“Visit many good books but live in the Bible.” –Charles Spurgeon
Have you ever wanted to include fiction and nonfiction books alongside your homeschool science lessons but were overwhelmed with choices and not sure where to begin? Have we got a treat for you!
Our texts at Berean Builders are created using a conversational tone to keep science interesting and meaningful. However, we know there are many amazing books you can use as additions to your curriculum to make science come alive.
Since we’re frequently asked to offer book recommendations for our courses, we’re happy to provide.
And in case you’re still on the fence about using books as learning tools, here are a few reasons why we think it’s a great idea.
Books Build Critical Thinking Skills
At Berean Builders, our main goal is to help students become critical thinkers. And what better way than to include fiction and nonfiction books in your science lessons?
Nonfiction books, such as biographies of scientists or historical accounts of scientific discoveries, provide real-world context to abstract concepts and add a human touch to topics that can feel flat.
Fictional narratives can demonstrate how scientific knowledge is applied to problem-solving, thereby creating a deeper understanding of its relevance. Even science fiction books can help your student think critically about how a seemingly impossible scenario has its basis in known reality.
The Educational Benefits of Adding Books to Your Homeschool Science Lessons
Interdisciplinary Connections
Nothing ties science to life in general like good books. Many fiction and nonfiction books naturally connect science to history, literature, and ethics.
For instance, a historical nonfiction book about the space race connects science with history and achievement, while a science fiction novel may explore themes of sociology or philosophy alongside scientific advancements.
Enhanced Engagement
While we try to ensure our courses are engaging and conversational, we know it can boost understanding when concepts are presented in additional, relatable ways. Integrating books can raise interest in even the most reluctant science students.
Fictional stories that include scientific themes can spark curiosity and imagination, helping students see the practical and creative sides of science, while biographical books can put a human face on the development of an abstract concept.
Contextual Learning
Our courses and labs offer hands-on learning for many topics and concepts. Adding books ramps up opportunities for your homeschooler to relate new ideas to literary situations, translating this understanding to real life.
You may not be able to personally visit the moon while studying astronomy, but biographies of astronauts and astronomers can bring the moon into your classroom. Even fictional works about the moon can demonstrate how scientific knowledge is applied in problem solving, increasing understanding of its relevance.
Improved Literacy Skills
Reading widely from both fiction and nonfiction enhances vocabulary, comprehension, and overall literacy. Nonfiction books introduce technical terminology, while fiction helps develop narrative understanding and empathy.
In addition, your homeschooler will benefit from these skills as they document their progress through our courses. Forming cohesive thoughts and recording them in notebooks for study and evaluation are skills that can be learned or enhanced through reading.
Increased Curiosity and Creativity
“You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him find it within himself.” Galileo Galilei
Fiction and nonfiction books often inspire further exploration. Your student may become interested in a specific scientific field or topic and pursue additional learning on their own. Fiction often sparks imaginative thinking, which is a valuable skill in science for problem solving and innovation.
For example, after reading a nonfiction book about marine biology or a science fiction book set underwater, your homeschooler might explore marine science experiments or documentaries. Or reading about time travel in science fiction may lead a student to explore real theories about time dilation and relativity.
Personalized Learning
Homeschooling is one of the most personalized and flexible learning experiences available. You can incorporate fiction and nonfiction books into each lesson to enrich your child’s understanding of a topic, totally customized to their interests and learning style.
Examples of Useful Science Books For Your Homeschool Learning
Fiction
Books like The Ark, the Reed and the Fire Cloud by Jenny Cote, A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle, or C. S. Lewis’s science fiction novels.
Nonfiction
Books like The Case for a Creator by Lee Strobel, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made by Dr. Paul Brand and Philip Yancey, or The Genesis Question by Hugh Ross.
By combining literary resources with our texts and courses from Berean Builders, homeschoolers can create a richer, more engaging, and well-rounded science education.
Important Notes For Parents
Books are a powerful tool in homeschooling, offering enrichment, inspiration, and opportunities for critical thinking. However, not every book is suitable for every child or family.
As always, we encourage you, as a parent, to read and evaluate each book recommendation to be sure it fits with your homeschool, and your family’s worldview, faith, and cultural values.
Some books may challenge your values, but they can also provide opportunities for meaningful discussions. Decide in advance whether you’re open to this before introducing any new book to your children.
Also consider the age-appropriateness of books and the emotional readiness of your homeschoolers before including recommended books in your lessons. Books often contain themes, language or content that may not be suitable for all age groups. Look for reviews that include age guidelines.
Some children may be ready for complex themes earlier than others, while some may prefer lighter content. Consider your child’s emotional sensitivity and maturity.
And, if you decide to include older books to enrich your science lessons, verify that scientific or historical information is accurate and up to date. Older books can be a wealth of interesting information and can lead your student to critical thinking revelations as they compare historical science with current discoveries.
You want to be sure any additional book aligns with your academic goals. Does it teach important lessons, provide accurate and reliable information, and enrich your current science lessons? Balance your student’s reading list with fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and diverse genres to encourage well-rounded learning.
Does your child learn best by listening? Consider reading aloud during your science lessons for immediate feedback. Remember, audiobooks count as reading, too!
Be sure to ask your homeschooler how they felt about a book you assigned. Did they enjoy it? Did they find anything confusing or concerning? Did the book make them want to learn more about the topic or raise additional questions?
How to Vet Books:
- Read reviews. Goodreads or Amazon reviews often highlight key themes or concerns.
- Sample chapters. Many books are available for preview on e-reader platforms. Older books can often be found for free online.
- Ask for professional recommendations. Consult other parents, librarians, or homeschooling organizations for curated reading lists or opinions about certain books.
