Online articles / Contents & Standards / Science curriculum / Resources for specialized high school topics / Science experiments & supplies

 

(Note: Websites move, go defunct, so there may be some broken links)

  

Online Articles on the teaching of science topics: 

“Teaching science at Home” by Exploring Homeschooling. See their webpage.  

The job of both scientist and student is the same: learn, and then communicate the new knowledge to someone else. The National Foundation For Science Standards advocates that teaching the student how to be a “scientist” should be the first task of every elementary school. – National Foundation for Science Standards 

 

Teach the 5 steps to your child to help him/her acquire the thinking processes when approaching any topic of study or science experiment (called the Scientific Method, a systematic way by which to find answers to questions) Source.  A printable Scientific Method Form is at this link.

“HELPING YOUR CHILD LEARN SCIENCE” by U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OFFICE OF EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH AND IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF PRACTICE August 1991, on the need for integrated curriculum, with an emphasis on hands-on exploration, scientific thinking and thematically connected units. The National Center for Improving Science Education recommends that elementary schools design curricula that introduce nine scientific concepts (Organization; Cause and effect; Systems; Scale; Models; Change; Structure and function; Variation; Diversity) which will form a framework into which scientific facts can be placed.  See Source article: “Helping Your Child Learn Science”, the U.S. Department of Education Office of Educational Research And Improvement Programs For The Improvement of Practice August 1991

More in this vein; on “A Chain of Reasoning” is a pattern of thought followed by all scientists which involves the following sequence of critical thinking skills: Observing, Comparing, Ordering, Categorizing, Relating, Inferring, Applying. This pattern makes arriving at a correct answer easier, for those who use it. Students in the course of their work, need to think of an idea, research their topic, plan their experiment, do the experiment, collect and record data, and come to a conclusion. They need to develop skills such as observing likenesses and differences, classifying, sequencing, drawing conclusions, making generalizations, making inferences, noting cause and effect, measuring, and making charts and diagrams: National Science Foundation 

The Classical Approach to Science, refer to these links below: 

http://www.classicalhomeschooling.org/grammar/science.html 

The Charlotte Mason method of science studies attaches great importance to nature observation the use of the Nature Notebook or Nature Diary is a staple of Charlotte Mason homeschoolers and the children spend lots of time outdoors observing, collecting, drawing or pressing specimens. Charlotte Mason children are also widely exposed to a wide selection of quality literature in the relevant fields. To know more on how to “Start a Nature Notebook” Charlotte Mason Style, read Karen Andreola’s article Nature Notebook. Lynn Hocraffer gives us an inspiring account of how her family does Science the Charlotte Mason way at the Hocraffer Family’s Popcorn and Peanuts website.

 

Science resources:

CONTENTS AND STANDARDS: CORE KNOWLEDGE AND GOALS OF TEACHING SCIENCE

You can either purchase some science guides with Scopes and Sequences or print out online ones.

1. Available from GeographyMatters is Science Scope by Kathryn Stout provides lists of skills, topics, and concepts that are part of most science curricula. It can be used as a checklist, as an overview of topics, and as a reference for age-level expectations for pre-K to 12^th grade. 120 pages. Order online from Geomatters:  Or order from Design a Study (Science Scope)   Ph: (302) 998_3889

2. The NSDL Science Literacy Map

3. World Book’s typical K-12 course of science study (US public school type) is online (Beverly Hernandez’s compilation) at this link.

4. UK’s National Curriculum Primary and Secondary Science Standards 

5. The National Research Council’s booklet Every Child a Scientist: Achieving Scientific Literacy for All  is intended to help parents and others help local K-12 schools make the transition to standards-based teaching and learning in science. The booklet shows how parents can change the system, explains the importance of high-quality science education, and shows how to measure the quality of school science programs. The booklet costs $10 for single copies; $7 for 2-9 copies; and $4.50 for ten or more copies. Shipping charges are $3 for single copies and $.50 for each additional copy. Send checks to National Academy Press, 2101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Lockbox 285, Washington, DC 20055; or call  (800) 624-6242  or  (202) 334-3313 . Orders may also be placed over the Internet here.

