I don’t know about you but I saw my high school guidance counselor a total of 3 times during high school when she signed off on the classes I was going to take. But, in public (or private) school, most students are following a typical lock step method of education, and the classes are in place for whatever track the student happens to be on, vocational or college bound based on test and performance scores. Easy peasy for the guidance counselor. Plus, they don’t have parental investment in the kids or hopes and dreams for their future.
Educational Freedom
With homeschooling, as we’ve said so many times before, you have so much freedom. Freedom to choose what to study and when, and to personalize as little or as much as you want to. Like I point out in my workshop What a Homeschooling Parent Actually Does, being a Guidance Counselor is one of the roles of the Homeschooling Parent. And what a great role it can be with some simple parameters.
Crafting a Personalized Learning Plan can be so helpful. It’s like a map that you can follow to the letter or take fun little detours from, but regardless of it still keeps you on track. A Personalized Learning Plan can provide a clear path toward academic achievement and personal growth.
Start with the End in Mind
Where do you see your kids going post high school? You know them best and you have great ideas about what they are capable of, the cost of many things, including vocational and college training and also what it takes to support certain lifestyles. Start talking with your kids while their young about the lifestyle that they want and how they’ll pay for it.
Before diving into the nitty-gritty details of planning, take some time to establish clear goals and objectives for your child’s high school years. Consider academic aspirations, personal interests, and potential post-secondary paths. Are there specific subjects your child wants to excel in? Are they considering college, vocational training, or other career paths? Defining these goals will serve as the foundation for creating a tailored plan. Consider serious hobbies or areas of interest as well. How important are they to current and future plans, what will it take to support those interests?
Academic Coaching
Still not sure exactly how to put it all together, need credit recovery assistance, have a gifted, 2E or struggling learner? We get you and we’d love to help! 1:1 Coaching means you’ve got an expert to help guide, resource and encourage you! Set an appointment today!
Research the educational and graduation requirements for your state. This includes necessary credits in subjects like mathematics, science, English, social studies, and electives.
Plan a Four-Year Program
Divide the high school years into four academic years, each focusing on a balanced curriculum that aligns with your child’s goals. Incorporate core subjects, such as mathematics, science, English, and History, and include elective courses that cater to your child’s interests. Also consider subjects like computer science, foreign languages, Art and Music, Bible, Career Exploration and Entrepreneurship. And look, just because you plan a 4 year program, doesn’t mean it has to be accomplished in 4 years. I’ve worked with students who have finished high school as young as 13 and as old as 21. So, again, you have freedom to work with your kids and your lifestyle.
Plan by Year
Using a Typical Course of Study as a guide, plan by year, taking into account any prerequisites or sequential learning paths. Be sure to include Middle School Courses that are high school level hours and rigor and don’t forget to include CLEP, DE, Honors and AP courses if you choose to go that route.
Include Extracurricular Activities High school isn’t just about academics. Factor in extracurricular activities such as church, sports, arts, community service, and clubs. These activities play a crucial role in personal development, building social skills, and enhancing college applications.
Take Advantage of Amazing Opportunities
Each family, locale and season presents unique opportunities. Be flexible enough in your schedule that you can take advantage of them as they pop up! And remember, parents, YOU are your kids very best resource. Include them in your hobbies, activities, business, dreams and big ideas! You never know where they’ll lead!
Keep Your Student Involved in the Process
Involve your child in the planning process. Their input is valuable as they’ll be more engaged when they have a say in their education. Discuss their interests, strengths, and preferences to tailor the plan to their needs. Again, talk to them about the kind of lifestyle they want and how they’ll support that. Help them understand that how they’ll support that lifestyle goes beyond money and can include social, familial, spiritual, physical and mental resources!
Monitor Progress and Adjust as Needed
Review your high school plan and schedule to monitor progress. Are your student’s goals being met? Is the schedule realistic and manageable? Make adjustments as necessary, considering any changes in goals, interests, or circumstances.
Foster a Love for Learning
While planning is crucial, remember that fostering a love for learning is paramount. Incorporate projects, hands-on activities, and real-world applications to keep your child engaged and excited about their education.
As your child progresses through high school, they may discover new interests, strengths, and passions. Embrace flexibility in your plan to accommodate these changes. The high school journey is a time of growth and self-discovery, and your plan should reflect that evolution.
Crafting a high school plan is a collaborative and dynamic process. It requires careful consideration of your child’s goals, a well-structured curriculum, and a flexible approach. With dedication, open communication, and a commitment to fostering a love for learning, you can craft a high school experience that equips your child for a great high school experience and future success!
Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity to tailor your child’s education to their individual needs and strengths. One powerful and time-tested technique that homeschooling parents can incorporate into their teaching toolbox is narration. Narration is a simple yet incredibly effective method that not only aids in the comprehension of subjects but also enhances communication skills, critical thinking, and retention. We’ve used it for years in our homeschooling and as our kids have gotten older they naturally do this as adults, with books and movies that they’ve been reading or watching. They’ll share highlights, insights and connections; at a much more advanced level than when they were younger, to be sure. The word might seem intimidating, but it’s really not that complex and it’s a fantastic educational tool.
Understanding Narration’s Role in Learning
Narration, in its essence, involves having a child tell you what they’ve learned in their own words. This process encourages active engagement with the material, causing kids remember themes and details, fostering deeper understanding. Unlike passive learning methods, narration requires students to process information, extract key points, and articulate them coherently.
Why Narration Matters
Comprehension: Narration prompts students to process information at a meaningful level. As they retell a story, explain a concept, or summarize a lesson, they begin to grasp the subject matter in a more thorough way.
Critical Thinking: Narration encourages analytical thinking. Narration causes children to organize their thoughts, identify important details, and draw connections between ideas, cultivating their ability to think critically about the material. Good writing, and good speaking, is good thinking. So, students who narrate to an engaged and interested adult, who can guide them with good questions, develops critical thinking and executive functioning skills. That’s a big win from one simple conversation!
Communication Skills: Expressing thoughts verbally or in writing hones communication skills. Narration promotes the development of vocabulary, sentence structure, and coherent articulation. Narration requires students to actively engage with another person with give and take conversation.
Retention: The act of narrating information reinforces memory. When students actively engage with what they’ve learned, they are more likely to remember it over the long term.
Personal Connection: Narration allows children to make the subject matter their own. It empowers them to relate the material to their own experiences, enhancing their sense of ownership over their education. Narration allows the student to engage with the aspects of the lesson that make sense to them, to connect with other meaningful experiences. It’s guided and also organize.
Not Sure Where to Start? We’ve got you!
The 5 Common Topics can be super helpful when you are just getting started with personal, interactive education. This simple, easy to use Ebooks provides you with real examples using a variety of subjects and learning styles! Use across grade levels and subject areas to help students take ownership for their education!
Incorporating Narration into Your Homeschool
Choose Appropriate Material: Start with manageable portions of material. This could be a short story, a lesson from a textbook, or a chapter from a book. As your child becomes comfortable, gradually increase the complexity. Younger and less experienced students should start out with simple, short lessons.
Active Listening: Encourage your child to pay close attention to the material. After reading or discussing it, ask them to recount the main points or the sequence of events.
Variety in Expression: Mix up the types of narration. Encourage spoken narration, where your child verbally retells what they’ve learned. Additionally, incorporate written narration exercises, fostering writing skills.
Open-Ended Questions: Instead of asking yes-or-no questions, prompt your child with open-ended questions that require them to think critically. For instance, “What was the most important lesson in the story?” or “How would you have handled the situation differently?” “What would you have done if you had been in their shoes?” “How does this initial even affect the outcome of the story” etc.
Create a Comfortable Environment: Make narration a comfortable and positive experience. With narration, there is no right or wrong answer. But you also want to encourage your studnet to actively engage with the material, wrestle with confusing concepts and catch major themes, people and events.
Use Narration as Assessment: Narration can be a valuable tool for assessing your child’s understanding. It provides insights into their grasp of the material and areas that may need further attention.
As you can see this is a versatile and effective technique that complements the homeschooling environment beautifully. By incorporating narration into your teaching methodology, you’re not only enhancing your child’s understanding of subjects but also nurturing vital communication skills and critical thinking abilities. As a homeschooling parent, you have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the growth and development that narration brings to your child’s education journey. So, embrace the power of narration and watch your child’s learning flourish in ways that extend far beyond the confines of a traditional classroom.
We don’t buy into the same old, same old. Relying on outdated materials and methods can stifle innovation and engagement. Embracing new technologies and teaching strategies ensures that education remains relevant and exciting. At True North we utilize the SAMR Hierarchy of online education as well as gamification, Socratic Discussion and more to keep interest level high and student learning optimal.
Time Tested Educational Pedagogy
On the other hand, you won’t find us throwing out time tested educational pedagogy. You know, teaching in a way that actually works. While innovation is important, there’s value in retaining effective elements of time-tested pedagogy. Blending the best of both worlds can create a balanced and impactful learning experience. True North homeschool academy teachers are constantly working to find great curriculum and classroom experiences that reimagine education for students’ progress and benefit.
You won’t find a lack of classroom interaction, In the digital age, classroom interaction has taken on new forms. Virtual discussions, online collaborations, and interactive platforms can enrich the learning experience beyond the traditional classroom! Students around the world work collaboratively on projects together, create and deliver presentations, and solve problems collectively. They’re learning real world skills that will set them up for future success!
