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sciencecurriculum

18 Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum For Active Kids

July 28, 2022 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Choosing kindergarten science homeschool curriculum for energetic kids is challenging. Besides homeschool kindergarten should be fun.

Today, I’m sharing solid tips in how to choose science curriculum for your homeschooled kindergartner.

Some take a spiral approach and are very workbook driven while others include many hands-on lessons.

However, before I jump into sharing so many wonderful choices, you need to know the importance of balancing subjects.

18 Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum For Active Kids

For example, as a seasoned homeschool mom with three grads I know the importance of focusing on the skill subjects first.

The skill subjects are also known as the three Rs – reading, writing, and ‘rithmetic.

How to Balance Kindergarten Homeschool Science with Skills Subjects

And here are three reasons why the skill subjects should stay in the forefront.

  • First, if a child can’t read well, he’ll struggle his whole life
  • Second, when a child does read well, he can study any subject or topic which delights him and
  • Third, math is needed lifelong and without a solid start in math, a child will struggle in science.

However, what some educators tout in the homeschool world is that it must be an either or choice.

Choose skill subjects or content subjects like science to focus on primarily in the younger grades.

Don’t get me wrong. There is some merit to that way of thinking.

Look at Slow and Steady Get Me Ready For Kindergarten: 260 Activities To Do With Your Child From Age 0 to 5 to show how playing and learning are essentially linked.

For instance, some moms of kindergartners can have an unrealistic view of what a learning day looks like for a kindergartner.

In addition, they also have an unrealistic view of how much time their children should spend homeschooling.

18 Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum For Active Kids

Although children are on different learning scales, here are some ways that kindergarten moms may not understand the learning process.

  • They want their kindergartener to write or worst yet write with a pencil.
  • Too, they think that a child should be reading at this age. It’s very normal for children to still be learning letter and blend sounds. Even children reading beginning chapter books is normal.
  • In addition, instead of embracing their energetic child, they think children should sit down for long periods of time to learn.

As you can see, there are a variety of skill levels.

Nevertheless, there are qualities which make homeschooling easier which a lot of young children share.

So, tap into those natural strengths to capitalize on for learning.

How to Match Science Curriculum with Learner

Look below at the strengths you want to tap into.

  • Most are very energetic and eager to learn.
  • Being wiggly and inquisitive, they can tolerate a variety of learning material that meets their needs for hands-on activities,
  • They move and wiggle but they’re paying attention.
  • Playing IS how children this age best learn. It should be hard to separate science fun from playing during the day.
  • And they’re learning with every breath they take.

Now that you have a glimpse of the big learning picture with kindergartners, I want you to choose kindergarten science curriculum meticulously.

Choose one which aligns with your child’s nature desire to learn.

Next, I don’t believe you have to make a choice between teaching science which is a content subject versus a skill subject. You can do both.
But you do need to know what is important to teach when your child is feeling overwhelmed or when life hands you a less than a desirable schedule to homeschool.
Sometimes, you can only teach the skill subjects.

But if you can teach science right along at the beginning it will make your child’s learning experience more enriching.

However, there is one more significant foundational point I want you to know.

18 Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum For Active Kids

Besides, I can’t help sharing with you points that have helped me succeed in homeschooling for 20+ years.

Two Approaches to Teach Homeschool Kindergarten Science

Thus, there are two ways to teach science at this age

  • One is where you take a beautiful science topic book or story and teach facts through finding easy hands-on activities to go along with the topic; and
  • the second way is using a laid-out curriculum which covers a multiple of topics like earth and science, animal science, plant science or human body.

The important point to remember is that science is not a subject a child can be behind in at this age.

18 Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum For Active Kids

Besides kindergarten science homeschool curriculum comes in a variety of options.

You want to create a love for science.

So hands-on activities should be abundant and writing about it should not be.

18 Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum

Finally, look below at solid science curriculum for kindergarten.

1. Nick and Tesla Series

This first one is Nick and Tesla series. This is a reference story like series more than curriculum.

And this is a perfect example of a fun series for a bit older child, but one that will feed the curiosity of a budding scientist.

If you have an eager science minded child, you can tweak an older resource to meet his needs.

One of the best parts is that you can do this with all your children.

Follow your child’s interests and include hands-on ideas as you child wants to do them.

  • Nick and Tesla’s Robot Army Rampage
  • Nick and Tesla’s Super-Cyborg Gadget Glove

2.Summer Beach from Sassafras Science Adventures.

Next, Summer Beach is a kindergarten full year program from the same company that makes the The Sassafras Science Adventures.

It includes a Summer’s Lab Teacher Guide, Summer’s Lab Student Lab Manual and a Summer’s Lab Reference Notes. You decide if you want to use the Student Lab Manual or the Reference notes.

