For our first-grade science elective, we decided to maintain our momentum with Building Blocks of Science. This comprehensive kit is a treasure trove of resources, including a student textbook, a corresponding workbook, a formal test booklet, a lab kit, an experiment notebook, and a detailed teacher’s manual. While I occasionally felt the kindergarten level delved a bit too deeply into complex concepts like molecular electron sharing for such a young demographic, the first-grade curriculum strikes a much better balance. It introduces twenty-two chapters spanning the foundational "five pillars": chemistry, biology, physics, geology, and astronomy, beginning each with a perfectly calibrated historical overview.
The structural alignment between the textbook and the workbook allows for significant instructional flexibility. While some parents might prefer to have their students fill in the blanks during the reading, I have adopted a more collaborative approach. We read the passages together, pausing to discuss and clarify any tricky concepts in real time. We typically save the workbook for later in the day or even the following morning to test retention. I encourage my daughter to complete as much as possible independently; if she falters, I provide prompting questions or guide her to "research" the answer within her textbook, fostering early study skills.
The lab notebook is arguably the "star" of the curriculum, particularly for a child who lives for a good chemical reaction. Each experiment clearly lists the necessary materials and provides step-by-step instructions, often requiring the student to draw their observations or answer analytical questions. A unique feature I appreciate is the "Design Your Own Experiment" section at the end of each lab, which encourages genuine scientific inquiry. Most of the required components are common household staples found in the pantry or fridge, though I often supplement with extra kits from Timberdoodle to satisfy my daughter's love for things that "bubble or explode."
Visually, the curriculum is exceptionally engaging, featuring bright, cartoon-style illustrations that keep the material from feeling dry or intimidating. My daughter is five, and she finds the aesthetic very approachable, which is vital for maintaining interest in a subject as broad as general science. The program feels "complete" right out of the box, providing a sense of academic rigor without overwhelming the student. It manages to be both colorful and intellectually stimulating, making it a highlight of our homeschooling week.
Ultimately, Building Blocks of Science has proven to be a fantastic fit for our family, and we have already secured the second-grade kit to continue our journey. It is a robust, well-rounded program that introduces complex categories in a way that is digestible for early elementary students. If you are searching for a science curriculum that is easy to navigate yet thorough in its breadth, I highly recommend exploring this series. It has turned our kitchen table into a vibrant laboratory and sparked a genuine love for discovery in our home.
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