Library Videos
Following is the list of videos at the Educator Resource Center and Lyman Library, organized by subject. All media can be borrowed for two weeks, and no more than three videos can be borrowed at one time. If you would like to reserve a video, contact us: 617-589-0174, lymanlibrary@mos.org. We hold the reserved media behind the circulation desk for up to two weeks.
Ancient Civilizations and Archaeology
How Do You Know? Dig It Up! (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) Anthropologists study people - where they live, what they eat, their customs, and social relationships. Grades 3 - 6.
Ice Mummies: Siberian Ice Maiden (60 min. Nova) The Siberian Ice Maiden is one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. She was found meticulously embalmed, dressed and adorned in her tomb on a plateau in Central Asia. Viewers can see a rare glimpse of her life and death. Grades 7 and up.
Mummies Made in Egypt (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film includes a visit to Boston's Museum of Fine Arts. Grades K - 3.
Mysteries of Egypt (90 min. National Geographic) A grandfather enchants his granddaughter with tales of tombs and treasures. Travel back more than 4,000 years to a time when the Great Pyramids of Giza were built. Grades 4 and up.
Mystery of the Maya (38 min. IMAX) This video explores the culture, science, and history of the civilizations who lived deep within the jungles of Mexico and Guatemala. Grades 7 and up.
Pollution Solutions/Archaeology (42 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill demonstrates how important it is for all humans to prepare for the future by recycling, researching, and developing innovative solutions - from cleaning our water to cleansing our air - to combat this "way UN-cool" worldwide problem. Part 2: Bill digs into the fascinating science of archaeology, the study of those who lived before us. Grades 3 - 8.
This Old Pyramid (60 min. Nova) Pyramid construction theories are put to the test. Grades 4 and up.
The Quest for Immortality in Ancient Egypt (12 min. National Gallery of Art Dept. of Exhibition Programs) This version is the 12-minute overview of the exhibition, entitled The Quest for Immortality in Ancient Egypt, and its artifacts.
Animals
Africa: The Serengeti (30 min. Houston Museum of Natural Science) Once a year, in the time of drought, about two million herd animals like antelopes travel north to feed and mate before moving south again, when plants there begin to blossom. Narrated by James Earl Jones. Grade 6 and up.
African Safari (30 min. National Geographic Society) Witness the realities of survival in this vivid encounter with the animal world. This film was recorded in Namibia's Etosha National Park over the course of two years, capturing extraordinary close-ups of animal behavior. Grades 6 and up.
America's Endangered Species: Don't Say Goodbye (60 min. National Geographic) Two photographers travel the country capturing endangered species on film. Grades 4 and up.
Amphibian (35 min. Eyewitness) This film explores the world of frogs, toads, and salamanders. Grade 2 - 6.
Amphibians/Invertebrates (47 min. Bill Nye) Bill Nye answers great questions like "What does the Greek word amphibian mean?" and "Are all insects invertebrates?" 2 Parts. Grades 3 - 8.
Animal Interdependency (23 min. Schlessinger Media) This film delves into the complex relationships between living things. Grades 5 - 8.
Antarctic Wildlife Adventure (60 min. National Geographic) Two naturalists and their sons set sail on a 50-foot schooner to explore rocky coasts, azure blue seas, towering icebergs and the wildlife of the Antarctic peninsula. Grades 2 and up.
Ape (35 min. Eyewitness) Narrated by Martin Sheen, this film explores the entire primate family. A chimp is your guide through this animal adventure. Grade 5 and up.
Arctic and Antarctic (35 min. Eyewitness) Narrated by Martin Sheen, this film explores the polar habitat and animals that live in it. Grade 5 and up.
Awesome Animal Builders (46 min. Really Wild Animals) Animals use their own bodies as tools to build houses in this video, which also explores migrating animals across the globe. Grades K - 3.
Bats of America (14 min. Bat Conservation International) Learn about the many species of bats in America and how they migrate, hunt, and rear their young. Also explore how bats are a vital role in our environment and what is being done to preserve them. Grades 10 and up.
Bats: Myths and Reality (16 min. Bat Conservation International) This film squashes the myth that bats are fearsome by introducing over 40 species of bats and showing you their majestic and important lifestyles. Grades 10 and up.
Bear (35 min. Eyewitness) This film is all about the nature and legends of the almighty bear. Grades 5 and up.
Bear Cubs, Baby Ducks, and Kooky Kookaburras (33 min. Geo Kids) This film features baby animals, count-to-ten, and stingrays. Grades Pre-K.
Beavers (31 min. Imax) This film follows a family of beavers as they live and grow in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Grades K and up.
The Biggest Bears! (22 min. Skyriver Films) Discover the mighty Alaska grizzly and take a romp through some of the wildest places in The Last Frontiers. Grades 2 - 8.
Bird (35 min. Eyewitness) Explores the variety of sizes, shapes, and habitats of birds. Grade 5 and up.
Bugs (30 min. Reading Rainbow) Shows where insects live, what they're good for, how they grow, and more. Grades K - 3.
Butterflies: Explore the fascinating world of these beautiful insects! (15 min. Ida Cason Callaway Foundation) Discover the differences between butterflies and moths, learn how colorful patterns on butterfly wings are created, and follow the action as a zebra long wing butterfly develops from a tiny egg into an adult. Grades K - 6.
Butterfly and Moth (35 min. Eyewitness) See how caterpillars become butterflies and much more! Grade 5 and up.
Cat (35 min. Eyewitness) This film investigates feline evolution, anatomy, habitat, behavior and more! Grade 5 and up.
Chickens Aren't the Only Ones (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film features animals that lay eggs. Grades K - 3.
Chomping on Bugs, Swimming Sea Slugs, and Stuff that Makes Animals Special (35 min. Geo Kids) This film features chameleons, turtles, cheetahs, zebras, and bush babies. Grades Pre-K.
Classification: The Order of Things (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) Learn to classify animals and plants according to common traits in order to see how species are related. Grades 3 - 6.
Cool Cats, Raindrops, and Things that Live in Holes (33 min. Geo Kids) This film features animals that live in holes, animals at water holes, and raindrops. Grades Pre-K.
Creatures Great and Small (60 min. Smithsonian) This film features dinosaurs and insects. Grades K - 6.
A Day with the Bears (30 min. Warner Home Video) Explore the fascinating world of bears and take a closer look at the different types of bears, their habitats, and where they live. Grades Pre-K - 2.
Desert (35 min. Eyewitness) See the creatures that inhabit the desert and how they capture and conserve water. Grade 5 and up.
Desert Animals: See How They Grow (30 min.) A tarantula, gerbil, tortoise, and gecko explain how they grow in the desert. Grades Pre-K.
Dinosaurs/Reptiles (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Bill Nye answers questions like "How many years did dinosaurs survive?" and "What kind of skin do reptiles have?" Grades 3 - 8.
Dog (35 min. Eyewitness) Discover what gives dogs their unique traits. Grade 5 and up.
Elephant (35 min. Eyewitness) This film explores the elephant's history and relationship with humankind. Grades 5 and up.
Extinction (30 min. Earth at Risk) This film shows real environmental projects, expert interviews and imaginative graphics to explore extinction. Grades 5 - 12.
Farm Animals: See How They Grow (30 min.) Young chickens, pigs, calves, and lambs explore the barnyard and grow up. Grades Pre-K.
Farming/Life Cycles (52 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Farmer Bill discovers why farmers really dig their soil, and Chris Ballew, of the rock group Presidents of the United States of America, sings a special version of the band's hit, "Peaches." Part 2: Bill explains life cycles and shows us why many different living things have similar life cycles. Grades 3 - 8.
Farmyard Friends (45 min. Really Wild Animals) The Dudley Moore-voiced animated globe, Spin, teaches kids all about the animals you'd find down on the farm. From National Geographic Kids Video. Grades K - 3.
Food Chains: Eat and Be Eaten (15 min. Children's Television Workshop) All animals—including humans—depend on plants because there's a plant at the beginning of every food chain. For example, sea urchins thrive on kelp, a water plant, and in turn sea urchins are food for sea otters. Find out how nature keeps this delicate balance. Grades K - 6.
Forest Animals: See How They Grow (30 min. Eyewitness) Watch how owls, mice, ants and chipmunks grow. Grades Pre-K.
GeoKids: Flying, Trying, and Honking Around (33 min. National Geographic Kids Video) Join Sunny, Bobby, and Balzac—three amazing lifelike animal characters—in learning about many different kinds of birds. Grades Pre-K.
Gila Monsters Meet You at the Airport (30 min. Reading Rainbow) Gila monsters and the Arizona desert. Grades K - 3.
Gorillas (60 min. Time-Life) In a rare and closeup look at the largest of all primates, this film enters the mist-shrouded world of the mountain gorilla. Grades 4 and up.
Great Bears of Alaska (50 min. Discovery Channel) This film features live-action footage of bear behavior including searching for food, caring for young, and mating. Narrated by James Earl Jones. Grades 5 and up.
Gregory the Terrible Eater (30 min. Reading Rainbow) LeVar visits a zoo and learns about animals' eating habits. Grades K - 3.
The Grizzlies (60 min. National Geographic) Travel from Alaska's Brooks Range to Wyoming's Yellowstone National Park for a fascinating portrait of this powerful, intelligent, and extremely aggressive creature in The Grizzlies. Grades 6 and up.
Horse (35 min. Eyewitness) Host Martin Sheen examines the ancient link between the horse and civilized man and the reasons why the equestrian mind may not be as tamed as we might like to think. Grades 2 - 6.
Hot Dogs and Cool Cats (45 min. Really Wild Animals) This film features wild and domesticated dogs and cats. Grades K - 3.
Human Transportation/Animal Locomotion (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Bill Nye answers questions like "What is transportation?" and "How do humans move around?" Grades 3 - 8.
In the Company of Wolves (35 min. In the Wild) Timothy Dalton travels 5,000 miles to encounter wolves in their natural habitats. Grades 7 and up.
Innate and Learned Behavior: How Do They Know That? (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) Some animal behavior is innate—the animal is born already knowing how to do it—and some animal behavior is learned. Grades 3 - 6.
Insect (35 min. Eyewitness) Insect zooms in on a world of creatures that are industrious, sociable, and environmentally useful, but that are nevertheless avoided and ignored. Here, you can safely examine the wonders of the insect through macro-photography and startling 3-D graphics that reveal the true importance of these amazing life forms. Grades 2 - 6.
Insects/Germs (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye explores the mysterious world of insects and talks to special guest Queen Latifah, who's abuzz about her other favorite queens: bees. The lab kids go exploring at an insectarium and go digging for insect fossils. Part 2: Bill's knowledge on the subject of germs is positively contagious! Using foam models, the Science Guy illustrates the various types of germs and how they function. Grades 3 - 8.
Insects: Facts and Folklore (27 min. Discovery Channel) Insect Fact and Folklore uses the relationship humans have established with insects in to show the important role insects play in the lives of many humans. Grades 6 - 12.
Into the Wild: Discovering Endangered Animals (40 min. National Wildlife Federation) Three segments chronicle efforts to help endangered species: introduction leads into whooping cranes, red wolves, whales, plus a wrap-up on endangered species and what kids can do to help. Grades 3 - 5.
Introduction to Beekeeping (20 min. Control Data) This program on bee keeping instruction is aimed at beginners who wish to progress with their pastime. Grades 9 and up.
Is This a House for a Hermit Crab? (30 min. Reading Rainbow) When Hermit Crab outgrows his house, he ventures out to find a new one. Grades K - 3.
Jane Goodall’s Wild Chimpanzees This IMAX film shows Jane Goodall's extraordinary trip deep into Tanzania and across four decades of research to experience the world of the chimpanzee. Grades 4 and up.
Jungle Animals: See How They Grow (30 min. Sony/Eyewitness) Narrated by Johnny Morris, See How They Grow is a delightful series for young children, introducing them to natural history. This video dramatizes the lives of four jungle animals — scorpion, alligator, land snail and tiger — from birth to adulthood. Grades Pre-K.
The Life of Birds (Volumes 1-5) (100 min. BBC) David Attenborough leads us through the history of birds, including their evolution and adaptation. Grades 9 and up.
Life Cycle of the Honey Bee (12 min. National Geographic) A short documentary on the life of a honey bee from egg to death. Grades 2 and up.
Life Cycle of the Honey Bee (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film includes a visit to a beekeeper. Grades K - 3.
Little Creatures Who Run the World (60 min. Nova) This film about ants is hosted by E.O. Wilson. Grades 6 and up.
The Magic School Bus: Butterflies! (30 min. Scholastic) Ms. Frizzle takes the class on a field trip to Butterfly Bog where they discover camouflage and other butterfly tricks of deception. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: Creepy Crawly Fun! (90 min. Scholastic) 3 episodes. "Inside the Haunted House" explores sound. "Going Batty" explores nocturnal animals. "Spins a Web" explores spiders. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus Gets Ants in Its Pants (30 min. Scholastic) The class visits the inside of an anthill to observe the ants at close range and discovers that each ant performs a vital job for the survival of the colony. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: Going Batty/Inside the Haunted House (60 min. Scholastic) 2 episodes. "Going Batty" explores nocturnal animals. "Inside the Haunted House" explores sound. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus Hops Home (30 min. Scholastic) This film explores frogs and animal habitats. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: In a Beehive (30 min. Scholastic) Ms. Frizzle turns her class into bees and shows them a beehive up close and personal. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus Spins a Web (30 min. Scholastic) This film explores spiders. Grades K - 4.
Mammal (35 min. Eyewitness) Mammal reveals the most amazing facts and folklore about our favorite furry animals. Towering or tiny, ferocious or friendly, mammals trot, hop, swim, and soar. Meet the creatures that make up this huge and varied family. Grades 5 - Adult.
Mammals/Birds (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. They're (sometimes) big, they're hairy, and they're warm-blooded. From human being to moose and from cats to rats, Bill Nye the Science Guy explains what it takes to be in the mammal family. Part 2: Fly the coop with Bill Nye the Science Guy as he explores his fascination with birds. Bill shows us how these feathery friends stay airborne, where they live, and what they eat. Grades 3 - 8.
Microsmos (75 min. Miramax) Take a look at the a spectacular hidden world where you will witness an army of worker ants race to stock their larder and the amazing transformation from caterpillar to butterfly. Grades K and up.
The Milk Makers (30 min. Reading Rainbow) How milk travels from a dairy cow to the supermarket. Grades K - 3.
Monster (35 min. Eyewitness) This film explores real animals that may have inspired mythical creatures. Grades 2 - 6.
The Mystery of the Animal Pathfinders (58 min. WGBH) This film explores migration. Grades 4 and up.
The National Zoo (50 min. Smithsonian) Viewers will travel behind the scenes of the National Zoo. The trip includes an up-close visit with the zoo's pandas as well as a look at the hospital, food preparation center, and research facility. Grades K - 6.
Once There Was A Tree (30 min. Reading Rainbow) An old stump attracts many living creatures. Grades K - 3.
Penguin World (45 min. Smithsonian Institution) Witness the spectrum of penguins from four-pound Fairies to ninety-pound Emperors. Grades 2 and up.
Plant or Animal (15 min. National Geographic) This film explores similarities and differences between the plant and animal kingdoms. Grades K - 3.
Polar Bear Alert (59 min. National Geographic) Churchill, Manitoba, "the polar bear capital of the world," is the setting for this 1982 documentary on one of nature's most popular creatures. But as cute and lovable as polar bears may seem, they also have a dangerous side. Grades 7 and up.
Polar Prowl (45 min. Really Wild Animals) Get ready for chills and thrills when you travel to the icy Arctic and Antarctic with Spin, National Geographic's animated globe-on-the-go! Grades K - 3.
Pond and River (35 min. Eyewitness) Pond and River takes you on a twisting journey down the great rivers of the world, pausing to visit the thriving realm of the freshwater pond. Travel upstream to find civilization's source, then down again to see the key to our very survival. Grades 2 - 6.
Pond Animals: See How They Grow (30 min. Eyewitness) Watch how dragonflies, frogs, ducks, and salamanders grow. Grades Pre-K.
Raccoons and Ripe Corn (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film tells you how to be a wildlife detective. Grades K - 3.
Rain Forest (55 min. National Geographic) Through some inventive camera work, the directors follow enthusiastic researchers to the tops of rainforest trees (known as the rainforest canopy), where more than half of the Earth's species reside. Grades 5 - Adult.
Reflections on Elephants (60 min. National Geographic) The lives of elephants have much in common with our own: powerful yet tender family bonds, remarkable communication abilities, and a surprising ability to cooperate whenever necessary. Grades 4 and up.
Reptile (35 min. Eyewitness) Reptile reveals the alien world of these often misunderstood cold-blooded vertebrates, uncovering reptilian facts that are stranger than fiction. From hot, steamy swamps to dry-as-bone deserts, travel the world in search of these amazing animals. Grades 2 - 6.
Reptiles and Amphibians (60 min. National Geographic) With its trademark legacy of unearthing the wild and the bizarre, National Geographic takes the viewer into the exotic world of reptiles and amphibians, giving viewers a glimpse into the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. Grades 4 and up.
