Posted by Melissa in the desert on 22:58 Sep 16
I am starting to feel like maybe Science is a bit too disjointed the way I have been doing it(winging it, basically), and would like to find a good spine or a curriculum to keep us on track.
I haven't followed TWTM's recommendations in science because I didn't like the idea of concentrating on only one subject a year at this age, when they are so curious about everything and they already have so many *mental pegs* in place from observing, doing kits, watching science shows, etc.
I would rather give them a good general overview of upper-elementary science concepts, since I figure there is time enough in the middle and HS years to focus.
I am interested in inquiry-based science, real, hands-on, critical-thinking scientific process and not dry tedium or cutesy little display *experiments*. If it contains experiments I want them to be solid, but at least a little open-ended.
I would be willing to supplement the *right* spine with experiments and hands-on pulled from another source so long as there was a clear and excellent coverage of concepts suitable for a younger child working at 4th-5th grade level.
I have considered buying something (or several somethings) from Usborne, Kingfisher etc., but am a bit overwhelmed by choosing them, there seem to be dozens of variations and since I haven't actually seen any of them in real life I am concerned that I will end up with big, cluttered spreads of disjointed bits of factoids and visually overwhelming graphics. The excess stimulation in those *DK* sorts of books seems to turn my kids off instead of interesting them, I guess they just get overwhelmed.
So...
~What do you/have you used for a science spine or curriculum and how do/did you like it?
~I know "textbook" is a dirty word, but if there are any of you out there who have found an exceptional one (and there is bound to be at least one of you naughty ladies out there doing the forbidden) I promise I won't turn you in to the PCpolice if you give me your recommendations too.