Each unit has 4 lessons and is presented in a short story form along with questions for you to ask.

They use the idea of making a sandwich like learning science. You add different parts to build your science topic or sandwich for the week.

And you have two scheduling options.

  • Summer’s Lab Lab Manual

3.The Sassafras Science Adventures.

Then, this curriculum can be used for multiple ages too. However, it is a curriculum if you want more laid out.

Next, is The Sassafras Science Adventures which is written for grades K to 5. And there are several books each based on a different topic.

There are components for creating a lapbook and it too is written in a story form.

  • The Sassafras Science Adventures: Volume One: Zoology
  • The Sassafras Science Adventures 3: Volume 3: Botany

As I mentioned each book is on a different topic.

There is Anatomy, Botany, Zoology, and Earth Science; there are other books in the series but they begin with first grade.

4.The Cat In the Hat’s Learning Library.

Also another fun one which has been around for a while is the Cat In the Hat’s Learning Library. Kids love this series anyway.

Use the science focused books for a fun science program and add in coloring, crafts, and drawing as you child wants to. It’s such a fun introduction to science.

5.The Magic School Bus Science Chapter Books 

In addition, another fun keeper and great choice is the The Magic School Bus Science Chapter Books.

I loved these too like the other books especially if you have younger children, it’s worth buying to use over and over again as each child comes along.

6. Preschool Science: Exploring Creation Together

And although this next one says preschool, it’s for ages 3 to 5.

One of the best parts of Preschool Science: Exploring Creation Together is not only presenting science in a story form, but it includes hands-on ideas with items you can find at home.

Another part is the parent’s section where they speak to you in how to use the curriculum as a guide.

7. Funschooling Level A for K- 2

Additionally, the funschooling books for Level A are K – 2. You can use them to cover a couple of years. depending on how much science you want to cover.

Funschooling is such a fun series of books. And they are quite a few choices for science. Remember too although they say K to 2, some books may be a bit more mature in terms of activities.

However, the content is solid and fun. Until your child can do some of the activities, you can try easier ones.

They have space, oceans and a nature study journal to name a few.

  • Fun-Schooling Science Handbook – All About SPACE: Explore the Universe! Research, Create, Play, Experiment & Learn
  • All About Ocean Creatures: Fun-Schooling –

8. Be Naturally Curious

Also, Be Naturally Curious is another choice.

I’ve not used them but I have been eyeballing them. They have minicourses as they call them which are downloadable pdfs.

They take a story approach along with games, activities, nature and being outside.

If you lack the room for a ton of books this pdf guide would make a great resource and I love the topics hey have for grades K to 5. So you could use this with your older children too.

9. Christian Liberty Nature Readers

The Christian Liberty Nature Readers I’ve used and are beautiful and packed full of information for your eager learner.

I love the fact that I could just sit and read about spiders to my kids or whatever topic they were interested in and just ponder the beautiful creatures.

As mentioned, they’re readers. So if you want to add in some hands-on activities there is plenty of information to pull from.

I loved reading ahead and finding science activities like insect lore to go with our reading.

10. Science Unlocked

Another one we’re going to do soon is Science Unlocked.

Science Unlocked is everything that you need to teach your child an entire month’s worth of science in one box – complete with detailed teacher guide and student workbook.

The series Wonder is for K to 2. And they have topics like

  • Squishy Science,
  • Penguin Parenting
  • From Brrr to Burrow and
  • Blast off to name a few topics.

11. Master Books

Too, Master Books is a curriculum which has a series named Let’s Talk Science.

Master Books has a beautiful Charlotte Mason approach to teaching science. We have not used it, but it has experiments, memory verses and activity pages.

12. The Good and The Beautiful

Furthermore, we’ve been using the other components of The Good and The Beautiful but not the science yet.

They have a science series they want to expand on it and named it Science for Little Hearts and Hands. The first course is for Preschool to 2nd and is Course Set—Fields and Flowers .

13. BookShark

Yet another wonderful science curriculum for kindergarten age is BookShark.

PreK is geared toward ages 4 – 5 and Level A is for ages 5 – 7.

BookShark uses beautiful literature with hands-on projects lined out in a full year program.

14. Christian Liberty

This next one is Christian Liberty which has a sweet 92 page book called The World God Made and is straight up and simple if you’re looking for a faith-based curriculum.

15. Nancy Larson Science

Another solid choice is the Nancy Larson Science programs which are for K to 5. As stated on her site, she believes a hands-on, cross-curricular approach wrapped in a scientific conversation is the best way to teach children.

16. Pandia Press

REAL Science Odyssey – Life Level One is geared toward K/1 as it states up to 2nd grade. And it is a secular program which many homeschoolers like as well.

You can find REAL Science Odyssey – Life Level One on Home Science Tools where they pair the program with a science kit.

