WHAT IS STEP 1 SCIENCE?
STEP 1 Science is a two year study of science for ages 5-6, and for preliterate students who either do not read at all, or who read very little.

HOW DOES STEP 1 SCIENCE WORK?
Like all STEP 1 courses, STEP 1 History courses are like “scripts”, used by the teacher.  Like all STEPS studies, STEP 1 courses are broken into daily lesson plans.  Each lesson plan is made up of small things to be done, in sequence.  The teacher/parent uses each lesson plan like a script, doing what the lesson plan asks.  Sometimes, the parent is asked to read to the student. What is read is right there in the lesson plan, no guess work, “writing” by the teacher, or hunting for materials needed.   Much of the teaching at this level is done this way.  Sometimes, the teacher is requested to show students some art work, video, or photography – all found in sequence, in the lesson plan.  And in every lesson plan, the student uses what has been taught and does things, sometimes in the form of games, but there are always activities.  There are nine Step 1 science courses, and they are generally completed after 4 semesters (two years) of study.

So you will be reading to the student from the course, and then showing them various media, and then doing things with them which will allow them to “experience” their science studies.  The “hands-on” aspect is particularly emphasized in science studies.  Our science courses at each level are secular science.  We do not ever attack religious beliefs, but we do not present them in science courses.  These are science courses.

Starter Science is presented in an experiential manner. The most basic of basic scientific ideas are presented and explored by the student in fun, hands-on ways. Science should be done two times a week. Each semester will consist of multiple courses to be done in sequence. For example, the first semester consists of three courses, dealing with the ability to observe, to determine the difference between fact and opinion, and the nature of cause and effect. These are bottom-line understandings one must have to start to learn science. The exercises are creative, and keep the student active.

MY 5-6 YEAR OLD IS GOING TO LEARN SCIENCE?  REALLY?
Yes.  The science presented at this level is simple, and accompanied by a lot of media (photos, film) and tons of activities.  But they do get a good idea of the major ideas in science, even in STEP 1.  Particularly the foundation of science – observation, measurement, theorizing, experimentation, and coming to conclusions.

WHAT SCIENCE IS PRESENTED IN STEP 1?
STEP 1 science covers big ideas in science basics such as what science is and how it works.  Then it teaches essential ideas in Earth sciences, biology, and physics.  All structured for hands-on experience by the youngest students!

CAN I PURCHASE INDIVIDUAL SCIENCE COURSES TO FILL NEEDS IN MY CHILD’S EDUCATION?
Yes.  Each STEPS course is a free-standing, independent study. 

CAN I PURCHASE A SEMESTER WORTH OF HISTORY?
Yes, as “bundles” on our site.  Bundles are the least expensive way to purchase STEPS courses.  

HOW QUICKLY COULD I START USING STEPS 1 HISTORY?
Start now.  You can start STEPS at any time of the year, 24/7/365.   Everything you need is pretty much included in the courses you will download, for STEP 1

HOW MUCH DO I, THE TEACHER OR PARENT, NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HISTORY TO TEACH AT THIS LEVEL?
You (teacher/tutor/parent) do not need any expertise in subjects your student is studying, using STEPS.   Not as a teacher, or in the subjects being taught.  You do not need a degree, or experience as a teacher.  Each course does the “teaching”.   Just follow the lesson plans, and keep your eyes open for fun opportunities related to whatever the student is studying now.   The course does the teaching.