This video introduces students to some of the fundamental principles in ecology - the study of how living things interact with each other and with their environment. The different types of living and non-living things found in an ecosystem are discussed. Examples of the interaction of living and non-living factors are provided. Other terminology includes: ecology, ecosystem, community, population, habitat, niche, biotic factors, abiotic factors, producer, consumer, decomposer, predator, prey, energy and food chain.

The Ecology Series is a four-part video program that looks at ecology and ecosystems. Each program is 20 minutes in length and focuses on key concepts and terminology related to the topic. Topics include: The Biosphere, Ecosystem Dynamics, Natural Cycles and People and the Environment.
Each binder contains suggested teaching ideas, student activities and key terminology. Extra features of the DVD include indexes, labelled slides, glossary, animations, English subtitles and an iMovie project.

This video program explores the characteristics of a grassland biome. It illustrates the effect of climate on soil type, vegetation and wildlife. Abiotic and biotic factors are introduced and a straightforward demonstration clarifies their relationship. The program addresses agricultural practices that support or destroy grassland habitats. Plant adaptations and food chains are also discussed.
Teachers may wish to use other programs from the Biomes of the World in Action series. Program titles include Coniferous Forest, Deciduous Forests, Deserts, Freshwater Ecosystems, Marine Ecosystems, Rainforest Biomes and Tundra.

This video program shows how humans can coexist with predators such as wolves, often by reintroducing species to their natural habitats. Ecological, economic and social factors necessary for the conservation of carnivore species are identified, as well as the necessity for protecting large, connected expanses of land vital to their survival. The DVD shows how age-old myths and misperceived notions about carnivorous species devastated these populations and brought many to near extinction when settlers made their way west. Viewers learn about the role of carnivores in the ecosystem and the need to be protected.
This program is closed-captioned for people with hearing disabilities.

This video explains decomposition, one of nature's most important processes. For two months in the summer of 2011, a glass box containing food laid out from a typical kitchen and garden for a family of four was left to rot in full public view within Edinburgh Zoo. In this resulting documentary, presenter Dr. George McGavin and his team use time-lapse cameras and 3-D photography to capture the way in which moulds, microbes and insects are able to break down our everyday things and allow new life to emerge from old. The film reveals the incredible science of taphonomy, discovering what happens to organic matter as it starts to decompose. Whole new ecosystems of life invade, each more complex than you would ever expect. The micro-organisms involved in turning milk sour, lactobacillus, are highlighted; in addition to pseudomonas, micro-organisms that make meat smell; and botrytis cinerea, those that make fruit and vegetables go velvety grey.
Microbiology gives us insight into the part played by bacteria, yeasts and fungi. Biochemistry reveals how the chemical processes in living organisms cause change. Entymology reveals the vital role of insects in the great cycle of decay. The video also explores the incredible science behind preservation, from new food packaging and chemical additives to UV radiation and osmotic pressures.