I just wanted to pass along that we bought the Real Science 4 Kids level 1 curriculum (textbook, teacher's guide, lab sheets) for Chem., Bio., & Physics) and think its wonderful. Both my kids want to do it every day! It isn't for everyone, because its definitely heavy on real science [periodic table, scientific vocabulary, etc.] and light on the "look at the icky bugs [cute animals, cool erupting volcano, etc.] -- isn't nature wonderful!" approach.

Definitely BY FAR the best grade school science learning material we've seen. Just what we were looking for and I had despaired of ever finding. Due to the controversy between adherents of evolution and intelligent design, I should note that the author is a proponent of intelligent design, but I haven't seen evidence of that in the textbooks.

When I have time, I'll try to post a review here, but if anyone is interested, let me know and I can share more with you offlist too.

Elizabeth, is it for Ian's age (2nd grade)?  How did you find it?
Monica

Monica, I think they said it was designed to be used anywhere from 3rd to 6th grade. Then when they finish the level 2 books, those will be aimed at middle school (grade 6-9?).

We've found it works well for Eric even though he's young, probably because (1) he's interested in the kind of science they present (I would call him a periodic table kind of guy), and (2) because of the very short chapters, usually 4-6 pages long, with colorful illustrations. I usually read them to him and we discuss them along the way.

One possible disadvantage for the younger student is that the kids keep a lab notebook in which they record data/results & conclusions from their lab work. There's also a review sheet that asks for definitions to be written down of a handful of science terms in each chapter. This might require more writing that some younger kids care to do.

We've found that even with a very leisurely pace (30-60 minutes, a couple of days per week), we can cover a chapter in one week. The total number of chapters in all 3 books is, at a guess, 30-40, so we could theoretically finish the whole course in a year. That being the case, we aren't hurrying through it. Instead, we take a break now and then to watch science videos or do other sciency stuff.

Let me know if you want to take a look at the books & I could bring them to mom's night out or something.

Hi Guys.  I wasn't sure if either of you had seen the previous chats about this very curriculum earlier but I do know for sure that the author lives right here in the area up in Rio Ranch!  There are a few places that you can even pay to have to course taught to your children for all of you that are "science phobic".  My step-father is a brilliant man who I often consult with about curriculums, he holds two Masters Degrees in math and science, and he was so excited about the program he offered to pay for the class!  We missed the last class.  I will definitly be using this material for my children!  I also know that the author has released a Pre-Chemistry course geared toward K-3 and has the other two "Pre" courses are in the works.  I personally can't wait until the entire program is completed form the 3 Pre courses to through the Level 2's.  I would love to see the program in person if you would be so willing.  Let me know and maybe we can chat off line!

Me again.  For anyone interested her website is as follows

http://www.gravitaspublications.com

I bought the Prelevel 1 (chemistry) program a few months ago. It has very similar chapters as level 1 but I'll say the student lab book is better for the younger student than level 1. Monica, If you want to take a look at them let me know. We have not started the books yet, but they look like lots of fun. I think its the best science program for that age (prek-3)that I have found. I'm excited to know they'll have the other subjects in the future!

I am very interested in looking through them.  I'm wrestling on what materials to get for Ian for the coming year.

Thanks for posting the website.  I will definately look through it.

MOnica

Elizabeth, could you bring the materials to Moms night out?  I would love to look at them.  

Karen

Yup, I will. Karen or Monica, if either of you could think to email me a reminder about that before the actual night, we can be extra sure I remember! Amy, I will email you offlist.

Elizabeth- It looks like a great program.  I'd like to see it too.  
Margo-Will you bring yours to MNO too?  
 

I also ordered the pre-chemistry set for Dane and Skye.  Looking forward to seeing it!  Thanks for all the info.
Sharon

Found this OLD post and am resurrecting!  I'd love to hear your feedback after using this. I'm interested in using the Pre-chemistry lessons.  Did you like it? Not?  Did you continue on to other subjects? And is the teacher's guide necessary?  Or should say, is it really beneficial?