Under the Waves
by Michael Barrowman
Reviewed by Martha Robinson and Mary Leggewie
Purchase details: Under the Waves: Strange Creatures DVD, $21.99. Please support HomeschoolChristian.com by buying this program from our Amazon affiliate link.
Below is a review of the VHS version of Under the Waves.
Michael Barrowman, an American Olympic Gold Medalist, has created a video series that combines goofball humor with information and breathtaking underwater photography.
After an introduction of Mr. Barrowman's accomplishments in swimming, Under the Waves starts with a silly discussion about strange creatures in comic books. The rest of the approximately 24 minute show alternates between goofy interactions of the actors and discussions about strange creatures that really exist "under the waves." Five sea animals, the Yellowtail Snapper, Puffer Fish, Anemone, Moray Eel, and the Arrow Crab, are featured with live underwater footage of the animals interacting with divers. "Did You Know" facts are shown on screen for each. Other interesting creatures such as scorpion fish, garden eels, sea urchins, and urchin crabs are also mentioned and shown. Responsibility of people to act appropriately in interacting with these animals is stressed. The program ends with a review of a couple of facts each for the featured creatures.
Martha's Recommendation: The beautiful underwater photography in this video is truly amazing. Sponsored by the tourism board of the Cayman Islands, this series is sure to make you long to travel there. Our family found the goofiness to be a bit too silly, but we really enjoyed the terrific scenery. The information that is conveyed is interesting and will inspire further interest in oceanography.
Mary's Recommendation: I have to agree with Martha about wondering just how to get my family to the Cayman Islands! My children (ages 8 to 13) enjoyed the comedy more than I did--especially the 8-year-old. My 13-year-old animal-crazy daughter commented that the video was done in a way to make it easy for children to remember the animals featured. I would say the target age is 10 and under.
HomeschoolChristian.com resources related to this review:
HomeschoolChristian.com's Science Section to study more about ocean life!
Review of Wild Days, Creating Discovery Journals
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