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The Best 11th Grade Homeschool Curriculum | Tips and Recommendations

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All the choices for 11th grade homeschool curriculum can be more than overwhelming, let me help you make it a little bit easier. Also, you’ll love my page Homeschool Curriculum for more ideas and grade level curriculum and my page How to Homeschool High School.

There are just two precious years left of schooling your child at home and these final years go by so fast.

And they can come with a lot of stress and worry but they don’t have to.

With planning and preparation, they can still be an enjoyable experience for you both.

The Best 11th Grade Homeschool Curriculum | Tips and Recommendations

Algebra, chemistry, world history, civics, and literature are the important themes of the junior year.

This may differ depending on your high school teen’s interests, future career choices, and of course ability.

If you have more than one high school teen in the house you might combine as many subjects as possible to make it easier on you.

In addition, use a partner for study sessions.

Reduce the need for more materials as many things can be shared.

This year might find you with a classical curriculum or it may be a year of unschooling or unit studies.

Whatever method you are using, enjoy your time and squeeze them tightly as often as they will let you.

Homeschool 11th Grade Tips and Recommendations

  • Because of the heavy load from jobs and extracurricular activities, fitting all their schooling into a Monday through Friday schedule might not work. Think about spreading it out a bit more even over the weekend, you will find it probably won’t always be a 10-2 type schedule either.
  •  Make sure that they are being masters of their time and are mostly doing their own planning and scheduling with some assistance from you.
  • Consider dual enrollment which lets the student take postsecondary coursework and also earn credit toward a high school diploma, a career certificate, an associate or baccalaureate degree at a public or an eligible private institution.
  • This is a great time for college visits to get an idea of where they are headed as you will be applying next fall.
  • Trade minded students should begin looking for internships and part time jobs in their desired field to get plenty of hands-on experience.
  • Most Juniors opt to take the SATs in the fall of this, their Jr year, look around your area for testing sights before summer is over.
  • Home Learning Year by Year, Revised and Updated: How to Design a Creative and Comprehensive Homeschool Curriculum 
The Best 11th Grade Homeschool Curriculum | Tips and Recommendations

Next, look at curriculum tips.

More High School Homeschool Curriculum Tips

Best Homeschool Curriculum For All Grades

11th Grade Homeschool Curriculum

The Best 11th Grade Homeschool Curriculum.

Math-U-See Algebra 2 Student Pack

A more rigorous course that builds on Algebra 1 and Geometry. Reviews and expands content from Algebra 1. The course also covers advanced factoring, imaginary and complex numbers, conjugate numbers, the binomial theorem, quadratic formula, motion problems, along with other application problems. Graphing includes extensive practice with conic sections, and solving systems of equations. Vectors are introduced. At the completion of Algebra 2, students should be able to move onto PreCalculus. The Algebra 2 Student Pack includes the consumable Student Worktext and Test Booklet.

Key to Algebra Books 1-10 plus Answers and Notes

In the Key to Algebra series, new algebra concepts are explained in simple language, and examples are easy to follow. Word problems relate algebra to familiar situations, helping students understand abstract concepts. Students develop understanding by solving equations and inequalities intuitively before formal solutions are introduced. Students begin their study of algebra in Books 1-4 using only integers Books 5-7 introduce rational numbers and expressions. Books 8-10 extend coverage to the real number system. Books 1-10 and all answer keys

General Chemistry

General Chemistry is a chemistry curriculum for high school exhibiting Novare’s signature principles of Mastery, Integration and Kingdom Perspective. This fresh, lucid text brings students into the real world of chemistry and laboratory experiments.

Photo Credit: www.bfbooks.com

Modern U.S. & World Sr High Pack

Jump into the adventure and drama of 1850 to 2000 with this in-depth and literature-rich study for 11-12th grade students. This one-year study will take your student from Antebellum to modern day while covering the American Civil War, Reconstruction, Industrial Revolution, Turn of the Century, WWI, Communism, Socialism, Nazism, WWII, Korean War, Cold War, China's Cultural Revolution, Vietnam War, Civil Rights Movement, modern technology, and the War on Terror. Students will read some of the best literature available on this incredible and dynamic time period by renowned authors Harper Lee, Albert Marrin, Paul Johnson, Martin Gilbert, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Stephen Crane, Richard E. Kim, and more.