Next, these two choices are some of my favorites we used.

17. Use Subscription Boxes

Something about getting a fun box of surprises every month just adds the excitement to learn science. We really love getting our science boxes.

Look at this Little Passports Science Jr. – Subscription Box for Kids | Ages 5-8.

And here is another one STEM Discovery Boxes – Monthly STEM Science Subscription Box for ages 7 to teen.

Bitsbox – Coding Subscription Box for Kids.

18. Use Topical Science Books.

This last choice is to use a topic-based reference science book and explore on your own. Because science should be fun, follow your child’s lead and choose beautifully illustrated books on one topic.

Add in hands-on projects and you have a very unique science curriculum. Add in a few science workbooks but sparingly. This will allow you to not have to create assignments.

Look at some of the choices for topical books.

  • The Berenstain Bears’ Big Book of Science and Nature
  • Human Body Activity Book for Kids: Hands-On Fun for Grades K-3
  • National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Science
  • Abeka 5 Year Old Kindergarten Science
  • Nature Smarts Workbook, Ages 4–6: Learn about Animals, Soil, Insects, Birds, Plants & More with Nature-Themed Puzzles, Games, Quizzes & Outdoor Science Experiments
  • Cut and Paste: Science
  • Real Chemistry Experiments: 40 Exciting STEAM Activities for Kids
  • My First Book of Planets: All About the Solar System for Kids

Other Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum Tips

  • Homeschool Science Ideas for K – 2
  • BEST Free Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum With A Gentle Approach (List)
  • 10 Affordable and Complete Homeschool Kindergarten Curriculum
  • Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science – Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study
  • 21 Fun All-In-One Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum
  • 18 Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum For Active Kids
  • 10 Favorite Science Movies and Documentaries for Homeschooled Kids
  • Kinder Gardening to Celebrate Nature and Science
  • 3 Less-Known and Irresistible Homeschool Hands-on Science Books

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Homeschooling, Science, Teach Kindergarten Tagged With: curriculum, earthscience, elementary science, homeschoolscience, kindergarten, life science, physical science, science, sciencecurriculum

25 Great Homeschool High School Science Curriculum

July 12, 2022 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Several years before I chose a homeschool high school science curriculum, I was feeling anything but calm. Fast forward 20 years and I’ve learned there are many options to teaching high school science right. Check out my how to homeschool high school page for awesome tips.

And it’s hard to go too wrong when narrowing down the options for homeschool high school science.

However, before you can choose the right homeschool science curriculum for your teen you need to determine the answers to these 7 questions.

25 Great Homeschool High School Science Curriculum
  • Will your high school teen pursue a science career and want to dive deep or are you wanting to give him a broad overview?
  • What is your teen’s current attitude toward science? More on that in a minute.
  • How will your goals or expectations affect your teen? For example, will hands-on activities be priority over completing the science text or will a completed text be the only way to count a grade?

Science Curriculum for Teens

And here are the next four questions.

  • Determining the lab component is important. So, will you devote time to understanding how to count labs. By the way, I have you covered. Grab some tips here at my post How to Easily Meet the Lab Component of Homeschool High School Science.
  • Also, because homeschool high school science curriculum has exploded, do you want a Christian-based, secular or even faith-neutral science curriculum?
  • In addition, while not being totally fixated on grades, determine how you will grade? Will you grade only daily work and tests or will participation in discussions with you and hands-on activities be a big part of the grade? And finally,
  • what goals does your teen have? Ask him or her what they want to learn or get from the course.

It won’t take long to think about those seven questions and don’t forget some of this will change depending on the age of your teen.

If your teen is just entering high school, he may change his goals from ninth grade to twelfth grade.

Stay flexible and don’t forget to have fun. The high school years were some of the best years of my journey.

What are the Branches of Science

First begin with understanding course descriptions.

For those of us who are not science majors sorting out the branches of science can be confusing.

All I knew was that in high school, I chose topics I loved for all four years.

Even if the topics are considered subtopics of the main branches of science, it’s still considered a study of science for high school.

I love these simple definitions from Study.Com where it says, “Physical science is the study of non-living things and the laws that describe them. The life sciences, which can also be called biology, have many subsets. The most common ones include botany, zoology, genetics, human biology, nutrition, and medicine. Earth sciences include geology, paleontology, meteorology, oceanography, and ecology.”

Homeschool High School Science Curriculum Sequence

Next, what is important to consider is the sequence.

As I mentioned before whether your teen is pursuing a college track or career track is a deciding factor for the sequence of courses.

For instance, if your teen is pursuing a college track, it’s important that you check first with the college to determine the science sequence and credits needed.

A good rule of thumb is to have your teen do all fours years and a lab. This way the science doors stay open. A teen may decide to pursue a science career five years after completing high school. A solid science background would be important then.

