Customer Reviews:
Makes the text disposable, depending on your goals........2007-03-04
First, let me say that, early on in the semester, I became disenchanted with the class I was using Campbell's book for (general biology). It was pretty evident that one of the main intentions of the class was to weed out students, and so I didn't find it very appealing; however, if you are unsure about which facet of biology you're interested in (or if you're interested at all), then the class might hold some value for you.
Taking that into consideration, I wanted to get what I need to know for the tests, and not waste anymore time. Taylor's study guide was perfect for this; it gives only what you need to know, and presents in a fashion such that the reader cannot be passive; i.e. its perfect for test preparation. I went from spending upwards of 10 hours a week reading and outlining Campbell's book to maybe 10-15 preparing the weekend before the test (about two days in the library), with equal results.
I must admit that I actually learned the material better when I was reading and outlining, but after asking myself to what end, I decided it wasn't worth it. This certainly isn't the only use of the study guide, but it worked for me, and I think it illustrates the power of this guide.
excellet aid.......2006-06-18
My AP Biology class used the Campbell textbook, and I purchased this study guide to read along with it. It's perfect for summarizing the text and it goes into detail which is probably needed for the class tests. I wouldnt advise that you rely on the study guide, however, it is an excellent review with some practice questions and charts in each section that match the textbook. It goes into great depth for it to be a good AP test prep book. If you are looking for a AP Bio prep book for the AP test, I recommend Cliffnotes. If your class is using the respective Campbell textbook, it's a great idea to have this as well.
this study guide helped me.......2004-08-13
This study guide helped to clarify information in my text that was unclear. By using this study guide it helped me to raise my grades in both of my college biology classes. Subjects liked ecology, the five kingdoms and energy pathways were explained with the reader in mind. I also found the following awesome for test preparation:
The Ultimate Study Guide for Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanations (Topics: Organization of Living Things & Chemistry of Life, Structure and Function of the Cell and Energy Pathways, Reproduction and Heredity, Genetics) Volume 1 by Patrick Leonardi
The Ultimate Study Guide for Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanations (Topics: Evolution, Kingdom Bacteria, Kingdom Protista, Kingdom Fungi, Viruses, Plant Form and Function) Volume 2 by Patrick Leonardi
The Ultimate Study Guide for Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanations (Topics: Kingdom Animalia, Organization of the Animal Body, Animal Form and Function, Animal Reproduction, Development and Behavior) Volume 3 by Patrick Leonardi
The first study guide is great for getting a clearer explanation for harder subjects like the Krebs cycle and genetics. However, the the last three study guide helped me to figure out what kind of questions would appear on my college exams. I was recommended these books from my cousin who took bio at another college. I'm glad I took his advice, they helped me a lot.
Excellent for test review, etc.......2003-11-15
My AP Biology course uses Campbell's Biology as its main text. I ordered the study guide to help me study for tests. When I do the reading, I use this study guide to read the short summary, then read the section in the book. So far, this strategy has been very effective. In addition, the multiple choice study questions at the end of each chapter is very helpful. This book presents the information in a very organized, logical, and concise way. I would recommend it to anyone.
Buy this guide.......2001-12-27
I used this book to help study for a very fast paced class at the University of Minnesota. I improved my grade from about 70% on the first exam, to over 90% on the second and about 95% on the final by using the book.
The text is simply too filled with information. I found it difficult to know what to focus on in my studying. And there are just too few sample questions in the back.
The study guide provides worksheet style exercizes to focus the student.
I think would be especially helpful for courses where they use a "test bank of questions to generate the exam.
Book Description
The Ph.D. Process offers the essential guidance that students in the biological and physical sciences need to get the most out of their years in graduate school. Drawing upon the insights of numerous current and former graduate students, this book presents a rich portrayal of the intellectual and emotional challenges inherent in becoming a scientist, and offers the informed, practical advice a "best friend" would give about each stage of the graduate school experience. What are the best strategies for applying to a graduate program? How are classes conducted? How should I choose an advisor and a research project? What steps can I take now to make myself more "employable" when I get my degree? What goes on at the oral defense? Through a balanced, thorough examination of issues ranging from lab etiquette to research stress, the authors--each a Ph.D. in the sciences--provide the vital information that will allow students to make informed decisions all along the way to the degree. Headlined sections within each chapter make it fast and easy to look up any subject, while dozens of quotes describing personal experiences in graduate programs from people in diverse scientific fields contribute invaluable real-life expertise. Special attention is also given to the needs of international students. Read in advance, this book prepares students for each step of the graduate school experience that awaits them. Read during the course of a graduate education, it serves as a handy reference covering virtually all major issues and decisions a doctoral candidate is likely to face. The Ph.D. Process is the one book every graduate student in the biological and physical sciences can use to stay a step ahead, from application all the way through graduation.