Cooking Curriculum for the Whole Family

Your Homeschool Curriculum Needs Life Skills……And Your Life Needs Kids Who Help Out.

Connect with your kids in the kitchen, build life skills, and put PEACE into your homeschool day.

Music In Our Homeschool

Online and self-paced music courses. All from the comfort of your home by another homeschool mom who is also a music teacher.

Fast Track: U.S. History: Essential Review for AP, Honors, and Other Advanced Study (High School Subject Review)

Inside this book, you'll find:• Clear, concise summaries of the most important events, people, and concepts in United States history• Maps, timelines, and charts for quick visual reference• Easy-to-follow content organization and illustrations with its friendly, straightforward approach and a clean, modern design crafted to appeal to visual learners, this guidebook is perfect for catching up in class or getting ahead on exam review.

The Power in Your Hands: Writing Nonfiction in High School

Finding pleasure and delight in penning thoughts is my premier goal for my sons in a writing curriculum. So during the last few weeks, I have been absolutely thrilled that The Power in Your Hands: Writing Nonfiction in High School by Writing with Sharon Watson has been our writing mentor because it has surpassed my expectations

The Best Ninth Grade Homeschool Curriculum | Tips And Recommendations

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Let’s look at some of the best ninth grade homeschool curriculum to help make this year your best one yet. Also, you’ll love my page Homeschool Curriculum for more ideas and grade level curriculum and my page How to Homeschool High School.

Ninth grade aka freshman year is the kickoff to the high school years.

And it is a pretty big jump from middle school, but is also filled with exciting milestones like getting a driver’s license.

The Best Ninth Grade Homeschool Curriculum | Tips And Recommendations

Technology will likely play a big part in your child’s education by this time from using online calculators to classes, music appreciation, language apps, and more.

It is a time of growing independence and branching out into more electives or at least learning more adult life skills.

If they are not mostly independent in their daily work already, they will be able to take on more of their own work load whether their school takes place online, in books, or even in the woods.

Homeschool 9th Grade Tips and Recommendations

College and Career-This is the optimal time to start thinking about a career track for your student, leaning heavily into extra classes, maybe even dual enrollment to be sure that they have all the things that they need.

That is not to say college is the only, or even the best option for your child. They may intend to go into cosmetology, guess what?

They can start learning that skill now through online tutorials, friends, and even on the job training.

 Do you have a Marine Biologist on your hands? Be sure to load up on science classes and incorporate field trips that teach and feed that interest.

Flexible Scheduling-If your child has a job now make sure that you adjust their school schedule to accommodate work hours. Flexible doesn’t have to mean you cut way back on schooling at all, it might just mean that they do math in the evening instead of the morning or double up biology on the weekend.

Field Trips-As new interests will be developing at this level, long standing ones might increase or fade away all together.

Field trips, while they will look different than that early visit to a local farm, they are a wonderful way to support their interests and possible career choices.

Additionally, field trips can be a visit to a location for their career field of choice like the state capital building, behind the scenes at a hair salon or law office.

The Best Ninth Grade Homeschool Curriculum | Tips And Recommendations

You could visit a local pottery studio or glass blowing studio, watch a Broadway theater performance, or they could be in the form of take your child to work day in the office.

More Ninth Grade Homeschool Curriculum Tips

Best Homeschool Curriculum For All Grades

9th Grade Homeschool Curriculum

Lastly, look at some recommendations and tips.

9th Grade Homeschool Curriculum

Add these fun curriculum recommendations to your 9th grader's homeschool day.

Math-U-See Algebra 1 Student Pack

Graphing, simultaneous equations, exponents, polynomials, unit multipliers, and more. The Algebra 1 Student Pack contains the Student Workbook with lesson-by-lesson worksheets, review pages, and honors pages. It also includes the Algebra 1 Tests.

Workman Publishing Ace Pre-Algebra and Algebra I in One Big Fat Notebook (Big Fat Notebooks)

The series Everything You Need to Ace Pre Algebra and Algebra In One Big FatNotebook is fantastic as a reference book when they need a reminder for certain operations or is a good guide for those that prefer to just learn independently.

