-paced episode of NOVA ScienceNOW increases awareness and understanding of cutting-edge science theory while encouraging student engagement in varied science-related activities. Episode #4: "Picky Eaters, Capturing Carbon, Sea Lions and Walruses and Profile: Sangeeta Bhatia," profiles a scientist whose interest in science was sparked at a very young age. She continues to encourage young, female students to engage in scientific inquiry. The episode also showcases the participation of an entire 8th grade class in a DNA experiment on taste preferences. Providing teachers with the ability to choose from varying topics that relate to current classroom projects- not all chapters in each episode include a solution to the problem proposed, which provides students with the opportunity to develop their own solutions. Teaching materials included on each DVD provide examples of classroom activities and resources that correlate with the topics. Hosted by Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, respected scientist and author, this comprehensive video series explores current topics that students involved in a school’s science fair will find interesting and informative.… (meer)