 

Science Curricula:

Elementary level resources:

Sonlight Curriculum’s science program focuses on seven primary fields of study: nature/biology; technology; chemistry; physics (forces, electricity, magnetism, etc.); the earth; space (astronomy, astronautics); and health science. It has an eclectic approach of studying the different science topics, using Dorling Kindersley(DK), Usborne and Magic School Bus books a lot as core text while incorporating other learning styles (auditory and workbook) using the Lyrical Life Science Vol 1-3 which is a musical tape, text and (reproducible) workbook. From the third year, it uses the TOPS Science Learning System (see experiment kits section for description) that uses cartoon illustrations and a minimum of materials for science experiments, Janice Van Cleave’s Physics for Every kid, Exploring Creation with Biology and Chemistry programs (see below). Purchase the full science program with or without the optional packages of necessary experiment materials. Materials go beyond elementary school through to high school. Homeschoolers’ main criticism is that the readings in the early grades are not aligned with the experiment topics. Purchase online at Sonlight.com:

Science Place units from Scholastic Developed to meet the National Science Standards and Project 2061 objectives and benchmarks, Science Placefeatures an integrated curriculum with a combination of hands-on exploratory activities, thematically connected units and scientific notebooks (called Science LabMats and Science ThinkMats) that allow students to record data and develop key concepts. The LabMats are really snazzy and visually attractive. Each of the units was developed in collaboration with a science museum. There are nice extras not usually found in other programs such as a video, Science Sleuth book and CD Rom to go with the different units. Really nice but be prepared to pay a “nice” price for each level too. Available within Japan but as Scholastic membership is not intended for individual ordering, you need an English club or home study group that can consolidate orders, contact Reshma Pujabi at scholastichk@scholastic.com, or Keiko Niwano to see about membership from the Scholastic International Sales Representative is Keiko Niwano, 5-7-7 Kashiwa-cho, Shiki-shi, Saitama 353; tel / fax:  048-474-2323 ;e-mail: niwano@gol.com. Ask FBC’s bookstore for their Scholastic catalogs too. Otherwise order by writing or faxing to Scholastic International Customer Service, 2931 E. McCarty Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Tel:  573-659-1687  / Fax:573-635-7630 or Email Schintl@aol.com

The National Science Digital Library’s scope & sequences and see also their “The EXPLORING SCIENCE program”, a free but quality product identical in concept to Scholastic’s Science Place units, was developed and written by active elementary grade mentor teachers in response to the new US 1995 National Science Education Standards and Goals 2000. The K-6 science curriculum using integrated thematic and scientific approach includes easy-to-understand teachers’ resource manuals and student-friendly materials (vocabulary is limited to the essential). Students will first be taught to apply the Scientific Thinking Processes in a series of explorations utilizing, and enhancing, the techniques of scientific research. Each unit includes six to eight hands-on explorations that are geared to move the student through the scientific thinking process. The concepts, theories and content of science are all organized around 6 core major unifying themes: Systems and Interactions (K, Grades 2,3, 5 and 6), Stability (Grade 1), Energy (Grade 3), Patterns of Change (K, Grade 1,4,5), Scale and Structure (Grades 4, 5, 6), History/Social Science (all grades). Each exploration contains the key concept question, evaluation procedures, suggested questions for the teacher to ask to prompt student thinking and understanding, and bulletin board suggestions. It also features the SCIENTIST’S NOTEBOOK beginning in Kindergarten. I liked the fun poems for various topics and the readalouds on a series of inventors. Free online but if you don’t fancy downloading 4,300 pages you can copy also individual pages or topics) obtain the CD Rom version.

Primary Science Project series from Family Things heavily stresses the use of mathematical / scientific thinking. Based on the results of the Third International Mathematics and Science Study ( TIMSS ), Singapore’s eight-graders rank Number One in Science, while the fourth-graders rank second. The Primary Science Project and the Lower Secondary Science series is said to be the curriculum that played an important role in the success in the TIMSS Report Ranking. Now used in the US by some private schools. The program helps the student understand the “essentials of science” through full-color illustrations and photos, ‘Try this’ experiments for each chapter, accompanying workbooks filled with interesting and fun experiments, easily done with household items, ‘What you have learned’ reviews.. The Program components at each grade level include 1 textbook, 2 workbooks, and 1 teacher’s guide. A combination of the classical and hands-on scientific method approaches… this program is more rigorous than other hands-on programs. Visually attractive, user-friendly and well organized, but the program starts at third grade only (through to sixth grade). Learning is made meaningful by relating science to student’s daily lives. The teacher’s guide includes comprehensive and detailed background information (should the most inadequate teacher need it), summary charts, overall objectives for each chapter and specific objectives for activities, background information, main concepts for activities, vocabulary of keywords, materials required for activities, teaching suggestions, review and many enrichment activities for further exploration. Coverage of key subjects is thorough but I felt the series was weak in the area of nature studies and there are no studies on astronomy. Cost is just under 4,000 yen for the entire series! For more details and to view sample pages, go to http://www.singaporemath.com/Science-s/2.htm