If your child is not pursuing a science career, then probably two or three years of science with a lab is enough. Look below at a couple of sequences for high school science courses.

High School Science Curriculum Sequence

  • 3 years and 1 lab
  • physical science
  • biology and
  • chemistry
  • 4 years and 1 lab
  • biology
  • chemistry
  • earth science
  • physics or an elective

And when I started homeschooling 20+ years ago, below were some of the sequences.

I think they’re still wonderful for our current day.

This one comes from Home Learning Year by Year by Rebecca Rupp. It still stands solid.

And this sequence comes from College-Prep Homeschooling by David and Chandra Bryers.

  • Grade 9 Earth/Space Science
  • Grade 10 Biology
  • Grade 11 Chemistry
  • Grade 12 Physics
  • Grade 9 Physical Science
  • Grade 10 Biology Lab 1/2 credit
  • Grade 11 Chemistry Lab 1/2 credit
  • Grade 12 Physics

Next, something else to not forget is to think about your child’s mathematical abilities.

When you choose courses like biology or earth science first your teen has time to strengthen his math foundation.

My opinion is the sequence depends on your child’s math abilities.

I don’t think there is a right or wrong. If your child needs more time to strengthen his algebra skills, do earth science or biology first.

However, if your teen’s algebra skills are solid by 9th grade, then jump into physics right away.

As you can see there are many paths to cover the 3 main branches of science physical sciences, life sciences, and earth sciences.

Furthermore, look through these high school science curriculum to see the wonderful choices.

  • Exploring Creation with High School Astronomy
  • Exploring Creation with Physics

And a few pointers will help you in choosing a high school curriculum which meets your needs.

  • High School Science: Reproducible Chemistry
  • Exploring Creation with Health and Nutrition, Textbook

More Homeschool High School Teen Elective Resources

  • 14 Fun and (maybe Frugal) Homeschool High School Electives
  • A to Z List: Middle and High School Homeschool Electives
  • Best High School Homeschool Curriculum Packages (Accredited and Not Accredited)
  • A Homeschool Beginner’s Guide to Figuring Grades and Saving Time
  • 25 Great Homeschool High School Science Curriculum

Whether you’re looking for a faith-based resource like Apologia or you are looking for a resource like Abeka’s physical creation, you’ll find a resource here.

  • Must Know High School Biology 1st
  • Focus On High School Chemistry Student Textbook

In addition, if you prefer more of a secular or faith-neutral approach, look at R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey.

  • Physical Science Student Edition
  • Chemistry Student Edition
25 Great Homeschool High School Science Curriculum

More Creative Solutions for High School Posts

  • Creative Solution for Homeschool High School When Life Happens
  • How to Make A Homeschool High School Transcript & Middle School (Free Editable Form)
  • Free Editable High School Diploma Template Day 9 of 10 Days Of a Homeschool Graduation

Equally important is to compare prices and prep time.

  • BIOLOGY
  • Friendly Biology (Christian Worldview Edition)

For instance, if you choose a course online, would your teen feel pressured to keep up or enjoy being with other teens?

  • Must Know High School Chemistry
  • Friendly Chemistry Student Edition: A Guide to Learning Basic Chemistry

Again, you and your teen’s goals matter. So, don’t let a scope and sequence of any course be the only guide.

High School Homeschool Curriculum

  • A Beka Science of the Physical Creation 9th Grade Student Textbook (Science of the Physical Creation)
  • Biology living Creation (Science and Health Series, Grade 10)

Further, some curriculum are worktexts for students who may not want labs. PAC Works or Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum below are straight worktexts.

  • Physics the Foundational Science – Abeka 12th Grade 12 High School Science Student Text Book
  • Integrated Physics and Chemistry

Furthermore, rabbit trails or subtopics under the main branches of science can be so fascinating.

Whether your teen wants to study marine biology or take a year studying the night sky it’s still science.

  • Precepts of Anatomy & Physiology
  • Integrated Physics and Chemistry

For example, anatomy, zoology, botany, and geology are more fascinating subtopics.

  • Principles, Theories & Precepts of Biology
  • REAL Science Odyssey Astronomy

As I mentioned at the outset, you can see why your teen’s interest matter.

More important to me is the experience and hands-on activity. And nurturing my teen’s love for any branch of science.

  • The Stargazer’s Notebook
  • Exploring Creation with Marine Biology

Sure, we must record keep and maintain credits, but don’t choose completing a textbook over the experience.

  • Novare Physical Science
  • Introductory Physics
  • Exploring Creation with Physical Science

I still don’t view myself as a science mom, but I am a science lover and all three homeschooled grads still love science.

What do you think, can you find an option for your teen here?

