History of ScienceCurriculum for Homeschool: Explore the Evolution of Scientific Thought

BookShark’s History of Science curriculum offers an in-depth journey through the development of scientific thought, exploring how science and history intersect. From ancient Sumerian calendars to the cutting-edge field of quantum physics, this comprehensive homeschool curriculum takes students on a captivating exploration of the great minds who have shaped our understanding of the world.

Key Themes in the History of Science Curriculum

This homeschool curriculum covers thousands of years of scientific history, focusing on the triumphs (and failures!) of renowned scientists, mathematicians, and philosophers. Key topics include:

• The development of early calendars in ancient Sumer and their role in the scientific advancements of the time.
• The influence of the ancient Greek city of Alexandria, where figures like Aristotle, Archimedes, and Euclid made groundbreaking contributions to science and philosophy.
• The Renaissance, where the integration of Chinese knowledge helped ignite scientific advancements in Europe, leading to major contributions from Galileo, Newton, Kepler, and Descartes.
• The explosive growth of science in the last 100 years, featuring figures like Marie Curie, Albert Einstein, and the role of computers in modern scientific discoveries.

Comprehensive Literature-Based Learning

The curriculum is centered around Joy Hakim’s The Story of Science, a three-book series that dives into the lives and work of history’s most influential scientists: Aristotle, Newton, and Einstein. These books provide both historical context and scientific explanations, helping students understand how these figures revolutionized our understanding of matter, mechanics, mathematics, and the universe.

The history of science curriculum is complemented by a collection of historical literature that explores the environments and events surrounding key scientific eras. Featured books include:

• String, Straight-Edge & Shadow – An illustrated exploration of the discovery of geometry.
• Archimedes and the Door of Science – A deep dive into Archimedes’ influence and inventions.
• Bomb – A recounting of the race between Germany and the United States to develop the world’s most powerful weapon.

Hands-On Science and History Learning

This curriculum isn’t just about reading—it also includes hands-on learning experiences. With experiments, activities, and discussion questions, students can engage with the material in a meaningful way, developing a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.

Flexible and Structured Schedule

The Instructor’s Guide includes a 36-Week, 4-Day Schedule that leaves one day each week for extracurricular activities such as co-ops, music lessons, sports, or field trips. The guide also provides:

• Colorful map answer keys
• Discussion questions and answers
• Background notes to help you maximize learning time with your child

Optional Virtual Learning Platform

Enhance your homeschool experience with the optional virtual platform. This online tool provides students with access to their reading schedules, assessments, and instant auto-grading results. Parents can easily track progress, review student work, customize assessments, and communicate directly with students through a computer or mobile device.

Virtual Platform Features:

• Access to reading schedules and assessments
• Instant auto-grading for easy progress tracking
• Customization of assessments and direct communication with students

If you purchase the virtual course between April and June, you can begin as early as July 1st. You will have up to 12 months from your start date to complete the course, with flexible scheduling to fit your homeschooling needs.

Required Resources for a Rich Learning Experience

A few essential resources will help make your learning experience even more enriching. These include:

• The Timeline Book
• The Markable Map – Both of which you’ll use throughout your BookShark history journey.

Start Your Homeschool Science Journey Today!

Equip your child with a deep understanding of science and history through this engaging, literature-based curriculum. Perfect for homeschooling families, this history of science curriculum will inspire curiosity and critical thinking while exploring the lives and contributions of history’s greatest scientific minds.