Apologia and Creation-Based Science Curricula

03.08.2010

A response to the AP story "Top Home-School Texts Dismiss Darwin, Evolution," released on March 6, 2010

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,588260,00.html

By:
Davis Carman
President / Owner
Apologia Educational Ministries
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The battle over what our children should be taught in school continues. On March 6, 2010, the Associated Press released an article by Dylan Lovan entitled "Top Home-School Texts Dismiss Darwin, Evolution." His commentary explains that some homeschooling families take issue with the creation-based science texts of Apologia Educational Ministries and other publishers.

It should be no surprise that Jerry Coyne, a professor at the University of Chicago in the Department of Ecology and Evolution, thinks our books are "promulgating lies to kids." After all, his title clearly conveys that he believes in evolution. Dr. Jay Wile, the author or co-author of many of Apologia's junior high and high school texts, is a nuclear chemist and a former university professor. Dr. Wile has concluded that the creation model of origins is supported by scientific research and is a superior model from which to educate students in the various scientific disciplines.

Dr. Wile launched the Apologia curriculum in the early 1990s when many Christian home-educators were frustrated that few creation-based science options were available. It quickly grew to become the leading science curriculum among homeschooling families. In 2008, I purchased the company and began a plan to expand the product range by developing new curriculum in other subjects needed by homeschooling families.

At Apologia Educational Ministries, we are not shy about promoting our mission to help homeschool families learn, live, and defend the Christian faith. While the science division of the company is crystal clear about our commitment to creation, we do not dismiss or avoid the discussion of evolution. Rather, we welcome the debate on creation versus evolution. While creationists and evolutionists are looking at the same evidence found in the natural world, they reach different conclusions. Our textbooks give evidence as to why we disagree with a notion that single-celled organisms evolved into more complex life forms over millions of years. Students who take our courses will be prepared to discuss the topic intelligently and sensibly.

The Apologia science curriculum is top-of-the-line with regard to rigor and academic excellence. The proof is in the accomplishments and testimonials of students who have used our products.

Here are just a few examples:

"After using your Physics text in grade twelve, I took a first-year physics course at a local university and ended up with an A+. Your course did an excellent job preparing me for it. Thanks."

"I am in the tenth grade and have used Apologia books for four years. I love them. They cover hard concepts, but Dr. Wile is very clear in the way he explains them. In fact, I've already passed the CLEP test for biology."

"In my very first test in college physics, I got the highest score in the class. My professor said that I must have had an excellent high school physics course. He was right!"

"I don't think I could have done homeschool chemistry without this book. It was very easy to understand – I didn't even need my dad to explain it to me. The experiments were simple and fun! I also appreciated that the author pointed out our Master Designer in the lessons. I highly recommend this book!"

"I am now taking college level Anatomy and Physiology, and let me tell you, you prepared me well. I took my first college test on Friday, which just so happened to be A+P, and, praise God, I got a 101% on it. I just realized how easy college A+P is compared to what I am used to."

"My daughter and I just completed Exploring Creation with Astronomy. She loved it! And I enjoyed it so much, it's renewed my own interest in astronomy. The Christian worldview of your textbooks is a real breath of fresh air. My family and I are looking forward to years of science exploration with Apologia!"

At Apologia Educational Ministries, we offer a lineup of K-12 science textbooks, worldview studies for elementary-aged students, practical books and resources to equip and encourage homeschool parents, a series of conferences for homeschool moms, and an online academy with courses in science, Bible, worldview, and apologetics.

On a personal note, Rachael and I have homeschooled our seven children for fourteen years. Our commitment to home education resulted in our oldest graduating last year. He is completing a one-year program, which specializes in training young people for Christian leadership, service, and mission work. This and his homeschooling experience have helped prepare him to attend college full-time next year with the aid of multiple scholarships.

I am thankful for the opportunity to share our side of the story. We will continue to stand strong on the biblical account of creation. You can learn more by visiting our website at www.apologia.com. We'd love to hear from you. You can join the discussion at www.facebook.com/apologiaworld or send us your feedback at Our Contact Page.