12 Human Body Games For Middle School & High School

Unless your child is heading for a heavy science based field like doctor, pharmacist, or Marine Biologist you can still get a good deal of their science lessons from games, and  simple courses of interest.

Here is a list of 12Human Body Games For Middle School & High School ideal for fun anatomy lessons.

Mark Twain Forensic Investigations Workbook, Using Science to Solve High Crimes Middle School Books, Critical Thinking for Kids, DNA and Handwriting Analysis Labs

Use this time to start diving into specific areas of science interest like Forensic Science.

Exploring Creation with Physical Science, 2nd Edition

Apologia has long been a go to standard for science and one of the common 9th grade sciences is Physical Science. You can choose from physical books and ebooks, get a concise teacher manual,
audiobooks, test pages,

LIFEPAC 9th Grade History & Geography Box Set

Lifepac has been a go to for many subjects, but I really enjoy the pace and scope of their History & Geography. The 9th grade level includes lessons on the fundamentals of United States heritage, federal, state,and local government, career planning, citizenship, and the study of geography.  Lifepac is designed to be smaller workbooks rather than one huge textbook that helps take some of the stress off.

Photo Credit: www.youtube.com

CrashCourse

 Crash Course World History on Youtube covers quite a few history topics and make for a good solid lesson or even review of previously covered topics.

Structure and Style for Students: Year 1 Level C Basic Plus [Forever Streaming]

Join Andrew Pudewa as he leads students on a 24-week writing journey using IEW’s Structure and Style approach. Students reading at 9th grade level or higher who are new to IEW will take delight in Mr. Pudewa’s humorous, incremental, and effective writing lessons.

Windows to the World: An Introduction to Literary Analysis Student Book

Why do certain literary works have the power to move us? With step-by-step instructions, Windows to the World teaches students how to analyze elements of literature. This reference also gives numerous examples and suggestions for helping students develop Christian discernment skills. The accompanying Teacher’s Manual is suitable for both new and experienced teachers.

Must Know High School Vocabulary

The 500 words you must know before college!

Must Know High School Vocabulary is more than just a vocabulary workbook. It gives you the edge you’ll need now―from improving your reading comprehension for high school and future college course work to scoring higher on AP and college entrance exams. Its user-friendly approach presents challenging aspects of the topics, exceptions to any rules, and clear answer explanations that will all help you build vocabulary quickly and easily. It’s like a lightning bolt to the brain!

Romeo and Juliet (No Fear Shakespeare Graphic Novels) (Volume 3) (No Fear Shakespeare Illustrated)

No Fear Shakespeare Graphic Novel- Even the most reluctant of Raiders will enjoy these graphic novel adaptations of Shakespeare's Classics like Romeo and Juliet.

Road Signs Flash Cards with Detailed Explanations and Safe Driving Tips - Stocking Stuffers for Teens

One of the most exciting aspects of 9th grade year is of course driving!

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Fun geometry hands-on activities for high school can mean the difference in just getting by and really getting engaged in lessons. Also, look at my page How to Homeschool High School for more ideas.

Just because your child is in high school does not mean that they’ve set aside their love for Lego.

A fantastic way to incorporate Lego into lessons is to use them to create examples and identify angles.

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

We have done Lego math in the past. But you can even use it for high school manipulatives for learning geometry.

First let’s talk about what geometry is.

Geometry is the part of mathematics that we use for calculating the distance around a circle, the angles that make up a triangle, or the amount of room inside of a cube.

We use it daily in art, navigation, in construction, sports, and even simple household tasks like measuring a surface area for wallpaper.

So, you can see why it is a necessary skill for your teen to learn.

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

Next, look at some of these activities.

These activities are a wonderful way to create a break in the typical textbook, worksheet lesson of high school geometry and can help make complicated lessons more understandable.

