The Basics of Biology

Life is the most basic and fundamental fact of our existence and yet remains one of the greatest and most impenetrable mysteries. This enthralling survey of biology contains the riches of awe-inspiring discoveries and a rare glimpse into biologists’ working methods. All of this is further complemented by stunning full-color photos, illustrations, diagrams, and primary source images, as well as intriguing sidebars that detail do-it-yourself experiments; test reading comprehension; relate failed theories of the past; spotlight current debates, disagreements, and discussions; and reveal the practical applications of the scientific research. This is a stellar survey of biology, of life on earth and how it works. As a superb example of science writing, it perfectly meets the Common Core curriculum standards for the reading of science texts relating to key ideas and details, craft and structure, integration of knowledge and ideas, range of reading, and level of text complexity.