Because biology tends to have its own language, it tends to be bogged down in vocabulary terms that describe important concepts. There is no doubt that the vocabulary is important but it shouldn't be the ultimate focus of your study, or you will lose the concept getting too wrapped up in memorization of the words used to describe it.

In case you're wanting to study the vocab, though, there's a game that might help you: BubbaBrain. It's almost like a game of Memory!

Posted by scienceguru on February 4, 2008
Tags AP Bio, study aids, test review

Total comments on this page: 11

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Angie on whole page :

I really liked BubbaBrain. It’s really helpful, and not only for biology, but for other subjects too. I like games and things like this because I’m actively participating which enables me to learn better. Vocabulary, though shouldn’t be the only thing you’re studying, is still important in the understanding of the things you’re studying and this study tool certainly helps you learn the vocabulary.

February 25, 2008 6:36 pm
Bonnie on whole page :

WARNING to all Biology students. Do not attempt to play this game in a spare 5 minutes you have before going on to another task. This will not happen! This site is addicting, you need to factor in a solid 30 minutes at least in order to peruse the website enjoy the benefits of its knowledge. But seriously, I really like this site. It makes learning the vocab very fun and even competitive.

February 26, 2008 7:10 pm
Aadil Sarfani on whole page :

I think any subject’s heart lies in the concepts. The vocabulary is just a tool to communicate and learn faster the subject. So knowing all the vocabulary in advance would definitely be helpful in paying more attention on the concepts.
Wow great website! It has all subjects. Very good way to prepare for the AP exam!

February 26, 2008 9:49 pm
Kelsey Wise on whole page :

I agree with Bonnie–I was trying to play this game before going to pick my brother up (10 minute time slot) and I ended up being a little late to get him because I was playing this. Nerd, right? But yes, it is very helpful in drilling concepts.

February 27, 2008 5:34 pm
sussana elkassih on whole page :

I completely agree, the vocabulary of a unit is very important. What’s the use of studying the definitions, and memorizing the concepts if you will just end up confused due to the mixing of vocabulary words to definitions, or groups of vocabulary words to a concept? Not to mention the embarrassing miscommunication that arises when you’re trying to explain a concept. Bonnie, your right you need to dedicate at least 30 minutes before moving on to this activity because it is addicting, plus you want the full benefit, not just to skim the surface. I love this game, especially the one that uses root words which completely comes in handy when taking the SAT and trying to distinguish the definition of the word by looking at the roots.

February 27, 2008 6:54 pm
Kaitlin on whole page :

If you liked the grain of rice site for vocabulary, you will love this! The vocabulary terms are undoubtedly a key part to comprehending any of biologys key concepts. Not only is the site helpful, but it is fun (I know, nerdy)

February 27, 2008 8:27 pm
Joshua Geevarghese :

i have to agree with Kaitlin this game is like the rice again and fun

February 28, 2008 9:30 pm
Kishan on whole page :

I just checked out this BubbaBrain thing, its really helpful, I might even end up using it to help me study for my tests. But it goes in depth so its not one of those things that you can just do when you have a little time to spare, you should probably put about atleast and I mean atleast 20 minutes, for it to really help.

February 28, 2008 9:22 pm
Joshua Geevarghese on whole page :

this is a cool game, thanks ferg. it is like the rice game even though theree is no hunger people involved

February 28, 2008 9:24 pm
Isha Banerjea on whole page :

Ah study tools! It’s nice to see that there are games and tools out there geared towards LEARNING instead of the flashy-fast-paced media we have bogged down by entertainment and frivolous information. I’ll have to try this game before one of the tests to see if it really works.

February 29, 2008 7:12 am
Kristal Jackson on whole page :

This sounds like fun. I’ll have to try it. Based on the other comments, it sounds really helpful. I’ll be sure to use it the next time I study. Thanks for putting this up!

February 29, 2008 2:43 pm

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