My Homeschool Top Ten

When I made the decision to homeschool, I was confidant that I would be successful finding my way. However, I never anticipated how much 'stuff' there was out there marketed to homeschooling families. It was actually a little overwhelming! Though we've only just begun, I have a number of favorites that I know we'll continue to use even if we change paths in the future.

As a former science specialist, I have created my own science curriculum, Science Logic. My goal in writing this curriculum is to provide a hands-on science curriculum that will challenge middle-level students and instill a love of science. I have included hands-on activities every week, readings, as well as long-term projects. All of the activities described have been field tested in the public school setting with students in 4th-6th grade. The lessons are written with homeschooling families in mind but can also be adapted to a co-op or classroom setting.

The first volume of lessons, Earth Logic: Our Dynamic Earth, is a 10 week unit study on the geology of our Earth incorporating scientific inquiry and language arts applications. It is available now - see the right side-bar. You may choose from an E-book (PDF) or a print version (comb or spiral binding).

My intent is to create three comprehensive collections: Life Logic (biology, botany, zoology, marine science and ecology), Earth Logic (oceanography, geology, meteorology, astronomy), and Physics Logic (physics and chemistry).

There is a wealth of activity ideas and resources available to homeschoolers on the internet. Freebies include lesson plans, printables (worksheets, coloring pages, mini-books for lapbooking, etc.), and audio/visual language lessons. Many homeschooling families now also share their endeavors through blogs - a great way to see what others are doing. Forums are also a popular place to ask questions and seek out suggestions for projects and curriculum from experienced homeschoolers.

You local library is perhaps the BEST resource for homeschoolers. Many libraries today provide access to the internet as well as videos and audiobooks. If you can't find a title you are looking for, don't hesitate to suggest that the library order it and put it on hold for you when it arrives.

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