Anyone use Harcourt Science

[teachermom2834]

I am trying to decide between this and Science Explorer for my 5th grader. It looks thorough, with a workbook, which helps my ds. One big difference I see is that it covers life, earth, and physical science instead of focusing on one topic at a time.

Has anyone looked at Harcourt or used it? It seems hard to find information online. The only place that I found much information is the Kolbe Academy website. It looks like they use the 6th grade book for grades 5 and 6. Does that seem right? Is there enough material for two years? Is it meaty enough?

Anyone have any opinions on this or even know where I can order online or see more information?

I do want a secular text. I also want something that is more of a textbook approach than many homeschool science programs.

As science is not my strength I will probably order all the extras- answer keys and teachers manuals, etc. so either program will get pricey for me.

Thanks,
Marie

[Pata]

We used the First Grade Text for Kindergarten and it's ok, it highlights everything but goes deep into nothing. It may be a bit different in the 6th grade text. I found to workbook to be useless, they give review questions at the end of each lesson and review test at the end of each chapter. These were more helpful tan the workbook. That's just my opinion though. We are switching are using plans I creating using WTM suggestion (see link below) from now on. Harcourt is a good textbook option for science. Hope that helps!

[Plaid Dad]

We're using the first half of the 4th grade book this year (with an accelerated 1st grader) and will complete it next year. We schedule science once a week and usually just read and discuss the text.

I haven't seen the 6th grade book, but if it's like the 4th grade one, it should be plenty meaty. I found the workbook a waste of time and pitched it after a week or two.

HTH!

[godpoetry]

I have used the 4th grade book, but not the workbook. I have not seen the 6th grade book. My son enjoyed the book the year we used it.