Developing Critical Thinking Through Science, Books One and Two by June Main and Paul Eggen are hands-on, zero-budget activity books that teach science process skills that sharpen children’s thinking and help them build a thorough understanding of physical science through the scientific method. Step-by-step instructions for teachers and a complete dialogue (questions and answers) go along with each lesson. The activities can be used successfully with a minimum of science knowledge, science equipment but you will have to get organized before the lesson to assemble a box of supplies (e.g., baby food jars, rubber bands, chalk and paper clips) for the hands-on activities. Available at $22.95 each from the Critical Thinking Press Tel:  (800) 458-4849  or online at http://www.criticalthinking.com/ or from http://www.amazon.co.jp

The Scientist’s Apprentice by Hilary Welliver ($26.95) is a fun K-6 science curriculum incorporating interesting topical readings and hands-on experiments, games, crafts, recipes, writing, and songs to teach to the different learning styles. Appropriate for K – 6th grade students, understandable and reinforces orderly thinking skills. There are reproducible pages and the easy-to-follow unique Reading Plan for four 8 or 9 week units (Astronomy, Anatomy, Earth Science, and Oceanography) keys every topic in the Scientist’s Apprentice with the appropriate pages in four Magic School Bus books (• Inside the Earth • On the Ocean Floor • Lost in the Solar System • Inside the Human Body), four DK Eyewitness Explorer books (• It Couldn’t Just Happen • Human Body • Rocks and Minerals• The Night Sky • The Seashore) and in the Creation Science book, “It Couldn’t Just Happen.” Available from the Geography Matters website at http://www.geomatters.com/index.shtml?main.html&1

Science in the Creation Week; Content & Hands-On Science Skills Curriculum Grades 2-5 by David Unfred is designed for teaching multi-level science for three years to the same student (Grades 2 – 5) from the creationist perspective. Each day of the creation week is covered with concise text and hands-on experiments in varying levels of difficulty. Available at $19.95 from Lifetime Books & Gifts, 3900 Chalet Suzanne Dr., Lake Wales, FL 33853;  941-676-6311  or online at http://www.lifetimeonline.com

THE COMPLETE AMATEUR NATURALIST by Michael Chinery could serve as a complete curriculum for nature study. It is covers nearly everything from rocks to birds to bugs, from weeds to trees to ponds. Lots of hands-on activities from caring for sick or wounded birds, butterfly gardening, keeping ants, rocks, seashells, pressing and drying wildflowers, using a family microscope to wildlife photography.  Each topic covered in about two pages, 200 pages in all. So well-illustrated throughout that one mother reports, “My thirteen year old daughter says this is the “gross-est” book we own, but my boys sure enjoy it!” By Bloomsbury Books, ISBN is 1-85471-032-X. Out of print but still available at BarnesandNobles.com http://shop.barnesandnoble.com/

The Handbook of Nature Study by Anna Botsford Comstock is another classic but it is written more to the teacher than to the student. From http://www.amazon.co.jp

Junior High resources:

The Rainbow by Beginnings Publishing House, Inc. 

Key strengths of this new impressive junior high school (7-12) science curriculum are its logical sequence and presentation of the scientific disciplines, user-friendly and comprehensive laboratory support system, and the quality of authorship. The Rainbow is authored by Dr. Durell C. Dobbins, a Ph.D.-level microbiologist with B.S. degrees in both professional biology and in chemistry, and father of five home-schooled children for whom he wrote the curriculum. The scope and sequence and treatment of topics, markedly different from that of public school ones, is designed to mirror the continuity found in nature and to provide students with a logical framework for understanding how the sciences are interrelated. Physics is studied as the most basic science foundation for understanding chemistry, chemistry as the basis for understanding biology and earth and applied sciences are considered the most complex of the sciences, only understood against a background of physics, chemistry and biology, and are thus covered at the end of the program. Browse the scope and sequence at http://www.beginningspublishing.com/ Written for the home school, the textbook is conversational in tone, and often humorous. Lessons are oriented, not around information, but rather around concepts that will be reinforced in many ways. A thorough science vocabulary is established without the dry facts that will be forgotten. Similar to the private school texts, the Rainbow’s textbook is packed with full-color and engaging illustrations and professional photography. Selection of typeface and professional layout assure ease on the eye and user friendliness. The text aims to promote an understanding of the subject matter rather than rote learning and the exercises to provoke thought rather than simply require reiteration of text. A thorough and home-friendly once-a-week laboratory program helps in reaching various types of learners (esp. tactile and kinesthetic learners), improving retention by all students, and making book learning more real and enjoyable. Intrinsically safe for the home environment supplies are provided in the right quality and quantity necessary for consistent success in performing the experiments at home. The curriculum also seeks to present a logically and scientifically substantiated Christian world view.