Customer Reviews:
The Ph.D. Process: A Student's Guide to Graduate School in the BIOLOGICAL Sciences.......2006-07-17
I'm coming to the end of my undergraduate studies (in PHYSICS!) and I was looking for some insight into what graduate school would be like to to try and figure out if a PhD is in the cards for me. This book is easy to read and FULL of useful tips. However the overwhelming majority of these nuggets of gold come from past PhD students in the medical/biological sciences. This began to get really annoying. I was constantly having to decide which comments to take onboard and which to leave behind (because I thought they wouldn't apply to me). As a result, I probably have in my head a very distorted picture of what grad school will really be like.
The title is very descriptive, it's just missing one word, but I suppose if they added it sales would drop significantly.
good roadmap, bad guide.......2005-11-20
The book definitely unfold the whole map of graduate school life, especially for (biological) science students. Many aspects and stages of doing science research and how to survive in graduate school are covered. However, the lack of insightful guidence is the main drawback of the book. Pointint out possible obstacles does not necessarily makes gradute students' lives easier. The interviews from (past) graduate students do help readers build up confidence because it is comforting to know many people suffer as they do now, but at the same time few specific steps or directions are NOT distilled by the authors. It's like everyone just talks their experiences without any conclusions.
For Science, Engineering, and Computer Science Grad Students.......2004-01-09
The following was copied from another website's review of The Ph.D. Process, and I think it describes the book perfectly:
Graduate school in science is not an experiential extension of undergraduate education, where the passing of a sufficient number of courses usually guarantees one a degree; nor is it medical school or law school, where there is a delineated and set curriculum. Ph.D students are actually pretty much on their own--and they will sink or swim depending upon their own interpretation of how the system works.
The purpose of this book is to provide students with some insight into this unusual system. The authors--each a Ph.D. in the sciences--reveal the generally unspoken "rules" of the game. They offer the secrets of survival and success: What should you discuss in your application essay? What types of research advisors should you avoid? What kinds of research projects should you never undertake? How hard do you have to work? Are grades important? What steps should you take now to make yourself "employable" when you finish? What decisions can make or break your career? How can you network in the scientific community? What goes on at the oral defense, and how can you prepare?
Described also is the daily experience itself: research life, classes, seminars, journal clubs, lab meetings, interactions with peers and professors, qualifying exams, professional meetings, oral exams, dissertation preparation, etc. Anxiety, frustration, and joy-- all normal responses to a grad student's life--are also examined. (In quotes sprinkled throughout the text, numerous past and present grad students relate their individual experiences and emotions during their doctoral training.) A separate chapter is devoted to the special problems of foreign students, strangers to our culture and educational system.
There are many intellectual and emotional challenges inherent to becoming a scientist. This book prepares students for each stage of the experience. They will learn what to expect--socially, psychologically, and academically!
What Grad School is Really Like.......2003-01-08
The PhD process is a great overview of graduate school in the sciences. It covers most basic topics such as choosing a type of school, applying, preliminary exams, comps, thesis work, etc. Of course each school does these things slightly differently, but the main points are there and the authors do a good job of pointing out where differences between programs are likely to turn up. This book also explains things that graduate programs aren't likely to advertise such as using students as `cheap labor' and what things to look for in an advisor other than interesting research. This is a fun to read honest book, and the anecdotes from current and past graduate students are the best part. I enjoyed reading them because so many of the same things have happened to me, and it's nice to know that I'm not alone.
I wouldn't say that I received any great insights from the book because I had some experience with academic labs before I applied to graduate school and had a pretty good idea of what I was getting into. I found it a little calming to read about others' experiences as I was waiting to get started. I think most students who apply to graduate school have already spent much time in labs with current graduate students so this might not be that useful to them as practical advise; however, I found this book to be an excellent resource for my parents. My parents had no idea what graduate school is like, and the fact that I'm at school all day and only go to class for an hour baffles them to no end. Reading this book helped them to understand the structure and goals of graduate school. Though I still don't think they understand journal club. (Why would anyone join that club? It doesn't sound like very much fun.)
I recommend this book to grad students for their parents or to undergraduates who aren't sure if graduate school is the right path for them. This book gives great insight into what graduate school is really like.
Required Reading.......2002-02-01
This book should be required reading for anyone applying to gradutate school in the sciences (physical or biological). A quick read of the text will give one plenty to think about before making the big decision. The earlier you read it the better off you will be. The most important reading regards selecting an advisor. I am in the process of completing my degree and in hind sight agree with the issues on which the author has choosen to focus.