Reptiles and Insects: Leaping Lizards (50 min. Bill Nye) The way-hip science guy bugs out in segments on lizards — including one with a tongue more than twice its body length — and insects such as swarming bees, crickets, ants and more. Grades 3 - 8.
Salamander Room (30 min. Reading Rainbow) A boy finds a salamander and thinks of how to make it a perfect home. This film also features a visit to the rainforest exhibit at the Bronx Zoo. Grades K - 3.
Spiders/Flowers (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: The Science Guy demystifies the most misunderstood creature, the spider. He'll cure the most intense case of arachnophobia by showing how cool spiders really are. Part 2: The Science Guy, with the help of guest Drew Barrymore, shows that flowers are more than just pretty faces. They make seeds, play a key role in pollination, and help plants to reproduce. Grades 3 - 8.
Stellaluna (30 min. Reading Rainbow) A baby bat is raised by a bird until she is reunited with her mother. Grades K - 3.
Strange Creatures of the Night (60 min. National Geographic) This educational video is ideal for learning about the fascinating creatures that live at night. Grades 4 and up.
Summer (30 min. Reading Rainbow) Baby animals spend the summer growing, playing and learning. Grades K - 3.
Survival (35 min. Eyewitness) Survival is a theme that runs throughout the biological world. Video reveals how life forms struggle for survival, whether they are prey or predator. Learn that it is not necessarily the fastest, strongest, biggest or even smartest who survive. Grades 2 - 6.
A Swamp Ecosystem (23 min. National Geographic) A look at the biological succession of one particular swamp ecosystem, the freshwater Okefenokee swamp. Grades 4 and up.
Tadpoles, Dragonflies, and Caterpillar's Big Change (33 min. Geo Kids) This film explores metamorphosis. Grades Pre-K.
Tales from the Hive (60 min. WGBH/NOVA) Specially developed macro camera lenses are used to portray a year in the life of a working bee colony. Grades 4 and up.
Those Wonderful Dogs (60 min. National Geographic) This tribute to man's best friend presents dogs that herd sheep, pull wheelchairs, and perform duties on the battlefield. Once called "one of God's noblest beasts," this documentary portrays the human-canine connection that makes these animals so special. Grades 6 and up.
Totally Tropical Rain Forest (45 min. Really Wild Animals) Take a totally tropical trip to the rain forest and meet spotted jaguars, colorful poison-arrow frogs, slow-moving sloths, and loud-mouthed howler monkeys. Grades K - 3.
Tree Animals: See How They Grow (30 min. Eyewitness) This educational tape for pre-schoolers explains tree-dwelling animals and how they develop from infancy. Grades Pre-K.
The Ultimate Guide: Birds of Prey (50 min. Discovery Channel) Birds of prey are born for the hunt —every part of their anatomy, from eyes to talons, works together to create an efficient instrument of pursuit and capture. Take flight with some of nature’s most accomplished predators. Grades 6 - 12.
The Ultimate Guide: Snakes (27 min. Discovery Channel) This video presents the animal that ranks as one of the most feared and revered species on Earth: the snake. It investigates the many varieties of snakes, from king cobras, to garter snakes, to giant anacondas. With first-rate close-up photography and computer animations, this program displays the behavior of the snake. Grades 6 - 12.
Webs of Intrigue (45 min. National Geographic) This film discusses spiders. Grades 4 and up.
White Wolf (60 min. National Geographic) In the harsh northern reaches of Canada's Ellesmere Island, elusive arctic wolves share their secrets with two patient observers. Grades 6 and up.
Wild Animals: See How They Grow (30 min. Eyewitness) Kids learn how foxes, pheasants, rabbits, and snakes grow up and survive in their wild and ever-changing habitats. Grades Pre-K - 2.
Wild Survivor: Camouflage and Mimicry (45 min. National Geographic) Discover the wondrous array of defenses and deceptions deployed by creatures in the wild. Grades 2 and up.
Wolves At Our Door (52 min. Discovery Channel) Wolves at Our Door, the sequel to Wolf: Return of a Legend, explores these beautiful animals as they live in America's Northwest. Grades 6 - 12.
Wonders Down Under (46 min. Really Wild Animals) This film discusses Australian animals. Grades K - 3.
A World Alive (25 min. Sea Studios) This film explores the birth, feeding, movement and mating of various animals. Grades 4 and up.
Yellowstone: Realm of the Coyote (60 min. National Geographic) When a young coyote is cast out by his pack, he must learn to survive in a wilderness both beautiful and treacherous: Yellowstone National Park. Grades 6 and up.
Astronomy and Aeronautics
2001: A Space Odyssey (148 min. Turner Entertainment) 2001: A Space Odyssey is a dazzling, Academy-Award-winning visual achievement directed by Stanley Kubrick. To begin his voyage into the future, Kubrick visits our prehistoric ape-ancestry past, then leaps into colonized space. Let the awe and mystery of a journey unlike any other begin. Grades 9 and up.
All About the Moon (23 min. Schlessinger/Space Science for Children) In this film viewers discover why the moon looks different every night, how it looks up close, and what it is like to walk on the moon. Grades K - 4.
All About the Sun (23 min. Schlessinger/Space Science for Children) In this film viewers learn why the sun is so important to us—how it provides life-giving light and heat, how it is responsible for our seasons and weather, and why it is the primary source of energy on earth. Grades K - 4.
Asteroids, Deadly Impact (60 min. National Geographic) Learn more about these "stray bullets" that streak through the skies. Grades 9 and up.
Astronomy (The Really Big World of Astronomy) pts. 1&2 (170 min. Cerebellum/Standard Deviants) 2 Videos. A self-paced study guide to introductory astronomy. Grades 9.
Astronomy 101 (25 min. Mazon Productions) Join Michela and her mother as they show the viewer how they explore the night sky together. Grades 3.
Aurora: Rivers of Light in the Sky (40 min. Skyriver Films) This video explores the myths, legends, and science behind the mystery of the northern lights. Grade 5 and up.
Black Holes (52 min. New River Media) Contains interviews with many prominent black hole scientists and animations. Grades 7 - 9 .
Black Holes, the Ultimate Abyss (52 min. Discovery Channel) Listen as Stephen Hawking, aided by 3-D animation, explains the concept of space-time and how black holes are formed. Allow yourself to be drawn to the edge of a black hole — the event horizon — and imagine what life would be like inside. Grades 6 - 12.
Blue Planet (42 min. Smithsonian/IMAX) Filmed from space shuttle missions, this film reveals forces affecting Earth's ecological balance. Grades 4 and up.
Comets and Asteroids (52 min. National Geographic) Asteroids, comets and other cosmic debris have also had a fundamental impact on the development of planet Earth and the life on it, by bombarding it constantly at first, and periodically since. Grades 5 - 9.
Comets and Meteors/Evolution (52 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: More than just high-speed space chunks, comets and meteors carry important information about the history of our Universe. Part 2: Bill Nye compares primordial to present when he dabbles with Darwin and looks at his genes in this evolutionary episode. Grades 3 - 8.
Cosmos (7 videocassettes, 780 min. Cosmos Studios) In the course of 13 one-hour episodes, Carl Sagan's Cosmos spans its own galaxy of topics to serve Sagan's theme; each segment deepens our understanding of how we got from there (simple microbes in the primordial mud) to here (space-faring civilization in the 21st century). In his "ship of the imagination," Sagan guides us to the farthest reaches of space and takes us back into the history of scientific inquiry, from the ancient library of Alexandria to the NASA probes of our neighboring planets. Upon this vast canvas Sagan presents the "cosmic calendar," placing the 15-billion-year history of the universe into an accessible one-year framework, then filling it with a stunning chronology of events, both interstellar and Earth-bound. Grades 9 and up.
Daredevils of the Sky (60 min. Nova) Explore the history of aerobatic flight, from the Wright brothers to today's death-defying feats. Grades 4 and up.
Destination Mars (51 min. Discovery Channel) An examination of the feasibility of making the journey to Mars from the physical training through the dangers of interplanetary travel to the difficult landing on the surface of Mars itself. Grades 6 - 12.
Destiny in Space (43 min. Imax/Smithsonian Institution) In this film viewers watch as astronauts work to repair the Hubble Space Telescope and board a satellite. Grades 6 and up.
Destination Space (90 min. National Geographic) Cross the threshold of the final frontier as mankind embarks on the greatest adventure of all time: space travel. From heroic space pioneers to contemporary cliff-hanger missions, it's a thrilling look at humanity's quest to conquer space. This video also includes the short feature "A View of Mars." Grades 4 and up.
The Dream is Alive: A Window Seat on the Space Shuttle (37 min. IMAX) Walter Cronkite narrates this journey about the space shuttle. Share the astronauts' experience of working, eating, and sleeping in zero gravity. Look back at our magnificent Earth, witness an exciting satellite repair, and the historic walk in space by an American woman. Grades 4 and up.
Eyes in the Sky (49 min. Discovery Channel) This film discusses satellites. Grades 6 - 12.
Flight (35 min. Eyewitness) Birds and insects (and people, too) who have harnessed the ability to fly are detailed in this educational video. Animation and music underscore an exploration of the mechanics — and joys — of flight. Grades 2 - 6.
For All Mankind (80 min. National Geographic) This film tells the story of the first manned flights to the moon. Grades 6 and up.
From Here to Infinity: The Ultimate Voyage (43 min. Paramount) Hosted by Patrick Stewart, this film is a journey through the cosmos and beyond. Grades 6 and up.
From the Earth to the Moon: Parts 3 - 11 (Each 56 min. HBO) This film follows the course of the great American dream as it becomes reality through the voyages of the Apollo astronauts in their mission to place a man on the moon. Grades 7 and up.
Gravity and Weightlessness: Measuring G's (15 min. Children's Television Workshop) An easy to understand introduction to gravity and free-falling objects. Grades 3 - 6.
Hot-air Henry (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film explores hot-air balloons. Grades K - 3.
Living and Working in Space: The Countdown has Begun (58 min. PBS Video) This one-hour special features dozens of space professionals, from astronauts and life systems engineers to space suit designers, interior decorators, and the "Lunar Lettuce Man." Grades 6 and up.
The Magic School Bus Gets Lost in Space (30 min. Scholastic) Arnold's know-it-all cousin Janet drives the whole class crazy when she joins Ms. Frizzle's class on a field trip and gets them lost in outer space! But when the navigational system breaks down, and Ms. Frizzle "accidentally" gets lost in the solar system, Janet may be the only one with enough knowledge to save them. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: Out of This World (30 min. Scholastic) This film is a crash course in asteroids and meteors. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: Taking Flight (30 min. KidVision) In the TV show "Taking Flight," the remote control of Tim's model airplane is accidentally broken. Wanda and the class find themselves inside the plane learning what it's really like to fly it. Grades K - 4.
Mission Mars Series (90 min. MCET) This film is hosted by the Museum of Science's Noreen Grice. Recorded at MCET Fall 1999. Grades 7 and up.
Moon/Outer Space (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Explore the mysteries of the Moon. Part 2: Bill Nye talks about Outer Space -- planets, stars, galaxies, and the universe. Grades 3 - 8.
Moon Race: The History of Apollo, Vol. 1-4 (300 min. Columbia River Entertainment) A set of documentaries made by NASA about the Apollo Moon missions, and the Apollo-Soyuz mission, shortly after they occurred. Grades 6 and up.
Mysteries of the Universe (120 min. Science Odyssey) This film explores the twin revolutions in physics and astronomy, as well as telescopes, pulsars, black holes, and atoms. Grades 9 and up.
Our Solar System/Nuestro Sistema Solar (5 min. University of Arizona) This film features animation along with a catchy tune to help children remember the line-up of the planets. Open captioned. Grades K - 3.
Outer Space: Way Out There! (49 min. Bill Nye) Bill Nye gives students the inside scoop on planets, stars, galaxies, and the universe. Grades 3 - 8.
People and Space (40 min. The Learning Channel) This film explores how astronauts train for and live in space. Grades K - 5.
Planets (35 min. Eyewitness) Planets journeys through space and time, witnessing the birth of the Sun and traveling to the outer limits of the solar system Grades 2 - 6.
Rescue Mission in Space: The Hubble Space Telescope (60 min. Nova) This film explores the repair of the Hubble Telescope. Grades 9 and up.
The Solar System (22 min. Discovery Channel) Discover what scientists have learned since manned space exploration began. Is there life on Mars? What's under Jupiter's gas storms? Grades 6 - 12.
Space Exploration/Ocean Exploration (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Join Bill as he explores the "final frontier" and shows the tools humans invent to explore space. Part 2: Exploring the ocean helps us to better understand the Earth. Get a glimpse of some of the special tools required for ocean exploration and find out why studying the ocean is so crucial to life on land. Grades 3 - 8.
Stationed in the Stars (60 min. NOVA) In this film explore the construction and fate of the International Space Station. Adult.
Sun, Earth, Moon (250 min. National Geographic) The interrelationships between the Sun, Moon, and Earth cause the changing of the tides, the phases of the Moon, seasons, and lunar and solar eclipses. Grades 3 - 6.
The Sun/The Planets (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill sheds light on solar flares, eclipses, sunspots, fusion, and solar energy, and visits an enormous solar energy farm outside Sacramento, California, to demonstrate how the Sun is the source of energy Part 2: Bill goes planet gazing and takes a serious look at Jupiter's features, Earth's elliptical orbit, and the distances between planets. Grades 3 - 8.
Technologies R Us/Blips, Black Holes, and the Nobel Prize (28 min. Science Odyssey Short Trips) 2 episodes. This film explores how technologies have shaped our lives and raised unexpected questions. Also included is the unfolding mystery of strange blips on the recording charts of a giant telescope. Grades 4 and up.
To Fly! (27 min. Conoco) This film explores the history of flight from hot-air balloons to rockets. Grades 4 and up.
Toys in Space (17 min. NASA) International Space Station crewmembers and students back on Earth co-investigate the behavior of toys in space. Grades 5 - 12.
Understanding Space Travel (52 min. Discovery Channel) An ambitious program covering the whole of space travel — from its early history to interstellar travel. Each subject gets only a few minutes, but there's some serious discussion of space tourism. Grades 6 - 12.
Understanding the Universe (60 min. Discovery Channel) ) Join astronomers and astrophysicists as they probe light years beyond the Milky Way. Grades 6 - 12.
Biology
Accidents of Creation (55 min. Secret of Life) This film discusses changes through mutations and origins of new species. Grades 7 and up.
All About Blood and the Heart (Human Body for Children) (23 min. Schlessinger) Introduces young viewers to the circulatory system. Grades K - 4.
All About the Human Life Cycle ( Human Body for Children) (23 min. Schessinger) Students discover that there are stages that all of us pass through as we grow: birth, infancy, childhood, adolescence and adulthood. Grades K - 4.
All About Bones & Muscles (Human Body for Children) (23 min. Schlessinger) This film gives young viewers a close-up look at two key systems of the human body: bones and muscles. Grades K - 4.
All About Health & Hygiene ( Human Body for Children) (23 min. Schessinger) Students will explore how and why people get sick, and what they can do to help keep themselves strong and healthy. Grades K - 4.
All About Nutrition & Exercise (Human Body for Children) (23 min. Schlessinger) Kids learn that the nutrients in the food we eat are what our bodies need to grow and stay healthy. Grades K - 4.
All About the Brain (Human Body for Children) (23 min. Schlessinger) Learn how the brain controls everything you do—from breathing, to feeling, to learning and playing. Grades K - 4.
All About the Senses (Human Body for Children) (23 min. Schlessinger) Teaches children about the five senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. Grades K - 4.
Anatomy (The Anatomically Correct World of Anatomy) pt. 1 & 2 (248 min. Cerebellum/Standard Deviants) 2 videos. A self-paced video guide to introductory anatomy. Grades 9.
Animal Adaptations (Animal Life in Action) (23 min. Schlessinger) Discover the various adaptations that different species have undergone. Grades 5 - 8.
Birth, Sex and Death (60 min. Secret of Life) It begins by examining how regulatory genes govern cell differentiation and organ development, and then examines the role genes play in gender and aging processes. Grades 9 and up.
Bones and Muscles/Respiration (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill bones up on the things that give the body its shape and movement. He muscles in to give more than just the bare bones about X-rays, the healing of broken bones, bone marrow, and the body's joints. Part 2: Bill Nye the Science Guy gets aerobic about the importance of respiration when he jogs, bikes, swims, and scuba dives. Grades 3 - 8.
Brain/Communication (47 min. Bill Nye) Two parts. Grades 3 - 6.
Brainstormers (60 min. Discovery Channel) Explore the new technology that helps doctors and scientists understand how the brain works. What are the differences between men's and women's brains? Is there a link between creativity and mental illness? Grades 6 - 12.
Children by Design (55 min. Secret of Life) This film explores how science can influence the outcome of conception's genetic lottery. Grades 9 and up.
