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Description
Conceptual Academy's self-study courses meet the needs of college-bound students who plan to major in a non-science-based field. Taking a physics-first approach, this secular science program is a hybrid that integrates a textbook and online portal for self-study. Most courses require the purchase of a physical or pdf textbook along with the Online Course. Currently, purchase of Biology courses includes the textbook in a PDF format, as well as the online course. For other courses, see individual courses for textbook ISBNs that may be available from us or used through other online suppliers. Conceptual Academy also recommends the more affordable optional e-Textbook from Vital Source. Access information for the course will be emailed in 1-2 business days after purchase.
So, what is Conceptual Academy? Centered on video instruction created by the text authors, Conceptual Academy's self-study courses are content rich and flexible for independent learners. There are worksheets, chapter summaries, automated quizzes and homework, a grade book, supplemental podcasts with chapter discussions, educational advice and interviews, chapter summaries, and more. Hands-on activities within the textbook can serve as the labs and use common household items. Also available are interactive simulations from University of Colorado and eScience Lab kits (additional cost). Purchase of the online course is for one year, one student. The courses can be accessed from laptops and desktop computers, and 'mobile links' are posted with each video lesson that allow play on mobile devices. Unless noted, the textbook must be purchased separately.
The sequence of these texts and courses are as follows: Physical Science Explorations and Integrated Science Explorations at the junior high level, then Conceptual Physics, Conceptual Chemistry, then Conceptual Biology. If beginning this series at the high school level, then the student should begin with upper-level Conceptual Physical Science before going on to physics, chemistry, and biology. Please note that the complete course requires purchase of the textbook AND the online course. Older edition textbooks can be used with modifications.
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Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.