Research
1.Five Basic Types of Curriculum
The five basic types of curriculum are Traditional, Thematic, Programmed, Classical, and Technological. The most used curriculum can be found within these broader categories.
1. Traditional
This is the traditional workbook/textbook approach familiar to those who attended American public schools growing up. It is comprised of 6-7 unrelated subjects with a different book for each. It is grade specific and may be expensive.
Examples: Bob Jones, A Beka, Calvert
Learning Style Match: Visual and Auditory
Pros: More likely to cover the basics, lesson plans laid out, security
Cons: Time consuming, expensive, difficult to teach several grades simultaneously, subjects each taught separately
Works well for: * A child used to being in school (and that was doing well) * A methodical, routine learner * A mom who needs reassurance * A mom who likes routine and does not have time to plan her own curriculum * A first time home-schooling parent
Cautions: Keep in mind that even teachers at school do not cover every page in every book. In math they may assign odds or evens on certain assignments. In Science and History, sometimes a chapter or even a unit may be omitted. Remember that your kids are also learning language and culture. Do not let yourself or your kids be stressed by trying to do too much.
2. Thematic Unit Study
This type is known as “thematic learning,” “teaching across the curriculum,” or integrated study. Basic school subjects are studied in light of a particular topic, theme, or historical period instead of isolated subjects. Most often, a separate phonics and math program is needed (though some companies include them as supplements or offer choices).
Examples: KONOS, Weaver, Design a Study, Sonlight, Greenleaf Press, Moving Beyond the Page
Learning Style Match: Multi-sensory
Pros: All ages learn together; uses real books, inexpensive, teaches to child’s area of interest;
Cons: Can have
The five basic types of curriculum are Traditional, Thematic, Programmed, Classical, and Technological. The most used curriculum can be found within these broader categories.
1. Traditional
This is the traditional workbook/textbook approach familiar to those who attended American public schools growing up. It is comprised of 6-7 unrelated subjects with a different book for each. It is grade specific and may be expensive.
Examples: Bob Jones, A Beka, Calvert
Learning Style Match: Visual and Auditory
Pros: More likely to cover the basics, lesson plans laid out, security
Cons: Time consuming, expensive, difficult to teach several grades simultaneously, subjects each taught separately
Works well for: * A child used to being in school (and that was doing well) * A methodical, routine learner * A mom who needs reassurance * A mom who likes routine and does not have time to plan her own curriculum * A first time home-schooling parent
Cautions: Keep in mind that even teachers at school do not cover every page in every book. In math they may assign odds or evens on certain assignments. In Science and History, sometimes a chapter or even a unit may be omitted. Remember that your kids are also learning language and culture. Do not let yourself or your kids be stressed by trying to do too much.
2. Thematic Unit Study
This type is known as “thematic learning,” “teaching across the curriculum,” or integrated study. Basic school subjects are studied in light of a particular topic, theme, or historical period instead of isolated subjects. Most often, a separate phonics and math program is needed (though some companies include them as supplements or offer choices).
Examples: KONOS, Weaver, Design a Study, Sonlight, Greenleaf Press, Moving Beyond the Page
Learning Style Match: Multi-sensory
Pros: All ages learn together; uses real books, inexpensive, teaches to child’s area of interest;
Cons: Can have