British poet Roger McGough makes a most engaging host, serving up clever rhymes and couplets to accompany this comprehensive survey of the table of elements filled with fascinating scientific and historical information (including the source of the popular phrase "mad as a hatter," referring to the use of hazardous mercury in vintage hat-making). While it could be a handy classroom tool for grades 6-12, The Elements unfortunately suffers a bit from a lack of focus that compromises its informative, entertaining content (which is split into "curriculum units" that promote more detailed classroom discussion), leaping from one section to another with a minimum of connecting material. Still, with guidance from an instructor, this program could help enhance young people's understanding of chemistry and the basic ingredients that go into creating life on Earth. Also featuring a teacher's guide and lesson plans, this is recommended, overall. Aud: J, H, P. (J. Shannon)
The Elements
(2004) 52 min. DVD: $69.95 (teacher’s guide included). Discovery Channel School. PPR. Color cover. ISBN: 1-58738-504-X. Volume 19, Issue 6
The Elements
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