Best Science Curriculum for Homeschool
The best science curriculum for homeschool for elementary, middle school and high school home educated students and my top picks to use in your homeschool classroom. The needs of homeschool parents and students vary widely and there simply is not a single “best” science curriculum for everyone or every family since everyone is so different.
Since selecting the best science curriculum for homeschool is a difficult task, I am highlighting our favorite science curriculum and my most used and loved science curriculum that may help you with your research for your family and homeschool journey.
Here are my Top
Elementary Homeschool Science Curriculum Comparisons:
Best Elementary Homeschool Science Curriculum
At the Elementary Levels the student should be gathering basic information about the subject of Science. This subject: science--->means exploring the world around them. A student should learn about animal anatomy and behavior, the functions of the human body, the movements of the planets and the position of the stars, and the manner in which atoms interact. In Elementary Grades, Students are learning to develop a scientific viewpoint.
When I first began this homeschool journey with my daughters, I simply read reviews online to locate the best science curriculum that we would like. I admit that we hopped around for a couple of years until we settled on our favorite. Some parents may not be comfortable teaching science and science may be your kids’ least favorite subject.
I used LifePac prior to full-time homeschooling and I did not particularly care for their curriculum. I know it is a personal taste issue. LivePac does have a Science curriculum, but I just don’t care for their curriculum. The same could be said for the Christian Light Science science curriculum. I did try it for middle school and we didn’t last more than a month with their curriculum. LifePac and Christian Light were just not a good fit for my kids. So I can not recommend these two - but they may work for other families.
So How Do You Choose?
My best advice is to do your own research, you know your children’s learning styles the best to determine what curriculum works best for your family. We have had to ditch curriclum after a couple of weeks and even after a semester to never return to it.
This curriculum post focuses on science and highlights what I believe to be the top science curriculums available for homeschoolers. Throughout my 15 years as a homeschool mom of three, I have gained extensive experience in using, trying, researching, and exploring various homeschool curriculum options. Additionally, my role as a homeschool curriculum reviewer has allowed me to further expand my knowledge in this area.
Apologia Science | Most Affordable
Apologia Science / Berean Builders curriculum is the Best All-Around Curriculum, Most Affordable, best for new homeschool moms, and the best for homeschool hands-on learning with great labs.
Apologia's Young Explorer Series is great for Elementary Homeschooled Science students. We have used Apologia Exploring Creation with Human Anatomy and Physiology with the corresponding Notebooking Journal for Human Anatomy and Physiology for two rounds. We even used the Junior Notebooking Journal for Exploring Creation with Human Anatomy and Physiology for my little one in grade 1 and it was perfect!! Since all three of my kids are two years apart, I am sometimes repeating cycles of subjects since we love them so much. But, have no fear, by the time a kiddo is set to repeat a subject they took in grade 1 at grade 5 or grade 6, they don’t remember any of the content.
We have also used the Exploring Creation with Exploring Creation with Botany Textbook with the corresponding Exploring Creation with Botany Notebooking Journal . One of my children's favorite subject to study in the Apologia series is the Apologia Exploring Creation with Astronomy Textbook . Be sure to get the corresponding Apologia Exploring Creation with Astronomy Notebooking Journal for the fun activities in the journal. The Exploring Creation with Zoology 1 Student Textbookis a quick one we would complete in one semester. And we did use the Exploring Creation with Zoology 1, Notebooking Journalas well. We would usually complete one zoology text one semester and another the second school semester, like Exploring Creation with Zoology 2: Swimming Creatures with the Exploring Creation with Zoology 2: Swimming Creatures Notebooking Journal. Or you could use the Exploring Creation with Zoology 2 Notebooking Journal with the Exploring Creation with Zoology 2: Swimming Creatures of the Fifth Day like we did one year as well. One year we switched it up and used Land Animals of the Sixth Day: Exploring Creation with Zoology 3 for a change of pace in content and of course, we used the EExploring Creation with Zoology 3 Notebooking Journal.
One Apologia textbook I highly recommend for the entire school year is the Apologia Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics. Naturally, I also recommend the Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics Notebooking Journal as it truly does help us home educators out so much! The great thing about Chemistry and Physics for the grammar level is that there is a Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics Junior Notebooking Journal. I used the junior notebook for my youngest child when e did chemistry and physics and she was only in first grade. She loved it because she could be included with her older siblings - and really, that is so special for our littles.
