About the Book
There is an alien who comes to Earth, thirsty for knowledge. He falls in love with a girl - who is also fond of him. He therefore has to pass five trials each concerning one of the life's functions. Each time he succeeds, he will get the corresponding system: muscles, bones, circulatory, digestive, respiratory, nervous system. But.. a rival sets a lot of obstacles to this goal. Will he be able to overcome such obstacles? who will help him? will he acquire a full working human body and conquer the girl's heart?A work praised by both science teachers and pupils from 10 to 14 years old, this funny, educational, interactive theatrical play in rhyming, sparkles the pupils' interest and helps them, by following the intriguing plot, to memorize physiology terms with ease.For its clever, innovative way to approach science, it has received many awards in Greece and it has been chosen by the European Science on Stage Forum to be presented in CERN, before an audience of international science teachers.Six high school pupils and the author were offered free transportation and a week's stay in Switzerland. Except from Greek and English, it has also been translated in German, Russian and Spanish.Tania Christoforatou, the author and illustrator, is a Greek Biology Teacher and Painter. Having been in contact with story telling and reading various genres from a very young age, soon developed the ability to invent stories and follow other characters' adventures in life. Her studies in Biology, foreign languages (English, Spanish, French) and her love for art and culture broadened her horizons, set humankind in its natural and cultural environment and generated a sense of humbleness. She incorporates art in the form of painting and theatre in her everyday teaching practice in order to excite emotions and sparkle student's interest. The theatrical plays that have thus been born have been praised and earned various awards. She is mother of four boys. Her latest projects are: painting the walls of the Pediatric Clinic of the University Hospital in Heraklion and finishing her first novel, named "Talk to me", which has to do with the interaction between the world of the Deaf and the hearing people.This work is mainly concerned with human physiology and, in particular, with the organic systems which serve life's functions: muscular and supportive system (movement), digestive system (nutrition), circulatory system (circulation of substances), respiratory system (respiration and gas exchange), nerve system (irritability). Emphasis is given to the factors, which influence negatively the good function of those organic systems (lack of exercise, poor nutrition, smoking, alcohol abuse).It offers a new point of view for teaching a lesson. It could be used as teaching tool, in various ways: By simple reading in the beginning of each chapter, in order to stimulate pupils interest and their positive attitude towards the subject matter.By reading, at the end of each unit, as an entertaining review. By giving roles and playing each unit in the classroom, for better understanding of the matter.By a theatrical presentation, at the end of school year, before the whole school community.It serves multiple objectives: Pupils perceive the subject matter from a different point of view. Children understand that there are various ways of learning and that learning itself is not, necessarily, something boring.Easier memorization of terms, due to their integration in poetic speech.Entertainment and affection towards the lesson.Change of attitudes and behaviour and shift to healthier ways of living. Development of skills and positive personal characteristics as: group work, discipline, dedication, pride for work, confidence, adaptability, responsibility, morale, self-esteem, courage, resolution of problems, aesthetic education, perception, interest, sound judgement