Tina Robertson

25 Great Homeschool High School Science Curriculum

July 12, 2022 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Several years before I chose a homeschool high school science curriculum, I was feeling anything but calm. Fast forward 20 years and I’ve learned there are many options to teaching high school science right. Check out my how to homeschool high school page for awesome tips.

And it’s hard to go too wrong when narrowing down the options for homeschool high school science.

However, before you can choose the right homeschool science curriculum for your teen you need to determine the answers to these 7 questions.

25 Great Homeschool High School Science Curriculum

Will your high school teen pursue a science career and want to dive deep or are you wanting to give him a broad overview?
What is your teen’s current attitude toward science? More on that in a minute.
How will your goals or expectations affect your teen? For example, will hands-on activities be priority over completing the science text or will a completed text be the only way to count a grade?

Science Curriculum for Teens

And here are the next four questions.

Determining the lab component is important. So, will you devote time to understanding how to count labs. By the way, I have you covered. Grab some tips here at my post How to Easily Meet the Lab Component of Homeschool High School Science.
Also, because homeschool high school science curriculum has exploded, do you want a Christian-based, secular or even faith-neutral science curriculum?
In addition, while not being totally fixated on grades, determine how you will grade? Will you grade only daily work and tests or will participation in discussions with you and hands-on activities be a big part of the grade? And finally,
what goals does your teen have? Ask him or her what they want to learn or get from the course.

It won’t take long to think about those seven questions and don’t forget some of this will change depending on the age of your teen.

If your teen is just entering high school, he may change his goals from ninth grade to twelfth grade.

Stay flexible and don’t forget to have fun. The high school years were some of the best years of my journey.

What are the Branches of Science

First begin with understanding course descriptions.

For those of us who are not science majors sorting out the branches of science can be confusing.

All I knew was that in high school, I chose topics I loved for all four years.

Even if the topics are considered subtopics of the main branches of science, it’s still considered a study of science for high school.

I love these simple definitions from Study.Com where it says, “Physical science is the study of non-living things and the laws that describe them. The life sciences, which can also be called biology, have many subsets. The most common ones include botany, zoology, genetics, human biology, nutrition, and medicine. Earth sciences include geology, paleontology, meteorology, oceanography, and ecology.”

Homeschool High School Science Curriculum Sequence

Next, what is important to consider is the sequence.

As I mentioned before whether your teen is pursuing a college track or career track is a deciding factor for the sequence of courses.

For instance, if your teen is pursuing a college track, it’s important that you check first with the college to determine the science sequence and credits needed.

A good rule of thumb is to have your teen do all fours years and a lab. This way the science doors stay open. A teen may decide to pursue a science career five years after completing high school. A solid science background would be important then.

If your child is not pursuing a science career, then probably two or three years of science with a lab is enough. Look below at a couple of sequences for high school science courses.

High School Science Curriculum Sequence

3 years and 1 lab
physical science
biology and
chemistry

4 years and 1 lab
biology
chemistry
earth science
physics or an elective

And when I started homeschooling 20+ years ago, below were some of the sequences.

I think they’re still wonderful for our current day.

This one comes from Home Learning Year by Year by Rebecca Rupp. It still stands solid.

And this sequence comes from College-Prep Homeschooling by David and Chandra Bryers.

Grade 9 Earth/Space Science
Grade 10 Biology
Grade 11 Chemistry
Grade 12 Physics

Grade 9 Physical Science
Grade 10 Biology Lab 1/2 credit
Grade 11 Chemistry Lab 1/2 credit
Grade 12 Physics

Next, something else to not forget is to think about your child’s mathematical abilities.

When you choose courses like biology or earth science first your teen has time to strengthen his math foundation.

My opinion is the sequence depends on your child’s math abilities.

I don’t think there is a right or wrong. If your child needs more time to strengthen his algebra skills, do earth science or biology first.

However, if your teen’s algebra skills are solid by 9th grade, then jump into physics right away.

As you can see there are many paths to cover the 3 main branches of science physical sciences, life sciences, and earth sciences.