We never used the Exploring Creation with Earth Science Textbook, but we have enjoyed Apologia so much, I can't imagine this would not work if your children are interested in this subject. Don't forget the Exploring Creation with Earth Science Notebooking Journal OR the Exploring Creation with Earth Science Junior Notebooking Journal.
I suggest beginning with a Science from Apologia that you would really enjoy teaching and one that your children are really interested in learning and then work your way through the Apologia's Young Explorer Series. I love that Apologia's Young Explorer Series even has Junior Notebooking Journals for your young learners. I began my kindergarten and 1st grade students in the junior notebooks and they really all enjoyed them.
BJU Press | Bob Jones | Most Traditional
BJY Press (Bob Jones) Science curricula is a Christian-based science homeschool curriculum that is quite traditional and aligns with the most common core standards. BJU Press Elementary-Level Science provides a foundational understanding of science per level and engages students in hands-on labs and activities using learning models and Bible teachings. The curriculum includes stories of great scientists and their discoveries to help students learn the practical ways science can be applied. There is a curriculum set for each grade level from Grade 1 through Grade 6.
Grade 1: BJU Press Science 1 Homeschool Kit teaches students about science and scientists. A student learns to defend the idea that God created and sustains all things, to explain how living things' design meets their needs for growth and survival, to analyze the patterns of the earth, sun, moon, and stars, and to explain light and sound and communication using both. Students can use core science process skills to solve problems orderly through inquiry-based activities.
Grade 2: BJU Press Science 2 Homeschool Kit teaches students how to apply science process or inquiry skills to understand and teach about God's creation. The program covers scientists, living creatures, plants, habitats, fossils, dinosaurs, earth layers and features, how the earth moves, natural resources, forces and motion, and the body. Hands-on projects help students learn process or inquiry skills.
Grade 3: Science Grade 3 Homeschool Kit Student content features colorful photos, updated content, and engaging sidebars. Chapters teach children about insects, spiders, plants, electricity, light, force, the moon, erosion, digestion, bones, and muscles via a biblical lens. Quick check sections reinforce concepts, and the last page of each chapter lists crucial terms and topics. A hands-on, interactive science year includes experiments, activities, and projects!
Grade 4: BJU Press Science 4 Student Texthelps students understand science from a biblical perspective. Students discover our world's origins and evolution. They learn to argue that God created everything and why individuals matter. Physics, earth, space, biology, and life sciences are covered. STEM, experimentation, inquiry, and other project- and problem-based learning activities allow students to apply their talents to understand science and solve problems in order.
Grade 5: With the BJU Press Science Grade 5 Homeschool Kit it teaches basic science and Answers in Genesis worldviews! The Student Text includes minerals, rocks, fossils, dinosaurs, energy, heat, ecosystems, sound, light, temperature, and respiratory and circulatory systems. Hands-on games, "quick-check" questions, chapter summaries with "words to know" and "key ideas," and sidebars on entertaining science facts and history will improve students' scientific skills and process understanding.
Grade 6: BJU Press Science Grade 6 Homeschool Kit The BJU Science 6 curriculum explores earth science, physical science, life science, and the human body.
R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey | Secular
RSO R.E.A.L. homeschool science curriculum emphasizes the importance of practical exploration and inquiry-based learning for secular homeschooling.
The RSO Level One Courses are great for grade 1-4 and we used the Life, Earth & Space and Chemistry. I taught my daughters the R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey, Life Level One and Earth & Space and my son the R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey: Chemistry, Level One in addition to the first two. My son is a science genius and literally gobbled up anything science-related that I taught him. We used some of the R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey: Chemistry, Level One student pages, but not all of them since we were using this curricula as supplemental.
I did purchase the R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey: Life, Level 1 Student Pages with the RSO and all my kids had fun creating lap books with these pages. My daughters are very crafty and tactical, so I simply let them use their own creativity whilst completing the worksheets. THEY LOVED R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey, Life Level One!! I had my children create large lapbooks to save all the worksheets.
R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey, Life Level One is divided into three sections: the human body, the animal kingdom, and the plant kingdom. Students study the major body systems by making models and doing tests on their own bodies. Classification and the five kingdoms of living things are studied as students make an animal kingdom book. Animal kingdom labs include examining real worms, mollusks, arthropods, and butterfly metamorphosis. Students learn about the plant kingdom by looking at the makeup and function of seeds, flowers, leaves, stems, and roots.