Book Description
The book discusses planning research, writing a research proposal (whether for a formal proposal for thesis research, or for a research proposal for a funding agency such as the National Science Foundation), writing a research report (such as a graduate thesis, or a manuscript for publication in a research journal), and presenting research at research seminars and scientific meetings. The final chapter covers writing an effective CV. An appendix provides tips on how to write clearly. Throughout, the book is illuminated with personal examples from the authors' own experiences and there is a strong emphasis on problems associated with field studies. This concise guide is intended for students at all levels. The guidelines apply equally to independent projects for introductory biology, directed-study projects, undergraduate senior theses, master's theses, doctoral dissertations, and research aimed at publication.
Customer Reviews:
A great guide for Biology research.......2000-04-04
This thoughtful book is a great read for all biologists, from the budding greenhorn to the seasoned old-goat. Although directed at the behavioral sciences, many biologists will find the enlightening but terse chapters a helpful framework when designing a future study (or refining one already underway). The first chapter is a concise explanation of scientific epistemology (a sorely neglected topic in academia) and how to design a study which will actually provide scientific knowledge; this chapter will be invaluable to young graduate students as it outlines how to find a problem and how to both formulate and test a model. Subsequent chapters outline (in a more tutorial fashion) how to: write research proposals, write research reports, present research and write a curriculum vitae. These discussions and instructions, coming from authors who have served on numerous reviewing agencies (both funding and scientific reporting) will certainly contain nuggets valuable to researchers at all levels. This book has served to re-focus my energies in more productive directions, and I sincerely think it will do similarly for other biologists.
Customer Reviews:
Quick study buddy.......2007-05-14
Awesome comprehensive study guide that aids in getting through the material in a nutshell!
Book Description
Designed for a one or two semester non-majors course in introductory biology taught at most two and four-year colleges. This course typically fulfills a general education requirement, and rather than emphasizing mastery of technical topics, it focuses on the understanding of biological ideas and concepts, how they relate to real life, and appreciating the scientific methods and thought processes. Given the authors' work in and dedication to science education, this text's writing style, pedagogy, and integrated support package are all based on classroom-tested teaching strategies and learning theory. The result is a learning program that enhances the effectiveness & efficiency of the teaching and learning experience in the introductory biology course like no other before it.
Customer Reviews:
WileyPlus Registration Code.......2007-09-15
If you're trying to purchase this textbook used, and your instructor is using the online WileyPlus supplement, be sure to ask the seller if they're including a WileyPLus registration code. From what I've seen most either don't include it or don't even know about it. The textbook sells for around $120 brand new, and I think that comes with the code. If not, the code costs about $50 on the WileyPlus website. So if you're looking to pay $30 to $40 and thinking you're getting a great deal, you may be surprised by a hidden cost. Again, this all depends on if you're going to be using the online supplement, but just be warned. I wasn't happy with the surprise.
A highly recommended reference and teaching tool.......2003-02-14
Now in an updated and expanded third edition, Biology: Understanding Life by Sandra Alters is an impressively organized and presented instructional text which is adaptable to high school or college curriculums, and is eminently suitable for classroom work, home schooling, or for independent study. Color photos enhance a clear and precise text which includes exercises and a solid coverage spanning a wide variety of topics including human genetics, development before birth, evolution issues, the nervous system, senses and hormones, and a great deal more, making Biology: Understanding Life an essential and highly recommended reference and teaching tool.
A Good Introduction to Biology.......2000-04-09
This book is an attractive package that invites the reader to dive in. Not only does it discuss basic biological concepts but mentions concepts that are in the news today, such as genetic engineering and DNA sequencing.
Although the introduction implies that it's appropriate for college-level courses, I think it could be used at the high-school level, too, especially since someone taking this course at the college level is someone who probably never took introductory biology in high-school, so the only difference between what would be covered in the college course and the high-school course is the number of chapters covered.
The book begins with an introduction to some basic concepts of life (what is biology? what are characteristics of life? how are forms of life classified? what are molecules? what is an organic molecule?) and then moves onto sections covering the structure of cells, systems in the human body and those of other animals. Next, it covers genetics, evolution, the five kingdoms, and social interaction of organisms.
I was surprised to see so much coverage of human anatomy (with many color drawings and some photographs, too) in a general introduction to biology (after all, biology is more than just humans), but I guess that the author included that to keep the reader interested, since it helps to relate each biological concept to a machine the reader already possesses---his body (see goal #3 below).
