Under The Microscope

UNITS OF LIFE by Martin Hanson; Longman Paul, 1993; $29.95

Books appeal for a number of reasons. With up-to-the-minute photographs, outstanding illustrations and a highly readable text, pertinent to the current sixth form certificate biology syllabus, this is an excellent buy.

Beginning with microscope techniques and the size relationships within living structures, the book then moves through molecular behaviour. This establishes the parameters which are the basis of cellular activity: photosynthesis, protein synthesis and transportation to name a few.

Each section starts with a gentle introduction and ends up with sophisticated material which is very much at the forefront of biochemical research. The text flows well, but the necessary nomenclature that accompanies any modern text at this level will be difficult for those with poor reading skills. The set of questions at the end of each section will surely test the students' knowledge and understanding.

Perhaps the most appealing part of the text is the excellent use of graphics. Ann Hanson, wife of the author, has an eye for detail that is comparable to that of the best illustrators around. This makes the electron microscope photographs, which usually sit alongside the graphics, very easy to interpret. The composition of the book also has a touch of class. The use of white space and smart headings all goes to make the text stand out.

As a teacher of chemistry, I am pleased to see a text highlight the importance of chemical systems in living processes. However, I am intrigued to find that a knowledge of the complexity of living processes is a major part of the sixth form syllabus when the same students find it difficult to understand molecular bonding in a chemical context. To Hanson's credit, he covers the background chemistry very well.

Geoff Groves is HOD Science at Ellesmere College.

Geoff Groves is HOD Science at Ellesmere College