  1. Look at this LEGO for geometry idea Pythagorean Theorem Lego Proof.
  2. This Geometry Roller Coaster Project is a large scale lesson in engineering and problem solving. Although it’s written for a classroom, it can be used for one or two students.
  3. Using Hands-On Inquiry in High School Geometry gives you ideas for creating some hands-on geometry lessons that include their observations and geometry tools.
  4. Play the Simplyfun Shape Whiz game for an enjoyable lesson to reinforce some basic geometry shape information.
  5. Bonus, this one post includes 5 Geometry Projects for Middle and High School that are fun while
  6. Grab your deck of uno cards and try Using Uno as an Intro to Teaching Proofs for an advanced geometry lesson.
  7. While Geometric Art For Kids is geared to younger kids I still really think it has value and appeal for the high school bunch as well.
7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

Also, look at my post Ancient Greece Unit Study Play Stomachion Like Archimedes {Explore Geometry} to add a math element to your favorite unit study.

The resource Everything You Need to Ace Geometry in One Big Fat Notebook is a fantastic supplement to any curriculum.

In addition, it can be used for independent study and worked well to use with my LEGO activity I have for you today.

Teaching Geometry With LEGO Activities For High School

You will need:

  • LEGO
  • LEGO Baseplate
  • cardstock
  • Pen
7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

Single row, long LEGO bricks work best for these activities.

And if you need a good basic set of LEGO because you don’t already have them lying around the house this is a fantastic option.

Two ways we discovered to practice basic geometry are through learning terms and identifying examples of them as well as identifying different angles.

The first way I have to practice geometry is a way to introduce or reinforce geometry terms.

Geometry Vocabulary

  • Point- Indicates a location.
  • Line-a straight path that extends infinitely in both directions.
  • Line segment –Part of a line with two endpoints.
  • Ray- Part of a line that starts at a point and extends infinitely in one direction.
  • Vertex  –The point of intersection of two or more line segments.
  • Triangle – A shape with 3 sides and 3 vertices.
  • Angle- is formed of two rays with the same endpoint, vertex.
  • Parallel lines- Two lines in the same plane that are at equal distance from each other and never meet.
  • Perpendicular lines– Lines that intersect at a 90 degrees angle.

Write each of these terms onto cardstock and cut them into small strips to create labels.

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

You can carry out the activity in one of two ways, either create examples of the terms using various LEGO pieces or lay down the terms onto the base plate and have your highschooler create an example by building it with LEGO bricks.

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

Get creative with using single row bricks to create the examples, use single studs for your points, and make arrows at the end of rays with smaller pieces.

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

In the same way, create labels for acute, right, and obtuse angles and make examples for your student to match or let them create an example of each using random LEGO pieces.

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

Because LEGOs are meant to snap together at right angles and not obtuse or acute you will need a little help. Place your long skinny bricks on single studs to lift them above the base plate

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

You will then be able to swing them around freely to create different angles.

7 Fun Geometry Hands On Activities For High School

22 Homeschool Geography Go To Resources

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have some fun homeschool geography resources today. Too, look at my page Homeschool Geography for hands-on and simple ideas and tips.

We’ve used many homeschool geography resources through the years because geography is not about coloring boring maps.

I needed to round up our homeschool geography resources that we already had on hand and in the upper grades I needed something more laid out.

22 Homeschool Geography Go To Resources

For example, in the upper grades we used geography curriculum that we got from Bright Ideas Press.

Homeschool Geography Go To Resources

I did manage to round up these atlases and books that I have had to show you some of what I use. 

Homeschool Geography Resources

Too, I have taken some screen shots to show you our brand new WonderMaps because I will be using WonderMaps with North Star Geography.

homeschool geography resources

Today, I wanted to show you my growing geography resources that I know we will be using with North Star Geography.

I am sure you can study geography on probably a lot less than we have, but we can’t.

Our geography habit needs to be fed each year, so we have added resources slowly.

Too, as the boys got older they have wanted their own books and resources.  As the budget allowed, I added them in regularly.

So below I have listed resources that I think are must-haves or basic.

Again, it doesn’t mean you need all of them, but helping to know which ones are more useful or helpful makes it easier to decide. 

The other resources pictured above but not listed below,  I add in as enrichment and I just wanted you to see them.

Homeschool Geogrpahy Go To Resources Linked Up

22 Homeschool Geography Go To Resources & Gift Ideas

Add some of these fun books and resources to your learning day if you're wanting to study geography with multiple ages. Maybe you want to hook your child on geography with a gift or two.