In conclusion, you’ll love my other high school tips:

  • 10 Favorite Science Movies and Documentaries for Homeschooled Kids
  • How to Easily Meet the Lab Component of Homeschool High School Science
  • How to Teach Science Through A Story – Middle & High School
  • Free Homeschool High School Planning Sheet (and pssst help for high school too)

1 CommentFiled Under: Homeschool Teens _ From Teen to Graduation, Teach Homeschool Science Tagged With: earthscience, high school, high school science, homeschool highschool, homeschoolhighschool, homeschoolscience, life science, physical science, science, science lab, sciencecurriculum, teens

21 Fun Chemistry Homeschool Ideas for Kids

July 8, 2022 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

These 21 fun chemistry homeschool ideas show your kids how we use chemistry every day.

When I read an older book about chemistry, it mentioned every house which has a kitchen has a laboratory.

And it made the point that chemistry is about finding out about things. Finding out what things are made of and what changes they undergo. Everything!

21 Fun Chemistry Homeschool Ideas for Kids

Even nature is a huge laboratory and always undergoing changes.

So these homeschool chemistry ideas for kids of all ages will help your young chemists to learn the principles of chemistry.

  • Exploring the World of Chemistry: From Ancient Metals to High-Speed Computers
  • The Wonder Book of Chemistry (Yesterday’s Classics)
  • The Periodic Kingdom (Science Masters Series)
  • The Photographic Card Deck of the Elements: With Big Beautiful Photographs of All 118 Elements in the Periodic Table

Homeschool Chemistry

Besides, most chemistry experiments can be done at home. Look at this easy list of things you probably already have on hand or could find easily.

  • water glasses
  • small glass bowls
  • jars
  • bottles
  • cans and
  • funnels can get you started.

Then, you may like to have other laboratory equipment in your home.

Below are a few other pieces you may want to add to turn your kitchen to lab site.

  • Test Tubes
  • Test Tube Brush
  • Wide Mouth Bottles
  • Rubber Tubing
  • Glass Stirring Rods

More Chemistry Homeschool Ideas

  • 2 Fun Chemistry for Kids Experiments & John Dalton Notebooking Pages

And of course you will need a variety of common chemicals on hand depending on the activity your students want to do.

Sometimes, buying a kit may be easier. This Ooze Labs or Middle School Chemistry set will work.

In addition, I find it useful to teach my kids about the major branches of science like chemistry, biology, earth science and physics.

However, it’s important for them to know that there are probably hundreds of branches of science which fall under these broad categories.

For example, depending on which curriculum you use chemistry has 5 major branches.

They are organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry and analytical chemistry.

In addition, as much as we have learned there are still many subdivisions.

21 Fun Chemistry Homeschool Ideas for Kids

Beyond atoms and learning about chemical reactions, chemist study the properties of matter and so much more.

You’ll have no shortage of topics depending on which branch your child is interested in.

High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum

Then, if you’re looking for homeschool chemistry curriculum, look at my post 10 Popular High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum.

CHEMISTRY IDEAS

Photo Credit: hessunacademy.com

The Science of Cookies – A Fun Science Experiment

Learn what makes a cookie...well, a cookie! This Science of Cookies STEM project walks you through exactly how.

Photo Credit: www.livinglifeandlearning.com

States of Matter Worksheets

Teach your kids the three different states of matter with these States of Matter Worksheets

Photo Credit: www.drugstoredivas.net

DIY Chemical Formula Salt And Pepper Shaker Set

I decided to make a DIY Chemical Formula Salt And Pepper Shaker Set. I

Photo Credit: raisingwhasians.com

Easy Rain Cloud Experiment for Kids & FREE Printable

Learn about precipitation with this easy rain cloud experiment with free printable!

Photo Credit: www.jugglingactmama.com

Epsom Salt Art Science Experiment

Have your kids create a fun "Frozen" inspired artwork using Epsom salts and food coloring!

Photo Credit: hessunacademy.com

Fizzy Lemonade Edible Science Experiment

Photo Credit: threekidsthreecatsandahusband.com

How to Make a Glow in the Dark Sensory Bottle With Water Beads

Make a sensory bottle that glows in the dark! We filled our with plastic dinosaurs, but you can substitute those with your favorite animal.

Photo Credit: www.teach-me-mommy.com

DIY Lava Lamp Experiment

Your kids will love making their own lava lamps

Medieval Chemistry and Homeschool History - Fun Hands-On Activity

Although the Middle Ages is not really known for its scientific discovery, the ‘science’ of alchemy was a popular idea.

Photo Credit: teachbesideme.com

Green Eggs Chemistry Experiment

We took a different spin on this and did a green eggs chemistry experiment.

Atomidoodle Chemistry Game App

Atomidoodle is a virtual chemistry notebook  that brings the period table of elements to life.