Circulatory & Respiratory Systems (23 min. Schlessinger Media/Human Body in Action) In this film viewers learn how these two vital systems work together, take a close-up look at the components of our blood, and explore how our blood is the body's pick-up and delivery system. Grades 5 - 8.
Circulatory and Respiratory Systems (20 min. National Geographic) Film shows how these systems work together to gather and distribute oxygen and nutrients to the body. Grades 4 - 6.
The Clone Age (52 min. Discovery Channel) This film discusses the history and possible future of cloning, and its ethical dilemmas. Grades 6 - 12.
Digestion/Blood and Circulation (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Host Bill Nye explains to viewers how the body's digestive system is like a fine-tuned machine that turns food into energy. Bill demonstrates the process with a steam engine that runs on cornflakes. Part 2: Bill Nye becomes a real heartthrob when he talks about that not-so-wimpy organ, the heart. Valves, blood cells, and the circulatory system work together to pump it up...the heart, that is. Grades 3 - 8.
Digestive System (17 min. National Geographic) Everything your students ever wanted to know about the digestive system -- ingestion, digestion, absorption, and elimination, and the functions of the associated glands and organs -- displayed with electric microscope and sophisticated imaging techniques. Grades 4 - 6.
Discovering the Cell (30 min. National Geographic) An inside look at the cell and its parts. Grades 6 - 8.
DNA: The Secret of Life (32 min. Windfall Films) This film chronicles James Watson and Francis Crick's discovery of the double helix in 1953. Grades 9 and up.
Eyeball/Heart (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye focuses his attention on the body's window to the world: the eyeball. Bill also interviews a seeing-eye dog trainer and a virtual reality designer, and demonstrates how a 3-D movie works. Part 2: Bill Nye checks out this important muscular pump's function in the body, by pulling nine "Gs" with the United States Navy's Blue Angels and chatting with Seattle Mariner Edgar Martinez. Grades 3 - 8.
Forensics/Genes (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Join the Science Guy at the scene of the crime as he explores the world of forensic science. Learn how detectives reconstruct events from the past using bloodhounds, fingerprints, and DNA. Part 2: Join Bill as he explores the chromosomal world of DNA. Grades 3 - 8.
Genetics (26 min. Discovery Channel) How much of who we are is based on our genes? Grades 6 - 12.
Germs Make Me Sick! (30 min. Reading Rainbow) We share our world with millions of micro-organisms. This video explains what germs are, how bacteria and viruses affect the human body, and how the body fights against them. Grades K - 3.
Going With the Flow (Heart and Lungs) (16 min. Mind Your Own Body) This film examines how behavior habits, like smoking, can damage the body. Grades 6 - 8.
Great Transformations (Evolution) (60 min. WGBH) Discover some of evolution's most important changes, including the development of the four-limbed body plan and the emergence of humans. Grades 7 and up.
The Heart (8 min. Totally Gross Anatomy) The statistics of the body can be awe-inspiring: the heart beats more than 100,000 times each day, efficiently moving blood from the heart through a network of arteries, veins, and capillaries. Grades 3 - 6.
Hidden Kingdoms: The World of Microbes (12 min. New York Hall of Science) Short film clips featuring microbes.
How to Make and Apple Pie and See the World (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film explores the science of cooking and nutrition. Grades K - 3.
Human Body: The Inside Scoop (49 min. Bill Nye) Take a tour of the human body in two episodes with Bill Nye the Science Guy: "Skin" and "Blood-Circulation." Grades 3 - 8.
Human Machine (35 min. Eyewitness) Combining actual video footage and still photography with the latest in animation and 3-D graphics, this incredibly detailed virtual tour then covers all five senses, including hearing, which in turn gives us balance and the ability to walk upright — a defining characteristic of being human. Grades 2 - 6.
Human Nutrition (The Nutty, Nougat-Filled World of Human Nutrition) (90 min. Cerebellum/Standard Deviants) This film is a video study guide to introductory nutrition. Grades 9.
Incredible Human Machine (60 min. National Geographic) A two-hour journey through an ordinary, and extraordinary, day in the life of the human machine. With stunning HD footage, radical scientific advances and powerful firsthand accounts, NGC plunges deep into the routine marvels of the human body. Grades 7 and up.
Insect/Germs (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye explores the mysterious world of insects and talks to special guest Queen Latifah, who's abuzz about her other favorite queens...Bees. Part 2: Bill's knowledge on the subject of germs is positively contagious! The Science Guy illustrates the various types of germs and how they function. Grades 3 - 8.
In Search of Ourselves (120 min. Science Odyssey) This film explores what has been learned about human behavior over the past 100 years. Grades college - up.
Life (35 min. Eyewitness) ) Follow the development of single-celled creatures through the age of the dinosaurs, and on to the complex variety of plants and animals that exist today. Grades 2 - 6.
Listen! Hear! (15 min. National Geographic) This film explores what causes sounds, how the brain receives and recognizes sounds, and what effect sounds have on the individual. It also discusses the structures of the ear and uses animation to show how sound waves travel into the ears. Grades 2 and up.
The Living Body: Aging (26 min. Films for the Humanities and Sciences) This film covers the physical process of aging, examining various body systems to determine how and why they change as they age. It also explains that not all the changes associated with aging are inevitable and some changes in the aging body can be slowed down or reversed. Grades 9 and up.
The Lungs (8 min. Totally Gross Anatomy) Explore the form and function of the lungs. Grades 3 - 6.
The Magic School Bus Flexes Its Muscles (30 min. Scholastic) This film explores robots and the human body. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: For Lunch (30 min. KidVision) This film explores digestion. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: Inside Ralphie (30 min. Scholastic) This film explores germs and illness. Grades K - 4.
Matter of Taste (14 min. National Geographic) A look at one of the five senses. Grades 3 - 6.
Matters of Life and Death (120 min. Science Odyssey) This film discusses the history of breakthroughs in medicine. Grades college and up.
The Mismeasure of Me/The Real Dirt on Discovery (28 min. Science Odyssey Short Trips) 2 parts. Part one asks, “How fair are tests?” Part two explores Fleming's accidental discovery of penicillin. Grades 7 and up.
Muscular and Skeletal Systems (20 min. National Geographic) They work hand in hand to provide humans with their form, strength, and agility. Grades 3 - 6.
Mystery of the Senses: Smell (10 min. WGBH) “Smell” samples a huge spectrum of smells, from the world's largest perfumery to sweaty t-shirts. Grades 1 - 6.
Mystery of the Senses: Taste (10 min. WGBH) ) “Taste” savors the miracle of great cooking and eating. Grades 1 - 6.
Mystery of the Senses: Touch (60 min. WGBH) This film looks at our most sensual sense—the one that arguably gives the greatest and most profound pleasure. Massage is one of the most intense forms of touch, and it highlights the beneficial effects of the tactile sense. Grades 1 - 6.
Mystery of the Senses: Vision (14 min. WGBH) “Vision” explores how art and science enhance this, our most magical sense. Grades 1 - 6.
New Food Pyramid (20 min. National Geographic) Introduces the “food guide pyramid” that helps children make wise food choices. Grades K - 3.
Origins (120 min. Science Odyssey) This film explores the history of the planet, the human species, and life itself. Grades 7 and up.
Senses and Sensitivity: Neuronal Alliances for Sight and Sound: Part 1 ( min. Howard Hughes Medical Institute Holiday Lectures on Science) This film explores sensory transduction. Grades 9 and up.
Senses and Sensitivity: Neuronal Alliances for Sight and Sound: Part 2 ( min. Howard Hughes Medical Institute Holiday Lectures on Science) This film explores the science of sight. Grades 9 and up.
Senses and Sensitivity: Neuronal Alliances for Sight and Sound: Part 3 ( min. Howard Hughes Medical Institute Holioday Lectures on Science) This film explores the science of sound and how hearing happens. Grades 9 and up.
Skeletal & Muscular Systems (23 min. Schlessinger Media) In this film viewers learn that bones and muscles work together to protect our bodies and enable them to move; bones are where blood is manufactured, that bones are classified by shape and that there are three types of muscle: skeletal, smooth and cardiac. Grades 5 - 8.
Skeleton (35 min. Eyewitness) Skeleton takes you beneath the surface to reveal the hidden secrets of an incredible variety of skeletal structures, none more complex than our own. See the skeleton — a symbol of our deepest fears, a miracle of engineering — as never before. Grades 2 - 6.
Skin and Bones (14 min. Mind Your Own Body) This video will take a look at the purpose of skin and bones, comparing them to the steel and cladding of a building and to the exoskeleton of insects. Grades 6 - 8.
Skin/Cells (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: What's the largest living organ on the human body? Answer: Skin. Bill Nye explains the naked truth. Part 2: Mad scientist Bill Nye "CELLebrates" the basic unit that makes up all living organisms: the cell Grades 3 - 8.
The Special Senses (17 min. Totally Gross Anatomy) Although many students have already been exposed to study of the senses, this series offers an intermediate look. Grades 3 - 6.
The Stomach (17 min. Totally Gross Anatomy) Find out what keeps the stomach from digesting itself and the stomach's role in supplying the body with energy. Grades 3 - 6.
Understanding Bacteria (51 min. Discovery Channel) ) Explore our uneasy relationship with these wily microbes. Grades 6 - 12.
Understanding the Power of Genes (53 min. Discovery Channel) This film discusses the power of genes for cloning, crime solving, and genetically altering animals. Grades 6 - 12.
Understanding Viruses (51 min. Discovery Channel) See how these submicroscopic parasites operate and how your immune system works to defend you. Grades 6 - 12.
What's a Body? (13 min. Mind Your Own Body) Living things live in bodies made up of different parts working together in harmony. The film compares the human body to that of other living organisms, explores the amazing things we can do with our bodies, and shows what makes us different from other animals. Grades 6 - 8.
Who Are You? (60 min. Secrets of Life) This film describes how behavior springs from the complex interaction of genes, culture, experience, and chance. Grades 9 and up.
You Are What You Eat (16 min. Mind Your Own Body) This video will explore healthy eating versus not so healthy eating. It will explain the digestive system, addressing how the food we eat is broken down and absorbed into the bloodstream. Grades 6 - 8.
Biotechnology and Medical Sciences
Bioterror (60 min. Nova/WGBH) Explore the frightening past and lethal future of biological warfare. Adult.
Brainstorm: The Truth About Your Brain on Drugs (60 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) A “3-2-1 Contact Extra” special that seeks to inform children about the effects of substances such as alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, and other illegal drugs on the brain and body. Grades 3 - 6. Grades 3-6.
The Clone Age (52 min. Discovery Channel) Students will understand a basic example of cloning and that there are ethical and practical arguments both in favor of cloning and against cloning. Grades 6 - 12.
Mouse that Laid the Golden Egg (60 min. Secrets of Life) This film examines the promises and dangers of industrial genetic manipulation. Grades 9 and up.
Our Genes, Our Choices: Vol. 1 - 3 (171 min. PBS) A three-part series on PBS, which features Fred Friendly Seminars on genetic testing with an ethical, social, legal, and economic implications. Making Better Babies considers the ethical dilemmas facing individuals and society that grow out of prenatal testing and genetic options that may be available in the future. Genes on Trial scrutinizes social, ethical, and legal issues involving genetic research into undesirable traits such as addiction to alcohol. Who Gets to Know examines privacy issues surrounding genetic testing.
Psychology (The Stimulating World of Psychology) (122 min. Cerebellum/Standard Deviants) This film is a video study guide to introductory psychology. Grades 9 and up.
Science of HIV (30 min. National Science Teachers Association) This video features animations of the complex concepts, interviews with leading scientists and health care workers, compelling stories of adolescents living with HIV, and prevention strategies. Grades 6 - 9.
Who Are You? (60 min. Secrets of Life) This film describes how behavior springs from a complex interaction of genes, culture, experience and chance.
Chemistry
Amazing Materials: Properties of Matter (27 min. Discovery Communications) This film offers a look at composite materials and reveals why two can sometimes be better than one. It includes an exploration of diamonds, gold, graphite, and carbon. Grades 6 - 12.
Changes in Properties of Matter (23 min. Schlessinger Media) Students will learn the difference between chemical and physical changes in this excellent introduction to the changes of matter. Fun, real-life demonstrations and a hands-on activity will help explain these concepts. Grades 5 - 8.
Chemistry (The Super-Charged World of Chemistry) (280 min. Cerebellum/Standard Deviants) 3 videos. Part one shows the eternal struggle between superheroes and villains while reviewing difficult concepts such as percent composition and stoichiometry. Part two reviews thermochemistry, atomic structure, and chemical bonding. Part three reviews VSEPR theory, Kinetic molecular theory and Dalton's law of partial pressures. Grades 9.
Cosmic Alchemy (57 min. Stephen Hawking's Universe) This film discusses what the universe is made of, the creation of the Periodic Table, and the theory of relativity. Adult.
Heat and Chemical Energy (23 min. Schlessinger/Energy in Action) In this film viewers discover how chemical reactions can give off heat energy and how heat can help release the stored chemical energy in fuel. Grades 5 - 8.
Magic School Bus: Ready, Set, Dough (30 min. Scholastic) It's Ms. Frizzle's birthday, and a field trip to the bakery seems perfect — until the bus' shrinker-scope goes on the fritz, and the class experiences chemistry first hand as they get baked in a cake. Grades K - 4.
Organic Chemistry (The Deep-Fried World of Organic Chemistry) (360 min. Cerebellum/Standard Deviants) 3 videos. This film is a video study guide for introductory organic chemistry. Grades 9.
Periodic Table (23 min. Schlessinger Media) This title in the Physical Science in Action Series covers the history of the original periodic table as developed by Dimitri Mendeleev and the arrangement of the modern table including periods, groups, and various families of elements. Grades 5 - 8.
Tracing the Path (35 min. American Chemical Society) This film features African-American contributions to chemistry in the life sciences. Grades 4 and up.
Climate and Weather
After the storm: a citizen's video guide to understanding stormwater (22 min. United States Environmental Protection Agency) In this film three case studies focus on the interconnections between water supply, water quality, and the economic vitality and quality of life in our communities. Grades 9 and up.
All About Climate & Seasons (23 min. Schlessinger/Weather for Children) In this film viewers discover why different regions of the world have different climates and why seasons change. Grades K - 4.
Atmosphere/Flight (47 min. Bill Nye) Part 1: There's something in the air as Bill Nye the Science Guy talks about atmosphere, its five different levels, and how it protects the Earth. Part 2: With the help of his team of young scientists and some common household items, Bill Nye demonstrates how airplanes, birds, and helicopters create differences in air pressure to develop lift for flying. Grades 3 - 8.
Atmosphere: On the Air (25 min. National Geographic) A student call-in radio show answers questions about the atmosphere and weather. Grades 4 - 9.
Bringing the Rain to Kapiti Plain (29 min. Reading Rainbow) This film features a cumulative rhyme relating how Ki-pat brought rain to the drought-stricken Kapiti Plain. Supplemental material shows how modern meteorologists predict the weather. Hosted by LeVar Burton. From the book by Verna Aardema; pictures by Beatriz Vidal. Grades K - 3.
Climate & Seasons (23 min. Schlessinger/Weather Fundamentals) In this film viewers learn the science behind climate and seasons with ABC's Good Morning America weather forecaster, Spencer Christian, and friend. Grades 4 - 7.
Clouds (23 min. Schlessinger Media/Weather Fundamentals) Viewers learn the science behind clouds with Spencer Christian, ABC's Good Morning America weather forecaster. Grades 4 - 7.
Come a Tide (30 min. Reading Rainbow) One family's adventure during a spring flood. Includes a look at dramatic weather. Grades K - 3.
Cyclone! (60 min. National Geographic) National Geographic chronicles some of the world's most shocking storms with gripping footage and scenes of heart-thumping, real-life drama: roofs ripped from houses, trees snapped like toothpicks, and trucks tossed about like children's toys. Grades 6 and up.
Earth's Seasons/Climates (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye the Science Guy goes full tilt to give the reasons for the seasons. His worldly perspective shows why when it's winter in America, it's summer in Australia. Part 2: Bill delivers hot sand from Saudi Arabia and bananas from humid Costa Rica, all to explain how different climates are created and how they effect our planet. Grades 3 - 8.
Fluids/Storms (52 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: What do syrup, milkshakes, and air all have in common? They're all fluids, or stuff that can bend, squish, flow, move, dodge, or mosey out of the way without breaking or separating. Part 2: Storms happen when huge masses of air collide. Disaster or not, storms benefit us. The tropical regions of the Earth would be too hot to inhabit — and the subpolar regions too cold — if we didn't have hurricanes. Grades 3 - 8.
Hurricane! (58 min. WGBH, Nova) Watch highly trained scientists as they routinely — and carefully — fly into the world's most destructive storms to discover what makes them tick and to measure their intensity and probable path. Then hear first-hand accounts of Hurricane Camille, the most devastating storm ever to strike the United States. Grades 7 and up.
Hurricanes and Tornadoes (23 min. Schlessinger Media/Weather Fundamentals) Viewers learn the science behind hurricanes and tornadoes with Spencer Christian, ABC's Good Morning America weather forecaster. Grades 4 - 7.
