Read our stories
Listen and watch
Play our games
Enjoy our activities
Welcome to Ask A Biologist. This site has a large collection of biology learning materials that includes stories, games, activities, videos, and a podcast.
Did you ever wonder why you see the colors you do or if other animals see the same colors that you see? We see light that bounces off of things around us. When the light enters our eyes, special cells tell our brains about the light. Also in: Français…
Every year, vaccines protect millions of people from getting sick. But how, exactly, do vaccines work? Learn the science behind how vaccines protect us from disease. Also in: Português | Español
Does being born a son or a daughter mean your reproductive success might be different? In some societies, it does.
Whether a friend whispers in your ear, or you hear a jet flying high in the sky, sound is all around you. But how does a tiny sound wave change from waves in the air to sounds or sentences that we can understand? Also in: Français |…
We hear a lot about DNA, but not as much about RNA. It is true that DNA is the encyclopedia of life or the ultimate instruction manual for living things. But what good is a book if it is not read or an instruction manual that is not used? This is where RNA comes into the story of life. It is the…
Building Your Own Ant Farm is a 2-part Ask A Biologist video with Dr. Biology and Rebecca Clark on how to build an ant farm with two recycled CD cases. Watch part two.
Very strange things have been taking place lately. Dr. Biology and his team need your help to solve the mystery and piece together what's been happening in the lab.
How are some animals keeping cool and staying warm? Listen in as Dr. Biology talks with biologist Dale DeNardo and engineer and thermographic artist Arno Vlooswijk about thermoregulation. Could there be lessons for humans to learn from these animals?
Managing Mosquitoes
Learn about mosquito life cycles, the dangers of mosquitoes, and how to protect yourself and reduce breeding grounds for mosquitoes around your home. Also in: …
EcoChains: Arctic Futures
Play EcoChains: Arctic Futures
EcoChains: Arctic Futures is a game that introduces you to arctic life and ice that is so very important for survival.…
Venom!
The shape of a molecule is very important. It’s what makes it possible for proteins to interact with other parts of the cell. In…
Genetics Game
Our genes control much of how we look and who we are. But do you really know how genetics work? Take a moment to gather some…
Using the Scientific Method: The Case of the Mystery Images
Play The Case of the Mystery Images
Looking for another detective assignment? Practice all the new detective skills you learned in the…
Conserving Water
How can you save water? You might start by figuring out what uses the most water in your life. In this choice-…