Furthermore, look through these high school science curriculum to see the wonderful choices.

And a few pointers will help you in choosing a high school curriculum which meets your needs.

More Homeschool High School Teen Elective Resources

Whether you’re looking for a faith-based resource like Apologia or you are looking for a resource like Abeka’s physical creation, you’ll find a resource here.

In addition, if you prefer more of a secular or faith-neutral approach, look at R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey.

High School Homeschool Curriculum

Further, some curriculum are worktexts for students who may not want labs. PAC Works or Paradigm Accelerated Curriculum below are straight worktexts.

Furthermore, rabbit trails or subtopics under the main branches of science can be so fascinating.

Whether your teen wants to study marine biology or take a year studying the night sky it’s still science.

For example, anatomy, zoology, botany, and geology are more fascinating subtopics.

As I mentioned at the outset, you can see why your teen’s interest matter.

More important to me is the experience and hands-on activity. And nurturing my teen’s love for any branch of science.

Sure, we must record keep and maintain credits, but don’t choose completing a textbook over the experience.

Novare Physical Science
Introductory Physics
Exploring Creation with Physical Science

I still don’t view myself as a science mom, but I am a science lover and all three homeschooled grads still love science.

What do you think, can you find an option for your teen here?

In conclusion, you’ll love my other high school tips:

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination?

July 11, 2022 | 19 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Anybody that homeschools has probably faced homeschool socialization interrogations. Also, look at more tips on my page The Dynamics of How to Homeschool Easily and Smarter.

Today, I’m sharing about socialization in our homeschool world. Are we as isolated as some think?

First, I want you to hear my story.

Back in the covered wagon days like my kids think or at least LBK (life before kids), I worked with lawyers.

Socialization - A Homeschool Hallucination?

I worked as an assistant to prepare clients for upcoming trials.

See, I’ve always been in preparedness mode.

I took pride in preparing the lawyers for objections from the opposing side.

And I always tried to think outside of the box for one-liners and comebacks when they were needed.

When it comes to homeschool socialization, I feel the same way.

In many ways it is similar to a battle or drama that is always brewing.

Get Those Kids Out of the House

You know what I am talking about.

Maybe you have gotten similar statements – ”homeschoolers are a bunch of holy roly weirdos”, “they’re just weird” or “Mom, those kids are gonna have to get out of the house sometimes”.

I’m sure you have some to add.

Looking back at my LBK days, I probably enjoyed the process of preparing for those far-fetched objections just as much as actually assisting in the courtroom.

Oh sure, once in a while I may have a quick comeback or I might shock astound folks with my quick wit (shock myself too).

But most of the time preparation is key to giving a good defense to the dreaded socialization issue.

It has been facing homeschoolers from the time they mouth the words: “I’m homeschooling”.

First, comes the silent strong look from even complete strangers.

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They might as well just say what is on their mind.

It is written all over their face and then comes the blanket statement, which by the way is obvious that they have not researched this topic well.

Each year many new homeschoolers join the ranks with us in homeschooling.

And because we don’t want to be among the ones that are not well-researched, we need to take the time to get a clear cut picture of the meaning or definition of socialization.

Too, it’s hard to be prepared for something that we are not clear on.

Socialization – A Homeschool Hallucination

Getting the full flavor of these words, I chose not to use a free definition found online.

Take a glance at these definitions that I took from The New Oxford American Dictionary- Second Edition, which is my dictionary here at my home.

Sociable – willing to talk and engage in activities with other people: friendly

Socialize – 1. mix socially with others 2. make someone behave in a way that is acceptable to their society 3. organize according to the principles of socialism.

See a problem with the definitions?

We certainly don’t want to defend something that we are against because we are not using society’s measure on education or values.

However, probably all of us want our children to be willing to engage in friendly activities with other people and be genuine, compassionate, and caring.

For the most part, we have to assume too that most people think we hide under rocks and come out only at night time and that normally is the thinking that we are defending.

