Calvert Science is a colorful, student-directed
science curriculum that develops strong observation skills, critical thinking,
and scientific vocabulary while exploring the physical world around us. It uses
a structured, mastery-based approach with independent work and hands-on
activities.
The program is low-prep for parents and encourages
independent learning (with more guidance needed in early grades).
Key Curriculum Features:
10
unit worktexts per grade with 3 lessons per unit
Focus
on scientific vocabulary, critical thinking, observation, and
comprehension skills
Hands-on
activities and experiments using common household or backyard items
Lesson
self-tests and unit tests for ongoing assessment and mastery
Encouragement
for independent research using dictionaries and encyclopedias
Approximately
150–180 lessons per year, with each lesson taking about 45 minutes
Program Components:
Student
Worktexts: 10 colorful, consumable unit booklets per grade with
instruction, activities, self-tests, and unit tests
Teacher’s
Guide: Includes teacher notes, additional learning activities, answer
keys, alternate tests, science project lists, and material supply lists
Tests:
Built-in lesson self-tests and unit tests that are removable from
worktexts for assessment
Important Notes:
Each
unit worktext is designed to take 3–4 weeks, allowing time for
instruction, review, and testing.
Suggested
field trip options enhance the learning experience.
More
teacher involvement is required in younger grades; students gain
independence each year.
Calvert Science stands out for its structured,
independent format, colorful presentation, and practical hands-on activities.
It is an excellent choice for homeschool families seeking a complete,
mastery-oriented science curriculum that builds strong observation and research
skills.
Browse all Calvert Science levels and sets below!
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Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
