Exploring...(A Review of John Hudson Tiner's Science Series)

One of my sons decided he wanted to study medicine this year. So we found a book called, "The History of Medicine." It is written at the junior high level, but with facts I don't think that most high schoolers would know without purposeful study. (It was an interesting read for me!) While I didn't have my high schooler read this book this year, I would not have any problem in assigning it to him. I would, however, require some further research and perhaps a written report. I would not rely solely on the chapter questions provided in the book. Unfortunately, they were mostly true or false and multiple choice, with many of the choices being obvious. Save for this one aspect of this book, I recommend it highly for grades 5 to adult.

My ninth grader, seventh grader, and my advanced nine year old enjoyed this book very much. We were weary of our regular science book and we had an interest in chemistry. I knew chemistry could not be as hum drum as it was taught in the regular book, so I began looking for another resource. Thankfully, I bought this one in a set with "The History of Medicine," and it was awaiting discovery on my bookshelf! My nine year old is VERY interested in chemistry and he was most excited about using this book especially after his good experience in the first one. We have enjoyed this book immensely. Much of the same information is presented in Apologia Physical Science; however, here it is presented in a historical context. Further, it goes much more deeply into the topic of chemistry. Yesterday we were fascinated by organic chemistry in one chapter and then today we delved into carbon compounds with enthusiasm. Who would have known we'd enjoy something like that! Again, the end of the chapter questions are lacking, but the discussions we've had about the materials and seeing the lightbulb turn on for each of the children has been worth it. The other book made chemistry dull and chore-like. This book made chemistry come alive and has inspired us to learn more. The author lists this one as a 5th grade to adult resource. I would say the average fifth grader would be uninterested in this. But if you have a young chemist, he may really enjoy it. I would say it's more appropriate for 7th grade to adult.

We haven't used this book yet! LOL We start it on Tuesday of next week. I'm most excited about it though because the end of the chapter questions are much improved! They are NOT all multiple choice and true/false questions. There are essay questions! Once again, the physical properties of planet earth (including physics) are explored through the context of historical discovery.

I am having trouble deciding if I could use these books as a stand alone course. They have been wonderful resources that have totally turned our science instruction around this year, but that said, I feel that a little more explanation is needed to give the child a well rounded and clear picture of the topics presented. I think if I were to teach this year over again, I would use these books as the main diet of my physical science course, with a good physical science experiment book and library books added in to round out the scientific educational process. (ie...Do lots of experiments, dig in on certain topics and don't move on until two and two are put together.)