Choosing a Science Curriculum

Switched-on Schoolhouse Science Curriculum Review – Elementary

This computer-based curriculum offers a complete science course for elementary grades 3-6. Age-appropriate content is presented using an interactive format with built-in tools allowing the teacher to easily track student comprehension. The curriculum works well for independent student study and requires minimal teacher involvement. The Switched-On Schoolhouse Science curriculum covers all the science topics, but with limited detail and moderate hands-on activities. 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.

Switched-on Schoolhouse Science Curriculum Review – Grades 3-6
Curriculum Components Recommended Curriculum DVD
Curriculum Cost (per Grade) $100
Hands-on Activities Cost (per Grade) $35-70 depending on course
Strengths
  • Designed for homeschool use
  • Easy-to-use integrated testing system
  • Computer-based curriculum with tech support and additional tutoring available (not included)
  • Automatic grading
Weaknesses
  • Not designed for science-oriented students
  • Not a rich hands-on learning experience
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 10-15 minutes

Star Rating: 5-Very Good, 4-Good, 3-Fair, 2-Poor, 1-Very Poor

Customer Reviews

Great Product
This is the first time I’ve used Switched on Schoolhouse. My 10 year old son loves the curriculum. I like the ease in grading and planning of activities. We also purchased SOS Bible and History/Geography after having such a great experience with their Science product. (Review by Katie)

Switched-On Schoolhouse Science 5
My kids absolutely LOVE this science curriculum. My daughter keeps asking to go ahead in the lessons because she’s having so much fun with it. I only wish I could have done this science curriculum when I was in school! The initial set-up took a little time, especially since I did a custom calendar, but after that it’s been very easy to use. (Review by Anonymous)