Cool Science Biology Simulations
[Amdon Consulting PTE Ltd. 65-63466769 Singapore, Grades 9-12]     

     Cool Science Biology Simulations, the EDDIES winner for High School Science, is something of an endangered species: A relatively simple, narrowly focused tool designed for one discipline.

     Comprised of fourteen sections--Regulation of Body Temperatures, Enzymes, Nervous System, Respiration, Transpiration in Plants, Effect of Breathing Rate, The Human Eye, Photosynthesis, Regulation of Water Potential, Transport Systems, The Living Cell, Heart, Regulation of Blood Sugar, and Water Potential in Plant Cells (with a Teacher's Guide and Student Worksheets for each section) -- the program is, at first glance, a straight-forward lecture aid.  But, with its interactive animations which can be altered to illustrate different effects, changes over time and speed, all repeated with little effort, the program is a highly effective classroom tool.  Add the full color Guides and Worksheets for reinforcement and practice, and Biology Simulations is a valuable addition to the Biology classroom.

     However, we'd like to see the addition of audio, where appropriate, and perhaps some 'real-time' video, as well as links to relevant websites.  But until then, we wholeheartedly recommend Cool Science Biology Simulations.
   

TI-Nspire CAS
[Texas Instruments (713) 513-0519, Grades 9-12]

     Graphing calculators have become a ubiquitous part of higher achievement in math (as well as science).  They help teachers implement more effective strategies for engaging student interest, and promote a better understanding of scientific and mathematical applications in the real world.  But providing a calculator for every student in the classroom, and keeping them in good working order, has long been a problem without a cost-effective solution.

     Now instructors finally have a choice. TI-Npire CAS is a computer software package which performs just like a handheld, and is available for both Windows and Macintosh. It has the added feature of being able to explore, evaluate and simplify expressions, numeric problems and variables symbolically with CAS--Computer Algebra System.

     The software package includes TI-Npire Computer Software for Math and Science, guidebooks, classroom activities, tutorial videos and TI-Nspire Computer Link Software for use with the TI-Nspire handhelds.

     Texas Instruments has long been an industry leader, responding to the needs of math and science instructors with elegantly designed software and technology. TI-Npire CAS for High School Math is no exception.

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