Biology Concepts and Applications

has been very useful to get some basics cleared

I used this book for my introduction to Biology class my freshman year of college. Cecie Starr has a good way to explaining to me certain concepts by using current research that is easy to understand, and connects to the chapter. She uses examples and images illustrating the concept that I thought were helpful, and I was surprised by how up-to-date the book really was (the most recent thing I've seen is the SARS virus), and was even more fascinated for it. Also, Starr makes a point in redefining terms, or telling in what section the term is defined, so that the reading is more understandable. I honestly enjoyed this book over every other boring biology book I've had in the past. She uses great examples and explanations that helped me to learn. I always need something to attach the information to, and this book worked well in doing that for me. As for the online material, I used it very infrequently, so I guess I can't really comment on it well. The CD with the book uses videos, quizzes, flashcards, and links to helpful websites. It's helped when I've used it, but I haven't found much reason to since I understood the book well. However, if you are someone who needs exercises and flashcards, and to see outlines of the chapters, this online material and the CD should help.

This was my text in my undergraduate biology classes. It is filled with a lot of information and can be intense at times. However, I must say is very complete. Topics such as ecology, evolution, animal structure and function were particularly interesting. I also used more than one source to study from. Patrick Leonardi's "The Ultimate Study Guide for Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanations (Volume 1, Volume 2 and Volume 3) were right on the mark for great test preparation questions. They were just awesome and so helpful for helping me really get a hold on what is important to study for in biology. Cecie Starr's Biology: Concepts and Applications helped me to first learn biology. Patrick Leonardi's study guides showed me what kind of questions to get ready for on my bio I and II exams. These books helped me to pass biology with very good grades. I thank both these authors for writing these books.