Faith Based, Creative Educators
You won’t find former public-school teachers who are fed up with teaching, distrust parents and are burned out on student interaction. Our teachers are faith based, creative educators who have homeschooled or worked in alternative education and love nurturing a positive learning atmosphere for each student. We require videos on so that we can get to know each and every student by name to provide a wholistic learning environment geared to personal and academic success.
Speaking of innovation, you won’t find dry and dusty assessments limited to quizzes and tests.: Relying solely on one type of assessment can hinder a holistic understanding of a student’s capabilities. Embracing diverse assessment methods can better capture a student’s true potential and skills so you’ll find our teachers using a variety of assessments, including quizzes and tests as well as papers, projects and presentations, group projects, escape rooms, challenges and more!
At True North Homeschool Academy we don’t put up with mind numbing conformity. We believe in educational freedom that allows for parents and students to determine what fits best with their family, schedule and lifestyle. That’s why you can choose ala carte classes or choose a full program, purchase live online classes, or self paced, connect with one of our experienced educational coaches or purchase our helpful diagnostic test.
People of the Book
At True North Homeschool Academy we are people of the book, committed to a decidedly Judeo- Christian point of view. Teachers, students and families commit to an Honor Code that provides a milieu of mutual respect and a firm foundation to ensure optimal learning and growth.
So, while we’re different than other online class providers, it’s a difference that you can count on. True North Homeschool Academy is your trusted academic partner.
Enroll today, classes begin the week of August 28!
Nurturing Holistic Education Through the Scriptures
Among the diverse approaches to homeschooling, Bible-centered homeschooling stands out as a powerful way to integrate faith and academics. By weaving the teachings of the Bible into various subjects, parents can cultivate a deep spiritual foundation while fostering a well-rounded education. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essence of Bible-centered homeschooling and provide suggestions for incorporating the Bible into different grade levels and subjects.
Understanding Bible-Centered Homeschooling
Bible-centered homeschooling is a pedagogical approach that places the Bible at the heart of all learning. It recognizes that the Word of God is not merely a religious text but a source of timeless wisdom that can enrich every aspect of life, including academics. By infusing subjects with biblical principles, parents aim to nurture values like compassion, integrity, critical thinking, and a love for learning, all rooted in a strong faith.
Grade-Level Suggestions
Primary Grades (K-3)
Language Arts: Incorporate Bible stories into reading comprehension exercises, teaching kids valuable lessons while improving their reading skills. Encourage them to create short stories inspired by biblical narratives.
Mathematics: Use stories of generosity and sharing from the Bible to introduce concepts of addition and subtraction, fostering an understanding of sharing and caring for others.
Science: Explore the beauty of God’s creation by delving into the wonders of nature. Study animals, plants, and ecosystems while instilling a sense of stewardship.
Intermediate Grades (4-6)
History: Study biblical history alongside world history to understand the context of events and cultures. Analyze how historical figures’ decisions were influenced by their faith or lack thereof.
Geography: Map the journeys of biblical characters, helping children visualize the settings of stories. Discuss geographical regions mentioned in the Bible, connecting them to global cultures.
Art: Create art projects inspired by biblical themes, such as illustrating psalms or recreating famous scenes from Scripture. Encourage discussions about the symbolism in their artwork.
Middle School (7-8)
Literature: Introduce deeper biblical analysis by studying allegorical works like John Bunyan’s “Pilgrim’s Progress” or C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia.” Encourage critical thinking about the moral and spiritual lessons embedded in these stories.
Social Studies: Explore social justice issues through the lens of biblical teachings about compassion and justice. Study the lives of reformers and activists inspired by their faith.
Mathematics: Discuss concepts of fairness, and stewardship through math problems related to biblical scenarios, like managing resources during times of scarcity.
High School (9-12)
Literature and Philosophy: Dive into the works of Christian philosophers and theologians, such as Augustine or Thomas Aquinas. Analyze their contributions to faith and reason.
Science and Ethics: Engage in discussions about the intersection of science and faith, addressing topics like evolution and ethics. Explore how faith can inform ethical decision-making.
Civics and Government: Study biblical principles that underpin ideas of justice, equality, and governance. Analyze historical movements influenced by faith, like the civil rights movement.
Conclusion
Bible-centered homeschooling offers a unique opportunity to cultivate both intellectual growth and spiritual maturity. By infusing the teachings of the Bible into various subjects, parents can guide their children toward a well-rounded education grounded in faith, values, and a deep understanding of the world. As homeschooling allows for flexibility and personalization, parents can tailor the curriculum to their child’s interests and strengths while keeping the Bible at the core of their learning journey.
