Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum
In this article, you will find:
Combining curriculum materials and curriculum guides
Combining Curriculum MaterialsAfter families have homeschooled for a while, they often decide they like one part of a curriculum package, but not others. Most curriculum suppliers allow you to purchase one component without buying the whole program. For instance, parents may use Calvert for math, A Beka for science, and Sonlight for literature.
The Big Book of Home Learning (Vol. 1) by Mary Pride contains a comprehensive listing of all major curriculum suppliers as well as reviews and great tips for using a curriculum. Request a catalog from those suppliers that appeal to your teaching style, or visit their websites. It's also helpful to talk with homeschooling parents, and attend curriculum fairs (traveling exhibits of curricula providers) during the year.
Advantages: This method accommodates the individual learning style of your child, while offering the assurance that you're using a recognized, certified resource. Good teaching materials are available, and you simply choose those that fit your needs. Your children are given a little more freedom, and learning is enhanced.
Disadvantages: Experience and research are required. Moving out of the "safety zone" of a full curriculum program is often a frightening experience. Costs for textbooks and supplies add up quickly. Record-keeping and meeting local homeschooling requirements become your full responsibility.
Curriculum Guides
Curriculum guides are an inexpensive alternative to curriculum packages. Nancy Plent, founder of Unschoolers Network of NJ, created the guides by compiling the curricular goals from national and state standards. Nancy gives suggestions for meeting and exceeding these school guidelines, and explains how to organize your learning experiences so they translate into subject headings local officials will recognize.
Level I Pre-K, Kindergarten, and first grade $15
Level II Second and third grade $15
Level III Fourth and fifth grade $15
Level IV Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade $22
High School - all four years $25
Prices include postage
To order: email: UnNet@aol.com or write to Unschoolers Network, 2 Smith St., Farmingdale, NJ, 07727.
Advantages: The costs are minimal. These books serve as guides, not mandates, and individual learning styles are accommodated. You'll gain confidence as you discover you can easily accomplish a year's worth of learning at home.
Disadvantages: You have responsibility for obtaining all materials, record-keeping, and coordinating your child's learning program. You are also responsible for meeting local homeschooling requirements.