In RSO Earth & Space (level one), the topics include weather, seasons, the earth, minerals, rocks, our solar system, and space for approximately one full semester. Students study the weather and atmosphere with several hands-on labs including making an anemometer, a rain gage, and water cycle in a bowl. Rocks and minerals are studied in depth with students identifying their samples through the same tests used by geologists. Each planet in our solar system is studied individually as students make their own planet book. Earth & Space has recently been revised to include changes to the status of Pluto and the definition of a planet.
RSO also has an RSO Astronomy Level 1 textbook and a RSO Astronomy 2 textbook as well as the RSO Astronomy 2 Teacher Guide . In addition, R.E.A.L. also has The Stargazer's Notebook which is part stargazing journal and part astronomy lab. Astronomy 1 and Astronomy 2 are each semester long textbooks.
RSO Earth & Environment Level 1 textbook and the corresponding RSO Earth & Environment Level 1 Student Pages is a 25-week course that covers scientific modeling, three Earth "spheres," weather, climate, the environment, erosion, and plate tectonics. Climate change, the age of the earth and its forces, and pollution and environmental issues affecting water, land, and air will also be studied. After short lessons, students make a Pangaea puzzle, test oil spill cleaning methods, create a geologic timeline, and do a bowl water cycle. Students study rocks and minerals and identify their samples using geologist-style tests. Each topic has one to three lessons including stories, laboratories, reading, and other activities. There is a student activity book as well.
In R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey: Chemistry, Level One, the topics covered are usually those reserved for high school chemistry but are presented in a way that youngsters can easily grasp. Topics covered include atoms, molecules, the periodic table, states of matter, acids and bases, and chemical reactions. Students start small, pondering the size and magnitude of atoms and molecules. Then students make their own periodic table and study 18 of the most common elements. They experiment with states of matter and make their own pH scale. Students end big with chemical reactions and exciting combustion labs.
RSO also sells the RSO Physics Level 1 with the corresponding RSO Physics Level 1 Student Pages . For the second semester students would move to the REAL Science Odyssey Biology 2, that a has a wonderful REAL Science Odyssey Biology 2 Teacher Guide and a RSO Biology Level 2 Workbook.
We also used the Christian Kids Explore by Bright Ideas Press Earth & Space and Chemistry, but we definitely preferred RSO over this book and these were used as supplemental only. I did have the Student Activity book as well, but we didn’t use all of the pages.
We liked the RSO the best at the earliest elementary grade levels and moved onto the Apologia curriculum at grade 3-6. By grade 3, we were ready for a change in science and Apologia was our answer. I have three children in three different grades, and Apologia has jr notebook journals that work well when the kids were in 4th, 2nd and K and 5th, 3rd and 1st. I was doing two science curricula simultaneous through all elementary for my kids, but only because we love science and my kids are fast learners.
Our first Science home school curriculum, for Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade, we used R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey and Christian Kids Explore by Bright Ideas Press. I know it may seem strange to use two science curriculum in the same years simultaneously, but my kids love science. Like, LOVE science. Our main curriculum was the RSO and the supplemental was the CKE.
Christian Kids Explore | Best Supplemental
The Christian Kids Explore Science Curricula Christian Kids Explore Earth & Space Student Activity Book I used in tandem as a supplemental curriculum (meaning - it was not our MAIN learning curriculum and was used only as a bonus and therefore, we just had FUN with this. I didn’t do every lesson and simply selected what would work as a supplement to our everyday science lesson) with the R.E.A.L. Earth & Space. I used the Christian Kids Explore Chemistry Book with the R.E.A.L Chemistry. I did not personally think the CKE curriculum was a full subject curriculum, as it was very sparse and basic, but was great as supplemental.
Best Middle School Homeschool Science Curriculum
At the Middle School Level (or the Logic Level) students will begin to middle-grade students take all the information they gathered in Elementary Grades and will begin to grasp the scientific concepts that link all those learned (and hopefully memorized) facts together.
Middle School Students will begin to see patterns ---> or rather: connect the dots. In middle school, Science classes are all about learning scientific principles, descriptions, and classifications.
Top Middle School
Homeschool Science Curriculum
Comparison
Apologia Science | Most Affordable
Apologia is our favorite. By the time my kids entered middle school or junior high, we were pretty set with using Apologia. We have used the Apologia Science curriculum for quite some time now, and it fits with my family well for this age group. The day-to-day work is manageable, easy to navigate through, and the labs are doable in a home setting with science experiments that are easy to incorporate into your daily schedules. You can also perform and demonstrate the science experiments right in your kitchen with great success. Apologia is interesting, engaging, and thought-provoking, and it is not expensive. Be sure to also purchase the journal with the textbooks.