Note: Underdevelopment and due for future release are the elementary school science course called Colors (2002) and the Spectrum High School materials (2001). A short 6-week course called Spectrum Math in practical mathematics will also be offered to bridge math and science skills before throwing students headlong into problem solving. (This review is based on a letter from Dr Durell Dobbins) Year 1: text $75; Lab workbook $18; Durable equipment $45; Renewable supplies $22 Year 2: $80; Lab workbook $18; Renewable supplies $22. Dr Dobbins says he will ship to Japan “when customers pay the actual shipping charges, duties and taxes (if any apply) and specify the method of shipment they prefer” VISA is accepted. Available from http://www.beginningspublishing.com

Apologia Science Curriculum by Dr Jay Wile

Like Dr Dobbins, a homeschooling father and a former university science professor, Dr Wile was also appalled at the available science materials for the secondary curriculum when his children got to that level so he wrote his own. Clear and straightforward explanatory text, with many hands-on experiments all using household chemicals and supplies (not supplied). The experiments come guided with illustrations, tables, questions to be answered, and exercises and problems to be solved. There is a blend of conversational yet thorough explanations, interrelated real-world examples and applications, well-explained experiments along with an unabashedly creationist viewpoint. Each subject is presented in 2-volume sets including hardbound student text contains all student material, on-your-own questions and solutions, laboratory exercises, and chapter study guides and softbound, is the solutions and tests manual, which contains answers to chapter study guides, tests, and test solutions. B&W. Color photos and illustrations. Choose from selection of courses including:

1. General Science course designed to be a systematic introduction to science. Covers the topics: The scientific method; Designing experiments; Simple machines Archaeology; Geology; Paleontology; Biology; Human anatomy; and Human physiology in broad terms. Recommended as 7^th grade course. Price $75.00

2. Exploring Creation With Chemistry (Grade 8) first-year high school chemistry course and gives the student a rigorous foundation in chemistry, in order to prepare him or her for a college-level course. The course covers the following topics: Nomenclature; Significant figures; Units; Classification; The mole concept; Stoichiometry; Thermochemistry; Thermodynamics; Kinetics; Acids and bases; Redox reactions; Solutions; Atomic structure; Lewis structures; Molecular geometry; The gas laws Equilibrium Student who take and understand this course will be very well-prepared for a tough university chemistry course. Price: $75/set. All of the chemicals used in this course consist of household materials, but a laboratory equipment set is available for $55.00. Also offered are a CD Rom and an INTERNET course .

3. Exploring Creation Through Physical Science is recommended as the last science course the student takes before high school biology. Covers the following topics: The atmosphere; The hydrosphere; Weather; The structure of the earth; Environmentalism; The physics of motion; Newton’s Laws; Gravity; Astrophysics. Price $85.00. The above printed regular courses, as well CD Roms are available from Apologia Educational Ministries, 808 Country Club Lane, Anderson, IN 46011, Tel:  888-524-4724  / Fax 765-649-4076 or online at:
http://www.highschoolscience.com or from http://www.sonlight.com/forums/science.cgi?read=958

High School resources:

Apologia Science Curriculum by Dr Jay Wile, besides the abovementioned junior high curriculum offers the these college-prep high science courses:

1. Exploring Creation With Biology (Grades 9-10) This course is designed to be the first high school science course that a student takes and to covered during the same year that the student is taking Algebra I. The course covers the following topics: Classification; The definition of life; The features of the organisms in Kingdoms Monera/Protista/Fungi/Animalia/Plantae; An introduction to biochemistry; Cell structure and function; Cellular reproduction; DNA; Protein synthesis; Cellular respiration; Genetics; Contains household, microscope and dissection laboratory exercises. A solutions manual with explanations and tests is included. Price $85.00. You can also choose Internet course with online textbook option: $300; or Internet course with CD textbook option: $320.00 or Internet course with printed textbook option: $340 Required lab materials (dissection kit): $40.00 Optional lab materials (microscope kit): $285.