Photo Credit: www.bfbooks.com

Around the World with Picture Books Part II

Each country visited features a selection of animals indigenous to those regions. These beautiful drawings will familiarize students with some remarkable creatures, their habitat and habits, cultivating respect and wonder for the natural world. Part Two covers Europe and South America. In Europe we cover France, Spain, Italy, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, and Great Britain! In South America we cover Ecuador, Chile, Peru, and Brazil!

Scratch Off World Map & US Map

This contains both the US and world maps and while they are targeted at those who travel I think they would also be an amazing way to document as you learn about each new state or country.

Geographic World ScrunchMap, Portable, Easy-to-Store Map of the World, Water and Tear-Resistant Map

For preschoolers through late elementary I would recommend this versatile scrunch map that comes in a world or US version. It is amazing for lessons on  the go or just an impromptu geography lesson on the living room floor.

Around the World in 180 Days: A Multigrade Guide for the Study of World History, Geography, and Cultures

Around the World in 180 Days: A Multigrade Guide for the Study of World History, Geography, and Cultures (Student Workbook) by Sherrie Payne

Rand McNally Junior Classroom Atlas of the World

Our colorful, engaging atlas is ideal for studentsin second through fourth grades and was developed from our award-winning Classroom Atlas, just simplified for younger students.Completely redesigned with a new layout,eye-catching pictures, informative graphics,and fully updated map content.Teaches map and globe skills to younger students.Features photos, graphs, interesting facts, andthought-provoking questions that reinforce map concepts.Includes 15 physical, political, and thematic maps.

National Geographic Visual Atlas of the World: More Than 1,000 Stunning Maps, Illustrations, and Photographs

Representing an exciting new approach in our renowned line of atlases, this large-format reference blends two National Geographic "bests" to create a refreshingly vivid world portrait. Incorporated in the many up-to-the moment regional maps that portray each continent are hundreds of brilliant photographs—each depicting unique natural and cultural treasures that have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the Kasbah of Algiers, from prehistoric rock art to the statue of Liberty, these incomparable locales are under UN protection for future generations to know and enjoy.

Rand McNally Historical Atlas of the World | Grades 5-12+

The Historical Atlas of the World presents important periods and turning points in 5,000 years of world history in over 100 pages of thematic maps. Atlas features: • Presents major periods of world history through more than 100 bold, colorful maps. • Thematic maps include literacy, languages, religions, and more. • Includes a section on benefits of using the atlas. • 112 pages, paperback, 8" x 10".

Professor Noggin's Geography of The United States Trivia Card Game

  • PLAY & LEARN:
    Professor Noggin’s series of educational card games encourages kids to learn interesting facts about their favorite subjects.
  • FUN FACTS: Geography of the United States card game isn't just a point and locate on the map kind of kids card game.  Topic cards include fun facts about Earthquakes, Islands, and the mysterious, 'What city is nicknamed...' making this a fun kids card game for home or the classroom!

    • Encyclopedia of World Geography with Complete World Atlas: Internet Linked

    Encyclopedia of World Geography with Complete World Atlas: Internet Linked

    A Child's Introduction to the World: Geography, Cultures, and People--From the Grand Canyon to the Great Wall of China

    Get ready for an incredible journey, one in which you’ll visit far-off places, meet interesting people, and learn all about continents, countries, climates, and more. This book is also full of fun facts about animals, sports, foods, inventions, and holidays from all over the world.

    National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers, Third Edition

    The latest edition of the award-winning National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers features all new photographs, maps, and graphics.And now, for the first time ever, the National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers goes interactive! The 3rd edition is chockfull of bright, bold icons that, thanks to a specially designed National Geographic web site, will allow kids to go beyond the printed page and experience firsthand the sights, sounds, and movements of the world's people, places, and animals. They'll watch brown bears fish for salmon in Alaska, listen to the latest singing sensation from Haiti, experience the power of a volcanic eruption, explore a rain forest, hang out at a local market in India, and much more.

    Geography Through Art

    Geography Through Art Intenational Art Projects for Kids Completely Revised and Updated! Use this book as an exciting way to supplement any study of geography, history, or social studies. "Geography Through Art" is sure to make a lasting addition to your home or school library. You'll find yourself reaching for this indispensable guide again and again to delight and engage students in leanring about geography through the culture and art of peoples around the world.