In 7th grade, we used Apologia General Science, and if you want, you can purchase an entire all inclusive Apologia Advantage Set for General Science . I ordered the Exploring Creation with General Science Textbook for my daughter as well as the Exploring Creation with General Science Student Notebook . I also ordered the solution manual and test booklet. This science course explains the scientific method, designing experiments, simple machines, archaeology, geology, paleontology, biology, and human anatomy and physiology. Its scope is very wide because it introduces all the sciences to the students. The experiments are hands-on and easy to navigate with household items. I also ordered the Exploring Creation with General Science Test Pages and the Exploring Creation with General Science Solutions & Test Book . There is also the option to purchase the Lab Kit for use with Apologia's Exploring Creation with General Science, but we did not purchase one and just selected the labs we wanted to use and purchased supplies individually.
In grade 8, we used Apologia: Exploring Creation with Physical Science Textbook. I ordered the Physical Science textbook for my daughter as well as the Exploring Creation with Physical Science Student Notebook AND I also purchased the solutions manual and test booklet Make sure your student has taken the correct math prerequisite for this science level. This text discusses such topics as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, weather, the structure of the earth, environmentalism, the physics of motion, Newton’s Laws, gravity, and astrophysics. There are loads of opportunities for hands-on experiments at home again and we tied in research paper topics from this course to write papers for literature as well. As with all Apologia products, there is the option to purchase an all-inclusive Exploring Creation with Physical Science Basic Kit.
BJU Press | Bob Jones | Most Traditional
Another option for Middle School Science is BJU Press Life Science. The Life Science textbook is taught in tandem with the Life Science Activities Manual, which has a Activities Answer Key too. Be sure to order the Life Science Teacher's Edition as they have great teacher’s manuals (there are two books, A & B). There are Life Science Tests (BJU names them assessments) and Life Science Assessments Key available as well. If you are nervous about teaching Biology, don’t be! BJU’s teacher’s manual is really amazing! This curriculum is really ALL inclusive and comes in an entire set. We moved on to BJU Science curriculum with my youngest child because BJU worked better with and for her than Apologia. Your kids will tell you which direction is best for them. Every child has a different learning process and you have to lean into it. Don’t just use “whatever” curricula you have on hand. If you don’t want to order them individually, there is also the BJU Press Life Science Homeschool Kit.
Another option for Middle School Science is BJU Press Physical Science Homeschool all inclusive Kit . The Physical Science Student Text is taught in tandem with the BJU Press Physical Science Lab Manual . There is a Physical Science Lab Manual Teacher's Edition too that is wonderful to assist and guide parents. Be sure to order the BJU Press Physical Science Teacher's Edition , as they have great teacher’s manuals (there are two books, A &B). There are BJU Press Physical Science Assessments , which used to be called test booklets and the Physical Science Assessments Answer Key available as well. If you are nervous about teaching Biology, don’t be! BJU Physical Science is really amazing!
Master Books | Bible based
Master Books has some great Middle School Science curriculum as well that is Christian based. General Science 1 teaches four fascinating branches of science through the engaging General Science 1: Survey of Earth and Sky. General Science 2: Survey of Geology & Archaeology teaches about geology and archaeology. This Science course explores oceans, astronomy, weather, and minerals through fascinating facts, wonders, creatures, and God’s word. It is easy to manage lessons and schedules. There are teaches guides for both 1 and 2: General Science 1 Teacher Guide and General Science 2: Survey of Geology & Archaeology Teacher Guide. In addition, for middle school options, there is Intro to Astronomy, God's Design for the Physical World this set has a Student Edition & Teacher Guide in the two volumes or God's Design for Chemistry & Ecology this set also has two volumes for the Student Edition & Teacher Guide. Really, just select what your children excels with.
Master Books has a great Applied Engineering: Studies of God's Design in Nature Set, there are four volumes in this set. Applied Engineering Homeschool curriculum for any students who are interested in Engineering. In Applied Engineering, students explore God’s design in nature and examine man-made designs for batteries, human organ repair, microlenses, automotive engineering, paint, and even credit card security! The wonderful aspect of this textbook is that there is also an Applied Engineering: Studies of God's Design in Nature Teacher Guide. Introduce 7th - 9th graders to applied engineering with this four volume set of textbooks! Discover how cat eyes inspired road reflectors, moths improved solar panel manufacture, and more. Includes a teacher's guide with student work sheets, quizzes, tests, and answer keys and three Master Books student texts.