2. Advanced Chemistry In Creation is designed to be an “advanced placement” or “AP” course giving the student the equivalent of the first year of college chemistry. The student must have already have completed Algebra 2 and one year of high school chemistry. The course covers: Limiting-reagent stoichiometry; atomic and molecular orbitals; Intermolecular forces; Solutions; Equilibrium; Acids and bases; Redox reactions; Nuclear chemistry; Organic chemistry. Texts $75.00. Lab set $55.00 Internet course with online textbook option: $300; or Internet course with printed textbook option: $330.

3. Exploring Creation With Physics The course covers the following topics:Units; Measurement; One-dimensional motion; Two-dimensional motion; Newton’s laws and their application; Gravity; Work and energy; Momentum; Periodic motion; Waves; Optics; Electrostatics; Electrodynamics; Electrical circuits; Magnetism. Pre-requisites: The student needs to be comfortable with the sin, cos, and tangent functions along with their inverses. These concepts are covered in Saxon’s Algebra II course. Most other math series actually have a 1-semester course called “trigonometry.”

The above printed regular courses, as well CD ROMs are available from Apologia Educational Ministries, 808 Country Club Lane, Anderson, IN 46011, Tel:  888-52… / Fax 765-649-4076 or online at:
http://www.highschoolscience.com or from http://www.sonlight.com/forums/science.cgi?read=958

(The internet courses taught by Dr Wile himself will be offered through the Potter’s School: http://www.pottersschool.com/school/registration.html

For a critical review of the curriculum by Susan Wise Bauer see:

http://www.welltrainedmind.com/A00review.html

Self-guided Lab manuals specifically written for homeschoolers. Sciences are taught using a hands-on approach with real world application. From junior high to high school, suited for gifted students too. Kits available too. Website: http://www.flash.net/~wx3o/chp/ Send email to: julicher@aol.com or write Castle Heights Press:2578 Alexander Farms Dr. Marietta, GA 30064.

Science : The Search curriculum by David Quine is another new hands-on high school science program aimed at having children enjoy learning about science by developing and testing their predictions to the problems that are given. Children are drawn into understanding major ideas and concepts of science they have first experienced. Said to prepare children for advanced college science. The program has a strong Christian worldview objective and seeks to have children discover the principles governing God’s creation. Four books at $25.00 each: Properties, Interaction and Systems, Cause and Effect and Scientific Theories. Books 1 and 2 are parent-directed conversations while 3 and 4 are student-directed texts. Write to Cornerstone Curriculum, 2006 Flat Creek, Richardson, Texas 75080 Tel:  (972) 235-5149  or order online from the website http://www.cornerstonecurriculum.com

For gifted kids, you might want to check out Kathleen Julicher’s science curriculum and resources at either Open Library or her company Castle Heights Press.
 

 

Resources for specialized high school level topics:

Saxon Physics Home Study Kit a technical and math-focused physics course. Purchase from Saxon Publishers Home Study Catalog, 2450 John Saxon Boulevard, Norman, OK 73071;  800-284-7019 ; Website

Global Science Online Tutorial by Don Strachan, a course for high school students. Focused upon physical and cultural geography, geology, and meteorology with an emphasis on resource utilization, it is aimed equipping students with the knowledge and intellectual tools to explore for, discover, develop, and use earth resources in an environmentally responsible manner. Topics will include: Basic subjects of earth science (matter and energy); History of earth science; the ecosystem concept; Energy resources; Mineral resources; Water resources; Population and resource use; Economics of resource use and conservation. Don Strachan is a western states economic geologist and Certified Professional Geologist under the aegis of the American Institute of Professional Geologists. Text used is “Global Science” by Christensen, J.W., 1994. A Qadosh Earth Science Tutorial is also available at their website or email for details to: dgstrachan@gbt.org

