Last month, we looked at some of the most common choices for homeschool math education in the high school years. Like math, the study of science can be intimidating for some parents. Even if you are an engineer or a nurse, you may not remember all the details of high school physics, chemistry, or biology. Beyond vaguely recalling these subjects, do you really feel qualified to teach them?
As with math, you do not have to be an expert to guide your children through the necessary course of study for required high school science. Many experienced parents who have successfully graduated students assured me that most teens can manage their own lessons. Independently, many students progress through subjects like biology and physics with minimal day-to-day oversight or in-person instruction.
There are some considerations unique to the study of science in high school. To that end, we are sharing some options for deepening and expanding the study of science in the high school years.
Required Courses for High School Graduation
The specific requirements for high school graduation vary by state. In Texas, there are no specific requirements for high school curriculum. However, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) offers guidance that can be a good starting point for parents who want their children to have a high school transcript that will prepare them for admission to post-secondary education. The TEA recommends a minimum of 4 credits of Science (including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics plus an additional lab course).
The science classes in the high school years generally require competency in mathematics. For this reason, many high school curricula for homeschool recommend maintaining the same sequence of science classes—biology, chemistry, and then physics—as this order follows the typical math sequence that will adequately prepare students for their science study. Individual variation is possible, but understanding the sequence is a good first step before modifying.
Many homeschoolers opt to study anatomy and physiology, health, or space science as part of their high school curriculum. Additionally, electives like Geology and Astronomy can bring other subjects into the high school course of study.
Co-ops for Labs and Expertise
One of the major differences between science and most mathematics is the need for hands-on learning. Unless you plan to develop an in-home laboratory, fulfilling the recommended labs without outside help will not be easy. Thankfully, there are many accessible options for labs and tutoring.
A great place to start, as with so many topics related to homeschooling, is your local homeschool co-op. Through parishes or parent-led groups in your area, you can find Catholic or like-minded homeschoolers in your area. Connecting with a group like this can provide connections to tutors and lab study.
In some groups, a parent with experience teaching in the sciences may volunteer to run labs for high school students. Other co-ops employ a teacher to offer labs. Some programs offer a condensed course of study to fulfill lab requirements in a few sessions. Whatever the case may be, connecting with groups in your area can give you an idea of what your options are.
Local Museum Classes
If you live in a metropolitan area, many science museums offer classes and labs for homeschool students. In the Houston area, for example, homeschool families can join monthly classes at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. These courses cover many grade levels and subject areas, including dissection and chemistry and physics experiments.
Because Houston is also home to NASA, homeschoolers can attend classes at Space Center Houston. Innovative activities offered monthly through Home School Days are available for a reduced ticket price or for free with the purchase of membership to the museum. While these would not necessarily fulfill credit requirements needed for a high school transcript, the hands-on activities related to engineering and space science can enhance your unique homeschool experience.
Dual-Enrollment for College Credit
As with mathematics, homeschoolers in Texas may have access to dual-enrollment courses in the sciences. Through the Early College Start Dual Credit program, homeschool students can attend courses offered at local community colleges or online to receive credit toward their high school graduation, as well as receive college credit.
In order to take part in the program, students must demonstrate prerequisite abilities through standardized testing or admission criteria for the community college. Science classes offered might include biology, anatomy and physiology, health science, chemistry, physics, and more. Especially for students considering pursuing advanced study in the sciences, fulfilling prerequisite courses while still in high school can be a huge advantage. If students do not intend to pursue science in their post-secondary education, taking science courses can fulfill core requirements for many other degree programs if they choose to pursue a college degree in another subject area.
Career and Vocational Training
Beyond college preparedness and dual-credit opportunities, the study of science in high school can be paired with vocational tech courses and apprenticeship. Some students opt out of a traditional four-year college degree. With excellent career opportunities in the skilled trades, some students begin practical applications of the study of science through vocational courses or apprenticeship, even in high school.
The Texas Homeschool Coalition offers suggestions for finding reputable trade schools, identifying fields that may require vocational training, and ideas for encouraging practical skills in your home to support a well-rounded education.
High School Science: A World of Opportunities
Whether your student wants to pursue advanced scientific study or a liberal arts degree, covering the basics of high school science can be accomplished in many different ways. In addition to fulfilling the generally expected biology, chemistry, and physics, students can discover courses in astronomy and health sciences, either for the fun of learning or for possible college credit. Additionally, students with aptitude and interest in skilled trades can use their time in high school to pursue vocational training and apprenticeship. In other words, for high school homeschoolers, the study of science offers a world of opportunities.