Sim Cell
© 2017 Touch Press
What if you could shrink yourself and go inside a cell? That's the idea behind this impressive biology simulator. After you choose your cell type (plant or animal) you are given a challenge. You then explore a well illustrated 3D model of a cell by tapping on the screen to steer a small submarine-like craft. As you explore (the ship follows your finger) you discover protein synthesis, cell respiration, DNA and fighting pathogens like viruses. The challenges are less than clear, and it is easy to find yourself struggling for the wrong reasons. This app could be greatly improved with more coaching and operation hints. The app is available as a free trial, or is part of the Touch Press All Access Pass that costs $4.99 per month. Need to know: This is a serious app that should be considered by older (secondary) biology students. If you can put up with a bit of frustration this app will succeed in giving you a nice perspective on cells.
$4.99, iPad
Teaches: biology, science, DNA, cells, plants, genes, chromosomes
CTR Rating: 80%