The goals that the author sets out for the text are these:
1. Help students understand biological concepts
2. Offer a range of visual learning aids to meet students' diverse learning styles
3. Make biology relevant to student's daily lives
4. Help students gain an understanding of scientifc processes
5. Review, test and assess student understanding
6. Integrate every aspect of the text into a comprehensive teaching package
The author meets each of these goals, and, particularly, the writing style and illustrations help to meet goal #2, in that, I believe, the author has specifically avoided complex sentence structure in order to make the text accessible to students with weak reading skills. That's probably good, and it further supports my contention that the book is good for college and high-school students alike to read. Also, there are lists of relevant vocabulary words at the end of each chapter, and a glossary in the back of the book.
I like the book and will continue to refer to it myself to refresh some of my own biology knowledge.
Customer Reviews:
Almost a Brand New Book.......2007-02-07
The seller had sent the book in time, which has been well kept and almost like new. however the CD which comes along with the book was missing.
If you are an AP Biology student using the textbook, GET THIS..........2005-12-30
...This IS a condensed textbook, with great detail and review. THis is not intended to be an AP exam prep book, but it sure CAN be, it just has a LOT of detailed not required on the College Board examination. The concept maps and INTERACTIVE questions are the BEST review because I am a visual learner. As long as you're up to the challenge, be sure to check out this book, as well as an AP prep book (Cliffsnotes, Barron's, and Princeton Review). Peace and good luck.
If you are an AP Biology student using the textbook, GET THIS..........2005-12-30
...This IS a condensed textbook, with great detail and review. THis is not intended to be an AP exam prep book, but it sure CAN be, it just has a LOT of detailed not required on the College Board examination. The concept maps and INTERACTIVE questions are the BEST review because I am a visual learner. As long as you're up to the challenge, be sure to check out this book, as well as an AP prep book (Cliffsnotes, Barron's, and Princeton Review). Peace and good luck.
Biology: Student Study Guide, Sixth Edition.......2005-09-05
It's a condense textbook basically ,covering everything you need to know about the textbook, although it shouldn't be anyone's substitute to the text, the study guide provides a good guide to what to know and expect on exams. It also offers more questions to practice and to familiarize yourself with, and that always helps.
Very good study guide for college biology.......2004-08-29
This is a good study guide for reviewing the essential topics in college bio. It is a good resource that helped me to learn bio. If you really want a great source for knowing the type of questions to expect on your college biology exams get the following by Patrick Leonardi: The Ulimate Study Guide for Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanations Volume 1 (Topics: Organization of Living Things & Chemistry of Life, Structure and Function of the Cell and Energy Pathways, Reproduction and Heredity, Genetics)
Volume 2 (Topics: Evolution, Ecology, Kingdom Bacteria, Kingdom Protista, Kingdom Fungi, Viruses, Plant Form and Function)
Volume 3 (Topics: Kingdom Animalia, Organization of the Animal Body, Animal Form and Function, Animal Reproduction, Development and Behavior)
Taylor's study guide and the Leonardi's study guide helped me with college biology, made my life a lot easier.
Product Description
Student Study Guide to accompany "Microbiology, 5th edition."
Customer Reviews:
Very good study guide, helped me to learn college biology.......2005-01-09
This is a good biology study guide for college bio. I studied this book along with my biology textbook, which was a little harder to understand--especially subjects on heredity. Liebaert's Student Study Guide for Biology helped me to comprehend subjects in biology at a fast pace--very good for time management since I have like 5 other classes. For really good test questions, I highly recommend "The Ultimate Study Guide for Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanation" vol 1, vol 2, & Vol 3 by Patrick Leonardi. Another additional reference that I also found helpful was Biology: The Easy Way by Gabrielle Edward.
Books:
- The Basics of Bioethics
- The Cooperative Gene: How Mendel's Demon Explains the Evolution of Complex Beings
- The Diversity of Life
- The Double Helix: A Personal Account of the Discovery of the Structure of DNA
- The Expanded Family Life Cycle: Individual, Family, and Social Perspectives (An Allyn & Bacon Classics Edition) (with MyHelpingLab) (3rd Edition) (Allyn and Bacon Classics Edition)
- The Fiber35 Diet: Nature's Weight Loss Secret
- The Human Body (An Illustrated Guide to Its Structure, Function, and Disorders)
- The Last Town on Earth: A Novel
- The Man Who Fell to Earth (Del Rey Impact)
- The Mature Mind: The Positive Power of the Aging Brain
Books Index
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Biology
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Biology
Biology, Sixth Edition
CliffsAP Biology (Cliffs)
Biology: Student Study Guide, Sixth Edition
The Ultimate Study Guide For Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanations (Topics: Origin of Living Things & Chemistry of Life, Structure and Function of the Cell & Energy Pathways, Reproduction and Heredity, Genetics) Volume 1