Best High School Homeschool Science Curriculum
At the High School Level, students are not simply just learning and memorizing any longer. They are actually applying all that Science to life.
I prefer a different order of science classes than is recommended per state requirements, homeschool curricula, or other schools. My children took a General Science course in 7th grade and in 8th grade, they took a Physical Science course. We followed that plan with in 9th grade taking a Biology course, 10th grade students are scheduled to take Chemistry, and 11th grade students should take Physics. By the time they are in 12th grade, they can take an advanced science course or a special interest science course.
Alternatively, the plan could be to switch it up a bit and complete Introductory Chemistry and Physics course in 7th grade and an Intro to Biology course 8th grade. In high school, the 9th grade course would be Fundamentals of Physics, 10th grade students could take Chemistry, and 11th grade students could take Advanced Biology. There really is no wrong order of classes. But, after waiting to take Physics in 12th grade (although, my son had Physics in 10th grade and this was one of the best decisions we made!), we realized that there was not a FOUNDATION of physics already in place - that should have been in place - PRIOR to taking Biology and Chemistry!
Introductory physics courses prioritize conceptual understanding and hands-on learning over advanced mathematics. Through engaging in experiments and examining real-world examples, students can develop a solid understanding of physics concepts such as forces and energy. This knowledge can then be applied in various academic fields, providing a strong foundation in science.
H have since changed my mind in the Scinece order and I strongly advocate for Physics First because it introduces fundamental physics concepts earlier in education that can provide students with a stronger scientific foundation. Understanding fundamental principles of physics can serve as a valuable foundation for studying chemistry.
Physics First also points out that important concepts in biology and chemistry are based on principles from physics, including forces, energy, electricity, and nuclear processes. By introducing physics concepts at an earlier grade level, students can acquire valuable tools to enhance their understanding in various scientific fields.
Top High School
Homeschool Science Curriculum
Comparison
Apologia | Affordable
Apologia is in the running since we have used this curriculum for so many years. There are different options for Biology, but naturally, we selected to stick with Apologia again.
Apologia Exploring Creation with Biology Textbook was fun with some really great science experiments. We utilized the Exploring Creation with Biology Textbook Biology textbook with the Exploring Creation with Biology Student Notebook Journal. In addition, we did use the video instruction DVD for Biology at home that had excellent experiments and explanations. I also had the Exploring Creation with Biology Solutions and Test Manual to keep me on track and ensure I had the correct answers to the Exploring Creation with Biology Test Pages . In addition, I did purchase the Apologia Biology Prepared Slides as they are used in this course throughout the year. I also ordered the Apologia Biology Dissection Specimens and the Apologia Biology Lab Set with Prepared Slides. We already had an amazing microscope I had purchased years ago that has worked well for us, so I did not order the full Apologia Biology Lab Set with Prepared Slides & Microscope.
Apologia also has high school science curriculum for Advanced Biology and Exploring Creation with Marine Biology.
For 10th grade, I suggest another fantastic Apologia textbook. The Exploring Creation with Chemistry Advantage Set has a content-rich website with video explanations to help students who don't understand the explanations in the text. There is also the option to purchase the video thumb drive that has videos of cool experiments the student can't do at home and links to other information related to what is being discussed in the text. The Exploring Creation with Chemistry Textbook is used in tandem with the Exploring Creation with Chemistry Student Notebook. There is an option to purchase the Exploring Creation with Chemistry, Test Booklet and the Exploring Creation with Chemistry Solutions Manual. There is also the Apologia Chemistry Equipment Lab to conduct all the experiments.
By grade 11, your home educated student be able to decide what curriculum they like the best, but I can suggest Exploring Creation with Physics Basic Set, Apologia again. There are advanced versions of these textbooks if your students want the Advanced-Level Physics course. This course is taught with the Physics textbook and there is not a notebooking journal with this course, but there is the option to purchase the Exploring Creation with Physics, Solutions & Test Book.
My youngest didn’t want to use Apologia any longer and decided to take a community college level physics course as dual enrollment. She learned so much, and it worked out perfectly.
