Science Book 1 – Build a Strong Foundation for Science (Atoms First)
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Where Science Begins Correctly
Science Book 1 is the starting point in the Real Science-4-Kids series. We introduce students to the five core sciences, chemistry, biology, physics, geology, and astronomy, through our revolutionary "Atoms First" approach. Unlike traditional programs that begin with vague "properties of matter," we start where modern science truly begins: with atoms and molecules.
Why "Atoms First" Changes Everything for Young Learners:
Most science programs use outdated models that create misconceptions students must unlearn later. By starting with atomic and molecular theory using correct, age-appropriate vocabulary, we build a foundation that makes all science more logical and connected. Students don't just memorize facts, they understand how the building blocks of the universe actually work. This is misconception-free science from day one.
Who Should Start with Book 1?
Book 1 is designed for students beginning their science journey, regardless of age or grade.
We focus on ability and foundation, not grade level. If your student is:
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New to structured science learning
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Ready to learn science concepts correctly from the start
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Building reading comprehension and scientific vocabulary
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Preparing for more advanced science study
...then Book 1 provides the perfect foundation.
Typical Starting Points:
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Ages 6-8 with adult support: Excellent for read-aloud, building vocabulary together
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Ages 8-10 independently: Ideal for students reading at approximately a 3rd-grade level
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Older students new to science: Perfect foundation before advancing to higher levels
Reading Level: Approximately Grade 3+ for independent work
Concept Level: Accessible starting around Age 6-7 with guidance
Open & Go 3-Book Set (Our Most Popular Format)
Hardcover Textbook + Student Pages + Teacher Pages
What's Inside:
Hardcover Student Textbook
A beautifully illustrated, full-color journey through the five scientific disciplines. Students begin with atoms and molecules—the true starting point of modern science—then explore how these building blocks create everything in chemistry, biology, physics, geology, and astronomy.
Softcover Student Pages
Guided notebooks that transform learning into active discovery. Each chapter includes:
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Study pages that reinforce key concepts
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RATATAZ experiment sheets for hands-on investigation
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Quizzes that assess understanding
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Activities designed to build scientific thinking skills
Softcover Teacher Pages
Complete support for educators, including:
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Lesson plans with clear objectives
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Experiment notes and safety guidance
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Answer keys for all student work
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Structured pacing that makes teaching simple
Hands-On Experiments Included!
Every experiment from Book 1 is available in three places:
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In your Student Pages – Complete instructions and worksheets
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In your Teacher Pages – Enhanced notes and safety guidance
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At our Experiment Hub – https://rs4k.com/pages/experiment-hub
Correct science from the start.
Why Families & Educators Choose Book 1:
✅ Atoms First Foundation: Start with correct science from day one—no misconceptions to unlearn later
✅ Ability-Based Progression: Focus on learning readiness, not grade level
✅ Engaging & Age-Appropriate: Cartoon illustrations, hands-on experiments, and creative activities
✅ Spiral Curriculum: Core concepts return at higher levels, building understanding over time
✅ Teacher-Friendly: Complete support whether you're new to teaching science or experienced
✅ Interdisciplinary: Shows how all sciences connect through atomic and molecular theory
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What Students Learn in 22 Chapters:
Chemistry (Where Science Really Begins)
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Atoms: The building blocks of everything
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Molecules: How atoms join together
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Chemical reactions: How molecules interact
Biology (Life Through a Scientific Lens)
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Classification: Organizing living things
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The cell: Life's basic unit
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Microorganisms: Viruses, bacteria, archaea
Physics (Energy & Motion)
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Force: Pushes and pulls
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Work: Making things happen
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Energy: Different forms and uses
Geology (Our Dynamic Earth)
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Earth's layers: Inside our planet
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Rocks & minerals: Earth's materials
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Volcanoes & earthquakes: Earth in motion
Astronomy (Our Place in Space)
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Solar system: Our cosmic neighborhood
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Moon & sun: Earth's closest companions
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Early astronomers: How we began exploring space
The Fast Track to Real Science Literacy
Book 1 creates a direct path to scientific understanding by eliminating common misconceptions from the beginning. Students who start here gain:
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Correct mental models of how the world works at the atomic level
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Accurate scientific vocabulary they can build upon for years
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Confidence in scientific thinking because they understand "why" from the start
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Preparation for any science program—the foundation works everywhere
This isn't just learning science—it's learning science right the first time.
Perfect For:
Homeschool Families
Whether your student is 6 or 10, Book 1 provides the right foundation with flexibility for read-aloud support or independent work.
