We recently observed a set of caterpillars through the stages of metamorphosis as a family. It has been one of our favorite life science projects to date. It sparked so many questions. I have developed a keen appreciation of inquiry based science curriculum that is easy to use and promotes critical thinking. I was excited, then, when Kendall Hunt RPD extended an invitation to check out Grade 8 of By Design, their faith based science curriculum.
Inquiry Based Science
As I mentioned, I’ve developed an appreciation for inquiry based science. Over the last year, I’ve baby stepped more toward interest led learning, or delight directed learning. I’ve come to realize that I want them to develop a passion for learning more than I want them to memorize any facts. So, I’m learning to encourage more questions, talk less, and when necessary – help them connect the learning.
By Design Science Model
ByDesign Science is an inquiry based science curriculum for grades 1-8.. It focuses on the learners experiences so that all elements of the design invite, engage, instruct, and motivate students (and teachers) to strengthen their relationship with our Creator as they continue learning and building their science knowledge.
This easy to use science curriculum employs a 5-step instructional model to promote inquiry-based learning.
- Engage: The curriculum captures the attention with a question, helps them determine what they already know, and sparks their interest in the coming lesson.
- Discover: Through hands on activities the student explores and discovers more about each concept.
- Explain: Students form their own explanation while being guided through the concepts.
- Extend: Learners build on their understanding of concepts by applying the concept to other areas.
- Assess/Reflect: Students demonstrate their understanding through a relevant activity.
By Design Science Units
Each grade level of By Design Science is organized into four units.
- Life Science
- Physical Science
- Earth and Space Science
- The Human Body
Health is included into each unit and chapter.
Science and Inquiry
Each chapter of By Design sciences promotes inquiry based learning through structured inquiry. These sections guide students through projects that help them discover more about science and why it should matter to them.
Science and Faith
It’s important, to me, that my kids understand that they can be delighted by all things science AND maintain their faith. Each chapter includes a Scripture spotlight and “Faith Connections” that point students back to their faith. These sections cause students to consider their own faith in a way that is essential to their growth.
Science and Home
This curriculum also has a Home Connection section for each chapter. These sections show students the correlation between science and their every day life.
By Design Science, from Kendall Hunt Religious Publishers, is a great inquiry based science curriculum that allows students to explore their love of science without relinquishing their faith. I appreciate this more than I can even say, since my son devours science texts like no one’s business.
Kendall Hunt RPD also publishes Pathways Reading Language Arts for grades 1-8 as well as other curricula.
Stay current with all that Kendall Hunt Religious Publishers offers by following @kendallhuntprek12 on Facebook and @KendallHuntRPD on Twittter.
Check our post about Pathways2.0 Reading and Language Arts!
