Science Shepherd Fundamentals of Chemistry (Gr. 6-9)

Description

Science Shepherd Fundamentals of Chemistry is a clear, student-friendly middle school and introductory high school chemistry course written from a Christian worldview. Authored by Dr. Scott Hardin, it presents complex concepts in a conversational style with well-organized sections and helpful graphics, preparing students for higher-level science studies.

The course is designed for independent learning and works well as a prerequisite for high school biology and chemistry.

Key Curriculum Features:

  • Conversational textbook covering scientific measurement, atoms, the periodic table, chemical bonding, matter, compounds, reactions, acids and bases, solutions, chemical quantities, organic chemistry, radioactive chemistry, and a brief history of science
  • Emphasis on the compatibility of God and science
  • Chapter previews, key-point reviews, definitions, and study questions
  • Optional hands-on labs using primarily household items
  • Flexible 34-week schedule that allows extra time for more challenging concepts
  • Suitable for grades 7–10 (ages 12–16 and beyond)

Program Components:

  • Textbook: Core student text with 14 chapters
  • Answer Key & Parent Companion: Includes study-question answers, test answers, chapter summaries, and the 34-week schedule
  • Test Booklet: Five tests with a variety of question types
  • Lab Manual (optional): 18 hands-on activities reinforcing key principles
  • Video Course (optional): Comprehensive video lessons that follow the textbook
  • Workbook (optional): Reinforcement exercises tied to the video lessons

Important Notes:

  • Labs are optional; the Lab Manual includes supply lists (mostly household items with a few specialized materials).
  • The course is designed for independent student work with minimal parent teaching required.
  • Tests are not reproducible; one Test Booklet is needed per student.

Science Shepherd Fundamentals of Chemistry stands out for its clear explanations, strong preparation for high school science, and supportive Christian perspective. It is an excellent choice for homeschool families seeking a thorough yet approachable chemistry foundation for middle school or early high school students.

Browse all Science Shepherd Fundamentals of Chemistry 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.