Photo Credit: teachbesideme.com

Periodic Table Game for Kids: Periodic Table Battleship

Need an idea for teaching the Periodic Table of Elements to Kids?

Photo Credit: www.123homeschool4me.com

Color Changing Acid-Base Experiment

Nearly every liquid is either acidic or basic in nature. Acids are molecules that release hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water

Photo Credit: raisinglifelonglearners.com

Blow Up a Balloon with a Chemical Reaction | Science Activity for Kids

Did you know that you can use chemical reactions to blow up balloons? What about your kids? 

Homeschool High School Chemistry & Free Reference Sheet and Resources

Look at these four free resources that I have found and created that I will be using with our high school chemistry to bring it alive and make it fit our preferred approach.

Photo Credit: kidminds.org

Kids Soap Lab (Chemistry 101)

I love to engage my kids in activities with a dual purpose: educate and entertain. If we do a bit of bonding and memory-making at the same time, all the better. Soap making is a fun kitchen science. 

Photo Credit: kidminds.org

What Preserves Plants Better? Flower Science Experiment

Bring chemistry to “life” with a simple flower science experiment. If you are doing this activity in spring, use dandelions!

Photo Credit: kidminds.org

Dragon Science: Green Fire Experiment

It’s a perfect summer experiment for dragon and fire enthusiasts of all ages. 

Invisible Ink

Bring history to life with a bit of chemistry.

Photo Credit: funlearningforkids.com

Rainbow Walking Water Science Experiment for Kids

This walking water science experiment is so much fun and super easy to do!

Photo Credit: preschoolpowolpackets.blogspot.com

Science Experiment: Bend Your Candy Cane!!

Candy canes are formed into a shepherd's crook shape after the cooking process is complete.

1 CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities, Homeschooling, Teach Homeschool Science Tagged With: chemistry, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, homeschoolscience, science, sciencecurriculum

10 Best Science Movies for Middle School

July 2, 2022 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I’ve rounded up some of the best science movies for middle school. Also, look at my page homeschool middle school for more fun tips.

Whether it’s science fiction or life science, or any other branch, learning through movies nurtures a love of science.

10 Best Science Movies for Middle School

For example, while viewing science fiction movies, students can think about the future or make a prediction about it.

Best Science Movies for Middle School

However, science movies can help your middle school students in more than one way.

  • Movies can introduce topics which may spark an interest prior to high school.
  • Whether you use movies occasionally or more often, your students perception of science events can be changed.
  • In addition, students love a diversion from a routine which may now be boring.
  • And lastly a movie can refresh your student’s mind while sneaking in fun science.

Look at these fun science movies for middle school.

1.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind.

First, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is also a movie and a book. This could be a complete unit study for both your middle and high school teens. This movie is on Netflix.

Here is what it is about. Against all the odds, a thirteen-year-old boy in Malawi invents an unconventional way to save his family and village from famine

Too, this self-paced language arts class based on the book is a great way to get credit for a language arts course. Remember you can get credit in middle school too. In addition, add topics about deforestation and biology to this study.

Look at my Rain Forest – Amazon Unit Study and Lapbook and Carnivorous Plants Unit Study and Lapbook.

Next, another fun movie series is Planet Earth.

2.
Planet Earth

We could literally watch each one several times over. The series is on Amazon Prime if you have it. It’s so worth it. And to hear David Attenborough narrate is well worth the watch.

Below, I have a round up of my unit studies here which will go with the different movies.

  • Oceans Unit Lapbook for Shallow Seas and Ocean Deep
  • Rain Forest – Amazon for Jungles
  • Arctic and Inuit Free Lapbook for Ice World
  • Marco Polo Unit Study and Lapbook for Great Plains

The third one is a science fiction move – The Time Machine. It also is on Amazon.

3.
The Time Machine

If you want to have your student learn about time travel or ponder what your viewpoint is on the age of the earth this is a fun movie to use.

You’ll love my lapbook Free Earth Science Lapbook to go along with the movie.

More Homeschooling in Middle School Resources

  • Free Middle School Science Curriculum and Magazines
  • 11 Best Science Fiction Books For Middle Schoolers
  • How to Choose the BEST Homeschool Middle and High School Language Arts Curriculum & Options
  • 10 Best Science Movies for Middle School
  • The Best Eighth Grade Homeschool Curriculum | Tips and Recommendations
  • How to Successfully Homeschool Middle School
  • A to Z List: Middle and High School Homeschool Electives
  • Fun Winter Craft Ideas for Middle School Homeschool
  • Beginning Homeschooling in Middle School – 3 Questions Worth Asking
  • Which One is Really the Best Homeschool Writing Curriculum (a comparison)

Next, one of our all-time favorites is Star Trek.

