Exploring Creation With Zoology 1

Description

Exploring Creation with Zoology 1 by Apologia is an elementary homeschool science curriculum that provides a wonderful introduction to the “flying creatures of the fifth day.” Beginning with an introduction to zoology, the classification system, and nature journals, the Textbook covers a wide range of insects, butterflies, beetles, bugs, birds, and bats. An introduction to paleontology and the pterosaurs is also included. The text contains fourteen chapters that explain scientific concepts thoroughly using a conversational tone. Scattered throughout the chapters are “Explain This” and “Think About This” highlighted areas and chapters end with “What Do You Remember” questions. Chapters include numerous hands-on activities, such as creating a nature journal, making a butterfly garden, observing insects, making a menagerie, studying air, and much more. Parental supervision is recommended for the activities. The Appendix includes a supply list for each lesson. Supplies use items that are readily available. A lab supply kit is available for your convenience. Also included in the appendices are answer keys to the “Do You Remember” questions, and some activities. Pacing for this one-year course is flexible to meet your student’s or family’s needs. Purchase of the text includes access to the Book Extras site on the publisher’s website which offers additional links to learn more. Auditory learners (and busy parents!) may find the Audio MP3 CD beneficial. Read by the author, it includes the information found in the textbook. An optional Notebooking Journal is also available as a recommended and helpful companion item to the textbook!

Comparing the 2nd edition to the 1st edition shows similar concepts and textual information, with a significant improvement in the illustrations. Activities are also updated overall, and the chapters have been reorganized. Considering the numerous updates, the 2nd edition is not compatible with the 1st edition.

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.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.