    Geography: An Illustrated A-Z Glossary: An Introduction To Earth's Geographical Features For Kids (Kids Geography Books)

    Welcome to Geography: An Illustrated A-Z Glossary by B.C. Lester Books! This book takes you across the world's main landforms and biomes, each with a colorful illustration accompanied with a child-friendly definition.

    Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia

    Created in conjunction with the Smithsonian Institution, Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia explores every aspect of our world, from the North to the South Pole, and from the outer atmosphere to the fiery core and from natural processes to human impact.

    Discover terrifying earthquakes, priceless gemstones, and storms that can destroy buildings. Understand how weather works, what causes the seasons, and the power of water to shape the landscape. Explore life on Earth, and countries and cultures from all around the world. Packed with facts, maps, explanations, illustrations, and photographs, Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia is the ultimate guide to our planet.

    Maps and Globes (Reading Rainbow Book)

    Children's Illustrated Atlas

    A picture atlas that takes young readers on a visual journey around the world, from Spain and Portugal to China and Mongolia.Continents and countries are brought to life through stunning photography and
    eye-catching illustrations. Uncover incredible geographical features, wildlife, culture, history, and landmarks in unprecedented detail.

    Mark Twain Geography Workbook, Geography for Kids Grade 7-8

    Geography for kids ages 12+

    Explore the eastern hemisphere with your middle school child with the activity-packed Mark Twain Geography Workbook.

    7th Grade Geography workbooks are a great way for 7th grade and eighth grade students to have a thorough understanding of eastern hemisphere geography through focused lessons and practice.

    The World Game - Geography Card Game

    Kids, teens, and adults will enjoy this geography game that can also double as flashcards for practice.

    Continent Race - Geography Learning Educational Game for Kids

    A collaborative game for ages 7 and up That has varying levels of difficulty so that multiple ages can be included and challenged. Geography games like this are a great way to take your children on global adventures from the coziness of the kitchen table.

    The 50 States: Explore the U.S.A. with 50 fact-filled maps!

    This is a beautifully illustrated children's atlas that is full of interesting facts and figures from landmarks to famous residents, key facts and dates for each state.

    Mango Wood Globe with Wood Base

    Chances are if someone's a geography lover they already have a globe, but it's also a pretty good chance that they love and collect them so go for a unique one, different sizes, and colors.

    State Quarter Map (US State Quarter Series)

    This gift just keeps on giving as they not only get a great map gift but also the fun of the hunt collecting each of the 50 quarters that fit inside.

    Resources For Kids Learning Geography

    • 1. The inexpensive geography mats we actually picked up at Wal-mart a few years back.  One side has a world map and the other mat has the U.S. and then the flip side on both mats is blank.  We did and still do quick geography quizzes with them.  We will study a region, then quickly flip on the back side and try to fill in with a dry erase markers as many rivers, boundaries and countries that we could get.  Me too, I was included in the race to see how many I could label in a short time.

    • 2 National Geographic Visual Atlas of the World You know anything by National Geographic is top notch.  I always said I would never buy anything this big because of the problem of storing it.  That didn’t last long because once you take a look at how breath taking the solar system looks in it and how they compare geography facts like comparing two continents, it looks so much better in a large book.  Too, it is easier as the kids get bigger to gather around a bigger book.  (Tip: Always check to see that you are buy the most current edition.)

    • 3. DK is another favorite publisher. Complete Atlas of the World, 2nd Edition I actually got this one because it had some facts like population growth, global climate and border conflicts that I want my boys aware of.  The physical world maps are more in depth though not as vivid as the National Geographic.

    Geography Resources For Kids

    • 4.  National Geographic Family Reference Atlas of the World, Third Edition is another beauty by National Geographic.  I purchased this one because of key information like tables, charts, biodiversity, education.  It truly is a family reference.  I guess if you had to make a choice for your middle to high school kids, this would be in the top running.
    • 5.   Junior Classroom Atlas This is one of our first ones because it is suited for elementary aged children and we still refer to it when the other atlases are teeming with overwhelming information.  Sometimes you can have too much information and it helps to break it down to the general sweeping facts.
    • 6.  CLASSROOM ATLAS-REVISED 2012 This is geared toward about middle school and can be used for elementary ages too.  It has been updated and it is one I will probably be adding soon.  Even though stats change, I feel some atlases are timeless.  Not so much changes (physical earth wise) that you can’t use an older atlas.  Sure, stats will change, but if your kids are young, they are not interested in that kind of stuff right now anyway.