The Magic School Bus Kicks Up a Storm (30 min. Scholastic) This film explores what makes weather. Grades K - 4.
Metereology (Weather Fundamentals) (23 min. Schlessinger) Learn how metereologists gather and interpret current weather data. Grades 4 - 7.
Natural Disasters (35 min. Eyewitness) This film explores storms, earthquakes, and volcanoes. Grade 2 - 6.
Raging Planet: Tornado (27 min. Discovery Channel) This documentary covers all aspects of tornadoes, from the creation of the storm to the aftermath of an F5. Grades 6 - 12.
Raging Planet: Hurricane (27 min. Discovery Channel) This video shows hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones from decades past to recent years. Grades 6 - 12.
Rain & Snow (Weather Fundamentals) (23 min. Schlessinger) This film provides insights into how rain, snow, sleet, hail, fog, and mist form, as well as how the water cycle constantly "recycles" water around the world. Grades 4 - 7.
Secrets of Tornado (120 min.) In this film viewers learn how to make model tornadoes of any size. Grades 4 and up.
Stormchasers (38 min. IMAX) In this film meteorologists track extreme weather and enter the eye of a hurricane. Grades 7 and up.
Telling the Weather (20 min. National Geographic) This video discusses the science of meteorology and the innovations that have improved weather forecasting. Grades 4 - 9.
Tornado! (58 min. WGBH, Nova) This PBS documentary tells the true story of storm chasers, the men and women who risk their lives to record the power of dangerous tornadoes at close range. Grades 6 and up.
Understanding: Weather (54 min. Discovery Channel) Take a trip to " Tornado Alley" in Norman, Oklahoma. This video reveals the complex mysteries of everyday weather through vivid imagery and demonstrates basic concepts of air pressure, solar cycles, and the rain cycle. Grades 7 and up.
Waves/Wind (52 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Catch a few waves with the Science Guy! Bill explores sound waves, light waves, seismic waves, energy waves, and even "the wave" that's so popular with stadium crowds! Part 2: We'll visit a doctor's office to check out an X-ray machine and find out why those heavy lead jackets are required attire when X-rays are taken. Grades 3 - 8.
Weather (35 min. Eyewitness) Weather takes you on a whirlwind tour of Earth's turbulent atmosphere and reveals the forces that make the day fair or foul. From hurricane, to heat wave, weather is the most closely watched wild card in nature - yet it can still baffle us every day. Grades 2 - 6.
Weather Predictions (50 min. Modern Marvels) Viewers learn about the science of meteorology and its improvement in the last few decades. Focuses on data collection from radar, commercial aircraft, ocean buoys, weather balloons satellites, and humans. Grades 9 and up.
What's Up with the Weather (2 hours, NOVA) Floods, famine, hurricanes, droughts, heat waves. are these natural or man-made disasters? Grades 9 and up.
When Lightning Strikes (17 min. National Geographic) Slow-motion lightning footage and storm chasing. Grades 4 - 9.
Wonders of Weather (60 min. Discovery Channel) Discover how the oceans influence weather. Watch meteorologists as they use the latest technology to track hurricanes. And hop on board with a pack of storm chasers as they pursue a tornado. Grades 6 - 12.
Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Life
Death of the Dinosaur (60 min. PBS) This film discusses theories of dinosaur extinction. Grades 4 and up.
Digging Up Dinosaurs (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film describes various dinosaurs and how scientists uncover and preserve fossils. Grades K - 3.
Dinosaur (35 min. Eyewitness) Dinosaur takes you inside the world of paleontologists and the real-life monsters they study. Experience the process of discovery: the excitement of digging, reconstruction, and the realization of how dinosaurs lived and died. Grades 2 - 6.
Dinosaur Families (30 min. Richard A. Diercks Co/Digging Dinosaurs) In this film viewers take a look at what family life was like for some of the dinosaurs, and how paleontologists find and excavate bones. Grades K - 4.
Dinosaur Hunters (30 min. Museum of the Rockies) This film takes the viewer into the field to learn techniques of digging for dinosaur fossils. Grades 4 and up.
Dinosaurs and Other Creature Features (45 min. Really Wild Animals) This film features dinosaurs and some of their living reptile relatives, as well as "creepy" creatures like spiders and dung beetles. Grades K - 3.
Dinosaurs are Very Big (30 min. Richard A. Diercks Co./Digging Dinosaurs) In this film viewers take a close look at some of the very big dinosaurs including members of the Triceratops, Sarapod and Duckbill families; and investigate some of the remote and unusual places where dinosaur bones are discovered. Grades K - 4.
Dinosaurs of the Gobi (60 min. WGBH/NOVA) In 1992 a group of American scientists unearthed a fossil that added an interesting perspective to the relationship between birds and dinosaurs. They used cladistics to interpret the significance of the fossil. Grades 5 and up.
Dinosaurs/Reptiles (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Bill Nye answers questions like "How many years did dinosaurs survive?" and "What kind of skin do reptiles have?" Grades 3 - 8.
Dinosaurs: Those Big Boneheads (49 min. Bill Nye) Two episodes in which Bill Nye helps teach kids about dinosaurs and the layers of the Earth's crust. Grades 3 - 8.
Flesh on the Bones (60 min. PBS) This film explores the changing picture of dinosaur behaviors and abilities. Grades 7 and up.
Fossils/Erosion (52 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Discover the relationship between dinosaurs and birds, and find out that rhinoceroses once lived in Nebraska. Bill also tracks down dinosaur footprints with paleontologist Grace Irby and travels to the La Brea Tar Pits to see what's underneath all that tar. Part 2: The planet looks a lot different than it did when it formed four and a half billion years ago. The force of erosion, the slow wearing away of the land, has never ceased. Grades 3 - 8.
Giant Leap for Dinosaurs (30 min. Museum of the Rockies) This film discusses Jack Horner's discovery of Maiasaura. Grades 5 and up.
How to Build a Dinosaur (29 min. Milwaukee Public Television) This film describes the process involved in putting together a dinosaur skeleton and the role played by museums in sponsoring scientific research and fieldwork. Grades 4 and up.
I Dig Fossils (Mazon Productions) Join Scott and his dad in this fossil hunting adventure. Grades 4 and up.
I Love Dinosaurs (80 min. National Geographic) In this film viewers dig for unknown dinosaurs with paleontologist Paul Sereno, meet Sue the T. rex—the world's largest Tyrannosaurus Rex—and learn what's new about their favorite creatures. Grades K - 4.
Investigating Dinosaurs (24 min. Discovery Communications) In this film young viewers get down in the dirt with paleontologists as they search for clues about dinosaurs. In three re-creations, viewers observe relationships between predators and prey, see how some dinosaurs adapted to an ocean environment, and observe how paleontologists recreate the wing structure of the pterosaur.
Grades K - 2.
Magic School Bus: The Busasaurus (26 min. Scholastic) Ms. Frizzle leads the far-ranging school bus on a Jurassic trip into the time of the dinosaurs to learn a little pre-history. Grades K - 4.
Maia: A Dinosaur Grows Up (30 min. Running Press Video) Join Maia, a duck-billed dinosaur, to explore life on earth 80 million years ago. Grades K - 6.
The Monsters Emerge (60 min. PBS) This film discusses major events leading to the discovery of dinosaur fossils. Grades 4 and up.
Nature of the Beast (60 min. PBS) This film explores evidence that some dinosaurs lived and traveled in organized groups. Grades 4 and up.
Paleontology (40 min. Discovering Great Minds of Science) A new look at dinosaurs suggests that they were warm-blooded, fleet-footed creatures. Grades 4 and up.
Planet of Life: When Dinosaurs Ruled; Creatures of the Sky, Vol. 3 (90 min. The Discovery Channel) Ancient creatures of the sea and river blaze a new evolutionary trail with their first pioneering steps on land in this exciting chapter in the story of life. Travel to a time zone millions of years old- the era when the largest creatures to walk the planet dominated the landscape-in when Dinosaurs Ruled. Soar through the atmosphere with pterosaurss, the first flying vertebrates, and unravel the mysterious origins of birds in Creatures of the Skies. Grades 6 - 12.
The Real Jurassic Park (60 min. Nova) A team of researchers sets out to discover whether the technology presented in Jurassic Park actually exists. Their investigation raises another set of questions, related to the ethics of using such technology. Grades 7 and up.
Tale of a Bone (48 min. Dinosaur!) This film discusses the "bone rush" of the 1870s. Grades 7 and up.
Tale of a Feather (48 min. Dinosaur!) This film discusses the theory that birds are descendants of dinosaurs. Grades 7 and up.
Tale of an Egg (48 min. Dinosaur!) This film explores the world of a baby dinosaur. Grades 2 and up.
Walking With Dinosaurs (120 min. BBC) This film digitally recreates the time when dinosaurs reigned, highlighting Tyrannosauras Rex, Triceratops, and more. Grades 5 and up.
When Dinosaurs Roamed America (90 min. Artisan Home Entertainment/Discovery Channel) Using computer animation with live-action landscapes, the Discovery Channel takes a look at North America during the time when dinosaurs roamed. Grades 5 and up.
Earth Science
Acid Rain (30 min. Earth at Risk) The Earth at Risk Scholars explore the history of this pollution problem, from its origins during the Industrial Revolution to its devastating effects on today's woodlands, aquatic ecosystems, and wildlife. Grades 5 - 12.
All About Deserts & Grasslands (Ecosystems for Children) (23 min. Schlessinger) Discover the characteristics that make desert and grasslands ecosystems unique regions. Grades K - 4.
All About Forest Ecosystems (Ecosystems for Children) (23 min. Schlessinger) Explore the ecosystems where trees are the major plant life form. Learn about the three different types of forests from around the world: rainforests, deciduous, and coniferous forests. Grades K - 4.
All About Water Ecosystems (Ecosystems for Children) (23 min. Schlessinger) Explore freshwater ecosystems such as ponds and rivers, as well as marine ecosystems like corals reefs and the open oceans. Grades K - 4.
America's Prairies: Where the Sky Began (52 min. Discovery Channel) This film explores the natural and social history of the prairie starting thousands of years ago. Grades 6 - 12.
Cape Cod: The Sands of Time (43 min. National Park Service) This film explores the history and geology of Cape Cod. Grades 9 and up.
Clean Water (30 min. Earth at Risk) This award-winning program explains the hydrologic cycle, as well as the many ways that water is used, wasted and polluted by industry, agriculture, power plants, landfills, industrial chemicals, and oil spills in the ocean. Grades 5 - 12.
Crystals: They're Habit Forming (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) Crystals are solids made up of molecules joined together in regular patterns. Crystals grow and have regular shapes, called habits. Grades 3 - 6.
The Day the Earth Shook (60 min. NOVA) Find out what the experts are doing, using the latest technology, to protect us from the devastating effects of earthquakes. Grades 4 and up.
Erosion: Earth is Change (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) Earth's surface is constantly changing. Floods, landslides, hurricanes, and erupting volcanoes make quick changes. But constant action by wind and water over millions of years can also wear down Earth's surface. Grades 3 - 6.
Every Stone Has a Story (20 min. National Geographic) This film describes three classes of rocks, discussing how they are formed and how they are used. Grades 4 - 9.
Fossils/Erosion (52 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Discover the relationship between dinosaurs and birds, and find out that rhinoceroses once lived in Nebraska. Bill also tracks down dinosaur footprints with paleontologist Grace Irby and travels to the La Brea Tar Pits to see what's underneath all that tar. Part 2: The planet looks a lot different than it did when it formed four and a half billion years ago. The force of erosion, the slow wearing away of the land, has never ceased. Grades 3 - 8.
Gems and Minerals (45 min. Eastman Kodak Company) The Smithsonian Institution houses some of the rarest gems in the world, and in this video it opens its vaults to you. You'll get a glimpse at gems never seen by the public, and some you probably never knew existed. See everything from a 4.6-billion-year-old meteorite to the legendary 45.5 carat hope diamond. Grades 7 and up.
Gemstones of America (60 min. Smithsonian) Efrem Zimbalist, Jr. narrates this fact-filled foray into the mining, cutting, polishing, and setting of various types of gems, from argillite to tourmaline. Adult.
Geology (The Rockin' World of Geology) (190 min. Cerebellum/Standard Deviants) This film is a study aid for geology courses. Grades 9.
Get Busy: How Kids Can Save the Planet (30 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact Extra) Grades 3 - 6.
Geysers of Yellowstone and Other Thermal Features (45 min. Finley-Holiday Films) Takes you on a tour of the geysers of Yellowstone National Park. Also discusses and shows how geysers function.
Global Warming (30 min. Schlessinger/Earth at Risk) Since the beginning of time, our planet has experienced warming and cooling cycles that happen naturally over thousands of years. What's changing now? Grades 5 - 12.
Hill of Fire (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film features an account of the birth of the Paricutin volcano in the field of a Mexican farmer. Includes footage of the 1985 eruption of Kilauea in Hawaii. Grades K - 3.
Introduction to Rocks and Minerals (25 min. Scott Resources) A guide to the building blocks of Earth. Grades 4 and up.
Island (35 min. Eyewitness) Eyewitness: Island takes a look at islands being birthed from volcanoes, living islands made of coral, and even bustling, urban islands like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Manhattan. Grades 2 - 6.
Journey to Planet Earth: On the Brink (57 min. PBS) Companion to the PBS series which attempts to make environmental issues understandable, accessible, and personal by examining a specific ecological problem from multiple viewpoints (scientific, economic, political, and historical), as well as efforts by different communities to address the problems. Includes an episode guide, photo gallery, teachers' guides, and a list of Internet resources. On the Brink explores how environmental pressures can lead to violence, terrorism, and regional conflict across five different countries. Narrated by Matt Damon.
Journey to Planet Earth: Seas of Grass (57 min. PBS) Companion to the PBS series which attempts to make environmental issues understandable, accessible, and personal by examining a specific ecological problem from multiple viewpoints (scientific, economic, political, and historical), as well as efforts by different communities to address the problems. Includes an episode guide, photo gallery, teachers' guides, and a list of Internet resources. Seas of Grass looks investigates the serious threats to grasslands happening in five different countries. Narrated by Matt Damon.
Lakes and Ponds/Caves (42 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Lakes and ponds are formed when water collects (it pools!) in a low place in the ground. Where does all that water come from? Bill Nye ponders this and many other freshwater questions in this exciting program. Part 2: Join Bill as he explores the fascinating, spooky, bizarre world of caves! You never know what kind of living things you'll run into in a cave, either. Grades 3 - 8.
The Lorax (30 min. FoxVideo) This film features Dr. Seuss’ famous story. Grades K.
The Magic School Bus Blows Its Top (30 min. Scholastic) The class travels under the sea to see how a volcano is formed and why it erupts. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: Inside the Earth (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film features exploration of caves. Grades K - 3.
Mountain (35 min. Eyewitness) Understand why cultures around the world consider mountains to be holy places, and why they actually are a treasure trove of unique life forms that do not exist anywhere else on Earth. Grades 2 - 6.
My First Green Video: A Kid's Guide to Ecology and Environmental Activities (40 min. Sony) The program includes helpful "green" tips and activities for the house and yard that teach children how to care for the Earth. Grades K - 3.
My First Nature Video (40 min. Sony) ) A kid's guide to exciting nature activities. Grades K - 3.
Natural Disasters (35 min. Eyewitness) Storms, earthquakes and volcanoes. Grades 2 - 6.
Ozone Layer (30 min. Schlessinger/Earth at Risk) The importance of the ozone layer - the invisible layer which protects the Earth's atmosphere - is the focus of this program. Ozone molecules are examined, and the need for an oxygen/ozone balance in the atmosphere is explained. Grades 5 - 12.
Pollution Solutions/Archaeology (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: From cleaning our water to cleansing our air, Bill demonstrates how important it is for all humans to prepare for the future by recycling, researching, and developing innovative solutions to combat this "way UN-cool" worldwide problem. Part 2: Bill digs into the fascinating science of archaeology, the study of those who lived before us. Grades 3 - 8.
Raging Planet: Avalanche (27 min. Discovery Channel) Watch as avalanches slide into action, spreading their doom once snow-packed areas begin to shift. Listen and learn how avalanche controllers can use a cannon to purposely trigger certain snow slides in an effort to prevent uncontrolled avalanches. Grades 6 - 12.
Raging Planet: Tidal Wave (26 min. Discovery Channel) This film shows how tidal waves, also known as tsunamis, are formed and surveys the consequences when they strike land. Grades 6 - 12.
Rainbow of Stone: A Journey Through Deep Time in the Grand Canyon (40 min. Terra Productions) This film explores the geologic story of the Park form the two-billion-year-old rocks of the Inner Gorge to volcanoes that spilled lava into remote western portions of the Grand Canyon less than a million years ago. Witness this magnificent landscape and its geology from the air, rim, and river. Grades 4 and up.
Reality is Relative/I Feel the Earth Move (28 min. Science Odyssey Short Trips) 2 episodes. Episode one discusses Einstein's theory of relativity. Episode two discusses Wegener and continental drift. Grades 7 and up.