4.
Star Trek

Whether you want to teach about black holes or space, Star Trek is a great movie to ponder those topics.

  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $4.00
    Add to cart

Science Movies for Middle School

Another fun one we love is Spiderman 2.

5.
Spiderman 2

And learning about a nuclear fusion reaction is a fun topic to consider for a middle school student. Investigating ways to have limitless energy and about the sun make for great writing topics too.

Then Robot and Frank is the next one.

6.
Robot and Frank

Moreover, Robot and Frank make for great discussion and topics about the future will change. What will be considered relics and who will use artificial intelligence are great ideas for your student to consider.

7.
Charlotte’s Web

Additionally, Charlotte’s Web is the next one.

The version on Amazon prime is good to begin a biology topic. Beyond the topic of friendship, pigs and spiders can make for unit studies.

8.
Galileo : On the Shoulders of Giants

In addition, learning about famous scientist makes for a great series. Although the movie is fiction, it nurtures your future scientist’s love for learning about astronomy.

9.
Gorillas in the Mist

Whether you have a budding veterinarian, want to learn about Dian Fossey or about Africa, Gorillas in the Mist is a fun way to learn about science.

10 Best Science Movies for Middle School

10.
Swiss Family Robinson

Lastly, Swiss Family Robinson has to be the original survival study movie. Add these hands-on ideas here to make your science day fun.

  • Make a char cloth to start a fire.
  • Easy Seed and Gardening Unit Study for Kids (Middle – Upper Elementary)
  • Homemade Compass. Simple Geography Projects Equals Huge Wow Factors
  • Make soap
  • Make An Easy Ink pot & Quill Pen with Berry Ink
  • Cook hardtack and make butter

For more science fun, look at these other posts:

  • 10 Favorite Science Movies and Documentaries for Homeschooled Kids
  • How to Teach Science Through A Story – Middle & High School
  • 3 Less-Known and Irresistible Homeschool Hands-on Science Books
  • Homeschool Science Materials Checklist
  • Free Middle School Science Curriculum and Magazines

2 CommentsFiled Under: Homeschool Teens _ From Teen to Graduation, Science, Science Based, Teach Homeschool Science Tagged With: earthscience, homeschoolscience, life science, middle school, middleschool, movies, physical science, science, sciencecurriculum

10 Popular High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum

May 9, 2022 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I’m sharing ten popular high school chemistry homeschool curriculum. Sorting through popular chemistry homeschool curriculum can be daunting. Check out my how to homeschool high school page for awesome tips.

However, a practical high school chemistry homeschool curriculum should be easy to understand.

Both a non-science oriented teen and strong science oriented teen can find a curriculum to match their interests.

10 Popular High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum

Also, I’ve included choices for homeschool chemistry curriculum whether your teen is on a college track or career track.

The beginning of teaching chemistry can seem scary; I’m not sure how a fear of teaching chemistry began.

I know, I felt that way at first too.

However, as a non-science mom and after three homeschooled grads, my love and education for chemistry has grown.

With the right choices of curriculum and ideas, you and your teen can really enjoy the study of chemistry.

Besides, we practice or use chemistry every day.

From the food we eat to watching lightning produce fire, chemistry can be a fun subject to learn.

Once I moved past thinking it was only for science majors, my teens and I could dive into learning even beyond the basics.

The point is chemistry can be fun and should always be hands-on.

And one of my favorite parts is that any science study can be tied to learning the history of it. Chemistry is no different.

5 Pointers Before Choosing High School Chemistry Curriculum

And as you sort through each one, here are a few points to be aware of:

  • A lot of the major providers suggest prerequisites like having completed Algebra 1 and/or Geometry before chemistry;
  • And some providers integrate physics and chemistry because they feel all science subjects are intertwined and best taught together;
  • Still other providers which integrate physics and chemistry don’t require complex math to encourage student curiosity;
  • Too, some courses are a honor course and still others are basic chemistry; and
  • Lastly, pay attention to the credits assigned, if any, and the worldview. Some are secular and some Christian.

High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum

Next, look at these ten popular high school chemistry homeschool curriculum.

1. BOB JONES CHEMISTRY

BJU Press offers Chemistry in the 11th grade. They recommend that students should be taking Algebra 2 and Chemistry at the same time. According to their site, students in Chemistry have already completed Algebra 1 and Geometry.

This set is an example of an all-in-one. The complete set has a student edition, teacher’s manual, lab manual, assessments, and answer key. And like their other courses at this level, it is a solid college prep course and strong Christian worldview.

2. DISCOVERING DESIGN WITH CHEMISTRY for non-science student

3. DISCOVERING DESIGN WITH CHEMISTRY, SUPPLEMENT 2 for science student

Then, Discovering Design With Chemistry series were designed for use in 10th grade and require Algebra 1 math level. Too, they have a strong Christian worldview.