 Stars & Stories is perhaps the most outstanding multimedia astronomy unit study available. Middle to high school program. It presents a comprehensive background in the science of astronomy and helps students explore the connections between astronomy and mythology as well as learn related mathematical concepts, vocabulary and history. Hands-on projects, and interactive lecture-demonstrations make it easy to understand tricky concepts like the "Planets and Sun" section showing planetary motion through constellations. Student textbook, lesson plans, assignment checklist, integrated science, history, and literature selections (Greek myths, readings from Plato), plus a resource list are included. Learning is self-directed as Student Guide and Assignment Checklist tell the student exactly how to organize the materials. Projects and readings reference web sites like NASA to help students create a truly up-to-date text, complete with astronomical photos, etc. To see concepts covered, go to http://www.wildridge.com/sascon.htm.  Award-winning Stars & Stories CD ROM (which includes textbook) is $89.95, or if you prefer, a printed textbook ($14.95), teacher and student guides ($9.95 each) are also available. Will ship to Japan accept VISA or MASTERCARD, you can specify method of shipment. Available from http://www.wildridge.com/starstory.htm

 Logo to Legos course by Janna Gilbert is an online robotics and user-friendly computer-programming course from the Potter’s School learning computer language called Logo. The course teaches basic control technology and examines the relationship of computer programming to robotics. The study of specific programming and robotics topics culminates with a hands-on exploration of the design, construction and programming of robots using the LegoDacta RoboLab. All phases of this course will focus on developing logic, communication, and critical thinking skills. Register at the Potter's School: http://www.pottersschool.com/school/registration.html

 OTHER POPULAR SCIENCE TEXTS

 READER’S DIGEST series includes How the Body Works by Steve Parker (Grade 5: \1,734), 

How the Universe Works (How Works) by Heather Couper, Nigel Henbest (Grade 6: \2,326) 

and How the Earth Works by John Farndon (Grade 6 \2,326)

Modern Curriculum Press Science Series covers all major areas found in the elementary science curriculum. Students learn strategies to improve comprehension using everyday items for experiments. Levels A-F for grade range: 1-6. Comprises of teacher’s edition (under $25) and student text (under $15). Focusing on real-life problem-solving science applications, The MESA Series (Grade Range: 6-8) is usually used in gifted student programs. Combines pre-algebra topics with exciting hands-on science. Purchase from the Pearson Learning Online Catalog online.

A Self-Teaching Guide series is recommended as core reading for the classical approach to high school science in the Well-Trained Mind. Includes:

Biology: A Self-Teaching Guide by Steven D. Garber (Grade 9): \1,939;

Astronomy: A Self-Teaching Guide, 5th Edition by Dinah L. Moche (Grade 10) : \1,939;

Chemistry : Concepts and Problems : A Self-Teaching Guide (Wiley Self-Teaching Guides) by Clifford C. Houk, Richard (Grade 11): \1,836;

Basic Physics : A Self-Teaching Guide (Self-Teaching Guide) Karl F. Kuhn (Grade 12): \1,939 All available from http://www.amazon.co.jp

 Abeka Science books are highly visual, readable and liked by students. 

Strictly a Christian curriculum. Purchase online from http://www.abeka.com or write for 

the A Beka Book Home School Catalog, P.O. Box 19100, Pensacola, FL 32523-9100;  800-87...

Jumbo Black-Line Masters from ESP Books is a series of lesson units, conceived with the purpose of sequentially introducing, carefully teaching, and methodically reinforcing, through drill, the curriculum basics that are definable by rules or facts. Teacher’s side has complete answers – student’s side has no answers. Each lesson page is perforated for easy removal to copy. BLACK-LINES are much more economical than traditional workbooks because you only buy one and make as many student copies as you need and you still retain the original. Science titles begin from Grade 3 with Science and Health books, and through to Grade 8 with Science, The Human Body and Health volumes for each grade. $15.85 each book.

From ESP Books

Science Experiments : Books and Kits

Science Suppliers

Online Science Worksheets

Science Experiments : Books and Kits

Preschool:

Mudpies to Magnets : A Preschool Science Curriculum Robert A. Williams \1,529 Available from http://www.amazon.co.jp

BUBBLES, RAINBOWS AND WORMS; SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS FOR PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN, by Sam Ed Brown by Sam Ed Brown \1,417 from http://www.amazon.co.jp

Elementary

The Teaching Tank. Awarded “Best New Product”, this hands-on science program revolves around the use of a revolutionary product, a slim see-through easy-to-clean-and-to-set up tank. 150 lessons available separately or with the tank. Designed for schools but quite suitable for homeschoolers too. All levels. See http://tchg.com/tt/tanknoj.htm

More Mudpies to Magnets : Science for Young Children by Elizabeth A. Sherwood (Grade 2) : \1,529 Available from Amazon.co.jp