Recycling (30 min. Earth at Risk) The average American throws away 3.5 lbs of trash each day. This program scrutinizes our throw-away mentality and the vast waste management problems it has created. Grades 5 - 12.
Ring of Fire (40 min. Imax) This film examines the circle of volcanoes and seismic activity that rings the Pacific Ocean. Grades 4 and up.
The Rise and Fall of Lake Hitchcock: New England's Greatest Glacial Lake (45 min. Earth View) This film is a comprehensive look at the processes and land forms of the glacial geologic environment. Grades 9 and up.
Rocks and Minerals (17 min. Delta) Take an up-close look at lava, visit the Grand Canyon, and much more. Grades 3 - 6.
Rotten Truth (30 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact Extra) This film discusses landfills. Grades 3 - 6.
Spinning Things/Earthquakes (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye the Science Guy tells us what the Earth, a big storm, and a rolling ball have in common. Discover why some things spin and others don't. Part 2: Thousands of earthquakes happen each year and Bill Nye the Science Guy trembles in his boots when he explains what causes them. Find out what makes big pieces of the Earth's crust (the plates) move and what you should have on hand in case of a quake. Grades 3 - 8.
Volcano (35 min. Eyewitness) Volcano explodes the myths surrounding Earth's violent nature. Journey to the most inhospitable regions of the planet, where rock melts, and all life trembles. Witness the destructive effects of volcanoes and earthquakes - and the life-giving results of their aftermath. Grades 2 - 6.
Volcano! (National Geographic) (60 min. National Geographic) How are volcanoes formed? What do they look like when they erupt? And how do certain volcanoes behave? Grades 5 and up.
Volcanos: Too Hot to Handle (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) Exploring the causes and effects of volcanic eruptions. Grades 3 - 6.
Water Cycle: Go With the Flow (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) Water on Earth is cleaned in a never-ending cycle of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. But there is a limit to the amount of pollution the water cycle can handle. Grades 3 - 6.
Wetlands/Rivers & Streams (42 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye sloshes across American wetlands and gets a little bit muddy while he shows us how these swamps, bogs, and marshes help control floods, naturally filter water, and provide a good home to lots of living things, especially wildlife Part 2: Get wet with Bill Nye the Science Guy as he follows the flow of rivers and streams. Bill tracks the origins of these bodies of water and shows us what impact they have on our lives. Grades 3 - 8.
Waves/Wind (52 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Catch a few waves with the Science Guy! Bill explores sound waves, light waves, seismic waves, energy waves, and even "the wave" that's so popular with stadium crowds! Part 2: We'll visit a doctor's office to check out an X-ray machine and find out why those heavy lead jackets are required attire when X-rays are taken. Grades 3 - 8.
When the Earth Quakes (28 min. National Geographic) Earth has been restless ever since it solidified from a giant ball of gas more than 4.6 billion years ago. Since then, earthquakes have shaken the continents and oceans, but why do they occur? Grades 4 - 9.
Wind (Weather Fundamentals) (23 min. Schlessinger) Learn about the incredible power of wind. This film explains how wind occurs by describing the roles of the sun, temperature and air pressure in creating this aspect of weather. Grades 4 - 7.
You Can't Grow Home Again (60 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact Extra) This film explores Rainforests. Grades 3 - 6.
Evolution
Children of Eve (58 min. Coronet) This film explores the origin of the human species and natural selection. Grades 9 and up.
Comets and Meteors/Evolution (42 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: More than just high-speed space chunks, comets and meteors carry important information about the history of our Universe. Part 2: Bill Nye compares primordial to present when he dabbles with Darwin and looks at his genes in this evolutionary episode. Grades 3 - 8.
Creative Revolution (55 min. Nova) Fifty thousand years ago, hunter-gatherers began to paint, carve, talk, travel and trade. Scientists debate the reasons for this sudden transformation. Grades 9 and up.
Evolution (23 min. Schlessinger Media) This film delves into the complex relationships between living things. Grades 5 - 8.
Evolution: Darwin's Dangerous Idea, Vol. 1 (120 min. WGBH) Darwin kept his theory of evolution secret for 21 years. His incredibly powerful idea challenged our understanding of our world and of ourselves. This video interweaves key moments in Darwin's life with documentary sequences of current research. It explores how science might be used to explain the past and predict the future of life on Earth. Grade 9 and up.
Evolution: Great Transformations, Vol. 2 (60 min. WGBH) This film focuses on some of evolution's most important changes—among them the development of the four-limbed body plan, the journey of animal life from water to land, the return of mammals to the sea, and the emergence of humans. Grade 9 and up.
Evolution: Extinction! Vol. 3 (60 min. WGBH) This film explores the causes of the mass extinctions that may have occurred over the life of planet. Grade 9 and up.
Evolution: The Evolutionary Arms Race. Vol. 4 (60 min. WGBH Boston) This film explores human spiraling arms race with microorganisms. Grade 9 - Adult.
Evolution: Why Sex? Vol. 5 (60 min. WGBH) This film looks at the endless variety of sexual expression and the powerful hold sex exerts over almost all living things. Adult.
Neanderthals on Trial: Were Neanderthals our ancestors... or an evolutionary dead-end? (60 min. WGBH) Were Neanderthals human like us? Or were they subhuman brutes? Since the discovery of the first Neanderthal skeleton in 1856, scientists have battled over exactly how we're related to these prehistoric cave-dwellers. There's plenty of new evidence, but nothing seems to settle the case, not even DNA from the original Neanderthal bones. Exploring one of the most contentious debates in human origins, Neanderthals on Trial offers a surprising look at how science works, and how investigators sometimes fool themselves into seeing what they want to see. Grades 9 and up.
Planet of Life: The Birth of Earth and Ancient Oceans, Vol. 1 (90 min. The Discovery Channel) From the simplest microorganism to the complex species that is humankind, the evolutionary development of every living creature has been marked by struggles of life and death. Now this epic story is chronicled in Planet of Life. Explore the primordial planet and find out how life emerged from a sea of toxins in The Birth of Earth. In Ancient Oceans,descend into the deep of Earth's ancient seas to witness the explosion of life preserved today in the Burgess Shale. Grades 6 - 12.
Planet of Life: When Dinosaurs Ruled; Creatures of the Sky, Vol. 2 (90 min. The Discovery Channel) Ancient creatures of the sea and river blaze a new evolutionary trail with their first pioneering steps on land in this exciting chapter in the story of life. Travel to a time zone millions of years old—the era when the largest creatures to walk the planet dominated the landscape—in When Dinosaurs Ruled. Soar through the atmosphere with pterosaurss, the first flying vertebrates, and unravel the mysterious origins of birds in Creatures of the Sky. Grades 6 - 12.
Planet of Life: The Insect World and Apes to Man, Vol. 3 (60 min. the Discovery Channel) Why do some life forms thrive on planet Earth while others vanish to extinction? Discover the survival strategies and unique adaptations developed by one of Earth's most successful species in The Insect World. Then climb our family tree in Apes to Man to find out how the unpredictable forces of evolution shaped our primate ancestors and Earth's first hominids. Grades 6 - 12.
Planet of Life: Evolutions Next Step, Vol. 4 (50 min. The Discovery Channel) In little more than a few generations, humankind has altered the balance of Earth's fragile ecosystems— polluting waters, ransacking natural resources, and overpopulating the landscape. Can the human species survive on Earth? If not, where do we go from here? In Evolution's Next Step scientists study alternatives for the distant future—perhaps even making other planets habitable for human life. Grades 6 - 12.
Surviving in Africa (60 min. In Search of Human Origins) This tape takes viewers to Africa for an investigation of human history. The program discusses various theories as to how early human ancestors survived, shows the value of Louis and Mary Leakey's discovery at Olduvai Gorge, and questions the importance of hunting to early hominid development. Grades 6 and up.
Flight
Faster than Sound (60 min. WGBH/NOVA) A half a century ago, US Air Force captain Chuck Yeager successfully cracked the sound barrier. But for the first World War II fighter pilots to experience this freakish phenomenon, it seemed an impenetrable wall: as they approached a certain speed, their planes went out of control. The international race to build an aircraft that could withstand this uncanny force was fraught with danger, ambition, and intrigue — and NOVA takes you behind the scenes to tell the real story of those who risked their lives to fly faster than sound. Grades 9 and up.
The Magic of Flight (82 min. MacGillivray Freeman Films) Originally released as an IMAX film. Narrated by Tom Selleck. Includes "Making of" documentary shot in high-definition video. Grades 7 and up.
The Magic School Bus: Taking Flight (30 min. Scholastic) In this film Ms. Frizzle and her class shrink down to fly in a radio-controlled airplane as they study the principles of flight. Grades K - 4.
Food and Nutrition
General Science
Alejandro's Gift (30 min. Reading Rainbow) Lonely in his desert house, Alejandro builds an oasis to attract animals. Grades K - 3.
Archibald Frisby (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film explores amusement parks and using a scientific approach to winning carnival games. Grades K - 3.
Biodiversity/Garbage (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye literally sets up office in an ocean, a forest, and a field to commune with nature and show what happens when one link falls out of nature's chain. Part 2: By digging up the dirt on garbage in ever-expanding landfills from New York to Florida, Bill Nye exposes the vast amounts of non-biodegradable waste humans create. Grades 3 - 8.
The Case of the Missing Baseball (33 min. Children's Television) This film is a Square One TV detective serial featuring two ace mathematicians working with the police department. Grades K - 4.
Hidden Worlds (26 min. Discovery Channel) This video reveals the tiny organisms that surround you, invisible to the naked eye. Grades 6 - 12.
How Do You Know? Experiment (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) One way to test a theory is to set up a controlled experiment that isolates variables and eliminates outside factors which might influence results. Grades 3 - 6.
How Do You Know?: Make a Model (15 min. Children’s Television Workshop) Lots of people put together model planes or ships for fun. But models aren’t just toys, they’re scientific tools! Models can help us test theories, learn about things that are very small, very big, very far away, or that lived very long ago. We can even calculate a dinosaur’s weight by using a model. Grades 1 - 6.
Invisible World (60 min. National Geographic) The Invisible World will captivate you with the sight of water crystallizing into ice; a single atom's movement within solid matter; a bullet speeding towards its target—and will forever alter your understanding and perception of the world. Grades 4 and up.
Magic School Bus: Greatest Adventures (90 min. Scholastic) 3 episodes. "Gets Lost in Space" explores our solar system. "In a Pickle" explores the mini-world of microbes on a pickle. "Busasaurus" explores dinosaurs. Grades K - 4.
Modern Marvels: Map Making (50 min. The History Channel) From the earliest known maps carved into cave walls in Europe, to modern dashboard maps linked to satellites, MODERN MARVELS tells the story of the ways we have chosen to chart our course and represent our world—and other worlds. Grades 8 and up.
Origins (120 min. Science Odyssey) History of the planet, the human species and life itself. Grades 7 and up.
Paddle to the Sea (30 min. Lightyear) In this film based on the book by Holling C. Holling, a Native American boy carves a small man in a canoe and sends him on a journey from Canada's northern forest downstream to the distant sea. Grades K - 3.
Party with Zoom (45 min. WGBH) The Zoom kids will show you how to make any day a real party! Hosts Pablo and Alisa will give you fun ideas so that you can throw your best party ever. Includes ideas for party invitations, cafeZoom recipies, Zoom games, and magic tricks.
Probability/Time (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. This film explores how time is measured by the movement of the Earth. Grades 3 - 8.
Pseudoscience/Do-It-Yourself Science (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill shows how the cold, hard facts of science can be used to test ideas, myths, and inexplicable happenings, along with Way Cool Scientist Bernard Leikind of the Skeptics Society. Part 2: Who knows better than Bill Nye the Science Guy that you can demonstrate big scientific ideas with small experiments? Get a lesson in "Do-it-Yourself Science" from Bill himself. Grades 3 - 8.
The Secret of Life on Earth (45 min. IMAX Corporation) Go on a breathtaking adventure through time and across five continents to reveal nature's most vital secret. You'll see the alarming destruction humankind has caused to our ecosystems and find hope in recent efforts to restore the natural balance we have disturbed. Grades 7 and up.
Science Discovery for Children (42 min. Increase Video) The narrator, Ruth M. Young, demonstrates and discusses over 15 science projects that can be done with materials readily available at home. These include a variety of experiments with plants, a chemical garden, magnets, and surface tension.
Science as Inquiry in Action (23 min. Schlessinger Media) Attempting to create the ultimate science project, a frustrated student receives assistance from a group of knowledgeable scientists. Some of the world's greatest scientific thinkers provide well-needed insight about different projects through the process of "Science as Inquiry." Through engaging examples, viewers will learn how scientific evidence and explanation play important roles in scientific inquiry. Grades 4 and up.
Science as Inquiry for Children (23 min. Schlessinger Media) This film helps young scientists develop an understanding and appreciation of the exciting world of science. Grades K - 4.
The Science of Sports / Rock and Roll Physics (50 min. New Explorers) This film contains two different segments on video. The Science of Sports explores the connection between the training of athletes and scientific techniques. Rock and Roll Physics looks at innovative high school teachers and how they make science fun for their students. Grades 9 and up.
Search for a Safe Cigarette (60 min. Nova/WGBH) Explore how science and tobacco research may help create a safer cigarette. Grades 9 and up.
History and Inventions
All About Telescopes and Binoculars (30 min. Integrity Communications) In this film discover how to buy the best binoculars or telescope and how to select the best instrument for you. Adult.
Microbots and the phantom: an innovative lives special with James McLurkin and Thomas Massie (20 min. National Museum of American History) This video showcases a trip to the National Museum of American History, where kids can learn about micro-robots and how they were invented. Grades: College and up.
Decoding Nazi Secrets (120 min. NOVA) This film presents the full account of history's greatest codebreaking coup. Grades 9 and up.
Nerds 2.0.1: Networking the Nerds (60 min. PBS Home Video) This film offers a fast-paced history of the development of the internet. Grades 9 - 12.
Nerds 2.0.1: Serving the Suits (60 min. PBS Home Video) A fast-paced history of the development of the internet. Grades 9 - 12.
Nerds 2.0.1: Wiring the World (60 min. PBS Home Video) A fast-paced history of the development of the internet. Grades 9 - 12.
Marine Life and Oceanography
Aquatic Habitats (60 min. Discovery Channel) This film explores the ocean habitat of sharks, Lock Ness, the mangrove swamps of Florida, and the estuaries of the Chesapeake Bay. Grades 6 - 12.
City of Coral (60 min. Nova) This film explores the ecology of a Caribbean coral reef. Grades 5.
Coral Reefs (26 min. Discovery Channel) Explore the teeming life found in coral reefs. Grades 6 - 12.
Creatures of the Deep (52 min. National Geographic/Amazing Planet) A bunch of aliens explore the ocean. Grades 2 - 6.
Deep Sea Dive (45 min. Really Wild Animals) Whales, dolphins, and sharks are only the beginning of this exploration of the ocean. Grades K - 3.
Dive to the Coral Reefs (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film features scuba diving off the Florida Keys. Grades K - 3.
Dive to the Edge of Creation (59 min. National Geographic) This film features undersea exploration by biologists and geologists. Grades 4 and up.
Dolphins (77 min. MacGillivray/National Geographic/Imax) This movie captures the amazing lives of dolphins in the wild. Grades 6 - 12.
Dolphins (15 min. National Geographic) Introduces students to dolphins and shows experiments that demonstrate the animal's intelligence. Describes the dolphin's sophisticated sonar system that helps these mammals locate objects in the water.
Dolphins with Robin Williams (60 min. In the Wild) Robin Williams travels to the Bahamas and Hawaii to investigate dolphin intelligence and communications. This film contains some language that may be inappropriate for young children. Grades 9 and up.
Fish/Marine Mammals (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Take a dive underwater with Bill Nye the Science Guy when he studies fish. Explore the depths with these submerged creatures and discover how they breathe, grow, and survive in the wet. Part 2: Marine mammals may look like big fish, but Bill Nye the Science Guy explains how they're more like humans. Listen closely to hear mammals communicate underwater and find out how our "relatives at sea" have found ways to live in oceans all around the world. Grades 3 - 8.
Galapagos Beyond Darwin (60 min. Discovery Channel) Plunge 3,000 feet beneath the water off the Galapagos where a variety of creatures continues to evolve. Share the discovery of over two dozen new species. Grades 6 - 12.
Gift of the Whales (30 min. Miramar) Story of a boy and his relationship with whales near his village. Grades 4 and up.
The Great Whales (59 min. National Geographic) Once feared and hunted almost to extinction, the whale now commands worldwide attention. Join scientists and conservationists as they study and document the anatomy, communication, and migratory patterns of a variety of whale species.
Grades 7 and up.
Humphrey the Lost Whale (30 min. Reading Rainbow) A humpback whale makes a wrong turn in San Francisco Bay and finds himself trapped in the fresh water of Sacramento River. Grades K - 3.
