Novare Life Science

Description

With minimal mathematics, Novare Life Science provides sixth grade students with an in-depth look at life science from the structures and features of different types of organisms to cellular and molecular biology. Topically, students begin with an introduction to life science and learn the scientific method, scale and goals of life science and scientific measurement. The following chapters build on this foundational information and cover molecules and cells with an overview of biochemistry, the human body systems, genetics and plant and animal reproduction, photosynthesis, metabolism, and homeostasis, human and plant sensory systems, ecosystems, climate and the biosphere, major biomes and biodiversity. Evolutionary theory and variations, natural selection, and adaptation are included. 

The author strongly believes Christian students should study and understand evolutionary theory. Young Earth Creationism, Old Earth Creationism, Intelligent Design, and Evolutionary Creationism are compared showing how each interpret scripture, the age of the earth/universe, and the creation of living things. Families unfamiliar with Novare Science should note the core philosophy of Novare Science is that science education in our country needs to be renewed using research, scientific evidence, and forward-thinking strategies while keeping God at the helm. Students are taught to see God in creation, while learning current secular scientific theories that support an old-earth creation. Looking at the scope of content, this course would also meet the needs of 7th-8th grade students. 

Novare Life Science is an academically rigorous course that focuses on content mastery, and not just the cram-pass-forget cycle that is common in middle and high school sciences. Required components include the Student Textbook with introductory information for parents and students and all the student readings, and the Apprentice’s Companion which is a consumable experiment book and field manual. Purchase of the Apprentice’s Companion includes access to a PDF with teaching support for the activities. Optional components include Digital Resources which offers printable student reviews, quizzes and exams, a lesson schedule, and a convenient Lab Kit. The Novare Life Science Program includes the Student Textbook, Apprentice’s Companion, and the Digital Resources.

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.