Science Shepherd Life Science is a rigorous,
self-directed middle school life science course written from a Christian
worldview. Authored by Dr. Scott Hardin and now in its 2nd edition,
it features updated graphics, current terminology, and clear explanations that
prepare students for high school biology.
The course is designed for independent learning and works
well for grades 6–10.
Key Curriculum Features:
Coverage
of the characteristics and chemistry of life, cells, DNA, heredity,
evolution and creation, scientific classification, human anatomy and
physiology, nutrition, and ecology
Critical
discussion of creation and evolution models
Full-color
illustrated textbook with chapter previews, key points, definitions, and
study questions
Flexible
36-week schedule
Optional
video lessons and online chapter review quizzes for additional support and
mastery
Optional
hands-on labs for deeper engagement
Program Components:
Textbook:
Softcover, colorfully illustrated core text
Answer
Key & Parent Companion: Includes 36-week schedule, answers to
study questions and tests, and chapter summaries
Test
Booklet: Consumable tests for thorough review
Video
Course (optional): 110+ video lessons (20+ hours) taught by Dr.
Hardin, plus online chapter review quizzes
Workbook
(optional): Reinforcement exercises tied to the video lessons
Lab
Manual (optional): Hands-on activities that integrate with the course
Important Notes:
The
Textbook, Answer Key & Parent Companion, and Test Booklet form the
core required materials.
The
Video Course and Lab Manual are optional but highly supportive for
independent learners.
Successful
completion prepares students for Science Shepherd Biology or other high
school biology courses.
Science Shepherd Life Science stands out for its
clarity, rigorous content, and strong preparation for high school science
within a biblical framework. It is an excellent choice for homeschool families
seeking a thorough, self-directed life science course for middle school or
early high school students.
Browse all Science Shepherd Life Science resources
and sets below!
These icons are designed to help you quickly understand and learn important information about our products.
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.
