Physics: The Foundational Science

by Abeka

ScienceGrades 9–12

About This Curriculum

A comprehensive physics curriculum that presents theoretical and practical aspects of physics through the study of friction, gravity, energy, momentum, thermodynamics, and more, with over 500 illustrations and a Christian worldview.

What makes it unique: Makes physics accessible through detailed explanations, humor, and a strong Christian perspective with biographies of Christian physicists

Physics: The Foundational Science: Traditional Christian Physics Text

Abeka's Physics: The Foundational Science is a comprehensive traditional physics curriculum for grades 9-12 that covers theoretical and practical physics concepts from mechanics to quantum theory. The curriculum integrates a Christian worldview throughout and includes over 500 illustrations to support conceptual understanding.

Best for

Homeschooling families seeking a traditional, Christian-worldview physics curriculum for grades 9-12 with structured direct instruction and comprehensive content coverage

Evaluation Criteria

3 strengths · 1 concern · 2 neutral · 1 insufficient evidence

Knowledge RichStrength

The curriculum covers comprehensive physics content from foundational concepts like matter and energy through advanced topics including quantum theory and special relativity.

Review mentions progression from familiar concepts (matter, energy, mechanics) to advanced topics (thermodynamics, wave phenomena, quantum theory, special relativity) with practical examples related to everyday experiences

Direct InstructionStrength

The curriculum follows a traditional direct instruction approach with teacher-led demonstrations and structured content delivery.

Review mentions 'the teacher is supposed to do them [experiments] for the students' and includes structured elements like 'alot of quizzes, pop quizzes and homework'

Retrieval PracticeStrength

The curriculum includes multiple assessment formats that support regular retrieval practice including quizzes, pop quizzes, and section reviews.

Review specifically mentions 'alot of quizzes, pop quizzes and homework' and 'section reviews' as part of the curriculum structure

Hands On IntegrationConcern

Lab work is available through a separate lab manual and DVD demonstrations, though the lab component may be less practical for homeschool implementation.

Review notes DVD lab demonstrations are available but 'very expensive' and suggests 'using another option for lab work in place of the one designed for this course since it is not very practical for homeschool situations'

Teacher TrainingNeutral

Teacher support materials are available including a teacher's guide and solution keys, though the teacher guide is described as optional.

Review mentions 'A teacher's guide, solution key, test packet, and quiz booklet are available' but notes 'The teacher guide for the text is optional'

Scientific VocabularyNeutral

The curriculum appears to present scientific concepts systematically with clear organization, though specific vocabulary instruction methods are not detailed.

Parents noted 'headings and to the point information' and found the text 'more concise' than alternatives, suggesting clear presentation of terminology

Ngss AlignmentInsufficient Evidence

Alignment to NGSS or contemporary standards is not addressed in the available reviews.

No information provided about standards alignment in the review materials

Review Sources

web_search

Simply Charlotte Mason Forum

cathyduffy

Cathy Duffy

Key Facts
GradesGrades 9–12
SubjectScience
PedagogyTraditional
Faith-BasedChristian/Protestant
FormatDigital + Physical
PricingStudent textbook approximately $84.45, Teacher Edition approximately $84.45, Lab Manual $44.85, Solution Key $116.50, Digital textbook available with 12-month license

Looking for something different?

If none of these options feel right, explore a non-traditional approach. Pallas Center offers a unique curriculum, or design your own with Palladay.

Data sources: cathyduffy