For those who are looking for a more rigorous home schooling experience for their child, there are a number of options out there. In this article we will explore what the most rigorous homeschool curriculum looks like and how to find the best one for your family’s needs. Homeschooling is rapidly growing in popularity for many families for a variety of reasons.
While homeschooling allows for families to tailor their child’s learning to their individual needs and interests, there are still traditional curricula that can be found which follow specific guidelines. The most rigorous homeschool curricula are those which are accredited and aligned with the Common Core State Standards.
They provide framework and a set of core content to ensure that children are challenged and reaching their highest potential. In this article we will answer the following questions:
What is the Common Core State Standards?
The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) is a set of standard K-12 math and language arts curricula developed and adopted by 45 states since 20 It is the first national set of consistent learning goals for all students, and the standards provide educators with the clear expectations for teaching, instruction, and assessment.
The standards have been designed to increase students’ critical thinking skills, promote problem-solving, and focus instruction on higher-order thinking.
What are the Benefits of Accredited Homeschool Curriculum?
Accreditation of homeschool curriculum means that the program meets certain state and/or national academic standards and has been verified by an independent body. Accreditation is important for homeschoolers, because it shows that the curriculum has been reviewed and the school is meeting specific standards.
Having a curriculum that meets those standards means that your child is receiving the best educational experience possible. Accreditation also ensures that the curriculum is consistent with what schools are teaching publicly and can be used toward a high school diploma.
What are the Different Types of Accredited Homeschool Curriculum?
Accredited homeschool curriculum come in a variety of formats. Online courses and traditional textbooks are two of the most common types. Online courses allow for more flexibility and interactivity than textbooks, while traditional textbooks provide a comprehensive approach to teaching certain topics.
Homeschoolers can also access accredited curriculum by enrolling in digital learning platforms, online schools and virtual academies, or even traditional homeschool companies.
What is Required for Accredited Homeschool Curriculum?
Accredited homeschool curriculums must meet certain standards in order to be valid. They must use a properly formatted instruction that meets the same standards as public schools, including assessments and learning outcomes.
The curriculum should also be taught by certified teachers and/or meet minimum criteria from an independent accrediting agency. Other requirements may include learning activities, grading, record keeping, and other tasks that would normally be done in a public school setting.
How Do I Know Which Curriculum is Right for Me?
When selecting an accredited homeschool curriculum, the family should focus on the learning style and needs of their child. It is important to choose a curriculum that is rigorous enough to challenge the student but not over-challenging. Parents should also consider the cost, the organization of the materials, and the delivery format.
In addition, parents should research the background and credentials of the material’s author and publisher and consult other homeschoolers to get their opinion on the selection.
What Are Some Examples of Accredited Homeschool Curriculum?
The Carolina Biological curriulum is an example of a multi-disciplinary, accredited program that helps to prepare students for college. Other accredited homeschool curriculum options include WinterPromise, Bridgeway Academy, Klutz, and Time4Learning. Each of these programs offers a unique approach to teaching and learning and has something to offer the student.
What is the Difference between Traditional School and Homeschool Curriculum?
The major difference between traditional school and homeschool curriculum is the learning environment. Traditional classrooms provide a structured, teacher-led classroom experience, while homeschooling focuses heavily on individualized instruction and parent-child interaction. Homeschooling also allows for more flexibility in the type of curriculum and materials used, as well as the amount of time spent on certain topics.
How Can I Make Sure My Child is Challenged with their Curriculum?
To make sure your child is challenged with their homeschool curriculum, it is important to combine rigorous academic content with learning activities that engage their interests and motivation. Find materials that are challenging and relevant to your student’s abilities and interests.
Additionally, providing a variety of different forms of instruction and assessment that promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and exploration is key.
What Are Some Benefits of Following a Rigorous Homeschool Curriculum?
A rigorous homeschool curriculum provides the structure and guidance necessary to ensure your student is learning the required material while still being able to pursue individual interests and projects. Additionally, a rigorous curriculum challenges and prepares the student for college or other post-secondary opportunities and gives them a greater appreciation for education.
A rigorous curriculum also provides continuity for the homeschool experience as the student progresses from grade to grade.
What Tools and Resources Can Homeschool Families Use?
Homeschool families have access to a variety of tools and resources to help with the homeschooling experience. Online resources such as Khan Academy and the library offer a wealth of educational materials and activities that can be used to supplement the curriculum. Additionally, parents can find support and advice from other homeschoolers and homeschool groups, as well as state and national organizations.
What Types of Homeschoolers Are Most Likely to Benefit from a Rigorous Curriculum?
Students who are looking to gain admission to a selective college as well as those who are interested in pursuing an advanced degree are the most likely to benefit from a rigorous homeschool curriculum. A rigorous homeschool curriculum provides a strong academic foundation and sets a college-ready student on the right track. Additionally, homeschoolers who desire to challenge themselves beyond their grade level may also find value in a rigorous curriculum.
Conclusion
Having a rigorous and accredited homeschool curriculum is essential to ensure that your student is learning the required material and being challenged to reach their highest potential. Finding an accredited curriculum that meets the needs of the student and is appropriate for their level is key. With the wide variety of online, traditional, and hybrid options available, it is possible for each family to find the best program for their child.