The Best Basic Science Textbook

Buying Guide

Science education can start from the time a child is born. Through playtime, children learn all the basic concepts, from how static cling works to what happens when they stack blocks one way versus another. Most importantly, through play, children learn to explore and create.

But formal learning starts once a child enters the classroom. Science learning can start as early as preschool, and children are gradually introduced to biology, physical science and social science. By the time your child reaches middle school, the foundation is in place, and teachers can build from there.

Sometimes, though, the classroom doesn’t quite give children the grasp they need of the intricacies of various sciences — or their interest leads them to seek even more sources of information. That’s where a good book can come in. Yes, your child is issued textbooks through school, but there are supplemental books that go further, and often in a more engaging manner, than the ones some schools use. In fact, even kids may want to further their learning on a particular subject in a way that has nothing to do with schoolwork.

Children aren’t the only ones who can benefit from a good science book, though. A good book can quench an adult’s thirst to learn, helping you grow no matter what path you’re pursuing in life.

There are some important factors to look at when shopping for a good science book. Visuals can make a big difference. Look for a book that’s illustrated well and packed full of images and/or drawings to help you fully grasp the concepts you’re reading about. Also, consider whether you want an overview or to dive into one particular topic in depth. An overview can actually be a great way to learn which areas of science you want to learn more about.

• Science information can quickly become outdated. As experts learn more, texts are updated, so the book that you purchased five years ago no longer has the most accurate information. If you’re choosing a book that’s been around a while, look to make sure that updates include the latest information available in that particular field.
• Scientific accuracy is vital in any textbook you buy. Look into the credentials of the authors and determine what experts, if any, they used when conducting research while writing the book. Is it a well-respected book widely used in the industry, or something that represents just one scientist’s opinion?
• Organization can make or break a textbook. Any book you buy on the topic of science should have information split into sections that make sense. If possible, look at the table of contents and check that the information you want to learn is covered.
• There are three major branches of science: natural, social and formal. Natural science studies the world around us and the universe beyond; physics, chemistry and biology all fall under the natural sciences category. Social science studies human interactions and the relationship between humans and the environment and includes anthropology, archaeology, philosophy, health, psychology and political science. The formal sciences use systems to process information and includes computer science, mathematics and logic.
• If you work in a scientific or medical profession, you might find that having the right textbook on hand is essential. Human anatomy books are especially popular for this.
• Some books come with companion downloadable files. Check to see if any of these extras are included and what they are.
• Science textbooks can be helpful to homeschooling parents. Some are a more readable alternative to the traditional textbooks used by schools. However, if you use a textbook for homeschooling, make sure the content matches the Common Core Standards set by your state.