History can be a tough subject to make engaging, especially for kids. Finding the right curriculum can make all the difference between bored sighs and enthusiastic learning. A good history curriculum should not only be accurate but also captivating, sparking curiosity and encouraging critical thinking. This article will explore some of the best history homeschool curriculum options available, helping you choose the perfect fit for your family’s needs.
Here’s a quick overview of the history homeschool curriculum we’ll be looking at:
- The Story of the World: Narrative-based, engaging for younger learners.
- Notgrass History: Christ-centered, literature-rich curriculum.
- Mystery of History: Chronological, God-centered world history.
- Tapestry of Grace: Classical approach, integrates multiple subjects.
- BJU Press History: Comprehensive, teacher-led with strong academics.
Top 5 Best History Homeschool Curriculum
The Story of the World
The Story of the World is a four-volume series that presents world history in a narrative format, making it engaging and accessible for elementary-aged children. Written by Susan Wise Bauer, this curriculum tells history like a story, capturing the imagination and making it easier for kids to remember key events and figures. It’s a popular choice for families who prefer a more relaxed and enjoyable approach to learning history.
Pros:
- ✅ Engaging narrative style keeps kids interested.
- ✅ Covers a wide range of historical periods.
- ✅ Includes activity books with maps, coloring pages, and projects.
Cons:
- ❌ Some may find it lacks depth for older students.
- ❌ Can be perceived as having a Eurocentric focus.
- ❌ Requires supplemental resources for high school.
Verdict: The Story of the World is excellent for elementary students who enjoy listening to stories. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging introduction to history, this is a great option.
Notgrass History
Notgrass History offers a Christ-centered, literature-rich approach to studying history. These curricula integrate history, literature, Bible, and writing, providing a well-rounded education. The engaging narratives and beautiful illustrations make learning enjoyable for students of all ages. As a bonus, it’s designed to be easy for parents to teach, even if they don’t have a background in history.
Pros:
- ✅ Strong Christian worldview.
- ✅ Integrates multiple subjects.
- ✅ Beautifully illustrated and engaging for students.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be suitable for secular families.
- ❌ Can be expensive compared to other options.
- ❌ Requires a significant amount of reading.
Verdict: Notgrass History is an excellent choice for Christian families who want a comprehensive and engaging history curriculum that integrates faith and learning.
Mystery of History
Mystery of History presents world history chronologically from a Christian perspective, emphasizing God’s hand in historical events. This curriculum, written by Linda Lacour Hobar, aims to reveal history as a grand mystery, unfolding through time. It’s known for its engaging narrative style and its focus on connecting historical events with biblical teachings. It’s also designed to be used with multiple ages at the same time, which is a huge plus for homeschooling families.
Pros:
- ✅ Strong Christian perspective.
- ✅ Chronological approach makes it easy to follow.
- ✅ Suitable for multiple ages.
Cons:
- ❌ Some may find the Christian focus too strong.
- ❌ Can be text-heavy for younger learners.
- ❌ Requires some preparation for each lesson.
Verdict: Mystery of History is ideal for Christian families who want a chronological and God-centered approach to learning world history. Its multi-age adaptability is a real win.
Tapestry of Grace
Tapestry of Grace is a classical homeschool curriculum that weaves together history, literature, theology, and writing. It follows a four-year cycle, covering ancient history, medieval history, early modern history, and modern history. This curriculum aims to provide a rich and integrated learning experience, encouraging students to think critically and make connections between different subjects. It’s a robust program that requires a significant time commitment from both parents and students.
Pros:
- ✅ Classical approach to education.
- ✅ Integrates multiple subjects.
- ✅ Encourages critical thinking and analysis.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be overwhelming for some families.
- ❌ Requires a significant time commitment.
- ❌ Expensive compared to other options.
Verdict: Tapestry of Grace is best suited for families who are committed to a classical education and are willing to invest the time and resources required to implement it effectively. It’s a deep dive, for sure.
BJU Press History
BJU Press History offers a comprehensive and academically rigorous approach to studying history. Designed for traditional classroom settings, it’s also widely used by homeschoolers who appreciate its thoroughness and structured format. BJU Press History covers a wide range of historical periods and events, providing students with a solid foundation in historical knowledge. The curriculum includes textbooks, workbooks, and teacher’s editions, offering a complete learning package.
Pros:
- ✅ Comprehensive and academically rigorous.
- ✅ Well-structured and easy to follow.
- ✅ Includes a variety of resources for different learning styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive.
- ❌ May be too rigid for some homeschoolers.
- ❌ Some find it less engaging than other options.
Verdict: BJU Press History is a solid choice for homeschoolers who want a comprehensive and academically challenging history curriculum. If you like structure, this could be a good fit.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right history curriculum for your homeschool can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into a few key considerations can help. Think about your child’s learning style. Do they prefer stories, hands-on activities, or a more traditional textbook approach? Consider your family’s worldview. Do you want a curriculum with a Christian perspective, or do you prefer a secular approach? Also, evaluate your own teaching style. Are you comfortable leading discussions and facilitating activities, or do you prefer a curriculum that is more self-directed?
Another important factor is the amount of time you’re willing to commit to teaching history. Some curricula require more preparation and involvement from the parent, while others are designed to be more independent. Finally, consider your budget. History curricula can range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite costly, so it’s important to find something that fits your financial constraints. Don’t be afraid to look for used materials or borrow from other homeschoolers to save money.
By carefully considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a history curriculum that will be a good fit for your family’s needs and preferences. And remember, it’s okay to switch curricula if something isn’t working. Homeschooling is all about finding what works best for your child.
FAQs
Q: What age is The Story of the World best suited for?
A: The Story of the World is generally recommended for elementary-aged children, from around 6 to 12 years old.
Q: Is Notgrass History only for Christian families?
A: Yes, Notgrass History has a strong Christian worldview and integrates Bible studies into the curriculum, making it most suitable for Christian families.
Q: How much time does Tapestry of Grace require?
A: Tapestry of Grace requires a significant time commitment from both parents and students, often involving several hours per day.
Q: Can Mystery of History be used for multiple grade levels?
A: Yes, Mystery of History is designed to be used with students of varying ages and grade levels simultaneously, making it a great option for families with multiple children.
Q: Where can I buy these homeschool history curricula?
A: You can find these curricula on Amazon, the publishers’ websites, and various homeschool retailers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right history curriculum is a personal decision that depends on your family’s values, learning styles, and educational goals. The Story of the World offers an engaging narrative approach for younger learners, while Notgrass History provides a Christ-centered, literature-rich experience. Mystery of History presents a chronological, God-centered view of world history, and Tapestry of Grace offers a classical, integrated approach. For those seeking a comprehensive and academically rigorous option, BJU Press History is a solid choice. Ultimately, the best history homeschool curriculum is the one that sparks your child’s curiosity and fosters a lifelong love of learning.
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