The 7 Best Physical Science Textbooks

This wiki has been updated 24 times since it was first published in February of 2019. No education is complete without a solid grounding in the physical sciences — physics, chemistry, geology, and the like. The textbooks on this list offer readers various levels of instruction in the field, regardless of whether they're used in a classroom setting or as self-guided study aids to prepare for an important exam. Our selections includes editions suitable for just about any age range. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 24 times since it was first published in February of 2019. No education is complete without a solid grounding in the physical sciences — physics, chemistry, geology, and the like. The textbooks on this list offer readers various levels of instruction in the field, regardless of whether they're used in a classroom setting or as self-guided study aids to prepare for an important exam. Our selections includes editions suitable for just about any age range. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Conceptual Physical Science

As the name suggests, Conceptual Physical Science (appx. $140) focuses more on big-picture ideas than nitty-gritty computations. It's a perfect introductory guide to the subject, and can whet students' appetites for the deeper instruction they'll receive in future classes.

Explains abstract concepts clearly
Plenty of helpful visual aids
Chapter summaries list key terms

2. Physical Science: Concepts in Action

If you're having trouble sparking an interest in your students, give them Physical Science: Concepts in Action (appx. $92) to read. It takes the ideas and abstractions out of the realm of the theoretical and into the practical, promoting hands-on interaction with the natural world.

Plenty of activity suggestions
Explains reasons behind phenomena
Clear and approachable prose

3. An Introduction to Physical Science

Non-STEM majors will be grateful to have An Introduction to Physical Science (around $70) on their shelves, as it summarizes five of the primary disciplines: chemistry, physics, astronomy, geology, and meteorology. It's helpful and informative without being overwhelming.

Builds problem-solving skills
Offers flexibility for teachers
Focuses on fundamental concepts

4. Holt Physical Science

You don't have to worry about getting too far in the weeds with Holt Physical Science (appx. $85). It offers a broad overview of the field and can serve as a useful skeleton on which to build in future classes. Just don't expect too much detail in any one area.

Good for learning-disabled students
Includes standardized test prep
Interactive online component

5. Tillery's Physical Science

Tillery's Physical Science (around $99) isn't written in a linear fashion, so instructors can feel free to skip around to their liking. Regardless of how you approach it, you'll experience a method that combines real-world, problem-solving skills with theoretical exploration.

Enough material for two semesters
Suitable for honors courses
Too advanced for non-science majors

6. Prentice Hall Physical Science Explorer

Middle-schoolers will be drawn to the Prentice Hall Physical Science Explorer (appx. $48), as it uses stories to relate its points, making it one of the more engaging texts on the market. It can also be helpful for older students who need to brush up on the fundamentals.

Encourages scientific thinking
Teaches lab safety skills
Also requires purchase of workbook

7. Holt Science & Technology Physical Science

Holt Science & Technology Physical Science (appx. $63) is a smart choice for the easily distracted. The activities are clearly delineated, and there are even sections devoted to internet research and other online projects, which helps to break up the monotony from reading.

Ideal for homeschooling
Topics are well laid out
Hard to find answers to questions

Last updated by Quincy Miller

After getting his bachelor’s from the University of Texas, Quincy Miller moved out to Los Angeles, where he soon found work as a copywriter and researcher, specializing in health and wellness topics for a major online media brand. Quincy is also knowledgeable about home improvement, as he’s had extensive experience with everything from insulation to power tools to emergency room trips, sometimes in that order. Sharing a home with three dogs and a couple of cats has forced Quincy to learn as much as he can about pet supplies, animal nutrition and, most importantly, the best ways to tackle the mountains of fur that accumulate in every corner of your home.

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