For a homeschool family, one of the biggest considerations is the curriculum that they select for their student(s). There are many choices that range from traditional textbook-style to more independent learning.
One of the more well-known curriculum providers is BJU Home School Curriculum. Parents want to make sure that whatever is chosen will be academically rigorous, age-appropriate, and the right fit for their student(s). In this article, we will address the difficulty of the BJU Homeschool Curriculum and answer questions about this popular homeschool option.
What is BJU Homeschool?
BJU Homeschool is a program designed to equip homeschooling families with a complete curriculum as well as support, training, and resources. It was founded in 1973, making it one of the country’s oldest homeschool curricula, and has evolved over the years to include all ages and levels of education.
BJU doesn’t just provide textbooks, but instead creates a complete experience that goes beyond traditional education by including the parent’s guidance, training on a broad range of topics, and emphasizes communication with other homeschool families through a forum and newsletter.
How Difficult is the BJU Homeschool Curriculum?
The difficulty of the BJU Homeschool Curriculum depends mostly on the grade and subject. It is important to remember that the curriculum is built to meet the needs and interests of the student, so it can be adjusted for more ease or challenge.
In general, math and science courses tend to be more challenging than language arts courses. For example, grades K-6 math courses are already more difficult than their typical public school counterparts, while language arts courses contain an emphasis on writing, grammar, and literature that builds from grade to grade. The curriculum also comes with a variety of support resources to help the student understand and complete work.
For example, BJU offers supplemental materials like virtual and physical labs and resources such as online tutoring, homeschooling seminars, and talking points to help parents gain confidence and knowledge to facilitate homeschooling.
What Are the Math and Science Courses Like?
The math course are modeled after college preparatory courses, in which students begin by mastering basic math skills in grades K-3 and then moving on to more complex concepts, like algebra, geometry, and calculus in the higher grades. These classes are taught with heavy emphasis on problem solving and word-based questions. This is great for higher thinkers, but more lower-level learners may require extra support.
The science courses are also modeled after college preparatory courses and provide plenty of step-by-step instruction with reading comprehension activities as review. The level of difficulty increases from grades K-12, with their high school level courses providing more in-depth knowledge and facility with lab work.
What Are the Language Arts Courses Like?
The language arts courses are focused on reading comprehension and writing, with in-depth instruction on literature, grammar, spelling, and writing. Vocabulary development is another focus of the courses, and there is an emphasis on creative writing development, as well. Grade-level courses start off with a basic introduction to using language, then cultivate understanding in higher graphical thinking by introducing students to poetry, classic and contemporary literature, and critical thinking.
Does BJU’s Curriculum Offer Support For Struggling Students?
Yes. BJU understands that not all students learn the same way and offers a selection of tools for student success. The curriculum itself is designed to be adjustable to a variety of learning styles, so that students can access their coursework without feeling overwhelmed.
For students who may need additional help, BJU also provides online tutoring and the ability to request a live teacher to facilitate the learning. Additionally, the website offers resources to supplement the curriculum such as videos, study skills, reviews, and practice questions.
How Can Parents Monitor Student Progress?
The BJU Home School Curriculum offers parents a one-stop dashboard that stores grades, report cards, and other records. This dashboard serves as a useful tool when reporting student progress to teachers, administrators, or prospective universities since it creates detailed records for parents to refer to.
The dashboard also serves as a platform to message teachers and other BJU staff members, if the parent has any questions or comments. The platform is user friendly and can be accessed from all devices.
What Technologies Does BJU Use To Enhance The Curriculum?
BJU strives to keep their curriculum up-to-date by utilizing forms of technology such as artificial intelligence, 3D learning, iPads, and other interactive resources. One of the most popular enhancements is their “EdTech Tool,” which is a digital teaching system designed to simulate classroom instruction virtually. This learning environment allows students to learn at their own pace and review lessons to further enhance their understanding of the material.
Additionally, teachers and parents have access to online gradebooks, lesson planners and other digital training materials that aid in tracking progress and understanding the student’s needs.
What Resources Does BJU Offer to Parents and Students?
BJU offers a variety of resources to support and equip families. They offer an online forum and newsletter to connect parents, teachers, and students with others from all around the world, and to share stories, ask and answer questions, and obtain assistance with curriculum and general homeschooling concerns.
The BJU Homeschool website also offers counsel for parents who are new to homeschooling and provide resources on topics such as curriculum selection, homeschool methodologies, educational goals, and even government education regulations.
Are The Learning Materials Compatible With All Devices and Platforms?
Yes. BJU’s curriculum is developed to be compatible with multiple devices and platforms. Materials, such as textbooks and workbooks, are offered in both hardcopy and electronic versions.
Electronic textbooks are readable and accessible on any type of device, such as iPads, tablets, and laptops.
Are The Learning Materials Adjusted For Different Time Zones?
Yes. Students who are geographically separated from their peers can use the same curriculum at the same time. As long as all of the students have the materials and access to the internet, they can learn together and engage with each other.
Are Tests Required?
No. Although BJU’s curriculum is designed to lead towards mastery of the course material, they do not require students to take tests.
Since the courses often go above and beyond the course material found in public schools, there may be difficulty obtaining the right tests and grading materials.
What Supplemental Resources Does BJU Offer For Struggling Students?
BJU Homeschool offers a variety of supplemental resources for struggling students. One of the most well-liked online options is the online tutoring program which uses live teachers to help the student with their coursework.
Another resource available is the specialized page for parents and teachers. This page offers detailed articles and tips on how to support struggling students, as well as information on educational adjustments that can be made to cater to the student’s individual learning needs.
Are There Quizzes and Assessments Available?
Yes. BJU Home School offers quizzes, assessments, and evaluations to help track student progress.
Parents can also access a variety of quizzes and assessments that can help form an individualized learning plan for their student.
What Resources Does BJU Offer For College Preparation?
BJU’s curriculum is designed to serve students from grade school through college. Therefore, BJU offers preparation materials specifically designed to help students transition to college. These materials include resources on college admissions, career exploration, and scholarships.
Conclusion
BJU Homeschool is a great choice for homeschool families. It offers rigorous curriculum, resources for struggling students, college preparation, and more.
The difficulty of the curriculum does vary depending on the grade and subject, but there are multiple supplemental materials and support that can help students to make sure they master the course material.