Invertebrates: Jellyfish and Horseshoe Crabs (27 min. Discovery Channel) Although brainless and eyeless, jellyfish can still respond to changes in their environment, despite being little more than bundles of nerves. And the horseshoe crab has survived nearly unchanged for 350 million years, thanks to a remarkable immune system. Grades 6 - 12.
Island of the Sharks (40 min. Imax) Welcome to a tropical Pacific paradise where beauty and danger co-exist beneath the waves! Otherwise known as Cocos Island, this underwater mountain—an Island of the Sharks—is a migratory gathering place for a dazzling array of sea creatures including sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and dolphins. Grades 4 and up.
Jack, the Seal and the Sea (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film explores the preservation of water and oceans. It also take a look at a variety of marine life, from the smallest the eye can see to the leopard shark. Grades K - 3.
Keepers of the Reef (20 min. New England Aquarium) Dive into Bermuda's underwater world and explore the mystery of the coral reefs and the legacy left by shipwrecks. Grades 4 and up.
Killer Whales: Wolves of the Sea (60 min. National Geographic) They don't call them killer whales for nothing. In National Geographic's Killer Whales: Wolves of the Sea, narrated by the great David Attenborough, you'll see pods of these great beasts work together to capture prey, much like their distant cousins the wolves. Grades 7 and up.
Louis the Fish (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film tells the tale of a man who turns into a fish. It also includes an exploration of marine life. Grades K - 3.
The Living Sea (40 min. Imax) Explore mysterious depths to discover the beauty, diversity, and importance of the ocean to all life on Earth. Narrated by Meryl Streep. Grades 4 and up.
The Magic School Bus Gets Eaten (30 min. KidVision) The Bus travels through the ocean food chain—getting eaten along the way. Grades K - 4.
Night Life: Creatures of the Deep (New England Aquarium) Venture into the deep waters off Bermuda to meet bizarre creatures: bioluminescent angler fish, giant tube worms, and unique chemosynthetic bacteria. Grades 7 and up.
Ocean Environments: 3-D Sea (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) The ocean provides a number of different environments for animal life. Each animal in the ocean has adapted to its specific environment Grades 3 - 6.
Oceans for the Future: The Making of Marine Protected Areas (New England Aquarium) Through amazing underwater footage, investigate marine protected areas: how they work, what they can do, where they are, and where they ought to be. Grades 9 and up.
Sea Animals: See How They Grow (30 min. Eyewitness) Kids learn how the cuttlefish, hermit crab, pipefish, and manta ray grow and survive in their underwater habitats. Grades Pre-K.
Seashore (35 min. Eyewitness) This video is a documentary on the intertidal zones of the sea that divides the ocean from land. Grades 2 - 6.
Seashore Surprises (30 min. Reading Rainbow) Kids are introduced to the fascinating diversity of life that lives in and around the seashore. Grades K - 3.
Shark (35 min. Eyewitness) Shark takes you down into the murky world of sharks and their relatives and reveals what motivates these fascinating creatures. Discover a shark that eats only plankton, and learn that not all sharks are killing machines. Grade 2 - 6.
Sharks (60 min. National Geographic) Plunge the ocean depths with the National Geographic team as they takes you to the underwater realm of sharks! Grades 6 and up.
Shell (35 min. Eyewitness) This entertaining and informative video provides a dazzling array of creatures that use shells as a means of survival. It also shows many examples of how shells and shell creatures have inspired the human imagination, whether it be the lobster-like design of a suit of armor or the influence of the chambered nautilus on the invention of the first submarine. Grade 2 - 6.
Sunken Treasure (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film includes a visit with Dr. Robert Ballard, the scientist who discovered the Titanic. Grades K - 3.
Surviving Sharks (18 min. Boston World of Water Series) In this film unravel the mysteries of some of the most amazing and misunderstood animals of the sea—sharks. Experience the beauty, diversity, and sometimes curious nature of these so-called monsters of the deep. Join host Peter Benchley, author of JAWS, as he explores the truth about sharks and examines the growing threats to their survival and the deteriorating health of the marine environment. Grades 9 and up.
Treasures of the Great Barrier Reef (60 min. Nova) Dive into a world teeming with extraordinary life where males are females and even the rocks are alive. Danger lurks at every turn and only the lucky survive. Grades 4 and up.
Whales (60 min. Imax) Whales brings to the giant screen the drama, joy, and poetry of the underwater domain of some of the largest creatures to ever live on Earth! Grades 4 and up.
Mathematics
The Case of the Dirty Money (39 min. Mathnet) This film features a Mathnet Mystery solved using estimation, number patterns, and ratios. Grades 3 - 6.
Circles: The Vegie Stash-o-Matic (16 min. The Eddie Files) In this film, Eddie has to invent a machine based on circles. Grades 3 - 6.
The Counting Principle: Eddie in Barbieland (19 min. The Eddie Files) In this film, Eddie uses the counting principle to buy clothes for his sister. Grades 3 - 6.
Decimals: The Fake Money Caper (19 min. The Eddie Files) In this film, Eddie uses decimals to figure out the value of the peso, ruble, and a questionable $100 bill. Grades 3 - 6.
Distance, Time, and Speed: Hot Dog Heaven (22 min. The Eddie Files) In this film Eddie races against Manhattan traffic to find his lost dog. Grades 3 - 6.
Donald in Mathmagic Land (26 min. Disney) Donald Duck learns the importance of mathematics in everyday life from the early Greeks. Grades 4 - 8.
Estimation: Going to the Dogs (19 min. The Eddie Files) In this film Eddie has to estimate the number of dogs in New York City. Grades 3 - 6.
Fractions (19 min. The Eddie Files) In his visit to Sal's Pizzeria, Eddie discovers surprising things about fractions. Grades 3 - 6.
Geometry: Invasion of the Polygons. (19 min. The Eddie Files) In this film Eddie learns about polygons from construction workers and an inventor. Grades 3 - 6.
Length and Area: Sleep Like a Dog (22 min. The Eddie Files) In this film Eddie learns about how Math is used by people who make TV sets and models. Grades 3 - 6.
Life by the Numbers (7 videos) (420 min. WQED) This seven-part series is hosted by Danny Glover and includes interviews with experts who explain the crucial role mathematics plays in sports, work, education, exploration, chance, virtual reality and life in general. Part one: Seeing is Believing. Part two: Numbers Game. Part three: Patterns of Nature. Part 4: Chances of a Lifetime. Part five: Shape of the World. Part six: A New Age. Part 7: Making a Difference. (60 minutes each.) Grades 7 and up.
Math: Who Needs It? (58 min. FASE Productions) This film highlights the importance of math in a variety of work. Grades 7 and up.
Measurement/Patterns (46 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Some of our most important tools are the ones used for measuring. Telescopes, spectroscopes, microscopes, stethoscopes, radar, thermometers, corers, Geiger counters, scales, barometers—not to mention the humble ruler—are all used to compare stuff in our Universe and make observations. Part 2: Every time you look at something, hear something, touch something, smell something, or taste something, your brain collects a little information about the world around you. People deal with that information by finding patterns.
Grades 3 - 8.
Mind's Eye, Mind's Invention (28 min. National Museum of American History) This video showcases the work of artist and inventor Chuck Hoberman, who combines math and art in his work, especially in his "unfolding structures" series. Basic geometry principles are also explained in this video.
Patterns: The Big Concert (19 min. The Eddie Files) Eddie's practice sessions with his school music teacher (Jonelle Allen) haven't been going too well. Eddie tries to get some tips as he watches his sister, Dee, prepare for a singing solo, and his friend Vincent jamming with his jazz band. All of this advice is useful, but, as it turns out, it is Miss Toliver's lesson on patterns that finally puts Eddie on the right track. Grades 3 - 6.
Powers of Ten (21 min. Pyramid) This film deals with the relative size of things in the universe. Grades 7 and up.
Probability/Time (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Time is measured by the movement of the Earth.
Grades 3 - 8.
The Proof (60 min. Nova) This film describes how Andrew Wiles—a Princeton math whiz—went about proving Fermat's Last Theorem, a famous enigma that had stumped experts for three centuries. Adult.
The Trial of George Frankly (50 min. Mathnet) This film features a Mathnet Mystery solved using approximation, measurement, and logic. Grades 3 - 6.
Trillion Dollar Bet (60 min. NOVA) In this film discover how in the 1970s economists turned finance into a science. Viewers also learn the history of predicting financial markets. Adult.
The View from the Rear Terrace (68 min. Mathnet) This film features a Mathnet Mystery solved using patterns. Grades 3 - 6.
Volume: The Day Manhattan Ran Dry (22 min. The Eddie Files) Manhattan has millions of people, and they use lots and lots of water. But what if that supply were cut off, just for one day? It's that thought that launches Eddie on a creative essay on the consequences of no water. Grades 3 - 6.
World of Geometry (30 min. Village Video) In this film discover the world of geometry as seen in everyday life. Grades 2 - 6.
People
Attitude is Altitude: Meet Hal Walker (29 min. Lemelson Center) This video showcases the life and work of Hal Parker, an African American aerospace engineer. Grades 9 and up.
A Class Divided (57 min. PBS) Previously broadcast on PBS as an episode of "Frontline." Documents a reunion of Iowa teacher Jane Elliott and her third-grade class of 1970, subjects that year of an ABC News television documentary entitled "The Eye of the Storm". Shows how her experimental curriculum on the evils of discrimination had a lasting effect on the lives of the students. Ages 13 - adult.
Einstein Revealed (120 min. WGBH) Journey into the mind of a genius— and, with the help of some whimsical computer animation, visualize experiments only Einstein could imagine. Grades 9 and up.
The Fantastic World of M.C. Escher (50 min. Atlas Video) In this film learn all about the life and work of M.C. Escher. Adult.
The Greatest Flight (60 min. National Geographic) Chronicles the record-breaking flight of Peter McMillan and Lang Kidby, who flew from England to Australia in 1919, and the reenactment that took place in 1994.
Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West (45 min. National Geographic Television) Relive an amazing tale of discovery and exploration and experience the first crossing of what would become the United States. Grades 4 and up.
Lewis Latimer, Renaissance Man: African American inventor (45 min. Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation) This children's video recounts the inspiring life story of Lewis Latimer, a renowned inventor responsible for numerous patents. The video blends history, humor, and music into the tale through the use of puppetry and song. Grades K - 6.
Lost at Sea: the Search for Longitude (60 min. Nova) This film describes the hard work and research of John Harrison, the "Father of Longitude." Grades 7 and up.
Masters of Technology (150 min.) Meet five revolutionary thinkers who have changed the way we live today and discover how their scientific and technological innovations will shape our future. Such minds include Vinton Cerf (father of the Internet), Donna Shirley (1st female to lead a NASA team), Geoffrey Ballard (developed hydrogen fuel cell), Robert Langer (inventor), and Burt Rutan (creates aircrafts). Two VHS tapes. Grades 9 and up.
Navajo Code Talkers: The Epic Story (55 min. Tully) The Navajo code talkers played an essential role in the war in the Pacific, and their fellow American Indian patriots served similarly in other theaters of the war. Grades 4 and up.
Operation White Tower (17 min. RKO) This film features footage of Brad and Barbara Washburn on Mount McKinley in 1947. Grades 9 and up.
Shackleton's Boat Journey (31 min. sd. Milestone Film & Video) Ernest Shackleton's 1914–16 expedition to cross Antarctica involved being shipwrecked on the Endurance and then on the James Caird crossing 600 miles of ice flows, 850 miles of the worst seas on earth and miles of mountainous terrain before reaching safety. Grades 7 and up.
She's got it! Women inventors and their inspirations (28 min. National Museum of American History) This video features women and girls who share a common creative spirit and have won invention prizes and awards. Grades 4 and up.
South: Sir Ernest Shackleton's Glorious Epic of the Antarctic (88 min. Milestones Film & Video) This film chronicles one of history's greatest epics of courage and leadership: the 1914 expedition of Sir Ernest Shackleton to cross Antarctica via the South Pole. Grades 7 and up.
Physics
All About the Conservation of Energy (23 min. Schlessinger/Energy for children) In this film viewers learn about energy consumption, the importance of conservation, and renewable energy resources. Grades K - 4.
All About the Transfer of Energy (23 min. Schlessinger/Energy for children) In this film viewers learn about potiential and kinetic energy, and how energy transfers between those two states. Grades K - 4.
All About the Uses of Energy (23 min. Schlessinger/Energy for Children) In this film viewers learn that electricity keeps our world running, and how giant generators produce electricity. Grades K - 4.
Atmosphere/Flight (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: There's something in the air this episode as Bill Nye the Science Guy talks about atmosphere, its five different levels, and how it protects the Earth. Part 2: With the help of his team of young scientists and some common household items, Bill Nye demonstrates how airplanes, birds, and helicopters create differences in air pressure to develop lift for flying. Grades 3 - 8.
Balance/Structure (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye's the center of attention when he talks about the center of gravity and its effect on balance. Part 2: From the "Bungee Zone" in British Columbia to New York Harbor's Verrazano Narrows Bridge (one of the longest suspension bridges in the world), our daredevil host, Bill Nye, goes to any length to prove the structural principals of tension and compression. Grades 3 - 8.
Electrical Current and Magnetism (19 min. AIMS Multimedia) This program explores the basic principles of electromagnetism through several simple experiments. Grades 4 - 8.
Electrical Current/Light and Optics (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Get amped when Bill Nye the Science Guy gets a charge explaining "watts up" with electricity. Learn how electricity makes the world a brighter place. Part 2: You won't believe your eyes when Bill Nye the Science Guy reflects, refracts, bends, bounces, absorbs, and pulls light waves to show how things can be seen in different ways. Grades 3 - 8.
Energy: Potential and Kinetic(23 min. Schlessinger Science Library) In this film viewers explore the differences between kinetic and potential energy. Grades 5 - 8.
Fluids/Storms (52 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: What do syrup, milkshakes, and air all have in common? They're all fluids, or stuff that can bend, squish, flow, move, dodge, or mosey out of the way without breaking or separating. Part 2: Storms happen when huge masses of air collide. Disaster or not, storms benefit us. The tropical regions of the Earth would be too hot to inhabit—and the sub-polar regions too cold—if we didn't have hurricanes. Grades 3 - 8.
Forces (Physical Science in Action) (23 min. Schlessinger Science Library) This film explores the many forces affecting us all the time. Grades 5 - 8.
Friction/Simple Machines (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: We don't want to rub you the wrong way; we're just giving you the true grit about friction! Bill illustrates how various types of transportation utilize friction, from the use of traction in trains and the "roll" of ball bearings in skateboards and automobiles, to the lack of friction in a hovercraft. Part 2: Bill Nye careens around a roller coaster, furiously pedals his bike on the "Tour du Science," and parodies the Jackson 5's "A-B-C 1-2-3" with "ABCs of Machinery," to show that simple machines doing complicated things can be found everywhere. Grades 3 - 8.
Friction: Getting a Grip (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) Friction is the resistance encountered when one thing moves over the surface of another. Friction can help things start and stop moving. Grades 3 - 6.
Generating Electricity: More Power To You (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) A magnet moved past a wire—or a wire moved past a magnet—generates an electric current. A generator is a coil of wire moving inside a magnet. See the sources of energy that run these generators. Grades 3 - 6.
Heat/Energy (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Way Cool Scientist Bill Nye really radiates in this sizzling episode. Learn what heat is and about its three forms: conduction, convection, and radiation. Part 2: This spirited episode is sure to rev things up when it covers water, muscles, heat, light, sound, and other types of energy that make things go, run, or happen. Grades 3 - 8.
Infrared: more than meets the eye (7 min. NASA) In this brief video Astronomer Dr. Michelle Thaller discusses night vision cameras and the principles of infrared light. Grades 4 - 12.
Introduction to Magnetism (21 min. National Geographic) A quick guide to the fundamentals and applications of magnetism. Grades 5 - 9.
Invisible Force (54 min. Discovery Channel) This film explains how gravity works and how it has shaped our planet and the species living on it. Grades 6 - 12.
Light (15 min. National Geographic) From shadow play to refraction, light is all around us, changing constantly. Grades 5 - 9.
Light, Lenses, and Lasers: Teacher's Guide (24 min. Physics Essentials) Explains that light is just the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which consists of a variety of waves from radio to cosmic. Grades 9 - 12.
Machines in Motion (25 min. Discovery Channel) See what principles allow planes to fly, trains to stay on track, and cars to have horsepower. Grades K - 5.
The Magic School Bus: Inside the Haunted House (30 min. Scholastic) This film explores sound. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus Plays Ball (30 min. KidVision) In this film the class plays a frictionless baseball game and learns about pushes and pulls. Grades K - 4.
The Magic School Bus: Taking Flight (30 min. Scholastic) In this film Ms. Frizzle and her class shrink down to fly in a radio-controlled airplane as they study the principles of flight.
Magnetism/Static Electricity (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: In this attracting and not-too-repelling program, Bill Nye shows all kinds of unexpected places where magnets can be found. In fact, the Earth itself is a huge magnet! Part 2: Why do socks stick together when taken from the dryer? Learn the shocking truth in this program on static electricity. Grades 3 - 8.
Momentum/Gravity (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Grades 3 - 8.