Berean Builders
Berean Builders' lab-based high school biology course Discovering Design with Biology is perfect for college-bound students with the accompanying Student workbook. This Biology Set is a 16 unit course has 40 hands-on activities in household, dissection, and microscopy laboratories that teach how living organisms are designed and classified, how they interact, and how they interact with their environment. Your kid will learn that life is designed and that creatures can adapt to their surroundings, as well as the difficulties with the present evolutionary synthesis. Scientific words and vocabulary are highlighted and defined in each chapter's comprehension check questions and experiments. Each chapter closes with review questions before the chapter test. The accompanying Answer Key & Tests for Discovering Design with Biology contains review questions, tests, and answers.
Either of these textbooks grasps what I want my kids to learn, while having great labs. I would suggest if you have the ability, taking this course with a group of homeschool friends and rotate the labs, or take this class through a co-op or consortium. I know some moms in my area who have hired a graduate student to come and teach once a week and that is another choice.
We used the Discovering Design with Chemistry, for my youngest two children when they took Chemistry in 10th grade. My two youngest children both used the Discovering Design with Chemistry textbook. We discovered that one loves chemistry and one hates chemistry. I did order the Answer Key & Tests for Discovering Design with Chemistry to keep me on track and ensure that I was providing the correct answers. I also ordered the Discovering Design with Chemistry Lab Kit (which was all inclusive) AND enable my daughter to conduct experiments (which I might add are pretty cool) at home. My oldest daughter had a grad school student teach her this course because it was during COVID. For my youngest daughter, I purchased the online lectures through Berean Builders and she simply watched the prerecorded lectures from Dr Wile.
For 11th grade, I recommend Physics. Berean Builders has another great set for Physics: Discovering Design with Physics. There is also the standard Student Workbook for Discovering Design with Physics that should be purchased for your student, as well as the Discovering Design with Physics Set: Text and Answer Key with Tests Book) if you prefer to buy the entire package set. Alternatively, you could order the textbook and the Answer Key & Tests for Discovering Design with Physics separately.
BJU Press | Bob Jones | Traditional
BJY Bob Jones has another option that is equally as wonderful for Biology in 9th grade. The BJU Press Biology Student Textbook is taught in tandem with the BJU Press Biology Student Lab Manual which has a BJU Press Biology Lab Manual Teacher's Edition too. Be sure to order the BJU Press Biology Teacher's Edition as they have great teacher’s manuals (there are two books, A &B). There are BJU Press Biology Tests and BJU Press Biology Tests Key available as well. If you are nervous about teaching Biology, don’t be! BJU’s teacher’s manual is really amazing! If you don’t want to order individually, you can order the entire BJU Press Biology Homeschool Kit
If you find that you do not like Apologia or BJU Press for Biology, there is always the option to use another curriculum such as Biology: The Study of Life from a Christian Worldview Student Edition. This publisher also has a teacher’s edition to guide parents, Biology: The Study of Life From a Christian Worldview Teacher's Edition
Even though BJU recommends Biology for 10th grade, we are a year ahead of their plan and take Biology in 9th grade in order to have four years of solid Science in High School. Taking four solid years of Science courses in High School better prepares a student for college and looks fantastic on college applications.
BJU Press also has a great Chemistry curriculum for high school and of course the great BJU Student Lab Manual and this manual is a good one! So we took Chemistry in 10th grade. BJU Press has the perfect Chemistry Student Text and Chemistry Teacher's Edition available for families. If you are at all worried about teaching Chemistry, BJU has an AMAZING teacher’s guide - and I mean - it literally tells you exactly what to say, teach, conduct and do!! Although they recommend this course for grade 11, my children have all taken this course, Chemistry, during grade 10. This is a Christian curriculum as well. Chemistry is designed as a high-school level survey course and touches on all the major areas involving chemistry. Your child will gain an understanding of atomic structure, chemical composition, chemical reactions, and more.
To complete a high school curriculum of three full years of Science, a student would need Physics and BJU Press offers their version. BJU has the student Physics Student Text, the Physics Student Lab Manual Physics manual and the Physics Teacher's Edition as well as the Physics Lab Manual Teacher's Edition . Physics teaches classical mechanics, work and energy, periodic motion and wave theory, electricity and magnetism, optics, relativity, quantum physics, and nuclear physics. These topics are presented in conjunction with real-world modeling exercises that reinforce a Christian worldview by demonstrating the relevance and validity of approaching science from a biblical perspective. The course is mathematically rigorous and algebra-based and should be one of the last high school science classes taken.
