Science Shepherd Astronomy (Gr. 4-9)

Description

Science Shepherd Astronomy is a video-based astronomy curriculum that explores the solar system, stars, galaxies, and more from a Christian, young-earth creation worldview. Students examine scientific evidence to see how observations of the universe confirm the creative work of God and the sufficiency of Scripture, while comparing the big bang and creation origin models.

The course is designed for upper-elementary through middle school (and beyond) and works well for multi-age learning.

Key Curriculum Features:

  • Clear video lessons covering the sun, planets, solar system, stars, galaxies, nebulae, and origins
  • Special focus on the scientific merits of the big bang versus the creation model
  • Two levels that share core lessons, with Level B offering additional advanced content (dark matter, dark energy, relativity, and more)
  • Flexible 36-week schedule suitable for independent study
  • Workbook reinforcement through short-answer, true/false, matching, puzzles, and occasional hands-on activities
  • No separate textbook required—all instruction is delivered through the videos

Program Components:

  • Video Course: Available as a DVD set or online streaming (Level A: 60+ lessons / 7+ hours; Level B: 90+ lessons / 11+ hours, including all Level A content)
  • Workbook Level A: Recommended for grades 5–7 or ages 10–13
  • Workbook Level B: Recommended for grades 7–9 and beyond or ages 12+ (more challenging with critical-thinking questions)
  • Answer Keys: Available separately for each workbook level

Important Notes:

  • Workbooks are not stand-alone; the Video Course is required.
  • Level A and Level B students can watch most lessons together.
  • High school students without prior astronomy study may find Level B insightful; additional labs would be needed for a formal lab credit.
  • One workbook is needed per student.

Science Shepherd Astronomy stands out for its clear teaching, strong biblical worldview, and flexible multi-age design. It is an excellent choice for homeschool families seeking an engaging, video-driven astronomy course that builds both scientific understanding and confidence in Scripture.

Browse all Science Shepherd Astronomy resources and sets below!

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.