Mystery Science

Mystery Science has gained popularity among homeschooling families and elementary teachers for its engaging approach to K-5 science education. Parents and educators consistently share their experiences with this video-based curriculum:

What Parents and Teachers Love

The program's ability to capture children's interest through well-designed mystery questions stands out in feedback:

"My students absolutely love Mystery Science. The lessons totally capture their attention..." 4th Grade Teacher, Spring TX

"Lessons are really fun and educational. A printer is a must have for this curriculum." Homeschool Parent via Reddit

The "open-and-go" format makes science teaching accessible even for parents without strong science backgrounds:

"They have topics with lessons in each. Each lesson comes with videos, lesson plan and worksheets. It's very comprehensive and the lessons have been engaging so far." Homeschool Parent via Reddit

Many families appreciate the hands-on activities that reinforce concepts through discovery:

"I have done every single lesson, many of them twice (with different kids) and it is just a pitch-perfect elementary science curriculum." Homeschool Parent via Well-Trained Mind Forum

The program's engaging question-driven approach encourages critical thinking and scientific inquiry:

"The lessons are quite intriguing for students and they do a good job of showing you how to do an experiment or project step by step." Brenda, 5th Grade Teacher via NSTA Forum

Its adaptability for different settings makes it popular internationally as well:

"Mystery Science has been a huge hit for my kids." Canadian Homeschool Parent via Facebook

Common Limitations

Parents note that for older elementary students, the curriculum may need supplementation:

"Mystery Science might provide sufficient science lessons for K-2, but by third grade, you probably want more than one hour a week... it can only be your complete curriculum up through second grade." Cathy Duffy Reviews

The consistent lesson format, while beneficial for structure, can become predictable:

"It also loses student interest because the same format is used over and over." Kathy, Science Coach via NSTA Forum

Some educators point out that full standards alignment may require additional resources:

"Mystery Science is NOT totally aligned to the new standards... There are definitely gaps in the learning students attain using just Mystery Science." Kathy, Science Coach via NSTA Forum

The hands-on activities require materials that aren't provided with the subscription:

"Our school only pays for the subscription, not the supplies... I usually pay for things out of pocket." Teacher via NSTA Forum

Best Fit For Your Family

Based on parent and teacher feedback, Mystery Science works particularly well for:

• Families seeking an engaging, low-prep science curriculum for elementary students
• Parents who want hands-on activities but need clear guidance on implementation
• Visual and kinesthetic learners who benefit from video instruction and experiments
• Homeschoolers looking for a secular science option with real-world connections
• Families where the parent doesn't have a strong science background

Mystery Science might be less ideal for:

• Advanced students in upper elementary (grades 4-5) who need greater depth
• Families with limited internet access (though videos can be cached)
• Those who prefer textbook-based learning with formal assessments
• Households unable to gather simple materials for experiments

Parent Involvement Needed

Parents describe Mystery Science as requiring moderate involvement - the program handles the instruction, but parents need to:

• Gather and prepare simple materials for experiments
• Print worksheets and activity guides
• Facilitate discussions by pausing videos at prompted points
• Supervise hands-on activities (especially for younger children)
• Supplement with additional resources for older students or deeper exploration

Most parents find this level of involvement manageable because the curriculum provides clear guidance at each step. As one parent noted, even though they're actively participating, they don't have to develop lesson plans or become instant science experts.

Making the Most of Mystery Science

Experienced users suggest these approaches for optimal results:

• Review lessons ahead of time to gather necessary materials
• For families with multiple children, adapt group activities to work with siblings
• Use the mini-lessons as enrichment between full lessons
• Supplement with library books on the same topics for deeper exploration
• For older elementary students, consider pairing with another resource for more depth
• Create a simple folder or binder to collect completed worksheets as a science portfolio

The Bottom Line

Mystery Science offers elementary-aged students an engaging introduction to scientific concepts through inquiry-based learning. While it may need supplementation for older students or those seeking more depth, its strength lies in making science accessible and enjoyable.

As summarized by one curriculum reviewer: "If you value an engaging and user-friendly secular science curriculum that makes learning enjoyable, Mystery Science would be an excellent fit for your family."