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As we embark on another year of homeschooling, we’re excited to share our eclectic approach to education for the 2024-2025 academic year. Embracing flexibility, individualized learning, and a mix of resources, we’re confident that this year will be both enriching and rewarding for our family.

Year-Round Homeschooling and Semester-Based Electives

One of the hallmarks of our homeschooling philosophy is the decision to homeschool year-round. By spreading our learning throughout the year, we can maintain momentum, delve deeper into subjects, and take breaks when needed without the pressure of strict academic schedules. Additionally, we’ve divided our electives into semesters, allowing for focused exploration and a well-rounded education.

Spine Curriculum and Supplements

Grammar and Science

This year, of course we’ve chosen Oak Meadow’s Grade 7 Science and Grade 8 curricula as our spine curriculum for science. Oak Meadow’s holistic approach to education aligns with our values, providing engaging and comprehensive resources for our middle schoolers. If you follow us on Instagram you know that we traditionally do a hybrid homeschool year. We didn’t complete Oak Meadow Grade 7 Science this term because my son choose to do a human body and chemistry/physics this year. So he will be doing the grade 7 science this along with finishing the Oak Meadow grade 7 Math.

My son gifted in science and grammar and you will see that we include a lot of these in our yearly selections. Oak Meadow Grade 8 will be our spine this year along with all the great literature choices.

Math

To complement our math studies, we’ve selected Denison Pre-Algebra as the main text, supplemented by Mr. D Math Pre-Algebra for additional practice and reinforcement. My son goal is to be physician and knowing this we take special care with math selections.

History

This year for history my son has decided he will spend the first semester taking deeper dive into American History starting at the Civil War. After a great year in Oak Meadow grade 7 World History he has requested to dig deeper. We will also be doing more cultural studies and geography this year. During second semester we continue to study American history and civics. At this time we are going to be using Blossom and Roots River of Voices volume 2, Shifting Prospective Volume 1, and African American History A Journey Through Liberation. We will be including History Unbox for our hands on learning experience. For world studies we will enlist Thistle and Biscuits plethora of diverse country studies.

Vocabulary and Grammar Supplement

For vocabulary development and critical thinking skills, we’ve incorporated Classical Roots Vocabulary Level A and Critical Thinking Co. Word Roots Level 1 into our language arts curriculum. These resources not only enhance language skills but also foster a deeper understanding of word origins and meanings. We will also using Hewitt Learning Lightning Literature new Storm Level for grades 6-8.

Literature, Writing, and Cultural Studies

In the realm of language arts, we’re focusing on Daily Reading Comprehension Grade 7 and diving into writing with IEW Style and Structure 1B alongside live classes with Write With Mrs. Brown. We will also do a few literature studies from Blossom and Roots, Torchlight and few of our favorite TPT creators.

Additionally, we’re excited to explore African American Studies with Mrs. Zhane and Mrs. Ercka Ward, delving into the rich history and culture of African Americans. Complementing this study, we’ll delve into African Mythology: Myths & Stories From West Africa, broadening our understanding of diverse cultures and traditions.

Enrichment and Interest-Led Learning

In addition to our core curriculum, we’re incorporating enrichment classes to spark curiosity and passion in our child. Our additional Outschool classes this year include The Culinary Express: Teaching Young Cooks to Love Food and Become Junior Chefs!, Body Basics: A Journey Into Human Anatomy and Biology – Middle School Science, offering hands-on experiences and real-world connections to our studies.

Furthermore, we’re embracing interest-led learning with resources such as Evan Moor Financial Literacy Grade 6+ and Life Skills book and workbook, equipping our children with essential knowledge for their future. Additionally, we’re diving into Medical Investigation 101, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the context of healthcare and science.

Beyond academics, we’re prioritizing extracurricular activities and community involvement to nurture well-rounded individuals. Our homeschool co-op meets once a week, providing opportunities for socialization, collaboration, and shared learning experiences. Additionally, this year he is continues interests in piano and archery, fostering creativity, discipline, and physical activity.

As we embark on this homeschooling journey for the 2024-2025 academic year, we’re filled with anticipation and excitement for the adventures and discoveries that lie ahead. I am sure we will make adjustments along the way and do what works best for our schedule. With our eclectic approach to education, we’re confident that our son will thrive academically, socially, and personally, embracing learning as a lifelong pursuit.