Clover Valley Chemistry

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently praise Clover Valley Chemistry as the 'gold standard' for secular homeschool chemistry, specifically highlighting Connie’s exceptional responsiveness and organization (SilverMoon, WTM Forums). The curriculum is noted for its high academic rigor, with the Honors and Advanced tracks being particularly challenging and well-suited for college-bound students. While many appreciate the clear video lectures and comprehensive worksheets (daijobu, WTM Forums), a common concern is the heavy workload and the mathematical intensity required. Some parents note that the teacher-graded option is significantly more valuable than the parent-graded version due to the quality of feedback provided. A trade-off is that it may be overwhelming for students who are not scientifically inclined or who lack strong math foundations. Overall, it is highly recommended for those seeking a thorough, college-preparatory science experience.

How It Works

Students watch pre-recorded video lectures at their own pace and fill out provided guided note-taking pages to ensure they are following the technical concepts. For each chapter, the student completes homework assignments, labs and a chapter test, with a midterm and final exam in each course; the publisher estimates 5-7 hours per week for the Chemistry stream, 7-8 hours for the Honors stream, 10-12 hours for Advanced Honors Chemistry and 8-10 hours for Introduction to Organic Chemistry & Biochemistry. Chemistry with Honors Chemistry option and Advanced Honors Chemistry use a MicroChem lab kit from Quality Science Labs for labs at home; Introduction to Organic Chemistry & Biochemistry has no lab component beyond a few virtual lab assignments. Families choose either the teacher-graded version, in which the instructor grades the work and each chapter block has a set due date within fixed start and end dates, or the self-paced parent-graded version, in which the parent grades every assessment from worked answer keys and the instructor helps with clarification or technical issues only.

Switching to This?

The Chemistry stream requires Algebra 1 and the Honors stream requires Honors Algebra 1 with at least a B+; Advanced Honors Chemistry requires a rigorous Honors Algebra 1 course with at least a B+ and strongly recommends an optional placement pre-test, and Introduction to Organic Chemistry & Biochemistry requires a rigorous Honors Chemistry or AP Chemistry course. Most families choose the Honors Chemistry track for college-bound students, though the 'Regular' track is available for those who need a slightly slower pace without sacrificing core content. Because the course is highly sequential and builds upon previous modules, it is best to start at the beginning of the academic year rather than attempting to jump in mid-year. Families switching from a conceptual or textbook-only program should be prepared for a much heavier workload and a greater emphasis on showing work for multi-step calculations.

Curriculum Details

Price

$325 - $749/course

Each course is priced per student. The self-paced, parent-graded versions cost $325 for Chemistry with Honors Chemistry option, $375 for Advanced Honors Chemistry and $425 for Introduction to Organic Chemistry & Biochemistry, paid in full with no refund, for 12 months of access; extra access is $50 per month, and enrollment is always open. The teacher-graded 36-week versions cost $649, $699 and $749 respectively ($749 and $799 for the last two when taken through AP Homeschoolers), with a non-refundable $50 deposit due at registration. Teacher-graded registration for 2026-2027 is closed, registration for 2027-2028 opens March 1, 2027, and the teacher-graded Advanced Honors Chemistry will not be offered in 2027-2028.

Grades

9 - 12

Available As

Digital Video Online Internet required

Coverage

Single subject

Subjects

Science

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Pacing

Some flexibility

Parent Time

5-30 min/day

Student Independence

Semi-independent

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Academic Level

Advanced

Worldview

Secular

Videos

Reviews We Consulted

Updated: June 2026

How This Compares

Compared to Apologia, which uses a conversational, faith-based textbook, Clover Valley is a strictly secular program that uses a more traditional collegiate lecture-and-worksheet format. When weighed against Thinkwell, which offers automated grading and generic video content, Clover Valley provides a much more personalized feel because students can receive direct feedback and instruction from Connie herself. Against Derek Owens, who is also highly regarded for asynchronous science, Clover Valley stands out for its specialized offerings like Honors and Organic Chemistry, providing a deeper path for students pursuing STEM careers. Parents comparing this to Berean Builders will find that while Berean Builders focuses on a narrative, chronological history of science, Clover Valley focuses on mastering the specific mechanics and math of modern chemistry. Finally, unlike programs like Chemistry 101 which are visual and light on math, Clover Valley is a 'heavyweight' option that ensures a student is fully prepared for the rigors of a university-level chemistry lab.

Getting Started