Motion & Balance (Physical science in Action) (23 min. Schlessinger) In this film learn how motion is relative, caused by forces, and dependent on whether these forces are balanced or unbalanced. Grades 5 - 8.
Motion-Newton's Three Laws: Teacher's Guide (22 min. Physics Essentials) Demonstrates Newton's three laws of motion with exciting footage of fuel dragsters, fighter jets, parachutists, and rockets. Grades 9 - 12.
My Shadow (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This episode examines the interplay of light and shadows—how they work, where they come from, and how they create such beautiful imagery together. Grades K - 3.
Newton's Wagon: Understanding Motion (18 min.) Learn about Newton's three laws of motion and how they apply to everything we do. Some of the activities and experiments featured on this video include Newton's Cradle, Toy Car, And They're Off, Dolly Jump, Balloon Rocket, and Newton's Wagon. Grades 4 and up.
Nuclear Energy (23 min. Schlessinger/Energy in Action) In this film viewers discover how energy can be released when the forces that hold the nucleus of an atom together are disturbed. This video also explores the pros and cons of nuclear energy. Grades 5 - 8.
Opt: An Illusionary Tale (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film tells a magical tale using optical illusions. Grades K - 3.
Physics (The Gravity-Packed World of Physics) pts. 1 & 2 (240 min. Cerebellum/Standard Deviants) 2 videos. A self-paced video study guide for introductory physics (college). Grades 9 and up.
Pressure/Buoyancy (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Grades 3 - 8.
Reality Is Relative/I Feel The Earth Move (28 min. Science Odyssey Short Trips) 2 episodes. The first episode explores Einstein's theory of relativity. The second episode explores Wegener and continental drift. Grades 7 and up.
Refraction: Facts Of Light (15 min. 3-2-1 Classroom Contact) A ray of light travels in a straight line, but can be refracted or bent when it travels from one material into another. It's important to be able to bend light, especially for lighthouses. Grades 3 - 6.
The Ring of truth with Philip Morrison, Vol. 1-3 (350 min. WGBH) In this six-part series, Philip Morrison (Professor Emeritus, Massachusetts Institute of Technology), one of modern physics’ most renowned practitioners and teachers, takes viewers on a personal journey of the inner workings of science, inviting them to ask questions about the everyday experiences that lie behind scientific results. The Ring of Truth series includes the following programs: Volume 1: Looking, Change. Volume 2: Mapping, Clues. Volume 3: Doubt, Atoms. Grades College and up.
Roller Coaster Physics (27 min. Discovery Channel) This film explores the velocity and G-forces found in Roller Coasters and their effect on the riders. Grades 6 - 12.
Roller Coaster! (55 min. Nova) This film explores the design and construction of roller coasters and how physics applies to them. Grades 6 and up.
Forces and Motion/Air Forces (27 min. Discovery Communications) This film discusses how to measure speed and distance and how to maximize velocity and how shape and air resistance alter speed. Grades 6 - 12.
The Simple Machine (20 min. National Geographic) The move describes the six simple machines, tools that make work easier with few or no moving parts. Grades 4 - 6.
Solar Energy (18 min. Science In Action) TGreat, quick overview of solar energy in its varying forms. It gives the history of solar energy through modern times. Grades 6 - 12.
Sound/Light and Color (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill's pickin' up good vibrations when he joins rock group Soundgarden in the recording studio. Bill and pals unleash the power of sound as they tap, sing, and band sound waves to eardrums everywhere. Part 2: Bill Nye goes somewhere over the rainbow for an enlightening show as he reflects upon light and color. Grades 3 - 8.
Sound! Light! Edison! Celebrating 150 Years of Invention (30 min. National Museum of American History) This video showcases the many amazing inventions of Thomas Edison, such as the phonograph and the lightbulb. Grades 4 and up.
Spinning Things/Earthquakes (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye the Science Guy tells us what the Earth, a big storm, and a rolling ball have in common. Discover why some things spin and others don't. Part 2: Thousands of earthquakes happen each year and Bill Nye the Science Guy trembles in his boots when he explains what causes them. Find out what makes big pieces of the Earth's crust (the plates) move and what you should have on hand in case of a quake. Grades 3 - 8.
Tops and Yo-Yos (Science First Hand—Models in Physical Science) (WGBH). In this film seventh-grade students discover that common household items can be transformed into spinning objects that can be manipulated to increase spinning time. Grades 6 and up.
The Transfer of Energy (23 min. Schlessinger/Energy in Action) In this film viewers discover how energy is never lost—it just changes form. Grades 5 - 8.
Understanding Magnetism (51 min. Discovery Channel) Taking a chronological approach to magnetism, this classic program examines the concepts, phenomena, and inventions involved with a force so fundamental and so powerful that without it nothing in the universe could exist. Grades 6 - 12.
The Way Things Go (31 min. First Run Icarus Films) This film features a Rube Goldberg-like chain reaction of objects that applies principles of cause and effect. Grades 2 and up.
Places
Antarctica: Getting to the South Pole (15 min. Children's Television Workshop/3-2-1 Classroom Contact) This video discusses the difference between the North and South Poles and explains some of the difficulties in reaching the South Pole. Grades 3 - 6.
Everest: The Quest (45 min. Into the Thin Air of Everest) What does it take to stand on the roof of the world? Everest: The Quest attempts to answer this question by examining the early history of the mountain and those men who first attempted its summit. Grades 4 and up.
The Great American West (41 min. John Q. Hammons Film Entertainment, Inc) This film chronicles the major events that contributed to the settlement of the West. Grades 6 and up.
Mount McKinley: the 1951 first ascent of its west buttress (44 min. Eyes Open Productions) Marking the fiftieth anniversary of his scaling the west buttress of Mount McKinley, Brad Washburn sits down for an interview about the climb and shares his original film footage from the 1951 expedition. Grades 7 and up.
Niagara: miracles, myths & magic (41 min. Slingshot) An IMAX film that covers the 12, 000 year old history of Niagara Falls. Grades 4 and up.
Everest (45 min. Imax) Relive a breathtaking journey to the top of the world with Everest, the spectacular giant-screen motion picture for IMAX theatres! Filmed during the infamous 1996 storm that claimed eight lives, Everest documents the filmmakers' harrowing rescue efforts to help surviving members of the ill-fated group. Join an international team of climbers as they scale the world's tallest peak. Witness the perils of skin-blistering cold, violent blizzards that drop the wind chill to minus-100 degrees, and air so thin it numbs the mind. Grades 6 and up.
Journey into Amazing Caves (80 min. A MacGillivray Freeman Film) This video was originally released as an IMAX film. It is narrated by Liam Neeson and features songs and performances by the Moody Blues. It also includes a special behind-the-scenes segment, "The making of Journey into Amazing Caves." Grade 5 - Adult.
Mammoth Cave National Park (57 min. Finley-Holiday Film Corp) This video tour of the park includes highlights from several of the cave tours as well as background information on the geology and history of the park area. Grades 5 and up.
Mysteries Underground (60 min. National Geographic) Journey into the underworld of caves with National Geographic expeditions as they explore Lechugilla (1986) in New Mexico and the Mammoth and Flint Ridge Cave systems (1972). Grades 5 and up.
Alaska: Spirit of the Wild (40 min. Imax: Houston Museum of Natural Science) Experience the grandeur of Alaska with its spectacular land and fascinating animals. Grades 4 and up.
Amazon, Land of the Flooded Forest (60 min. National Geographic) Journey into a tropical jungle of staggering beauty. Here, torrential rains annually transform the dry forest floor into a watery world where some of the most extraordinary and uncommon wildlife flourish. Grades 4 and up.
Antarctica (40 min. Imax) Antarctica takes you to a continent beyond imagination. Discover a new world and learn of Antarctica's wildlife in a way never before possible Grades 4 and up.
Everglades: Secrets of the Swamp (60 min. National Geographic) What at first appears to be a myriad of angry alligators floating in the murky waters of the Everglades, waiting to pounce on unsuspecting tourists, is in fact a delicate ecosystem vital to the environment of South Florida. Grades 4 and up.
Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets (35 min. SlingShot Entertainment) Experience the thunderous whitewaters of the mighty Colorado River, and savor the quiet solitude of soaring silently through the majestic monoliths towering nearly a mile over the Canyon's floor in a tiny ultralight aircraft. You will experience the Grand Canyon as never before this captivating presentation. Grades 2 and up.
Jungle (35 min. Eyewitness) This film explores the rainforest. Grade 2 - 6.
Return to Everest (59 min. National Geographic) Starring the original cast members from 30 years prior—climbing legend Sir Edmund Hillary and his Sherpa companion, Tenzing Norgay—this documentary examines their return to the glory years with a detailed account of the original and subsequent conquest. Grades 4 and up.
Yellowstone: Everything Else is Just a Movie (32 min. IMAX corporation) Yellowstone is a land of constant contrast. Lush, flourishing forests standing next to cracked, gaping landscapes. Half-frozen rivers beside boiling patches of earth. Packs of wolves and a group of filmmakers. Enter this amazing land, and follow our crew as they employ ground-breaking film techniques to create a totally unique experience. From prehistory to the present, Yellowstone offers an unparalleled look at the indescribable beauty of this national park. Grades K and up.
Plants
All About Plant & Animal Interdependency (23 min. Schlessinger/Plant Life for Children) In this film viewers discover how plants and animals interrelate. Particular emphasis is given to the constant exchange of gases in the oxygen-carbon dioxide cycle. Grades K - 4.
All About Plant Pollination: Fruits, Flowers & Seeds (23 min. Schlessinger/Plant Life for Children) Viewers learn about key elements in the process of plant reproduction, including the different parts of a flower and methods of seed dispersal. Grades K - 4.
All About Plant Structure & Growth (23 min. Schlessinger/Plant Life for Children) In this film viewers discover the vital role that roots, stems and leaves play in a plant's role as energy producer. Grades K - 4.
Desert Giant (30 min. Reading Rainbow) This film explores saguaro cacti in Arizona's Sonoran Desert. Grades K - 3.
The Magic School Bus Goes to Seed (30 min. Scholastic) Ms. Frizzle takes the class to her old school on a ladybug schoolbus ride! There they tour every major part of her flower and watch a seed being made. Grades K - 4.
My Amazing Garden (30 min. Banana) This film is a child's guide to the adventures of gardening. Grades K - 6.
Photosynthesis (23 min. Schlessinger/Plant Life in Action) In this film viewers explore the chemical process of photosynthesis. Diagrams and microscopic photography illustrate the parts of a leaf that are involved in photosynthesis. Grades 5 - 8.
Plant (35 min. Eyewitness) Plant is a colorful tour of the world's most dazzling flora, from the most magical to the most bizarre. Watch buds burst, flowers bloom, and discover the myriad ways plants struggle to survive. Grades 2 - 6.
Plant Classification (25 min. National Geographic) Separating the wide variety of plants into groups based on the plant's life history, biology, and chemical constituents. Grades 5 - 9.
Plant or Animal (15 min. National Geographic) An exploration of living things. Grades K - 3.
Plants/Forests (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Science guy Bill Nye branches out and gets to the root of the matter to explain wild things about plants such as how they breathe, make food, defend themselves, and move their seeds around. Part 2: Follow Bill Nye out on a limb when he goes swinging through the trees in Washington, Florida, Texas, and California to bring viewers close to the tallest and possibly oldest living things in the world. Grades 3 - 8.
Pollination (23 min. National Geographic) A display of the various ways pollen is transported. Grades 4 - 9.
Spiders/Flowers (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: The Science Guy demystifies the most misunderstood creature, the spider. He'll cure the most intense case of arachnophobia by showing how cool spiders really are Part 2: The Science Guy, with the help of guest Drew Barrymore, shows that flowers are more than just pretty faces. They make seeds, play a key role in pollination, and help plants to reproduce. Grades 3 - 8.
Tree (35 min. Eyewitness) Tree is both an entertaining and educational exposition on these silent sentinels that make this world livable for so many life forms, including ourselves. Grades 2 - 6.
What is Photosynthesis? (15 min. Educational Video Network) In this film the chemical reactions that occur during photosynthesis are described and explained with the help of graphics. Grades 9 - 12.
Ships
Last Voyage of the Lusitania (62 min. National Geographic) Why did Germany torpedo the Lusitania, a civilian vessel? And why did such an enormous ship sink so fast? Now, take a high-tech plunge beneath the Irish Channel and relive one of the century's most mysterious maritime tragedies. Grades 7 and up.
Search for Battleship Bismarck (60 min. National Geographic) National Geographic looks back at the first, and last, mission of the Bismarck and talks with survivors of the notorious World War II battle. Then, in its climatic chapter, the story reveals exclusive footage of this remarkable undersea exploration. Grades 7 and up.
Secrets of the Titanic (55 min. National Geographic) Join researcher Dr. Robert Ballard as he locates and investigates the ill-fated R.M.S Titanic. Grades 7 and up.
Titanica (95 min. Imax) Titanica follows a 1992 expedition to the wreck of the Titanic, the "unsinkable" luxury liner that collided with an iceberg and sank in 1912. Grades 4 and up.
Titanic's Lost Sister (60 min. NOVA) Join undersea explorers as they try to unveil the mysteries of the Titanic's lost sister, the Britannic. Grades 7 and up.
Technology and Engineering
Alistair's Time Machine(30 min. Reading Rainbow) Looks at inventions—fictional, amusing, and ones created by children.
Cooling (13 min. The way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Balance/Structure (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill Nye's the center of attention when he talks about the center of gravity and its effect on balance. Part 2: From the "Bungee Zone" in British Columbia to New York Harbor's Verrazano Narrows Bridge (one of the longest suspension bridges in the world), our daredevil host, Bill Nye, goes to any length to prove the structural principals of tension and compression. Grades 3 - 8.
Ballooning (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the David Macaulay books.
Grades 3 - 6.
Behind the Scenes with King Kong in Special Effects (33 min. NOVA) Take a look behind the scenes as effects experts bring the legend of King Kong back to life. Grades 6 and up.
The Big Dig: Breaking Ground (60 min. WGBH) The Massachusetts Central Artery/Tunnel Project—a.k.a. The Big Dig—is the most amazing municipal construction project in U.S. history. Its objective: to replace Boston's decaying highway infrastructure with 160 new highway miles, half of which run underground and underwater. After 14 years of construction, its cost: $11 billion! Adult.
Bigger, Better, Faster (120 min. Science Odyssey) This film features 20th-century inventors. Aviation, automobiles, computers, mass media, nylon, rubber. Grades 4 and up.
Bridges (60 min. WGBH) Explore the history and design of several famous bridges with David Macaulay as he hosts this segment of the five-part series Building Big. Grades 5 and up.
Bullet Trains (50 min. Modern Marvels) In this film viewers learn about bullet trains and get a behind-the-scenes view of Amtrak's Acela, Japan's Shinkansen, and Europe's TGV. Grades 6 and up.
Castle (57 min. PBS Video) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay. Grades 6 and up.
Cathedral (58 min. PBS Video) Based on the book by David Macaulay. Grades 6 and up.
The Chip vs. the Chess Master (60 min. Nova) Will machines be able to beat us at our own game? This program explores what it took to create Deep Thought, the computer chess program that matched wits with world chess champion Gary Kasparov in 1989. Grades 9 and up.
Collapse: Failure by Design (26 min. Discovery Communications) Explore the flaws of four structures that failed the test of integrity—and collapsed. Grades 9 and up.
Cranes (50 min. Modern Marvels) In this film viewers learn about various types of cranes and where they are used, including on film sets and in construction. It traces the historical development and new advancements of cranes. Grades 6 and up.
Dr. Zoon Presents Toothpick Bridges (26 min. Dr. Zoon) Join Dr. Zoon as he constructs toothpick bridges, covering basic construction techniques and details, safety issues, and related scientific concepts. Grades 4 - 12.
Dams (60 min. WGBH) Explore the history and technology of dams with David Macaulay as he hosts this segment of the five-part series Building Big. Grades 5 and up.
Domes (69 min. WGBH) Explore the history and design of domes with David Macaulay as he hosts this segment of the five-part series Building Big. Grades 5 and up.
The Edison Effect: Motion Picture, Vol.3 (50 min. New Video Group/A&E/The History Channel) The Edison Effect is a 3-volume series that uses documentary materials to explore the history of three revolutionary inventions and the role that Thomas Edison played in their development. Grades 8 and up.
The Edison Effect: The Phonograph, Vol. 1 (50 min. New Video Group/A&E/The History Channel) The Edison Effect is a 3-volume series that uses documentary materials to explore the history of three revolutionary inventions and the role that Thomas Edison played in their development. Grades 8 and up.
The Eiffel Tower (50 min. Modern Marvels) Known as the “Tower of Towers,” the Eiffel Tower is a graceful steel sculpture almost 1000 feet tall. Learn about its technological challenges and the breakthrough of its construction. Grades 6 and up.
