The Quest For the Perfect Science Curriculum: Part 2
Thursday, June 24, 2010 at 1:22PM After much research and contemplation, I have decided to use the R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey: Earth & Space Science (Level 10 for our second and third graders this next school year. I have been so pleased with their hands-on, authentic approach that I simply cannot deviate from their materials this year.
For the first time in our homeschooling, I am choosing a different science curriculum for our oldest daughter. She is technically going into 5th grade, but I am looking to challenge her more this next school year. So, I have decided to use the Middle School Earth Science program by CPO. It is a challenging program integrating science, math, writing and technology. There is a student text, an investigations manual and a plethora of resources available online. For example, there are graphic organizers, simulations, slideshows, student record sheets, and teaching illustrations to accompany the majority of the text.
In addition, the first two chapters are devoted to interpreting graphs, developing models and understadning the nature of science. Various reseach questions are suggested providing further exploration of significant people and ideas. Each section includes vocabulary and basic recall questions, but also includes challenge questions to promote higher order thinking skills. Journaling is integrated throughout the entire course providing opportunities for even further contemplation and dissection of topics and ideas discussed. Finally, each chapter concludes with a project. Making a plate tectonics book and creating a sea-floor spreading model are two examples.
One of the final selling points occurred as I was showing our daughter one of the online simulations regarding rock displacement. She quickly made the connection to her last Singapore math chapter in which she had to determine volume in similar situations. As a mom and a math teacher, this was exciting! As I delved deeper, I found many chapters move beyond the basic regurgitation of facts and provide a solid connection to math and other branches of science. Yea!!
I am eager to begin preparations for next year and look forward to watching our children interact and make connections. I feel both Science Odyssey and CPO will provide an investigative, hands-on approach to learning while meeting our criteria of promoting critical thinking skills.
Reader Comments (1)
Hi! What a great source of information! You are a tremendous educator and resource! Oh, and you are my cousin!!!!! I guess brilliance runs in the family! Deb.