 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Earth: The Biography
Common Sense Media says
Docu offers stunning images, fascinating science.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that while the content of this stunning docuseries -- which illustrates Earth's diversity and geological history -- is wholly appropriate for family viewing, it may not really engage younger kids who can't comprehend topics like climate change, plate tectonics, and evolution. They may enjoy the HD footage of oceans, volcanoes, and more; just don't expect them to pay attention for the whole thing. But if you have tweens and teens, this impressive glimpse at the planet's past, present, and future is likely to inspire discussions about global warming, conservation, and the scientific process of studying history.
What's the story?
EARTH: THE BIOGRAPHY explores the geologic and climatic factors that shape our planet and investigates the effect of human existence on the Earth's delicate balance. Host Dr. Iain Stewart travels the world to experience the awesome force of volcanoes, the cavernous depths of the oceans, and the raw power of shifting glaciers. He also explains how the planet's unique atmosphere -- and the solar system far beyond it -- exert influence on Earth's sensitive ecosystems. Using cutting-edge cinematography, satellite imagery, and time-lapse photography, the series brings the world's most remote locations within reach as it illustrates the planet's history and helps predict its future.
Is it any good?
This impressive docuseries gives inquiring families plenty of reasons to tune in. From crisp, high-definition satellite images to incredible aerial photography, the show's visual journey across the planet juxtaposes one amazing sight after another as it exposes viewers to some of the world's most awesome places. Computer graphics, time-lapse sequences, and satellite imagery combine to illustrate the host's words -- showing, for example, how the flow of glaciers over the planet changes continents' topography.
That said, while the images are stunning for all ages, the series' scientific/educational content is likely too advanced for kids who don't have at least an elementary understanding of concepts like plate tectonics, climate change, and evolution. But for tweens and up, Earth: The Biography expertly combines education and entertainment and will certainly change how viewers see the world around them. It's also a great springboard into family discussions about modern-day issues like global warming and conservation.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about how the media can be used to teach. What did you learn from this series? How did the host make the information seem personal? What tools did the show use to explain its points? Did those tools help you understand the information? The series also inspires thoughtful discussions about conservation. Why is conservation an important issue? How do humans impact the Earth's ecosystems? What can we do to improve the planet's health?
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AGE
Good for 5+
I loved it but there are some sad(and scary!)moments like when the lions killed the elephants during the middle of the
night even I had to cover ?????????????
?????????????????????????????
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AGE
excellent
This is a great series to watch for kids, teens and adults. We watched it with our 7 year old and all learned from it while really enjoying the absolutely fascinating images. It felt like a real adventure. I would recommend it to teachers for teaching earth science as well (about the atmosphere, weather, water etc.)
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| Topics: | history, science and nature |
| TV rating: | TV-G |
| Network: | National Geographic Channel |
| Cast: | Iain Stewart |
| Genre: | Educational |
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