From “Catty” to Congenial Comments

So in the spirit of preparation and not condemnation and because I always want to say “it looks like a prison to me” which is probably not the most gracious reply to someone in public school, I have created a list of one-liners and comebacks.

Here is the question/statement: So why do you homeschool and what about socialization? You are sheltering your children.

I homeschool because I want my kids socialized.
I want my kids to get along with all kinds of people.
We choose to participate in activities with others because we want our kids to accept people of varying backgrounds and ages.
My proof is in the pudding- – would you like to see my lesson plans for the week?

How to Answer Others

Also, look at three more

I am seriously considering cutting back some activities because our week is bulging with social activities and I need time to be at home.
I want my children to be around people who model respect, are considerate and well-spoken. What is learned from an early age will be emulated when they are older and around others that are not respectful or considerate.
Yes, you are right. I am sheltering my children. I won’t be able to do it forever, but I can do it as long as I can and help them to become strong in their faith and values. Seems like what any good parent would do.

And as you can see there is no shortage of ways to reply.

Yes, have you heard of the most recent (insert here: bullying charge, teacher misconduct, shooting or drug raid) at public school.
Sometimes I think we overthink this, what happened to the days when people just got kids together and they played without worrying if they were socialized or not?
Yes, we homeschool because faith matters and I think of this scripture (insert your favorite one here about “dealings with stupid or foolish people” or “training children”).

Homeschool Socialization Situations & Opportunities

Each family has to decide what is best for them because even within each family, children are very different. I have one child that thrives with friends so I can plan sleep overs and lots of meet ups and parties. And I have one child that does not need his emotional tank filled with tons of friends so I can satisfy his need for quiet time and to be with less people.
Would you like to come and be a visitor at our school? (Of course this is meant for a well-meaning relative or close friend that you know.)
I prefer that my children’s learning time not be interrupted because others do not know how to behave.
We homeschool for medical reasons.

Do you see a few you can use?

If you were to ask me before I started homeschooling how much I worried about socialization, my answer would be zero, zip and none.

The problem with this scenario is that I am not homeschooling somewhere on paradise island by myself.

And because we mix and mingle with other people, like you, I get my fair share of second-guessers, naysayers, and plain ole negative nellies.

Gradually folks like that can chip away at your armor and doubt can set in about your decision.

What you need now is concrete proof that we come out from under our rock and caves and that our children are actually very socially adapted.

Social Activities For Homeschoolers

Dare I say they are friendly and some of us actually like people.

Look at these opportunities for homeschool socialization and how we learned with others.

Fall is a great time to be outside and to be with othes.

Anytime is great for visiting your local police department.

Early Years – Fall Activities and Community Helpers

And studying about Native Americans and making your own leather wear is so fun.

Native Americans

Of course some of the best times are when you can see other family’s pets.

Homeschool Socialization

Amphibians and Reptiles

Also, heading outdoors for a Westward Ho co-op is really fun with others.

Westward Hoooo

And a rainforest co-op is just no fun unless you have all the rainforest food.

Amazon Rain Forest

The European Renaissance

Homeschooling and Socialization

Early American History

Ancient Empires/Civilizations

Too, I have never lacked for words when asked about our homeschool socialization opportunities.

However, I have not always been proud of my quick temper.

I know it stems from a place deep down in my heart because homeschooling is a work of the heart and it is hard work on top of that.

Now, I can revisit this post each year and will be armed with gracious speech.

I still miss the drama of the courtroom, but then again I now have homeschooling naysayers, skeptics and Debbie downers to prepare for.

I hope this helps you to be armed for this school year and that others will be astounded at your quick wit and preparation too.

Look at my other articles here and grab yourself some more one-liners, comebacks and gracious sayings

How do you handle your reply?

This blog hop is organized by iHomeschool Network.

Hugs and love ya,

Fun No Sew Pioneer Rag Doll For Kids Westward Expansion Activity

July 10, 2022 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Add this pioneer rag doll westward expansion activity to the BEST Westward Ho Unit Study and Lapbook. It’s just too cute.

