Breakthrough: The Changing Face of Science in America

America's students consistently lag behind many other countries in science aptitude and achievement scores. In recent years, educators have launched an intense effort to interest women and minorities in pursuing science careers. This video, one in a six part series, profiles three minority scientists engaged in cutting-edge research who also give something back to their communities. A male Latino scientist studies toxic pollution found in the San Francisco Bay, particularly focusing on how toxic poisons lodge in the organs of mussels and work their way up the food chain. Another male scientist, native to Mexico, has moved to America to continue research on fluorocarbons found in aerosol spray cans which, when released, deplete the world's ozone layer. His pioneering research in the 70's alarmed the world community, led to reforms, and culminated in his winning a Nobel Prize. A final portrait concerns a Cherokee woman who overcame a troubled past to pursue a science career. As she works toward her doctorate, she teaches field environmental science to teens, and studies the effects of lead poisoning in minority communities. The scientists explain what got them turned on to science, and how science has opened new worlds for them. This video obviously intends to provide role models to inspire other minority students and is a good choice for high school and college libraries. Recommended. Other titles in the series include: Path of Most Resistance, With Nerve and Muscle, Engineering from the Inside Out and Science and the American Dream. Aud: H, C. (S. Rees)