    Geography Books Kids

    • 7.   Historical Atlas of the World 1st (first) edition Text Only An historical map is one that you will need when studying ancient history because it shows the boundaries or empires as they were then.  It really helps your kids to get a foot hold on ancient history.  You can see this one is out date, but then again it’s ancient history and how much updating can you possibly do.  So I don’t always fall for having to have the most up to date.
    • 8.  Historical Atlas of the World  Now what I do fall for is when another kid needs their own copy.  So I have purchased the updated copy of the historical atlas simply because I had two older middle school kids and we needed more than one.  I won’t go into the fights over having their own copies.
    • 9.  Free geography vocabulary words I made and put them on a O ring.  These are good for your kids to study later too.
    • 10.  National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers, Third Edition
      I got this one because it we could read about things like the animals for the website links they gave us and each continent had basic facts.  Like it says more about the exploring aspect of geography and we love this one.  It is especially good for a child that is geography phobic so they can see  geography is about so much more than finding the prime meridian.  It is about exploring and going to far away places.
    • 11.  A Child’s Introduction to the World: Geography, Cultures, and People – From the Grand Canyon to the Great Wall of China  This is a really sweet book.  It includes a pop-up paper globe and stickers.  I like it because though its geared toward younger learners, it can still stand up for older kids too because of the information in it.  It is another keeper for multiple ages of children.

    Homeschool Geography For Kids

    • 12.  The Usborne Internet-Linked Encyclopedia of World Geography With Complete World Atlas (Geography Encyclopedias) Again, another one of my very first purchases.  I always made sure I didn’t just buy curriculum but had enough back in my budget for references that would stand the test of time.  A great reference book that we just love.

    • 13.   What is geography without games? And,  Professor Noggin’s History & Geography Card Games: Set of 6 is one of our favorite series.  We have a lot of them.
    22 Homeschool Geography Go To Resources

    More Geography Go To Resources

    Also, I’ve update our geography go to resources.

    The other two we have that didn’t make the picture because Mr. Senior had them someplace are Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia which is absolutely stunning which is why I can’t find it right now and has a lot of different things like gemstones, earthquakes and weather.  

    And the other one is Atlas of World Geography which is a highschool level book that gets lost around here frequently too.  It is the one I will be using on North Star Geography, well at least for Mr. Awesome.

    22 Homeschool Geography Go To Resources

    Then of course my newest tool that makes studying geography absolutely a breeze is WonderMaps. You can print black or white maps or color maps.

    Geography Wonder Maps

    Take off boundaries or leave them on ALL with a click of your mouse. It truly is going to make studying geography so much more than finding boundaries or locating countries.

    Homeschool Geography Go To Resources

    Though we love all of our resources and we add to them as we plod along during the years, those above are keepers and I feel are basic to any library.

    Do you have any geography go to resources that your family luvs?

    Homeschool High School Graduation Menu and Party Venue Day 4 of 10 Days

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    This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

    Today is Day 4 homeschool high school graduation menu and party venue ideas for the updated 10 days series for planning a homeschool graduation. Also, look at more ideas on my how to homeschool high school page.

    As I learned, choosing a menu goes hand in hand with choosing a venue.

    We knew we were wanting to host a graduation with a sit down dinner and not just serve light refreshments.

    Homeschool High School Graduation Menu and Party Venue Day 4 of 10 Days

    I feel there are a handful of occasions that come around in life that deserve more attention than normal; graduating high school is one of them.

    We chose to serve a dinner for our guests. Keeping it small keeps it affordable too.

    At first, Mr. Senior 2013 decided he wanted Italian food. We love Italian food.

    However, I feel when serving to a larger crowd and because not everybody has the same taste palate, a more diverse menu was in order.

