Includes index

Contains verses of the Qur'an

Bibliography: pages 539-560 (volume 1), 499-520 (volume 2), 511-532 (volume 3)

VOLUME 1:

As the first of the three-volume work on natural science for secondary school students, volume one serves as the foundation for the subsequent volumes. The introduction and CHAPTER 1 lay the Qur'anic worldview as the foundational premise in relation to the study and pursuit of natural science. It then embarks on explaining the nature of the discipline and how a scientific experience from a scientist is shared with and assessed by other scientists in the same field, which eventually renders the initial scientific experience into knowledge.

This is followed by CHAPTER 2 whose theme "man, matter and living things" opens with the creation of "man", before delving into cells as units of life. The variety and classification of living things as well as microorganisms and infectious diseases are explored, ahead of a systematic discussion on matter, chemical formulae and equations, which is the key in the understanding of chemistry and its impacts on our daily life. The classification of elements as portrayed in the periodic table wraps up this chapter, with emphasis on the active order, proportion and sustenance by Allah the most gracious inherent in the universal kingdom of his creations.

CHAPTER 3, the last chapter of this volume deals with the theme "interactions and interdependence". To understand ourselves and the world better, we must have knowledge and appreciation of the diversity of the flora and fauna and how they interact in their respective environments. Our environment which is made up of air, water and myriads of other constituents must be better understood for a sustainable complementary symbiosis with our surroundings. This volume concludes with a study devoted to the incredible element - carbon - and the massive arrays of compounds it forms and how the bear on us and within us. Learning the above would inspire readers to want to know more about the subjects concerned and initiate self study on areas of interest.

VOLUME 2:

This book, the second of a three-volume work in natural science for secondary school students, consists of three chapters. Energy is that which stirs our world to life and is so much in demand today. "energy, dynamics and motion" is thus the theme of CHAPTER 1, which explores the various forms and sources of energy created by Allah the most gracious, the different technologies available on how best to harness them and the problems associated with these. The vehemently debated nuclear energy is allotted a special focus keeping in view of all the implications, responsibilities and precautions. With energy, there is force, which in turn sets matter in motion with or without us realising it. The chapter elaborates on dynamics, support in the structures of organisms and the physiology of their movements, followed by an exploration of the physics of motion.

CHAPTER 2 looks into the details of "electricity and magnetism", the interplay between the two, the generation of electricity and the various applications of electro-magnetism. This is followed by the subject of lights, a form of energy in the family of electromagnetic radiation. Included in the discussions on light is colour, and sight – the God-given aperture that lets us perceive the beautiful world that he created.

The discussions on energy continues in CHAPTER 3 with the theme "chemical thermodynamics, kinetics and equilibria", providing the foundation for understanding chemical thermodynamics and kinetics, with a thorough treatment on rates of reactions. The subject of equilibrium apparent in every level of cosmic existence as a sign (ayah) of the grandeur of the plan, order and intelligence of Allah’s creativeness, artistry and impeccable design. The chapter concludes with a brief qualitative reflection on entropy.

VOLUME 3:

Volume three, the last of a three-volume work on natural science for secondary school students, consists of three chapters. CHAPTER 1 carries the theme "management of the environment, balance, sustainability and the continuity of life". It starts with an elaboration of biodiversity followed by the nature of interdependence among living things and the environment. What naturally follow are matters of concern in regards to the preservation and conversation of the environment, which are of great importance and pivotal concern in the qur'anic worldview. The world around us is visualised through our senses. Since our daily living depends on them, the matter of nutrition and production of food is dealt with. The physiological functions of living things on which life depends so much, such as circulation, reproduction, coordination and heredity are elaborated upon.

CHAPTER 2 discusses broad aspects of "technology and development". These include the physics of strength and stability, machine, information and communication technology, chemicals in industry, food production, food technology, biotechnology and the developments of various synthetic material used in industries. Technological knowhow, awareness, accountability and responsibility are the key elements stressed.

"Astronomy and space exploration" being the theme of CHAPTER 3, the last chapter of this work, looks at the bigger picture of the universe. It traverses the inner and outer regions of our solar system and into space with a glimpse of the star and galaxies that litter the vastness of the universe with their beautiful twinkling lights that have been the subject of intrigue, awe and wonder; guiding caravans of travellers, ships and scientists since ancient time. Thus N.S.W.V.Q. concludes with a gesture that welcomes learners of all to unlock their hearts and read the signs of Allah the most gracious in his two books - the Qur’an and the cosmos...