One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is freedom from the one-size-fits-all educational mold of public (or even private) schools. Not surprisingly, many homeschoolers tend to avoid using textbooks and workbooks. Instead they choose other methods of learning: unit studies, hands-on projects, literature-based learning, or even unschooling. The choice to…
I have surprisingly vivid memories of my high school typing class. Electronic typewriters were the new thing then, although I lugged in an ancient electric monstrosity that hummed and clicked in the quietness of the classroom. Mrs. Johnston was an old-school typing teacher–the best of the best–who enforced a strict…
I have to say I’m sorry to have reached the final unit of All American History. I’ve enjoyed discussing our country’s history with Kaylee as she worked through the text and read extensively about various U. S. events. Every bit of my effort was repaid when Kaylee told me that…
Who Was Stephen Foster? Stephen Foster was a songwriter known for his parlor and minstrel music. He is remembered as the “father of American music.” Early Life Stephen Collins Foster was born on July 4, 1826, in Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania, just east of Pittsburgh. He was the ninth of ten children…
Everyone knows that it is impossible to homeschool a teenager, right? Wrong! The fact is that not only can you survive homeschooling a teen–or even FOUR of them–but your family can truly thrive in this homeschooling lifestyle. 3 Myths About Homeschooling Teenagers 1. My teen needs to go to school…
Self Portrait of Benjamin West (ca. 1763) Who Was Benjamin West? Benjamin West was an Anglo-American painter who is best remembered for his large-scale historical and religious paintings. He is known as the father of American painting and has been called the “American Raphael.” Early Life Benjamin West was born…
World War II was the first historical event to actually catch my interest in high school. Over the years I’ve continued to learn more, especially about the horrific tragedy of the Holocaust. As Kaylee read about the events of World War II, she developed a deeper interest in the time…
As one of the original thirteen colonies, Pennsylvania has a rich and colorful history. Learning more about the famous people of this state is truly a fascinating study. Get ready to meet some of the most famous people who have been born in or lived in Pennsylvania! Famous Pennsylvanians: Artists…
I’m so grateful to have found a history text that my ninth-grade daughter truly enjoys. Here are her thoughts on All American History: “One of my favorite parts of All American History is the sections telling all about the presidents . . . I didn’t know very much about the…