Master Books | Bible-based
Master Books has a High School Biology curriculum with lab curriculum. The lab experiments are included with images of prepared microscopic slides. There is also a teacher’s edition to assist parents with teaching Master Books Biology. This 36-week study of Biology begins with an overview of biology while opening a deeper understanding of the living things that God created. The course moves through the nature of cells, ecosystems, biomes, the genetic code, plant and animal taxonomies, and more.
Master Books has a Christian High School Chemistry curriculum that is a High school science course with lab curriculum. This course is quite affordable, and the textbook is highly readable, with a visually appealing layout. The Teacher’s Guide is also included in the price, which is always nice and it includes all coursework, as well as a schedule and supply lists for the labs with step-by-step lab instructions and photos for each step. Master Books has the next course as well, Chemistry: The Study of Matter From a Christian Worldview Kit. Chemistry chemistry curriculum from Master Books is 36 weeks as well and provides a great foundation in the study of chemistry.
Master Books also has high school science curriculum for Advanced Pre-Med Studies for students who already have decided they intend to pursue a medical degree in college. Master books also has a physics curriculum that is taught TOGETHER with concepts of math. The Concepts of Mathematics & Physics Pack is a 3 volume set for 36 weeks of instruction. This is used in grade 9 (or in middle school). This set is a perfect set for introductory Physics to begin high school science with Physics track.
Other Curriculum
If you are not interested in any of these publishers and are looking for something different, there are plenty of options. The Novare Science General Chemistry textbook, General Chemistry Textbook, offers a mastery-based approach, ensuring that students are provided with well-designed exercises, quizzes, and textbook chapters. The key material is consistently reviewed throughout the year, enhancing the learning experience. The text seamlessly weaves together the history of modern chemistry, mathematics, and technical communication, allowing students to grasp the interconnectedness of science. Novare also has Chemistry for Accelerated Students that pairs well with the Novare Chemistry Supplementt. Novare has included a Solutions Manual to Accompany Chemistry for Accelerated Students that helps guide parents as well.
Novare also has published an Introductory Physics Textbook. This is the textbook that I wish I had used in grade 9. I highly recommend if you are going to switch up your student’s science courses to begin with Novare’s Introductory Physics Textbook and the corresponding The Student Lab Report Handbook. There is the Solutions Manual to Accompany Introductory Physics and the Complete Solutions and Answers for Introductory Physics. In addition, the publisher has also created a Experiments for Introductory Physics and Accelerated Studies in Physics and Chemistry.
Another option is the Savvas' Experience Chemistry, Experience Chemistry Homeschool Bundle. Experience Chemistry offers a unique approach to presenting scientific concepts and content. Through a combination of hands-on activities and online interactive experiences, we aim to build a deeper understanding of chemistry. Our program focuses on the practical application of scientific principles, making it a truly engaging experience.
If you have a student who already knows they would like to study Medicine, there is a great course option from Master Books. Advanced Pre-Med Studies explores biology, microbiology, anatomy, and physiology in this one course. This course includes an Advanced Pre-Med Teacher Guide that has a very detailed, easy-to-manage lesson schedule. This course is worth 1 credit hour of Science. This curriculum is all-inclusive and includes tests, quizzes, and answer guides.
Another alternative is Introduction to Forensic Science . The Introduction to Forensic Science Set includes the student text and the teachers guide. Allow your high school student to pursue the fast-growing, interesting topic of Forensics in their final years of science. Master Books' lab-based Intro to Forensic Science course introduces forensic science needs. Students will learn observational methods, certification testing, evidence inspection, and more about forensics investigations. Course readings and case studies are in the Student Book. The Introduction to Forensic Science Teacher Guide includes weekly lesson schedule, reading and worksheet assignments, student worksheets, case study discussions, labs and lab supply lists, and answer key for all student work.
Conclusion
My son attends a Science and Engineering Academy for high school and he took an Honors Advanced Biology class in 9th grade and Honors Advanced Physics class in grade 10. In Grade 11 he took Advanced Honors Chemistry and in grade 12 he took AP Physics. Even though he is not required by state law to take 4 years of science, and most colleges do not require 4 years of high school science; he took 4 years of Advance Honors science classes because it is highly recommended, especially if your student will apply for merit scholarships.
My middle child took Biology in 9th grade, Chemistry in 10th grade, and in 11th grade she took the following dual enrollment courses: Principles of Biology and Elements of Chemistry (Fall) and Organic Chemistry and Anatomy & Physiology (Spring). Yes, she took FOUR Science classes her junior year of high school in college! During her official 12th grade - which by this time she had enough credits and had (really) graduated from high school, she was a second year college student, no longer dual enrolled, but a full-time student, and she took Anatomy & Physiology II.
