Life Science

Here's an exciting way to learn important facts and get ready for a life science test. Marko the Pencil and his friend Bailey take learners on a fascinating journey to Marko's Super Science Station where it's easy and fun to grasp science concepts and boost test scores. This video covers photosynthesis, plant parts, butterfly lifecycle, plant and animal cells, food chains, food webs, and more. Meets the National Science Education Standards.

Kevin is a fifth-grader who actually enjoys taking science tests because he knows the perfect way to become well prepared. Even difficult science concepts can be easy to grasp with clear explanations and animations. Marko, a humanoid pencil, has just the right tips to help Kevin understand science, have fun, and get ready for tests.

Marko introduces Kevin to Bailey, a butterfly who is an expert in Life Science. Once they arrive at Marko's Super Science Station, the fun learning begins. Kevin gets ready for his life science test with lessons on plants and photosynthesis, and he has a chance to show off a few things his grandfather taught him about plant reproduction. There's even a surprise visit by legendary rocker "Rubbert Plant," who performs a medley of his hit songs about xylem and phloem cells.

Then, Bailey teaches Kevin about her favorite topic: the life cycle of a butterfly. Just as she is finishing the lesson, Bailey challenges Kevin to be a contestant on a game show about animal groups and characteristics.

After Kevin wins the game show to the crowd's delight, Marko shrinks everyone down to visit the Cellular Learning Center. Kevin gets the inside scoop on plant and animal cells and learns how they are similar and different. Marko gives Kevin (and everyone) a special treat by revealing where to find his secret recipe for an "edible cell model."

Our adventurers size things up to reach the Ecosystem Learning Center. Kevin learns all about food chains and food webs, and he comes to understand how organisms depend on one another to keep ecosystems in balance. Marko and Bailey also give lessons about genetic traits and adaptations.

Finally, when students are ready, they can join Kevin, Marko, and Bailey to take a practice Life Science test. Marko and Bailey coach Kevin on how to remember what he has learned and apply his knowledge to scoring high on life science tests. It's a great review for all that's been learned.

Awards: iParenting Media Award, 2009 Outstanding Product ; The National Parenting Center's Seal of Approval, 2009; #11 of 20 Top New Winners Fall 2009, Family.com; Coalition for Quality Children's Media, Kids First! Endorsement, 2009

"First of all, I have to confess that this DVD is not only my kids' current favorite, it's mine too! I was confident that my 9 year old son would enjoy it as he loves science. Not only was I right, even my 5 year old daughter was fascinated by the video. My kids constantly are telling me what they have, learned from Marko the Pencil and his friend Bailey. One day I am hearing what photosynthesis (big word for a 5 year old!) is all about and the next thing they are explaining plant cells. As a parent, what's really amazing is the DVD is meant for Grades 5 and Up but my younger kids are able to enjoy it and best of all, able to absorb the topics that are being taught. As a parent, I find this video visually pleasing in terms of color and animation, which is very important to retain the attention of younger kids. The characters in the video are fun and entertaining, while the music makes the content easier for the kids to remember. The practice tests are definitely a bonus as they reinforce the topics taught. As for the opinions of my kids, theyre watching Life Science over and over and over again. Need I say more?"—Elina, parentreviewers.com

Category:

• Learning & Education
• Animation

Tags:

• Rock 'N Learn
• life science
• standardized science test
• photosynthesis
• plant parts
• butterfly lifecycle
• plant cells
• animal cells
• food chains
• food webs
• Vic Mignogna
• Luci Christian
• edible cell model
• ecosystems
• pollination
• score high on a science test
• xylem
• phloem