Post
by tjneary99 » Tue Jan 24, 2012 9:57 pm
Carrie,
"For example, the new ancients guide would focus on Life Science. Then, the next guide's science box would focus on Earth Science. The following guide's science box would be focused on Physical Science, and the last guide's science box would be an overview of Chemistry/Physics most likely done biographically (so as not to require a higher level of math for working formulas) and a look at the creation/evolution debate. "
So, here's some questions I'd love you to brainstorm through if you have a minute....
1. First of all, what do you think about this type of a science structure?
I like it and prefer it to quarterly rotation, because I think it helps with retention and meeting state requirements.
2. Secondly, what do you desire to see in a science program (assignment/experiment/reading-wise)?
Having taught middle school science and now HOD Bigger after switching from a different curriculum, I personally love the way you have done it in Bigger--notebooking, easy to manage experiments based on the readings, some copywork etc...For future grades, I think I favor less bombardment of facts to understanding how things work together in this amazing world God created. I prefer my kids come away with understanding concepts and being able to apply it than memorization without a real grasp of why they are learning it. That has always been my complain with sciences in the past. So I think interesting readings with some experiments/assignments that relate to the readings and tie everything together is great. I love how you do this in Bigger. I bought Apologia if they or I wanted to supplement, but we have not used it. I like what Apologia has, but I think my kids are enjoying science more and learning more with your schedule and materials. I like the overview of different topics at these younger ages. Also, I agree that when too much is needed for experiments or when there are too many to do, it is less likely to get done well and becomes drudgery for all.
3. Thirdly, how have you covered science in your experiences prior to HOD and what have your feelings been on the success of your science study?
Last year, I was new to homeschooling. I had no science curriculum to follow per se, I chose the Kingfisher books on weather, flight etc and we read them and did the activities. It was a fine overview which we liked--just picked what we wanted to learn. I did not care for the randomness of it for their age--it did not go with the rest of our studies. I prefer having things integrated more for younger kids. That being said, for HS, it is not as important. Now, I am building a foundation and encouraging memory work and other cognitive skills, so I prefer integrated subjects for building retention, encouraging critical thinking skills development and maintaining interest. I also love the Scriptures in the Bigger science. Also, this year, prior to switching to HOD, we began with an Abeka book which was very heavy on vocabulary, and the experiments were not engaging to my kids or me-just too much info--very exhausting and overwhelming. The best part was use of Scriptures, but I do not want my kids brains being filled with info that leaves them exhausted and not able to think critically i.e remaining on the lower level of Bloom's taxonomy most of the year just doesn't mean success to me. That was a failure for us----too many facts and new words, not enough meaningful learning. It is important to me that my kids can think, evaluate, synthesize, critique, defend etc...and since science and faith often collide in the culture, I want to equip my kiddos by encouraging thinking and speaking skills so that they have evaluated things in their minds, with a strong foundation in God's Word that they can be contenders for the faith and have it be personal to them..not just regurgitating what mom and dad have taught them. I love the idea of the evolution/creation topic being a part of the curriculum. Well I hope my random thoughts make sense. You are most gracious to ask our opinions and I feel a bit ill equipped to offer mine, but I appreciate you asking and pray the Lord continue to provide you with wisdom and clear direction in how to proceed going forward. Blessings, Jennifer
"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Colossians 3:17[/color]
I absolutely despise experiments where you have to save household items for a year to do these experiments. I know of some who needed 5 glass jars for one experiment. 
Good grief! That's a lot of pickles! Although I suppose some canning jars are cheap enough.