And if you love the Little House on the Prairie series, or just pioneers in general making a no sew pioneer rag doll is a perfect hands-on activity to learn a little about the culture back then.

Your child will be creating art, doing a little math, learning history and geography.

Also, your child will be working those fine motor skills, learning basic skills, and having fun while doing it.

Fun No Sew Pioneer Rag Doll For Kids Westward Expansion Activity

While kids today have technology at their fingertips, during pioneer times toys were simpler and less expensive.

For instance, one favorite of little girls was rag dolls.

Too, they were sometimes sewn and more elaborate. And a simple one could even be made from a square handkerchief.

With all the bells and whistles of today’s toys, your children will certainly enjoy making and playing with a simple pioneer rag doll.

Besides it can be made with just a few dollars or free if you already have the scrap fabric on hand.

Further, if you were a reader as a child the chances are you remember Laura Ingalls little corn cob doll wrapped in a handkerchief named Susan.

Westward Expansion Activity

Oh how Laura loved and cherished her!

Similarly, small children who set out with their family to cross the Oregon Trail must have clutched their little simple ragdolls to their chest.

They drew comfort from them over every bump, sickness, broken axle, and excitement of wild new lands

And as they slept in snug beds in fresh new pine cabins that whispered “home” they drew their dolls closer.

Let’s try to capture a little of that innocent, but rugged childhood spirit of the pioneer child with this easy no sew rag doll craft.

Also, what a sweet memory you will make with your little one while you create one of these dolls and teach them basic life skills.

Encourage your child to do as much of this project as possible – cutting, measuring, tying, and folding so they can get the most from this project.

Next, to get started look at this easy supply list.

14” x 10” square of muslin or other light fabric
3- 1”x12” muslin strips
2- ¼”x6” muslin strips
Scrap patterned fabric
Cotton batting or cotton balls
Scissors
Ruler/measuring tape

Then look at these directions.

First, lay the light muslin fabric out flat and place a small handful of cotton batting or about 4-5 cotton balls directly in the center.

Pinch fabric around the cotton and give it a half twist, tie off tightly just below the cotton with one of your muslin strips, cut off the excess.

Then, line your 3 12” muslin strips up evenly, knot off one end, and then braid all the way to the other end. Finish it off with a knot.

After that, open your doll skirt and place these braided strips centered up against the underside of the head.

Westward Expansion Unit

In addition, fold the skirting back down and knot it just below the arms to separate the bodice from the skirt and also this will help to hold the arms in place.

Then, move on to make the sun bonnet.

Begin by cutting a triangle that is roughly 10” at the widest end, and wrap around the head making the point stick out over the face. Knot it under the chin.

Lastly, finish off your doll by cutting a rectangle out of scrap fabric 10”- 12” long, and 6” tall.

Cut into the fabric ¼” down and 4 ½” in on each side to create an apron shape like this.

Don’t worry about being exact, this is a rag doll after all!

Finally, tie the apron around the waist with the strings that you made.

Your doll is ready to cuddle and enjoy.

Further, if you want to extend the learning, have your child research other toys that children used in pioneer times.

For instance, ask a question like which of these toys do you think they would have taken along on long journeys during westward expansion?

Additionally, have your children research various fabrics and patterns that were popular in those days like gingham and broadcloth.

Older children can delve into learning about how those fabrics were made.

Too, they can learn the cost of making a doll or a dress in that period.

Westward Expansion Activity Ideas

Another great thing about this activity is that it works just as easily for a one on one project at home as it does as an activity for a large co-op.

Finally, try these other hands-on activity to create a fun unit study.

5 Reasons a Paper Planner Is Better Than a Homeschool Online Planner

July 9, 2022 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Hands down I choose a paper planner over a homeschool online planner for my homeschool planner each year. Even with the explosions of apps and online lesson planning, they still don’t beat a beautiful homeschool paper planner.

In addition, supplies of beautiful and colorful stationery, pens, and planner accessories has increased. There is no shortage.