Designed as an all-in-one, they also offer video on demand classes.

4. FOCUS ON HIGH SCHOOL CHEMISTRY

Another awesome option is Focus On High School Chemistry.

When Real Science 4 Kids came on the homeschooling scene homeschoolers swooned. They’re still swooning at the ease and options offered.

Focus On High School Chemistry is offered for grades 9 to 12. It introduces students to high school basic chemistry and some concepts found in college-level chemistry.

This curriculum goes into more depth than a lot of chemistry high school programs, but does not cover all topics.

You’ll love how the experiments are broken down and easy to implement.

This original series is a one-semester course and can count as half of a high school credit. One more note of detail is that this course has a secular slant.

If your student is wanting a basic overview of chemistry, is undecided about chemistry as a science major, or wants just an overview, this curriculum keeps all options open.

5.FRIENDLY CHEMISTRY

Further, there is a reason this next chemistry option is called Friendly Chemistry.

This high school chemistry curriculum uses friendly language and introduces chemistry in a fun way.

I’ve not looked at the current editions, but some of the first editions had several typos. To some this can diminish the weight of the content.

Although I don’t like typos, I know it happens. I have a higher standard for curriculum providers. But I do not think it is a reflection of the content and the way the chemistry is taught.

Many homeschoolers love using it because their teens can use it independently.

The same lessons are taught in like a traditional high school course.

Unlike some other courses, motivated junior high-aged children complete the lessons in Friendly Chemistry.

Because this is a high school level course, you can count it as a credit because it’s intended to be completed in a year.

6. CHEMEXPLAINED

Next, if your teen prefers to learn online and take a college-prep course, then ChemExplained may be a good option.

Taught by a chemistry teacher, the videos are short and explanations are well.

Too, you’ll want to encourage your teen to take notes while learning.

Additionally, it’s hard to find faith-neutral curriculum.

A faith-neutral curriculum strives to leave religious or secular slants out of their curriculum. If you want to teach your own worldview, this is an option.

7. INTEGRATED PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY

Not to be overlooked is Integrated Physics and Chemistry by Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum. I’ve used several of their worktexts and my teens have loved the different courses.

Unlike other programs, the pacs are separate worktexts.

Encouraging the teen to learn independently with minimal supervision is the focus on their courses.

The course has twelve chapters of text and twelve companion student activities.

Whether your student chooses 9th or 10th grade to study Integrated Physics and Chemistry by Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum, it introduces students to the people, places and principles of physics and chemistry.

Also, it is a secular curriculum, but I found it easy to add faith-based ideas.

8. CONCEPTUAL CHEMISTRY

Then another solid choice is Conceptual Chemistry.

As the title of the textbook states there is emphasis on concepts, but with a fun conversational quality.

Non-science majors will love the practical part of the explanations in easy to learn language.

Introducing easy hands-on activities is another strength of this curriculum. With structure to encourage an independent learner, there is enough content to also foster critical thinking skills.

If your will teen will be a non-chemistry major or has a solid, but basic understanding of math, this is a great option. It can be used for any grade in high school.

9. Chemistry in the Kitchen

In addition, Chemistry in the Kitchen by Guest Hollow is a fun slant on chemistry.

Cooking their way through learning chemistry, teens in 9t to 12th grade don’t have to have higher levels of math.

Just a love of science and to learn in a different way are all that are required.

10. Homeschool Buyer’s Selection.

Finally, another popular option is the assortment which Homeschool Buyer’s Co-op offers each year. It’s popular because who doesn’t like to save money when you can.

Each year, Homeschool Buyer’s Co-op will list chemistry options and supplements. Be sure to check what is discounted there too.

10 Popular High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum

Be sure to look at my fun ideas for all ages to add to supplement your curriculum.

Look at my fun ideas for all ages to supplement your curriculum.

What do think? Are you feeling a little less intimidated about choosing a homeschool high school chemistry curriculum?

Chemistry Homeschool Ideas

If have some other chemistry homeschool ideas to help make teaching this subject fun like it should be.

  • Homeschooling High School: Curriculum, Credits, and Courses
  • Homeschool High School Chemistry & Free Reference Sheet and Resources
  • Atomidoodle Chemistry Game App
  • Medieval Chemistry and Homeschool History – Fun Hands-On Activity
  • Easy Hands-On Science: Label the Atom Playdough Activity
  • EASY Hands-on Earth Science: Fun Water Testing Kit

2 CommentsFiled Under: Choose Curriculum, Homeschool Teens _ From Teen to Graduation, Homeschooling, Science, Teach Homeschool Science Tagged With: chemistry, curriculum, high school, high school science, homeschoolhighschool, science, science lab, sciencecurriculum, teens

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