What are the factors that determine the “ecological footprint” of human beings? Using examples from around the globe, this video looks at how the world’s resources are consumed by populations at different levels of economic and technological development. What does this mean for the future, considering current trends in the size, distribution and consumption patterns of the global population? The video stresses the importance of ecological sustainability, and prompts students to think about the opportunities and obstacles surrounding the adoption of sustainable practices.
Subjects: Biology
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Medical Scientists at Work
3 videos of Scientists at work. Topics include BUG MEDCINE – Scientists are collecting insects and other bugs to see if they contain chemicals that will be useful for medicines; DATING WITH DNA – Scientists look at how some diseases can be carried on DNA and how this can be inherited; OLYMPIC FLU – How Scientists developed a vaccine that can work with any variety of flu.
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Mendelian Genetics
In the 19th Century, Gregor Mendel was able to work out the basic laws of genetics by studying the garden pea. We look at the experiments Mendel conducted, his results, and the conclusions that he drew from these results, including: the Law of Segregation; the Law of Independent Assortment.
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Mechanisms of Evolution
Mechanism of Evolution covers the 3 main mechanisms of evolution, Genetic Drift, Mutation and Natural Selection. By modelling the process using counters, it unlocks the mechanical process of evolution.
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Infectious Diseases
This comprehensive two-part video examines our knowledge of the causes and controls of infectious diseases. The contents include: historical introduction; causes of infectious diseases; disease agents; disease transmission; controlling infectious diseases; the response to infection; vaccination; disease prevention; treatment. The video ends with a cautionary note about the ongoing challenges we face in managing infectious diseases around the world.
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Gene Tech Tapes – Pt 5
Featuring leading international ethicists and scientists, this compilation of interviews canvases key ethical issues in the controversial world of new agricultural genetic technologies. Topics include the question of regulation; genetic foods are needed to help feed the world; should we label genetically modified foods; risks to health and environment.
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Gene Technology – Part 1
The history of observations of Mendel to the discovery of DNA by Watson and Crick.
The function of DNA, chromosomes, genes and protein replication, and how research into genetics has led to the development of gene technology. How bacteria are engineered to mass-produce substances like insulin. Cloning and the importance of the human genome project. -
Gene Technology in Agriculture
Topics include specific technologies designed to improve potatoes & tomatoes; the issue of genetically modified food; environmental risk and labeling; how scientists have improved sheep wool through gene technology.
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Gene Tech Tapes – Pt 4
Featuring leading international ethicists and scientists, this compilation of interviews canvases key ethical issues in the controversial world of new genetic technologies. Topics include understanding the human genome; science ethics and the law; genetic testing, information and discrimination; “Building” Life Forms.
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Cell Processes
Same topics as our video THE CELL but instead of animation it is all through the microscope. Topics covered: cell membrane, cytoplasm, mitochondria, chloroplast, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi body, phagocytosis, pinocytosis, lysosome, ribosome assembly, vacuole, turgor pressure, nucleus, nucleolus, cytoskeleton, actin, microtubule, mitosis.