Homeschooling is one of the fastest growing learning options in the United States. This option is becoming more popular as parents have become increasingly concerned about the state of public and private education.
In the past few decades, the number of homeschooled students has increased by almost 500%. Homeschooling offers a great opportunity for families to customize their children’s learning experience. But what curriculum do most homeschoolers use?
Types of Homeschool Curriculum
There are many different types of homeschool curriculum. The most popular type is the traditional curriculum which covers the school’s approved coursework. Other types of curriculum include unit studies, Montessori methods, Charlotte Mason, Classical Teaching, Unschooling, and Waldorf methods.
Depending on the child’s age, individual needs, and preferred learning style, the family may choose the best curriculum for their child. The traditional curriculum most homeschoolers use includes textbooks, workbooks, and tests.
This type of learning is similar to traditional public or private school classroom instruction. Homeschoolers using the traditional curriculum typically set goals and deadlines, give assignments, and track progress.
The textbooks and workbooks used are generally aligned with state educational standards, so that homeschoolers may benefit from prior school-based instruction and be better prepared for college. Unit studies are another popular type of homeschool curriculum. Unit studies are organized around a single, integrated topic.
For example, a unit study focused on World War II may include the reading of a historical fiction novel with related worksheets and activities. Unit studies vary from traditional curricula in that they often stress experiential learning or field trips rather than book and test-based learning.
This type of learning works very well for visual and hands-on learners. Montessori methods combine physical activity, exploration and self-directed learning. Montessori activities and materials are designed to teach self-discipline, respect and self-control.
The materials and activities used in Montessori classrooms are adapted to the individual student. Montessori methods are particularly beneficial for students who are highly independent learners, as they encourage self-guided learning. Charlotte Mason homeschooling is based on the theories of Charlotte Mason, a British educator in the 19th century. This method focuses on student development of character and understanding of the world. Mason’s philosophy emphasizes the use of good books and nature study as the primary sources of education. Classical teaching, like Charlotte Mason methods, is focused on the development of the student as a whole person. It is rooted in the Western cultural tradition and offers an integrated approach to educating children. This method primarily focuses on language, literature and history, and places high emphasis on the memorization of facts and skills. Unschooling is a type of homeschooling where the parents largely allow their children to decide what to learn and when. This approach emphasizes natural learning—rather than textbooks and tests—and provides the student with personal freedom to direct and explore their own learning. Finally, Waldorf is similar to Montessori methods in its emphasis on experiential learning and activities tailor-made to the individual student. Waldorf methods focus on artistic expression, imagination, and movement.
Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum
When selecting a homeschool curriculum, the family should consider their child’s age, aptitude, learning style, and individual needs. Some of the most important factors in selecting a curriculum are the parents’ level of experience, budget, and availability of resources. Another factor to consider is the state’s requirements for homeschooling, as some states have very specific regulations.
It is important to make sure that the chosen curriculum aligns with the goals and values of the parents. If a family is looking for a strong academic curriculum, they should make sure that it is aligned with the state’s standards and is comprehensive in its coverage of the subjects.
If a family is looking to give their child a more hands-on learning experience, it is important to make sure the curriculum includes activities, field trips, and other activities that will help the child engage and learn in meaningful ways. The parents should also make sure to select a curriculum that offers the appropriate level of challenge and support for the child.
The Popularity of Traditional Curriculum
The traditional curriculum is the most popular type of homeschool curriculum. Traditional curriculum offers an academic program that is similar to what is covered in public and private schools.
It allows homeschoolers to access the same type of instruction offered in the classroom and to be held to the same standards as their counterparts in traditional educational settings. The traditional curriculum is also very cost-effective, as many of the materials and resources needed for successful instruction can be borrowed from the school or purchased from retail stores. While the traditional curriculum may not be the best choice for all types of learners, it is the most popular choice for homeschoolers.
The traditional curriculum is widely accepted, and provides a good introduction to concepts and skills that will be important for college and a future career.
Conclusion
When selecting a homeschool curriculum, parents should keep in mind the age, aptitude, learning style, and individual needs of their child. The traditional curriculum is the most popular choice for homeschoolers, as it provides an introduction to the concepts and skills necessary for success in college.
Homeschoolers interested in more hands-on learning may explore other types of curriculum such as Montessori, Charlotte Mason, Unschooling, Classical Teaching, and Waldorf. No matter the type of curriculum, it is important to ensure that it aligns with the family’s goals and values.