Electricity (13 min. The way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Engines (13 min. The way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Escape! Because Accidents Happen (60 min. Nova/ WGBH) How did a driver walk away from a rollover crash at 100 miles per hour? Why do airbags sometimes take—not save—lives? How did a plastic surgeon help redesign car interiors? How will "automation" remove human error? Nova reveals these answers and offers a more powerful look at the fascinating evolution of auto design from the Model T through tomorrow. Grades 9 and up.
Fire Wars (120 min. Nova/WGBH) Experience the front lines of America's war on wildfire. Grades 7 and up.
Fireworks! (60 min. Nova/WGBH) Discover the explosive history of fireworks.
Grades 7 and up.
Flight (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay. Grades 3 - 6.
Floating (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Giants of the Sky (52 min. Big Stuff) Take an inside look at sky transportation, and also take a look behind the scenes at O' Hare airport and learn about the amazing capacity of helicopter S-4 "Air Crane" and the largest commercial rocket, Aircrane 5. Grades 7 and up.
Great Bridge: 8 Miles of Steel (50 min. Modern Marvels) In this film viewers learn about the Oakland Bay Bridge in California. Explore its history from planning to construction, including the reconstruction after the 1989 earthquake. Extensive footage of the perilous construction is included. Grades 9 and up.
How Computers Work: A Journey into the Walk-Through Computer (26 min. Computer Museum) David Neil and his four young companions take us into a journey through The Computer Museum's one-of-a-kind, two-story working model of a desktop computer. Grades 4 and up.
Inclined Planes (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay. Grades 3 - 6.
Invention: Leonardo's Legacy (51 min. Discovery Channel) What is Leonardo's defining legacy? Is it the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper...or the modern tank, helicopter, and airplane? Grades 6 - 12.
Inventions/Computers (47 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Bill examines the process of inventing, with help from actor Samuel L. Jackson. Part 2: Guest Al Gore helps Bill trace the evolution of these amazing machines, from early models that took up entire rooms to the personal laptop that fits in your briefcase. Grades 3 - 8.
Levers (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Lost Tribes of Israel (60 min. Nova/WGBH) Discover how today's technology can solve an ancient biblical riddle. Grades College and up.
Machines in Motion (25 min. Discovery Channel) See what principles allow planes to fly, trains to stay on track, and cars to have horsepower. Grades K - 5.
The Magic School Bus: Under Construction (30 min. Scholastic) Ms. Frizzle and her students discover the power of building and improvising in this Magic School Bus adventure. Grades K - 4.
Magnets (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Making of ZOOM: the Zoomers video special (45 min. WGBH) This film features behind-the-scenes information with the cast of Zoom. Grades 2 - 7.
A Man, a Plan, a Canal, Panama (60 min. NOVA) Explore the massive feat of engineering that built the Panama Canal. Adult.
Modern Marvels: Bridges (50 min. The History Channel) This episode considers the importance and ingenuity in the construction of bridges. Serving as links across water or over impassable land, bridges have made the world more accessible. The program takes the viewer on a tour of some of the world's greatest bridges to study their engineering genius. Grade 8 and up.
New York Bridges (50 min. Modern Marvels) In this film viewers learn about the building and engineering of the 18 bridges in New York City. Grades 7 and up.
Photography (13 min. The Way Things Work) Based on the book by David Macaulay. Grades 3 - 6.
Pressure (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Reinventing the wheel: The Continuing Evolution of the Bicycle (45 min. Hillman and Carr) This video looks at the bicycle and how its design has been adapted over time using innovation and ingenuity. Grades 6 and up.
Robots (100 min. New Video/The History Channel) From thousand-year-old automatons to the latest creations to come out of MIT's artificial intelligence lab, this video traces the history of robotics. Grades 6 - 12.
Scientific American Frontiers: Games machines play (60 min. PBS) Join Frontier's host Alan Alda as he travels the world to meet top scientists and explore the latest research challenges. Grades 9 and up.
The Science of Music/Architecture (46 min. Bill Nye) 2 parts. Part 1: Each musical note, and every tone of each instrument is, in fact, a unique sound wave. Getting the exact sound waves in the pattern you want—now that's way cool science! Part 2: Bill uses the "Dollhouse of Science" to demonstrate how architects design buildings. Grades 3 - 8.
Screws (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Sea Titans (52 min. Big Stuff) Take a look at four magnificent sea titans: the Destiny cruise ship, Ram Powell platform, USS Harry Truman aircraft carrier and Hoverspeed, the largest hovercraft fleet that transports dozens of passengers from France to England. Grades 6 and up.
Sensors (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Simple Machines (Physical Science in Action) (23 Min. Schlessinger) Simple Machines uses engaging visuals and colorful graphics to explain the concept of work and how humans use certain basic tools to help get work done. Grades 4 - 8.
Sinking (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Skyscrapers (60 min. WGBH) Explore the history and design of several famous bridges with David Macaulay as he hosts this segment of the five-part series Building Big. Grades 5 and up.
Springs (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3 - 6.
Steam Power (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay.
Grades 3-6.
St. Louis Arch (50 min. Modern Marvels) In this film viewers learn about the construction of the St. Louis Arch through film and photographs as well as interviews with inventors, engineers and contractors. Historical background information is also included. Grades 7 and up.
Structures (25 min. Discovery Channel School/TLC Elementary School) What makes structures strong or weak? Take a look at how bridges and skyscrapers are designed and built to perform incredible tasks, and why some fail. Grades 3 - 6.
Super Bridge (120min NOVA) Take a look at the new technology behind the new Clark Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Mississippi at Alton, Illinois. Grades 9 and up.
Telecommunications (13 min. The Way Things Work) This film is based on the book by David Macaulay. Grades 3 - 6.
Tunnels (60 min. WGBH) Explore the history and technology of tunnels with David Macaulay as he hosts this segment of the five-part series Building Big. Grades 5 and up.
Understanding: Bridges (24 min. Discovery Communications/Assignment Discovery) In this film viewers learn why some bridges are light and elegant, some massive slabs, some arched and suspended, some concrete and steel. See up close how these structures are built. Grades 6 - 12.
Professional Development and Curriculum Supplements
Active physics communication (It's About Time) This video is to be used in conjunction with the Active Physics student modules. It is intended to increase student participation and learning. This video is recommended for use in conjunction with Communication, Chapter 3, Is Anyone Out There? Activity 4: The Electromagnetic Spectrum. NASA film shows astronauts communicating with Earth. Students estimate the time delay between the signal from Earth to the response from the moon. Using this information, students calculate the travel speed of a radio signal.
Active physics: sports (It's About Time) This video is to be used in conjunction with the Active Physics student modules. It is intended to increase student participation and learning. Here are the five video clips to be used with the activities in Sports: Chapter 1: Activity 7: Increasing Top Speed. Chapter 2: Activity 4: Defy Gravity. Chapter 3: Activity 2: Free Fall on the Moon. Activity 6: Golf on the Moon. Activity 8: Bounding on the Moon.
Active physics: transportation (It's About Time)This video is to be used in conjunction with the Active Physics student modules. It is intended to increase student participation and learning. Here are the seven video clips to be used with the activities in Transportation: Chapter 1: Activity 5: Intersections With a Yellow Light. Chapter 2: Activity 9: Safety in the Air. Chapter 3: Activity 1: Weight Change During Takeoff. Activity 4: Life without Gravity. Activity 5: Exercise on the Moon. Activity 8: The Speed of Radio Waves.
Astronomy: Eliciting Student Ideas (57 min. Annenberg Private Universe Teacher Workshop) This film discusses teaching astronomy.
A World in Motion: the Design Experience: Challenge 2: gears and wheels and how they work (The Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc.) Developed for students and teachers to use science, mathematics, and technology to explore the process of design. Middle School.
Biology: Why are some idea’s difficult? (82 min. The Annenberg Private Universe Teacher Workshop) This film is a teleconference of science educators which explores how to design a classroom curriculum for difficult concepts in science. Themes discussed are the interdisciplinary nature of science, unintended learning outcomes, and the interaction of a student’s prior knowledge with information presented in formal instruction.
Can We Believe Our Eyes? (60 min. Minds of Our Own) This film looks at why students can pass tests on commonly taught science concepts but can't make the connection when it comes to applying the knowledge.
Case Studies in Science Education (65 min. Annenberg Project) 6 cassettes. These 25 case studies take science education reform to a personal level where individual teachers struggle to make changes that matter. Each case follows a single teacher over the course of a year and is divided into three segments: the teacher's background and problem they wish to address, their strategy, and the outcome of their work.
ClubZOOM welcome: Super golf tower, hovercraft, ZOOM glue, balloon flinker (WGBH Educational Foundation) These four episodes show the Zoom team working on engineering projects.
Communicating with light: setting the scene (8 min. Designed World Learning) This video explores the basic concept of communicating with light and includes many different examples for children to understand this concept. It accompanies the Children Designing and Engineering curriculum "Bright Ideas Playhouse."
Constructivism: vision for the future (83 min. Annenberg Private Universe Teacher Workshop) This film is a teleconference of science educators which examines how to design a classroom curriculum for difficult concepts in science. Instructors examine how constructivist methods of teaching could be implemented and what problems and solutions might develop when applying this theory of learning to science classroom instruction.
Cranberries: setting the scene (6 min. Designed World Learning) This video is to be used in conjunction with the Children Designing and Engineering video Cranberry Harvest Festival. This module provides a hands-on exploration of the special qualities of cranberries, and the processes by which berry products arrive at the marketplace. Students propose devices and methods to harvest, sort and grade berries, then plan and stage a cranberry festival. Grades K - 2.
Culturing Plant Tissue (14 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through the industrial process of input, process, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
Energy: Where Should We Start? (88 min. Annenberg Private Universe Teacher Workshop) This film discusses teaching students about energy.
Environmental Science: Taking a Risk (84 min. Annenberg Private Universe Teacher Workshop) This film discusses teaching environmental science.
Everyone is an inventor (30 min. National Museum of American History) This video shows young viewers how to become an inventor. It highlights inventions in every discipline, and it features students inventing in the classroom.
Food Safety (20 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through the industrial process of input, processing, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
Force and motion (60 min. Annenberg) 8 videocassettes. A video workshop for K-8 teachers. (Science in focus) This film explores science concepts in force and motion. Includes: 1. Making an impact; 2. Drag races; 3. When rubber meets the road; 4.On a roll; 5. Keep on rolling; 6. Force against force; 7. The lure of magnetism; 8. Bend and stretch.
Lessons From Thin Air (60 min. Minds of Our Own) This film looks at why teachers need to teach for long-term understanding of basic concepts rather than touching upon a wide array of topics which may be on a standardized test.
Making Carbonated Beverages (11 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through the industrial process of input, processing, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
Making Paint (20 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through the industrial process of input, processing, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
Making Paper (14 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through the industrial process of input, processing, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
Making Semiconductors (20 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through the industrial process of input, processing, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
Make a difference: choose construction (23 min. National Center for Construction Education and Research) This film takes an informative look at the opportunities a construction career has to offer.
Medical Laboratory Technology (20 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through industrial process of input, processing, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
National engineers week is ... (6 min. National Engineers week) This film conveys the excitement and reach of the national celebration. Show it to local volunteers and potential sponsors to demonstrate the national program behind the local celebration.
A Private Universe (18 min. Pyramid) This film features a demonstration of how preconceived ideas can interfere with learning. A bright high school student diagrams her answer to the question, "Why is it warm in the summer?"
Progressive education: finding realistic strategies (85 min. Annenberg Private Universe Teacher Workshop) This film is a teleconference of science educators which examines how to design a classroom curriculum for difficult concepts in science. This segment summarizes constructivist theories of teaching and examines how such techniques might be incorporated into classroom instruction.
Science K-6: Investigating Classrooms (60 min. WGBH) 9 videos. Times vary 7-60 minutes each. Segments include: Introduction; Teachers' Workshop; Parents' Open House; All Sorts of Leaves; A Conversation about Food for Thought; Completing the Circuit; A Conversation About Completing the Circuit.
The Science of Teaching Science: Assessing Student Understanding, workshop 1 (90 min. Annenberg) Most K-8 teachers have not had many science and math courses and often feel as though they didn't get much out of the courses they did have. How can they be expected to teach science topics and bestow a meaningful understanding when they themselves are not sure they understand the topics? We'll look at a variety of strategies teachers use to learn as much as possible about a science topic before they teach it.
The Science of Teaching Science: Creating a Context for Learning -- Observing Phenomena, workshop 2 (90 min. Annenberg) Why begin a lesson by eliciting students' prior knowledge? Because as many teachers know, it is essential to know what students believe at the outset in order to provide the instruction necessary to help them move toward a more scientific understanding. There are many ways of eliciting prior knowledge, including strategies such as concept mapping, pretests, and interpretation of a demonstration by students. This program will examine many of these strategies.
The Science of Teaching Science: Eliciting Student's Prior Knowledge, workshop 3 (90 min. Annenberg) Why begin a lesson by eliciting students' prior knowledge? Because as many teachers know, it is essential to know what students believe at the outset in order to provide the instruction necessary to help them move toward a more scientific understanding. There are many ways of eliciting prior knowledge, including strategies such as concept mapping, pretests, and interpretation of a demonstration by students. This program will examine many of these strategies.
The Science of Teaching Science: Special Considerations, workshop 4 (90 min. Annenberg) One of the things that sets science activities apart from other endeavors is the care with which observations are made and data is recorded. If it is possible and relevant, a scientist will measure and quantify: How long did it take? How many are required? etc. Children need support in collecting careful data. Thinking through the entire process in advance and making sure to provide the students with good tables and charts prepared for data collection can make the task much more manageable. We will look at ways to do this.
The Science of Teaching Science: Specific Instructional Strategies, workshop 5 (90 min. Annenberg) Although students generally work together in small groups in hands-on science classes, there are times when all-class discussions are valuable. Summarizing, comparing, and interpreting often involves the whole class. We will see examples of teachers using both small-group and whole-class approaches to teaching science, and discuss when each may be appropriate.
The Science of Teaching Science: Summarizing, Comparing, Interpreting Results, workshop 6 (90 min. Annenberg) Hands-on science classes involve all the challenges of regular classrooms with some additional ones besides. This program will focus on some of the things we must think about in teaching science: Working with diverse student populations; Stimulating interest in science among minorities and girls; Using scientific vocabulary only as necessary; Helping students believe their voices are valued; Promoting student discussion yet keeping it focused; Eliminating sexism and racism; Treating students with respect; Facilitating learning with multiple learning modalities.
The Science of Teaching Science: Supporting Good Data Collection, workshop 7 (90 min. Annenberg) This film presents problem-based learning as one way to approach science teaching in the context of student interests. The problems may range from finding particular information in the library to examining the effects of pollution on animal and plant life.
The Science of Teaching Science: Supporting Good Data Collection, workshop 8 (90 min. Annenberg) Embedded assessment means building assessment into the activities and classroom processes in an integral and natural manner. In this film we will see teachers integrating many different forms of assessment into their lessons.
Shedding light on science (60 min. ea. Annenberg/CPB.) 8 videocassettes. This film is a video workshop for K-5 teachers (Science in focus). This workshop uses light as a theme to explore topics in physics, chemistry, biology, space science, and Earth science. Includes: 1. Shine and shadow; 2. Laws of light; 3. Pigments, paint, and printing; 4. Color, cones, and corneas; 5. Sunlight to starch; 6. Energy and ecosystems; 7. Sun and seasons; 8. Wind and weather.
Structures (30 min. Science First Hand) This film includes footage of hands-on science activities in the classroom.
Surprises in mind (60 min. Harvard University) Many people find mathematics frustrating and difficult, even impossible, but recent cognitive research shows that the human brain actually has a natural gift for math that can flourish under the right conditions. Professor Carolyn Maher of Rutgers University and other psychologists share ideas on how teachers can tap these natural abilities and help students develop the kind of mathematical creativity that is expressed in art, architecture, and music and that is valued by industry.
Testing Polymers (18 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through industrial process of input, processing, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
Thinking Machines (50 min. New Video/The History Channel) This A & E documentary explores the invention and evolution of the computer. Grade 7.
Treating Wastewater (19 min. Science in a Technical World) This film is a tour of featured industry guiding students through industrial process of input, processing, and output. Grades 9 - 12.
Tops and Yoyos (30 min. Science First Hand) This film features footage of hands-on science activities in the classroom.
Under Construction (60 min. Minds of Their Own) This film presents stories of a teacher facing burnout and another with no science background who was required to teach a scientific curriculum.
Vision: can we believe our own eyes? (83 min. Annenberg Private Universe Teacher Workshop) This film is a teleconference of science educators which examines how to design a classroom curriculum for difficult concepts in science. Instructors examine how constructivist methods of teaching could be implemented and what problems and solutions might develop when applying this theory of learning to science classroom instruction.
Water-wheels (30 min. Science First Hand) This film features footage of hands-on science activities in the classroom.
What's up in technology? (30 min. GPN) This film explores the expanding world of technology and careers. See what it takes to design technological solutions for today's challenges. Meet fascinating people who are working in information, communication, sports, transportation, and environmental technologies. This film circulates with an accompanying teacher's curriculum guide. Grades 9 - 12.
