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AP Biology - Unit 1.2 Elements of Life

STS Biology Review Pod

Release Date: 09/09/2025

AP Biology - Unit 1.3 Intro to Macromolecules show art AP Biology - Unit 1.3 Intro to Macromolecules

STS Biology Review Pod

Episode 1.3: Intro to Macromolecules  In this episode of the STS Biology Review Pod, Schuyler and Leslie dive into the “molecules of life” that make all living things possible. Whether you’re prepping for AP Bio or just curious about how our bodies work, this episode breaks down the four major classes of macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. We cover: What macromolecules are and how they’re built from monomers The chemical reactions that put these building blocks together (dehydration synthesis) and take them apart (hydrolysis) The unique functions...

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AP Bio 1.2: Acids, Bases, and the pH of Life show art AP Bio 1.2: Acids, Bases, and the pH of Life

STS Biology Review Pod

Welcome back to the STS Biology Review Pod! In Episode 3, hosts Schuyler and Leslie dive deep into the fundamental chemistry powering all living things: acids, bases, and the mysterious world of pH. Building on last week’s exploration of life’s essential elements, this episode breaks down what happens when substances dissolve in water, transforming into charged ions that drive nerve signaling, digestion, and so much more. Discover the difference between acids and bases, learn why pH is vital (and not just for trivia questions), and see how delicate pH balance keeps everything from your...

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AP Biology - Unit 1.2 Elements of Life show art AP Biology - Unit 1.2 Elements of Life

STS Biology Review Pod

In this episode, we study the essential elements that form the foundation of all living things. We’ll introduce the “Big Four” elements—carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen—and break down how each one is crucial to core biological molecules and processes. [memorization acronym for big four: CHON] You’ll learn how carbon’s versatility makes complex life possible, why hydrogen and oxygen are key for water’s remarkable properties, and how nitrogen is vital for proteins and DNA. We also spotlight phosphorus, sulfur, [memorization acronym P.S.] and trace elements like iron, ...

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AP Biology - Unit 1.1 Water and Hydrogen Bonding show art AP Biology - Unit 1.1 Water and Hydrogen Bonding

STS Biology Review Pod

We review subatomic particles like protons, neutrons, and electrons. After, we discuss the nature of water's polarity, including covalent bonding and other types. Additionally, we consider specific heat capacity, heat of vaporation, expansion with freezing, ability to be a solvent, and cohesion. Join our interactive review sessions for just $65 per person, or $32.50 per person with friends! Sign up at or via text at 206-999-0666 or dm on insta: @seattle_tutoring_services

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More Episodes

In this episode, we study the essential elements that form the foundation of all living things. We’ll introduce the “Big Four” elements—carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen—and break down how each one is crucial to core biological molecules and processes. [memorization acronym for big four: CHON] You’ll learn how carbon’s versatility makes complex life possible, why hydrogen and oxygen are key for water’s remarkable properties, and how nitrogen is vital for proteins and DNA. We also spotlight phosphorus, sulfur, [memorization acronym P.S.] and trace elements like iron,  zinc, iodine, and magnesium [memorization acronym IZIM ]. We explain their specialized roles in supporting life. By the end, you’ll see how just a small handful of elements orchestrate the complexity of everything from cells to ecosystems.

Join our interactive review sessions for just $65 per person, or $32.50 per person with friends! Sign up at https://tutoringservicesseattle.com/podcast-for-ap-biology-course/ or via text at 206-999-0666 or DM on insta: @seattle_tutoring_services . 

Memorization trick for all elements, in order: Think of it like a letter

Dear CHON,

p.s.,

Sincerely,

Izim