Science Homeschool Curriculum

A matchless handbook for decades, this classic work has been the natural history bible for countless teachers and others who seek information about their environment. Written originally for those elementary school teachers who knew little of common plants and animals, and even less about the earth beneath their feet and the skies overhead, this book is for the most part as valid and helpful today as it was when first written in 1911--and revised in the spirit of its authors by a group of naturalists in 1939. After all, dandelions, toads, robins, and constellations have changed little since then! And modern society's concern with the quality of life and the impact of people on soil, water, and wildlife makes this book even more relevant. Nature-study, as used in this handbook, encompasses all living things except humans, as well as all nonliving things such as rocks and minerals, the heavens, and weather. Of the living things described, most are common in the northeastern states, and many, such as the dandelion, milkweed, and mullein, and the house mouse, muskrat, and red fox, are so widespread that people living outside the United States will recognize them easily.

Anna Botsford Comstock very appropriately took the view that we should know first and best the things closest to us. Only then, when we have an intimate knowledge of our neighbors, should we, journey farther afield to learn about more distant things. Teachers and children will find the material in this book invaluable in that regard. Details of the most common, but in some ways the most interesting, things are brought out, first by careful, nontechnical descriptions of the things themselves and later by thoughtful questions and study units. Because the most common things are treated in greatest detail, materials for study are easy to find. Whether the reader lives in the inner city or in the rural outback, the handbook is a treasure trove of information. A teacher does not need to know much about nature to use this handbook. The information is there for the novice and the expert alike. All that is needed is an inquiring mind, senses to observe, and a willingness to think about nature on a personal level. To enter this book in search of information about any common organism, stone, or object in the sky is to open the door to a fresh and lively acquaintance with one's environment.

The field of biology focuses on living things, from the smallest microscopic protozoa to the largest mammal. In this book you will read and explore the life of plants, insects, spiders and other arachnids, life in water, reptiles, birds, and mammals, highlighting God's amazing creation. You will learn about the following and so much more:

How does biological classification give each different type of plant or animal a unique name?

In what ways are seeds spread around the world?

What food does the body use for long-term storage of energy?

How did biologists learn how the stomach digested food?

What plant gave George de Mestral the idea for Velcro?

For most of history, biologists used the visible appearance of plants or animals to classify them. They grouped plants or animals with similar-looking features into families. Starting in the 1990s, biologists have extracted DNA and RNA from cells as a guide to how plants or animals should be grouped. Like visual structures, these reveal the underlying design of creation.
The newest book in our Exploring series, Exploring the World of Biology is a fascinating look at life - from the smallest proteins and spores, to the complex life systems of humans and animals.

Complimenting Exploring Creation with Zoology 1: Flying Creatures of the Fifth Day, the Zoology 1 Notebooking Journal will provide everything your students need to complete their studies of insects, pterosaurs, and bats and birds. The Notebooking Journal provides a place to complete every assignment in the book. Included are a daily schedule, an alternate schedule for cold climates, templates, review questions for each lesson, scripture copywork with both print and cursive practice, and a 50-question final review. Also contains cut-and-fold Miniature Books, which encourage students to record the facts and information they learned. Recommended in Seton Home Study Grade 5 Author: Jeanne Fulbright Format: 237 pages, spiralbound paperback Grades: K-6 Series: Young Explorer Publisher: Apologia Educational Ministries (2009) ISBN: 9781935495116

Open your eyes to a world of discovery. Travel from Earth to the ends of the known universe. Space is a colorful first guide to astronomy packed with facts about space exploration, the solar system, planets, stars, galaxies, and much more. Dramatic, atmospheric photography provides a wealth of visual information. Packed with facts and written in an accessible style, Eye Wonders are the perfect educational start for young children. A groundbreaking reference series specially developed for younger children aged five plus. In a stunning style departure for DK, wonderful photography shows subjects within their natural setting, offering a whole new level of information through powerful images. Vocabulary is accessible to children aged five plus, with the meanings of new, subject-related words clearly explained. The series provides an excellent knowledge base on the natural world for children starting to learn. The combination of breathtaking visuals and informative, accurate text will hook even those children who usually avoid books.

This exciting information book for young readers uses simple concepts, combined with easy-to-read text and vivid illustrations for a great reading experience.