Choosing the correct curriculum can be the difference between headaches and engagement, and I'm hoping that this guide will take some of the stress and time out of researching high school chemistry curricula. Some of these I've used, some I have not, but I want to give you a starting point on your journey.

Chemistry Curriculum

1. Apologia High School Chemistry

Apologia is popular for offering a comprehensive overview of chemistry concepts in a rigorous way. It includes textbooks, lab kits, and online resources for both students and parents, all from a Christian point of view. The lab experiments and activities are engaging and enjoyable for students. Completing this curriculum will prepare your student for future studies in chemistry.

2. Guest Hollow's Chemistry in the Kitchen

For those looking for a conceptual understanding of chemistry without the math, Guest Hollow’s Chemistry in the Kitchen is an excellent choice. It’s a math-free curriculum full of kitchen-based experiments and activities where students explore concepts without doing calculations. It’s very hands-on, so you’ll need the supplies, but it’s suitable for students of different ages and backgrounds.

3. CK-12 Chemistry

CK-12 offers a free, online interactive textbook. I've used this quite a bit, especially their simulations and activities for chemistry and physics. The textbooks range from conceptual to advanced levels. Each unit not only explains the concepts but also provides videos, simulations, practice questions, and quizzes. This curriculum is self-study, so you’ll need to set up a schedule for going through all the material.

4. Time4Learning High School Chemistry

Time4Learning offers a subscription-based, self-paced high school chemistry course with lessons, videos, interactive activities, and virtual labs. Because it’s self-paced, you’ll need to set up a study schedule to ensure you cover all the material. This program provides everything needed for students to pursue further studies after high school.

5. PA Homeschoolers AP Chemistry

For those aiming for AP Chemistry, PA Homeschoolers is a fantastic option. Their courses are led by experienced instructors, providing live interaction and classroom experiences. These courses are geared to set students up for success in college-level chemistry courses.

6. The Ultimate High School Chemistry Planner

I’ve also developed a comprehensive 17-unit chemistry planner for parents who want more control and hands-on involvement in their child's chemistry journey. Each unit is set up in a checklist format, covering all necessary topics for a thorough chemistry program. There’s a "Parents’ Corner" with videos breaking down the concepts, providing tips, and additional resources to help you teach each unit. The goal of this planner is to make planning and teaching high school chemistry easier and more manageable.

Choosing the right high school chemistry curriculum requires careful consideration of several factors. It can be challenging to navigate the many options available, each with its unique features and approaches. However, the selections discussed here offer a variety of features to choose from, catering to different educational needs and preferences.