Homeschooling your 7th grade student can be a thrilling prospect. As a parent, you are able to guide your child’s education in a way that works best for them, as well as having the flexibility to find a curriculum that is specifically tailored to their needs.
When it comes to choosing a curriculum for history, however, you may find yourself stumped. There is a large array of choices available on the market, and it can be overwhelming to know where to start. To help you make an informed decision about the right history curriculum for your student, here are 15 crucial questions you should ask before you make your purchase.
1. What Kind of Learning Style Does the Curriculum Cater To?
Your 7th grade student likely has a unique learning style that works best for them. Some students learn best by reading alone, while others may thrive while working through projects or activities.
Make sure that whatever curriculum you are looking into acknowledges this. Many curriculums offer hands-on activities and different types of media to accompany the textbook material.
2. Does the Curriculum Have Accessible Resources?
While the main resource for your history curriculum may be the textbook, you may want to also invest in additional resources like pamphlets, books, and libraries. It is important to check if the curriculum offers any resources or if you will have to find them on your own.
3. Is the Curriculum Informed by Professional Content Creators?
It’s always best to have a curriculum that is crafted by professional historians, authors, and teachers. Quality content creators possess a wealth of knowledge, which your student can then tap into. Research the background and credentials of the people behind the curriculum, as this will provide insight into the quality of material and resources offered.
4. What Specific Topics Does the Curriculum Cover?
Make sure to confirm which topics the curriculum covers. Different curriculums may come with varying focuses and lengths. Additionally, it is worth double-checking if the curriculum you have chosen caters to the specific topics you would like to cover.
5. Does the Curriculum Bring History to Life?
A great history curriculum goes beyond textbooks and textbooks alone. Look for curriculums that integrate primary sources, visuals, and activities to bring the past to life in your student’s classroom.
Interactive elements will give your student a more comprehensive understanding of the material and make learning more fun!
6. Does the Curriculum Offer Regular Assessments?
Learning history effectively requires regular assessment of knowledge. Make sure that the curriculum you are considering includes regular quizzes, tests, and essay prompts so that your student’s understanding of the material can be measured. Many courses also offer scheduled reports that provide parents and educators with an overview of the student’s progress.
7. Is the Curriculum Also Available in Online Formats?
It is helpful if the history curriculum you choose offers a version of their material online. This will make it easier for your student to access their material from anywhere, allowing for more flexible homeschooling sessions. Online formats also usually come with additional interactive elements, such as diagrams, videos, and audio recordings.
8. Is It Responsive to Changes in the Field?
It is important that your 7th grade student keeps abreast of the latest findings and developments in the field of history. Look for a curriculum that makes it a point to stay up to date with information and remains at the cutting edge of the subject.
9. Does It Have the Potential to Stimulate Discussion?
Learning history should not be a quiet activity. Search for curriculums that have the educational potential to stimulate discussions between student and teacher. This can add depth to the understanding of the material and enhance the educational experience.
10. Is the Curriculum Adaptable?
No student is the same. Make sure that the curriculum you choose allows for flexibility in the way that the material is presented, in how the resources are used, and in how long it takes to cover the material.
The best curriculums for 7th grade allow for an individualized approach to learning history.
11. Is There Support for Struggling Students?
It is important to be mindful of any students who may find the material challenging or difficult to follow. Consider curriculums that provide online or in-person support for any students who may be struggling.
This will ensure that everyone is able to grasp the concepts accurately and become competent on the subject matter.
12. Does the Curriculum Embrace Multiple Perspectives?
History cannot be accurately understood when presented from a single perspective. Look for a curriculum that includes multiple perspectives and different interpretations so that your student can develop a nuanced understanding of history.
13. Is There an Emphasis on Developing Different Skills?
History is more than just dates and events. Look for curriculums that emphasize the development of different skills such as critical thinking, research, writing, and communication.
It is also important to look for curriculums that take into account diversity and promote a spirit of acceptance.
14. Are There Opportunities for Historical Exploration?
Having a platform for your student to explore different topics and branches of history is essential to developing a full appreciation for the subject. Consider curriculums that offer online libraries, field trips, and simulative games so that your child can learn beyond the text.
15. Is It Affordable for Your Budget?
Lastly, it is important to keep in mind how much the curriculum costs. You may find a curriculum that is highly recommended, but it may be too expensive for your budget.
Have a look around for a curriculum that is within your budget, but still offers an educationally sound and comprehensive selection of material.
Conclusion
Choosing the right history curriculum for your 7th grade homeschool student can be a daunting task. Before you make any decisions, it is important to ask yourself 15 questions to ensure that the curriculum is the best fit for your student’s needs.
Remember to look for curriculums that are affordable, offer diverse perspectives, and are tailored to your student’s learning style. With these criteria in mind, you are sure to find the perfect history curriculum for your 7th grade student.