Now that the digital age has been here a while, there is more data on the benefits of a paper planner over an online planner.

Using an online planner may appear to have several advantages.

However, there is one significant advantage that comes instantly to mind when I think about using my 7 Step Curriculum Planner. That is, I’m not constantly going from one thing to the next thing haphazardly.

The bottom line is that my paper planner helps me to not overschedule.

5 Reasons a Paper Planner Is Better Than a Homeschool Online Planner

It’s so easy with a digital planner to quickly drag and drop and fill in the online calendar. It looks pretty, but will it work?

And it may appear that you’re achieving your goals, or it could be that you’ve created unrealistic goals.

That is exactly what happened to my writing habits when I tried using an online planner.

Instead of slowing down and really thinking if my lesson plans or schedules would work, I just plugged-in arbitrary plans.

Why Is It Important to Use a Homeschool Planner

So, when making comparisons between any type of homeschool planners, you need to be clear how you best organized.

And don’t assume because we have a plethora of fun apps that you can’t use some of them.

However, what you choose as your main organizing tool should be given consideration.

Before you can do that, clearly focusing on why it’s important to use a homeschool planner will give you a bigger picture.

Look at these 5 questions.

Do you need to see a big picture, or do you need room to write details?
Will your method of planning help you to slow down and ponder what you’re planning?
Is your homeschool planner creating stress or oozing relaxing vibes?
Does your organizing tool encourage consistency or constant change? In other words, will you constantly be changing the form, adding pages, taking pages out, adding apps or sections. This is not being organized.
Finally, most important does your organizing tool bend to our homeschool life? Or, does your homeschool planner lack flexibility by being dated and make you feel that is should be filled in?

5 Printable Homeschool Lesson Planner Advantages

Furthermore, look at some of the reasons why I love a paper homeschool planner.

Besides, loving the fact that my 7 Step Curriculum Planner encourages me to plan more realistically, it’s visual.

1. As a visual homeschool educator, my printable homeschool planner is a visual organizing tool.

I’m a visual teacher and love all the items which help me to stay organized.

An excel spread sheet is way too analytical and doesn’t excite me.

Whether you love bookmarks as a way to find your place in a planner or larger rubber bands, make your printed planner suit you. For instance, I’ve always loved the Semikolon Sticky Tab Markers.

2.Your creative record keeping stays well past online homeschool planners.

Next, another favorite part about a printed homeschool planner is that it is UNIQUELY yours as a family.

I journal, add pictures, chart my children’ progress, and otherwise jotted down my fears as well as hopes. Nothing compares to my handwritten thoughts.

3. I can see the big picture glance at a glance instead of scrolling and scrolling.

Next, no scrolling is needed to see what you want to at an instant glance.

It’s a great brain break to step away from devices and use the planner I built specifically for my homeschool.

And then did I mention the numerous options, page designs and sections you can create with a printed homeschool planner?

4. Nothing compares to a creative planner with sections you specifically choose for your unique homeschool journey.

I say it all the time, why purchase something put together when you can create a one of a kind homeschool planner using my beautiful and free printables?

Finally, it boosts my creative energy.

5. It reduces the stress of several windows open at one time which can be very distracting to planning.

Instead of having several windows open with distractions, I am focused singularly on my family’s needs.

In the digital age we live in, don’t think we can’t use online tools. I love having our Google family calendar so we can all see what is coming up. But my use of them is balanced.

Look at these other homeschool planner products that I know you’ll love!

My printed homeschool planner has proven to reduce my stress level, heighten my working time, and otherwise give me a creative record of my children’s work which I have kept for years.

What about you? How do you feel about your printed homeschool planner?

Look at these other helps.

21 Fun Chemistry Homeschool Ideas for Kids

July 8, 2022 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

These 21 fun chemistry homeschool ideas show your kids how we use chemistry every day.

When I read an older book about chemistry, it mentioned every house which has a kitchen has a laboratory.

And it made the point that chemistry is about finding out about things. Finding out what things are made of and what changes they undergo. Everything!