Adventures With Atoms and Molecules : Chemistry Experiments for Young People (Adventures With Science , No 1) Vol. 1 and Vol.2 by Robert C. Mebane, Thomas R. Rybolt, (60 experiments in 2 books) (Grade 3) :$17.95 /\1,179 Available from http://www.amazon.co.jp

How It Works: The Human Body by Kate Barnes, Steve Weston f$6.98 from Barnes and Nobles Grade 2-6) has large cut-away illustrations with stunning details. Text describes workings of each system. Answers questions: How does the heart pump? How do our eyes see? What do the insides of a bone look like? Barnes and Nobles.com

The Human Body : A First Discovery Book (First Discovery Book) by Sylvaine Perols, Gallimard has body systems on transparent overlays with explanations, diagrams, experiments 1,325 yen from Amazon.co.jp

Everybody Has a Body : Science from Head to Toe/Activities Book for Teachers of Children Ages 3-6 Robert E. Rockwell contains experiments. Order for $14.95 from Gryphon House http://www.ghbooks.com or \1,734 from Amazon.co.jp

TOPS Learning Systems, originally developed by a former Peace Corps volunteer Ron Marston who had to teach science in Third World circumstances, is designed for parental involvement. The TOPS series uses cartoon-illustrated instructions and a minimum of materials you can find at home to teach maximum scientific content. Students are required first to postulate what they think will happen, then to do an experiment (or set of experiments) to check their hypotheses. There are either 20 or 36 lessons in each book that are simple to use but that teach solid scientific concepts and vocabulary. The program uses task cards and task activity sheets assigning science investigation topics. The (reproducible) pages provide instant science workbooks. Topics include light, pendulums, pressure, weight, oxidation, sound, electricity, planets and the stars, and many more. You can also get Global Tops which contain 100 activity sheets taken from the elementary level books all of which can be done with only 15 things. Available from TOPS Learning Systems http://www.topscience.org

Science In A Nutshell series $34.98 Eight kits include these topics : The Human Machine; A Peek Inside you; Vision and Hearing (Grades 3-4). Also available (Grades 4) are Bubble Science/Charge It/Static Electricity/Electrical Connections/Energy and Motion/Gears At Work/Magnet Magic/Sound Vibration/ Work-Plane and Simple) from Green Leaf Press or http://www.rainbowresource.com or http://www.Delta-Education.com

How Nature Works/100 Ways Parents and Kids Can Share the Secrets of Nature (Reader’s Digest) David Burnie (Grade 5) \2,326 from http://www.amazon.co.jp

Creepy Crawlies and the Scientific Method : More Than 100 Hands-On Science Experiments for Children by Sally Stenhouse Kneidel (Grade 5) Order from http://www.greenleafpress.com or \1,939 from http://www.amazon.co.jp

Hundred Hands-On Science Experiments for Children, (Grade 5) from the Greenleaf Press http://www.greenleafpress.com $15.95

Science In A Nutshell topics include Fossil Formations and Rock Origins (recommended for Grade 6) from http://www.greenleafpress.com or Delta Education http://www.Delta-Education.com

Janice Pratt Vancleave series including Biology for Every Kid 101 Experiments That Really Work (Grade 5): \1,325; Chemistry for Every Kid:101 Experiments That Really Work (Grade 7): \1,325, Physics for Every Kid 101 Experiments in Motion, Machines and Sound (Grade 8): \1,325: Earth Science For Every Kid: \1,325 or Mindboggling Experiments You Can Turn into Science Fair Projects series (Earthquakes; Rocks and Minerals; Volcanoes; Weather\1,120 each); A+Projects in Biology :Winning Experiments For Science Fairs and Extra Credit: \1,325; Constellations For Every Kid: \1,325 and many more. Each of the 101 experiments is broken down into its purpose, a list of materials, step-by-step instructions, expected results, and an easy to understand explanation. The Science Fair series are more complex, challenging and interesting than the 101 series. Available from http://www.amazon.co.jp or the Sonlight catalog.