My youngest child took BJU Honors Physical Science in 9th grade, BJU Honors Biology in 10th grade, Berean Brothers Honors Chemistry in 11th grade and in 12th grade, was a dual enrollment student and took Biology for Contemporary Society in the fall semester and Engineering Physics I in the Spring.
A homeschool science curriculum that works well in elementary school may not meet your needs as your children move on to middle school or even high school. I recommend sticking with a science curriculum that works for your family throughout the elementary grades and then evaluating if the middle school level curriculum will also meet your needs. I also suggest doing the same when your child moves on to high school.
HOMESCHOOL SCIENCE ONLINE OPTIONS
The Potter’s School
TPS is completely academic. TPS science classes cover all college-preparatory science themes and depth. In all classes, including science, TPS maintains a biblical worldview. TPS Middle School Science courses (Life Science, Physical Science) methodically approach tough topics so students are not surprised in high school. Middle school classes are not included in college applications, so they are a great way to start confronting things that children struggle with in high school to prepare for confident achievement. Biology and Chemistry in TPS early high school science classes fulfill lab requirements for graduation and prepare students for advanced science courses like AP®. TPS offers AP® courses to help students achieve their AP exam goals and gain college credit. Biology and Chemistry have Standard and Honors versions.
Apologia Online Academy
For students aged 12 and older, Apologia Online Academy provides extensive science courses both in a live and self-paced format. Homeschoolers are rigorously and effectively prepared for college and life by taking classes taught from a biblical worldview, including rigorous scientific classes.
College Prep Science
Students in grades 3–12 who are homeschooled have the option of taking Christ-centered live online classes or working at their own speed with College Prep Science. Students are able to take part in highly realistic science lessons and laboratories without ever having to leave their homes, thanks to a top-notch virtual lab service.
MyFunScience
Take advantage of MyFunScience's weekly live online science, math, and tech classes. The live classes are recorded so you can watch them whenever you want. After then, the instructors mark all of the assignments, examinations, and quizzes. During office hours, your child can receive additional assistance if needed.
Taylor Made Science
To help students succeed in science classes at the university level, Taylor Made Science provides live, interactive science courses online. Middle and high school students can improve their scientific literacy and critical thinking abilities through their secular, lab-based, college-prep science classes. We have designed all of our courses to be at the Advanced Placement or Honors level. Students participate in authentic scientific experiments as part of their online science classes, making them really hands-on. Every single student receives a lab supply set. While the teacher is present to support students as needed, students work in small groups using Zoom to complete hands-on assignments.
Supercharged Science
Supercharged Science is an all-inclusive online science curriculum that is ideal for homeschooling students in grades K–12. Your children will be engaged and learning throughout Supercharged Science since it is a self-guiding curriculum that includes numerous hands-on activities. If you and your loved ones enjoy trying new things, it's an excellent pick.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy is well-liked by homeschoolers. Eleven scientific courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) options, are available to high school seniors at no cost. Learners are given the tools they need to study independently both in and out of class, including practice tasks, instructional videos, and a personalized dashboard. Other academic subjects are also available as courses.
Fascinating Education
Using an audiovisual approach, Fascinating Education provides a methodical education in the scientific method. Video lessons, at-home experiments, and final exams are all part of the curriculum. These high school-level courses cover topics such as biology, physics, chemistry, and medicine. These courses cover all the bases for science credit in high school.
Great Courses Plus
A subscription Video-On-Demand program called Great Courses Plus is offered by The Great Courses, the most prominent media brand in the world for continuing education and self-improvement. You can go at your own speed via their classes given by some of the top academics in the world. According to other mothers, the Great Courses Signature Collection, which can be purchased on Amazon, is a good place to start. Although the selection is limited, it is more affordable than a full Great Courses membership.
Mystery Science
Grades K–5 can benefit from Mystery Science, an exploratory science program. Through conversation, practical examples, and hands-on activities, students will learn about scientific ideas through interesting movies. For first-time users, homeschoolers can get a year of Mystery Science for free. After that, any household can get a year of subscription for just $69.
Science 4 Us
More than 350 online courses covering STEAM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) topics are available through Science 4 Us. These lessons include things like interactive games, worksheets, and hands-on activities. Students in grades K-2 can find a well-rounded education with Science 4 Us, which includes lessons in Physical, Life, Earth/Space, and Science Inquiry.