Classroom Teachers (Public/Charter)
A strong fit for Grade 2+ with a consistent, logical sequence that builds year after year.
Co-ops, Pods & Small Groups
Everything facilitators need in one complete package—no extra prep required.
Students New to Science
Regardless of age, Book 1 ensures students learn science correctly from the start.
Available Formats:
1. Digital Teaching Dashboard (1-Year Access)
The complete digital classroom. Includes:
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Student and Teacher digital textbook (flipbook)
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All lesson plans and teacher materials
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Printable student pages and worksheets
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Auto-graded quizzes + answer keys *Under Construction
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Experiment instructions and lab sheets
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Organized chapter dashboard (everything one click away)
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Perfect for: Digital-first teaching, blended learning, multiple students
2. Digital Textbook Only (1-Year Flipbook Access)
The interactive digital version of the Student Textbook only.
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Perfect for: Digital reading, supplementing print copies, previewing
3. Open & Go 3-Book Set (Best Value)
Hardcover Textbook + Print Student Pages + Print Teacher Pages
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Perfect for: Hands-on learning, screen-free environments, family use
4. Textbook Only
Hardcover print edition
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Perfect for: Additional copies, library use, supplementing
5. Student Pages Only
Softcover print or downloadable PDF
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Perfect for: Additional students, replacement pages
6. Teacher Pages Only
Print edition or digital PDF
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Perfect for: Additional teachers, co-op facilitators
COMPARISON CHART
| Feature | Digital Teaching Dashboard | Digital Textbook Only | 3-Book Print Set |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete Curriculum | ✅ All-in-one digital platform | ❌ Textbook only | ✅ All print materials |
| Interactive Textbook | ✅ Flipbook + teacher view | ✅ Flipbook only | ✅ Hardcover book |
| Lesson Plans | ✅ Digital, organized by chapter | ❌ | ✅ Print Teacher Pages |
| Student Worksheets | ✅ Printable PDFs | ❌ | ✅ Print Student Pages |
| Assessments | ✅ Auto-graded quizzes + keys | ❌ | ✅ Print quizzes + keys |
| Experiments | ✅ Complete instructions & sheets | ❌ | ✅ RATATAZ lab system |
| Access Duration | 1 Year | 1 Year | Lifetime |
| Best For | Digital teaching, multiple students | Digital reading, previewing | Hands-on, screen-free learning |
Your Next Steps:
Starting Fresh with Science? → Begin with Book 1 for the correct foundation
Already Using Book 1? → Continue to Book 2 for deeper exploration
Need Help Deciding? → View samples and check our placement guide: https://rs4k.com/pages/faq
Why This Foundation Changes Everything:
Science learned correctly the first time stays with students for life. By starting with atoms and molecules, the actual building blocks of our universe, we provide students with a mental model that makes all subsequent science clearer. Whether they continue with our series or move to other programs, the "Atoms First" foundation ensures they understand how science works, not just what scientists have discovered.
This isn't just another science book, it's the right start to a lifetime of scientific understanding.
Reading Level: Grade 3+ for independent work
Concept Accessibility: Age 6+ with adult support
Foundation: Correct science from the start, no misconceptions to unlearn
"Start with atoms. Understand the world."
View a Sample
Start With Atoms
Science Book 1 starts with atoms, the fundamental building blocks of all matter. Our program starts with these basics, giving students a strong foundation. This approach is unique and sets us apart from other science books and programs.
Fun Experiments
Start your students learning real science with easy-to-do fun experiments for Book 1. Go to the Experiment Hub and download, print, and use only the experiments you want to try. Teacher instructions are included.
Teaching Real Science is as easy as 1 - 2 - 3
Learning science is as easy as reading a book. Just open to the first chapter and get started. No internet or online subscription needed.
ExperimentGo to the Experiment Hub and find the experiment you want your child to do. Download, print and read the teacher instructions. Collect the materials, give your child the student pages and do the experiment with them.
Have FunMake a mess, explore new ideas, and let them play. Most of science is just playing and learning science is more exciting for your child if you are involved.
What People Are Saying
Best Curriculum Ever!
Best science curriculum out there! Just wanted you to know how much I've appreciated teaching my kids from your materials.
As a science teacher, I've tried several programs, but RS4K stands out. The emphasis on authentic scientific vocabulary and age-appropriate foundational content makes it easy for my students to grasp complex concepts. The print materials are top-notch and enhance comprehension significantly.
I love how RS4K introduces complex topics like atoms
and molecules in an easy-to-understand manner for younger students. My daughter
has developed a strong foundation in science and always looks forward to her lessons. The hands-on experiments are a big hit!"