Robotix Construction System is an award-winning kit that allows kids to build, power, and control intergalactic space vehicles and motorized robot creatures. A great way for kids to learn principles of robotic engineering. Available from Home Life, Incs Online catalog

ROBOLAB and other physics and engineering Lego Dacta building kits emphasize creativity, design, logic, and problem-solving skills. Also available is Spectrum System, a K-6 math, science or technology curriculum that incorporates LEGO’s into hands-on/minds-on activities. Available from the specialist Pitsco, Lego Dacta catalog, Box 1707, Pittsburg, KS 66762;  800-362-4308  Order online at Pitsco-legodacta.com/

Minilabs or MegaLabs from Goose Eggs, Greensboro, WC. The Wild Goose Company. Three-$5 Kits include Crystal Farming (grow crystals); Micro Mucus (make slime); Putty Buddies (experiment with colloids) (Recommended for Grade 7). MegaLabs Experiment Kits complete with instructions and ingredients for $22.99 each. Topics include: Crash and Burn Chemistry; Microcrystal Chemistry; Oooh Ahhh Chemistry and Slime Chemistry (Grade 7-9). These are really kits that kids love, also get the “cool” Wild Goose goggles. Available from The Wild Goose Company, order via email: wgoose9150@aol.com or online at wildgoosescience.com/

For the most comprehensive listing of science experiment books ever (divided into age/grade levels) visit the website: abasiccurriculum.com

SCIENCE SUPPLIERS

Home Training Tools supplies over 600 affordable science products (books, lab equipment, chemicals, microscopes, preserved specimens, etc.) specially selected for homeschool use. Fairly unique in that families can buy single items and chemicals in small quantities at great prices (with the majority of their products selling for under $2.) Visit the website http://www.hometrainingtools.com Write to 2728 Buffalo Horn Drive, Laurel, MT 59044 or phone  (800) 860-6272  or E-mail: homett@mcn.net

Carolina Biological Supply Company Great catalog resource for all kinds of science and math resources. For more information on their products, online tips, catalogs write to 2700 York Rd., Burlington, NC 27215, or phone  (800) 334-5551  or visit their website at: http://www.carolina.com

Delta Education Hands-On Science, Good for physics,astronomy lab projects P.O.Box 3000, Nashua, NH 03061-3000; 800-442-54444 http://www.delta-education.com

Let’s Get Growing! Company Biology and earth science catalog items specialist. Write to 1900 Commercial Way, santa Cruz, CA 95065:  800-408-1868  or visit http://www.letsgetgrowing.com

Pitsco, Lego Dacta catalog, Box 1707, Pittsburg, KS 66762;  800-362-4308  Specialist for physics and engineering kits like Lego Dacta building sets and ROBOLAB. Also available is Spectrum System, a K-6 math, science or technology curriculum that incorporates LEGO’s into hands-on/minds-on activities.Order online at http://www.pitsco-legodacta.com/

Tobin’s Lab is an outstanding astronomy and rocket-construction resource; also good for biology microscopes and posters. Write to P.O.Box 6503, Glendale, AZ 85312-6503;  800-52… Or visit the website: http://www.tobinlab.com

Science Supplies for Science Projects, a homeschool supply company with every thing from sheeps’ brains (biology specimens), scope slides to to chemistry kits, 267 Hickerson Street, Cedar Hil, TX 75104: Fax: 800-742-7805

Rainbow Resource Center wins hands-down easily as the catalog company with the widest range of homeschooling resources visit rainbowresource.com or write to 8227 Ulah Rd, Cambridge, IL 61283; 309-937-3385/3456

The Education Connection has a selective catalog of very useful K-8 resources in all areas. Write to Jason and Lori Schall, The Education Connection, P.O. Box 910367, St. George, UT 84791 Tel:  805-823-8022  Website

See also National Science Teachers Association’s directory of science suppliers 

nsta.org

Online Science Worksheets:

 

For use in your child’s Scientific Notebook, print out resources from:

Teaching Ideas

 

 

Miscellaneous Links:

Krampf.com This site has many experiments which you can do with your child.

Steve Spangler (the originator of the mentos phenomena) has many experiments at his http://www.stevespanglerscience.com website

Howstuffworks.com is a site for everybody which includes some science.

The following site is good for up to adults. Thus, you might need some parental control as to which videos are acceptable for your child: http://science.videosift.com/

The American boomer generation knows Mr. Wizard: Mr. Wizard series is available on DVD’s for $125 . The TV series,
or the Cable series or both can be purchased. Mrwizardstudios

To see some of his episodes on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpP-58LxW4g&feature=related

Some interesting space videos, but, you will need to hunt and search for them at the following BBC site

Learn4good.com has science book recommendations

Brainpop.com site has some interesting videos:

How natural disasters occur:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/4126809.stm

For much, much, much higher level of science, see these links:
http://www.scivee.tv/
http://www.jove.com
http://dnatube.com/
http://labaction.com/

Updated: Aug 28, 2009

COPYRIGHT KAWAGOE 1999