Over the course of six editions, the ways in which biology is taught have dramatically changed. We have seen a shift away from the memorization of details, which are easily forgotten, and a movement toward emphasizing core concepts. In parallel, many educators are advocating a greater emphasis on the development of critical thinking skills that are needed by students pursuing a career in Biology. The 6th edition of Brooker Biology balances "Core Concepts" with "Core Skills" helping engage students in science related fields of study. Additionally, with McGraw Hill Connect, powerful digital tools augment instruction by helping students think more critically, develop quantitative and graphing skills and apply their knowledge in a laboratory setting. Connect Virtual Labs can be implemented in a hybrid or fully online setting to help students prepare for the wet lab and strengthening their lab experience.

The thoroughly revised edition of Vander's Human Physiology is an integrated package of textual and digital material that delivers basic and clinical content, real-life applications, and educational technologies. All these pieces come together to facilitate learning and enthusiasm for understanding the mechanisms of body function. Key focus areas include homeostasis, exercise, and human health. These and other areas of interest are elaborated upon, beginning with Chapter 1, where the key "General Principles of Physiology," an underlying theme in the book, is first introduced. Unifying themes, such as homeostasis, are explored throughout the book at all levels of system, organ, tissue, and cellular function-themes that are always related to pathophysiology through the use of compelling clinical case studies in all chapters, and a final chapter with several cases that integrate material across the entire book.

Principles of Biology is reflective of the shift taking place in the majors biology course from large and detail rich to short and conceptual, with a focus on new, cutting-edge science. A succinct and inviting text focused on central concepts, Principles of Biology helps students connect fundamental principles while challenging them to develop and hone critical thinking skills.