When it comes to homeschool curriculums with a Biblical worldview, two big names stand out: Master Books and A Beka Book. Both offer a full selection of textbooks and teaching materials grounded in Christian principles.
But there are some key differences parents should understand before deciding which is the best fit for their homeschool.
Brief Comparison Table
| Curriculum | Teaching Style | Content Focus | Cost | Format |
| Master Books | Student-driven Unit study topics | Creation science Bible overview | À la carte pricing Affordable | Textbooks & digital |
| A Beka | Teacher-directed Structured | Bible study & memory Character focus | Bundled sets Higher prices | Print textbooks & resources |
Overview Of Master Books
Founded in 1975, Master Books aims to provide faith-based educational materials that promote a Biblical worldview. Their curriculums cover all core subjects for Kindergarten through High School.
Some key highlights of Master Books:
- Created by well-known Christian authors like Ken Ham (founder of Answers in Genesis)
- Incorporates topics like creation science and Biblical history
- Self-instructional format requiring less teacher prep time
- Literature guides build critical thinking skills by analyzing stories
- Affordable prices compared to other full-grade curriculums
The independent, flexible structure of Master Books gives parents control over customizing lessons. Students can progress at their own pace through the self-teaching textbooks. But the curriculum does require motivated self-starters and may not suit all learning abilities.
Overview Of A Beka Book
Founded in 1954 and run by Pensacola Christian College, A Beka Book takes a more traditional approach. Their K-12 textbooks and teaching resources emphasize Christian character training and academic excellence.
Some key details about A Beka Book:
- Teacher editions provide detailed lesson plans and instructions
- Materials use engaging styles, like colorful illustrations and comic strips
- Traditional approach may better suit struggling students
- Strong emphasis on Christian values and Bible study
- Higher cost for their packaged curriculum sets
The structured format and teacher support from A Beka Book can make their resources easier to start with as a new homeschooler. But some parents feel the materials take an overly rigorous academic pace that doesn’t suit all learners.
Key Differences
While both companies create quality Christian-focused curriculums, there are some notable differences:
Teaching Style
Master Books uses more self-instructional textbooks aligned with unit studies for flexible, student-driven lessons. A Beka provides structured teacher editions for highly organized, teacher-directed instruction.
Content Focus
Master Books emphasizes scientific creationism and Biblical history, while A Beka focuses more on Bible study for Christian character building.
Pace & Rigor
A Beka sets a faster pace and more rigorous expectations, whereas Master Books allows flexible pacing based on the student’s abilities.
Cost
Master Books provides affordable, à la carte pricing for picking individual subjects. A Beka charges higher prices for bundled, all-in-one curriculum sets.
Learning Formats
Master Books offers digital homeschool programs in addition to textbooks. A Beka focuses mainly on traditional print textbooks and resources.
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Pros & Cons Comparison
Here is a broad overview of the advantages and disadvantages of each Christian-based homeschool curriculum:
Master Books
Pros
- Creationist perspective
- Prominent Christian authors
- Literature analysis develops critical thinking
- Flexible structure and pacing
- More affordable pricing
- Digital programs available
Cons
- Requires self-motivated & independent learners
- Parent must develop own lesson plans
- Not enough teacher support for some students
- Editorial issues in some books
A Beka Book
Pros
- Structured scope & sequence
- Detailed teacher lesson plans
- Engaging visual textbook elements
- Strong teacher resource support
- Established reputation since 1954
Cons
- Expensive all-in-one curriculum bundles
- Rigorous pace not ideal for all abilities
- Overemphasis on memorization
- Some content gaps in upper grades
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Some top alternatives that provide similar structured, traditional curriculums like Abeka include Bob Jones Press, School of Tomorrow (ACE), and Christian Light Education. Alpha Omega and Horizon Legacy also offer comparable digital packages.
As part of the New Leaf Publishing Group, Master Books aligns with a Protestant, evangelical, and non-denominational Christian perspective. But they aim to appeal to a broad range of Christian backgrounds that value faith-based education.
Potential downsides of Abeka cited by homeschool parents include the fast pace being too rigorous for struggling students, heavy emphasis on memorization over deeper learning, lack of flexibility with the structured format, and high cost of curriculum bundles.
The consensus is Abeka sets a more accelerated academic pace compared to average public school curriculums. Supporters feel it provides a private school-quality education with strong foundations. But critics argue it loads on homework and difficult lessons that frustrate some students.
Also Read: Differences Between The Amber Book And Black Spectacles.
Conclusion
When choosing between Master Books Vs. A Beka, homeschool families must reflect on their student’s learning style and abilities to determine the best fit.
Master Books offers affordable, creationist-based materials focused on critical thinking and Biblical principles, but parents handle more teaching responsibilities. A Beka provides in-depth teacher guidance yet moves at a demanding pace that’s heavy on memorization.
By understanding these key differences in approach and priorities, Christian homeschoolers can better evaluate which curriculum aligns with their needs and educational philosophy. The goal is finding resources that don’t just align with Biblical values but also nurture a genuine lifelong love of faith-based learning.