The Lifepac science curriculum consists of 10 workbooks (Lifepacs) and a teacher’s guide in a set. The elementary curriculum is well-adapted for homeschool use, even for newer parent teachers. The curriculum works well with minimal teacher instruction or for independent study with reading students. The teacher’s guide includes answer keys and limited support material. This curriculum covers all the science topics, but with limited detail and moderate hands-on learning. We do not recommend it for students who enjoy science or want a rich hands-on learning experience. This curriculum presents a Christian creationist worldview.
| Lifepac Science Curriculum Review – Grades 1-6 | |
| Curriculum Components Recommended | 10 Lifepacs and Teacher’s Guide Set |
| Curriculum Cost (per Grade) | $70 |
| Hands-on Activities Cost (per Grade) | $20-75 depending on grade |
| Strengths |
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| Weaknesses |
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| Learning Environment | |
| Homeschool Suitability | ★★★★★ |
| Classroom Suitability | ★★★★★ |
| New Science Teacher Suitability | ★★★★★ |
| Learning Evaluation Tools | ★★★ |
| Includes Student Tests | Yes |
| Worldview | Creationist |
| Student Appeal | |
| Student Readability | ★★★★★ |
| Engaging Visual Content | ★★★ |
| Independent Study Suitability | ★★★★★ |
| Suitability for Students Not Interested in Science | ★★★★ |
| Reading Level | Grade Appropriate |
| Science Content Quality | |
| Scope and Sequence | ★★★★ |
| Depth of Science Content | ★★★ |
| Age-appropriate Science Content | ★★★ |
| Hands-on Science Learning | |
| Comprehensive Hands-on Learning | ★★★ |
| Activities Develop Science Skills | ★★ |
| Activities Develop Critical Thinking | ★★ |
| Ease of Completing Experiments | ★★★ |
| Activity/Lab Prep Time | 10-20 minutes |
Star Rating: 5-Very Good, 4-Good, 3-Fair, 2-Poor, 1-Very Poor
Excellent and enjoyable
I ordered this set halfway into our first week. What I was using when we started just wasn’t enough for my daughter. We started using Science Lifepac 3 in our second week, and we both really love it! It is challenging but not too challenging. The material is presented clearly. The student units are colorful and engaging. My daughter is excited for our science time! The way it has been put together makes it very easy for me to prepare for our lessons. It is a good idea to read ahead, just so you can plan on when you want to include the optional suggested activities. We also ordered the science kit that goes with this, which is just extremely convenient. And one last thing, I’m very grateful for the scientific facts being presented with a biblical view. (Review by M. G.)
3 Very Bored Kids
Although my kids normally LOVE science, they are bored to tears with this series. We’ve been doing the 1st grade, 3rd grade and 5th grade curriculum. The courses move extremely slowly, many of the experiments are a pain in the neck or they take weeks to accomplish (not good for elementary children), and the written work isn’t very challenging. The worst of the bunch is the 1st grade course because it’s too easy for 1st graders… more like preschool. The 5th grade course is probably the best out of the bunch because it’s more in line with that grade level… but my daughter absolutely hates it. I would not recommend this course and won’t continue with the series. (Review by Chris)
A winner!
What a pleasant surprise! This exceeded my expectations! Purchased with the LIFEPAC Science Kit-it’s complete and ready to go for the entire school year! Written in a clear, easy to follow format, with interesting experiments and labs make this an asset for homeschooling. A product I will definitely purchase again! (Review by Barb R.)