    10 Days of Planning a Homeschool High School Graduation: Menu and Venue (Day 4). As I learned, choosing a menu goes hand in hand with choosing a venue. We knew we were wanting to host a graduation with a sit down dinner and not just serve light refreshments. I feel there are a handful of occasions that come around in life that deserve more attention than normal; graduating high school is one of them. We chose to serve a dinner for our guests. CLICK here to learn how we celebrated!

    Making Homeschool Lifetime Memories NOW

    He agreed and in the end we kept to our southern roots and added in something special, like the prime rib.

    Here is our menu for the night

    • chicken friend chicken with smothered cream gravy
    • prime rib
    • garlic mashed potatoes
    • southern style green beans (no half cooked crispy green beans)
    • salad/trimmings
    • homemade bread sticks

    Having hosted many parties where I both prepared the food and brought it, I didn’t want to do that this time.

    I wanted to enjoy the out of town guests and family instead of running around serving/preparing food.

    Look at these tips I learned when ordering the food through a catering service that saved us some money.

    • Choose a time of the week when it’s not as busy. Saturday is more like a peak time, so having our party on Friday, it was a better price break.
    • I chose entrees and sides separately instead of paying by the plate. In other words think like you are picking up the food with 40 servings instead of telling them they are catering.
    • By serving the food ourselves, we didn’t have the extra charge for set up, serving and tips for servers.
    • For us, the venue was right down the road, so the caterer only charged an extra $25.00 for delivery. If the place is further away, having somebody responsible with a huge van works too. For me, having the chef deliver the food worked out better since he had rolling carts and brought his hired help.
      • Cake and Food - Homeschool Graduation @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

    At this time, I ordered the cake too. Being the guy that he is, Mr. Senior 2013 only had a few things he wanted.

    One thing was he didn’t want it to look like a wedding cake or “too girly”.

    I think if you have a daughter, she will probably have a lot to say on this.

    Homeschool High School Graduation – Party Time!

    I think it’s hard for cakes to look anything other than plain pretty.

    I ended up having it made and chose an ombre (graduated color) blue design.

    Keeping the table simple with candles, flowers and a white cake stand, kept it pretty, simple, and elegant.

    Homeschool Venue @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool PlusWelcoming Lobby Homeschool Graduation @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus
    homeschool graduation location @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool PlusKitchen matters Homeschool Graduation @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

    As far as the venue, we have a lot of places around us to choose from.

    I have lived in places where you only have a handful of places that are nice. But, if you have a choice, look for these things.

    • Is there a fee for set up or cleaning?
    • Do you have to clean? Can you pay for somebody to clean it afterwards? We got the place clean and so all we had to do was pitch in at the end and clean up. Our homeschool kids are use to doing this because of how many field trips we have had hosted.
    • We ended up going with a community center that has a nice kitchen so I could keep the food warm when it was delivered. There was plenty of parking and it was easy to find so I didn’t have to send out instructions with the invitations. The lobby was warm and inviting.

    But, I think the best tips of all are the money savings tips because why not take advantage of them. Who wants to pay full price when we can get a deal?

    Remembering that some managers gave me a discount for places we have rented for our homeschool co-ops during the week, my hubby asked them for renting the place on FRIDAY and not a peak time like Saturday night.

    They were delighted because hardly anybody rents a room or building on a Friday.

    We cut our cost significantly, about 40% by renting it on Friday.

    Our homeschool friends are pretty flexible and as long as they knew ahead of time, they can arrange their schedules.

    Choosing to do some of the serving and cleaning ourselves, the party was fast becoming a part diy party.

    But that is not the only diy thing we did. You know homeschoolers become true do it yourself people the longer we homeschool. It’s true.

    Next post, I will share some more things we did to prepare for the decorations and yep, it included getting the Mr. to help us out too.

    If you missed the other posts in this series, you can catch up below:

    Homeschool High School Graduation Menu and Party Venue Day 4 of 10 Days

      More Homeschool High School Graduation Planning Resources

      10 days of Planning A Homeschool High School Graduation: Day 1 Start the Planning

      Day 2 Senior Portraits/Cap & Gown. 10 days of Planning A Homeschool High School Graduation

      Day 3 Homeschool Graduation Invitations Which Words Matter Tinas Dynamic Homeschool Plus thum Day 3 Homeschool Graduation Invitations–Which Words Matter. 10 days of Planning A Homeschool High School Graduation