Biology has accumulated a vast and fascinating store of knowledge, much of which is increasingly relevant to our everyday lives. When teaching the subject, one is almost always constrained by the requirements of an exam syllabus. How can a teacher communicate the delights the subject and get students thinking like biologists? There is a danger that, by presenting oversimplified 'facts' in preparation for tests, we may be administering an 'inoculation' that may be a turn-off, perhaps for life,

These 20 study guides aim to capture the interest of students aged 16 or older by engaging with topics in greater depth than would usually be practicable. It follows that a teacher will want to pick and choose which to use and when. They cover a wide range of topics, including Biochemistry, Ecology, Plant Biology, Mammalian Physiology, Genetics and Evolution. The guides are stand-alone and may be used in any order. They might be homework assignments that would be followed up by the teacher. They will help a student to develop his/her own ideas, honing intellectual skills that will be invaluable at university and in her/his career.

Photographs, optical and electron micrographs, and original diagrams have been extensively used. Questions allow students to check their existing knowledge and explore their understanding of the new ideas presented. There are invitations to research beyond the material presented and invitations to debate issues that are raised.

These study guides each contain material that would be covered by most syllabi preparing students for university. Some explore topics that would be regarded as part of the essential core of the subject at this level. The author has long experience of teaching GCE Advanced level Biology to students aged 16-19. He has been a principle examiner at A level and wrote the Genetics chapters of the revised Nuffield A level study guides.

This teacher's edition has answers to all the questions, and notes giving further information that will help fit each study guide into a scheme of work.