Hello, dear readers! I am Lisa Nehring, and I’m excited to embark on this educational journey with you! I have spent the past three decades deeply immersed in the world of education, homeschooling my own kids for 30 years, writing and speaking about education and finally creating and founding True North Homeschool Academy in 2018, and my passion for reimagining education has only grown stronger. Today, I invite you to join me in exploring a new path for our children’s learning journey as we stand at the crossroads of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
Embracing Change in Education
It’s evident that traditional educational approaches are struggling to keep pace with the rapid transformations of our world. The disruptions we experienced in 2020 were a mere preview of the profound shifts that the 4th Industrial Revolution is bringing. Institutions we once relied upon, from healthcare to government institutions are faltering, and the realm of education is no exception. Our children are growing up in a unique era— one where flat earthers meet yearly on one coast and where transhumanists meet on the other! Our kids will live and work in this smash up of medieval thought and sci-fi!
In this tumultuous landscape, our role as parents has never been more critical. We must be vigilant, prayerful visionaries, crafting a roadmap that prepares our children to thrive amid the chaos and uncertainty.
Casting a Vision
To navigate this uncharted territory, we must first cast a beautiful and purposeful vision for our children. It’s essential to not only consider immediate goals but also to envision the long-term trajectory. Our children are bombarded with competing voices and influences; thus, our vision must be intentional and steadfast.
Firm Foundation in Faith:Grounding our children in faith provides them with a moral compass to navigate challenges and decisions. This foundation will help them develop essential virtues and values that will guide them through life’s twists and turns.
Developing Soft and Life Skills: Beyond academics, our children need to cultivate soft skills like integrity, collaboration, critical thinking, and humility. The world demands adaptable individuals who can pivot across industries, making Entrepreneural and life skills more important than ever before!
Nurturing Academic Autonomy: Encouraging self-directed learning equips our children to become autodidacts—lifelong learners who can acquire knowledge independently. Study skills, memory techniques, and analytical thinking empower them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Are you a homeschooling parent looking to take control of your homeschool planning, organization, and execution? Do you feel overwhelmed by the vast amount of information and resources available? Look no further! The “Don’t Panic, Plan!” Bootcamp Challenge is here to revolutionize your homeschooling experience.
Through a series of engaging modules, recorded sessions, and an interactive group, you’ll embark on a transformative learning journey to unlock your full potential as a homeschooling parent ready to homeschool through high school.
Reimagining the Curriculum
Traditionally, education has followed a rigid structure, encompassing subjects like Math, English, Science, History, and more. However, in this era of fluid careers and global connectivity, we must expand our horizons.
Career Exploration and Entrepreneurship:In a world of evolving professions, providing our children with career exploration and entrepreneurship education is paramount. They’ll learn to pivot swiftly, market themselves, and adapt to new opportunities.
Holistic Vision: Beyond monetary aspirations, we must consider the complete lifestyle we desire for our children—spiritually, socially, and emotionally. With this holistic vision, we can chart a course that aligns with our values and dreams.
Dream, Plan, Execute!
As we stand on the brink of a new educational era, the call to action is clear. We, as parents, must dream, plan, and execute with purpose. In a world marked by disruption, uncertainty, and possibility, homeschooling becomes a beacon of hope and opportunity. So, before you dive into the busyness of this coming school yeras, spend time reflecting on the remarkable journey ahead, casting a vision that prepares our children to embrace the unknown and shape a future filled with promise.
Are you ready to embark on this transformative homeschooling adventure? We’re here for it! At True North Homeschool Academy we offer 2nd- 12th grade live online and self-paced classes, Tutoring, Coaching and Advising, Testing, and Parent Equipping classes and Resources! We’d love to partner with you as we equip our children to not only survive but thrive in the midst of the 4th Industrial Revolution. Together, we’ll nurture their hearts, minds, and spirits, guiding them toward a future where their dreams become reality.
As we deep dive into the 4th Industrial Revolution many aspects of life are going to be disrupted by technologies and rapid advancements. It’s going to become more crucial for teenagers to equip themselves with entrepreneurial skills. Just like the fierce predators of the deep seas, teens need to embrace the spirit of Shark Tank! What do we mean? It’s time to sharpen skills and abilities to strategize, innovate, and navigate the ever-evolving business landscape. This Shark Week, let’s explore how teenagers can embrace entrepreneurship and develop the qualities necessary to thrive in this era of unprecedented change.
Embracing the 4th Industrial Revolution
The 4th Industrial Revolution is transforming industries through Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, 3-D Printing, automation, and other groundbreaking technologies. Teenagers must recognize this paradigm shift and understand its implications. By actively engaging with emerging technologies, they can identify new opportunities, create innovative solutions, and shape the future of business.
Developing an Entrepreneurial Mindset
To succeed as teenpreneurs, young individuals must cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset. This includes being proactive, embracing risk-taking, and having a relentless drive to turn ideas into reality. Encouraging creativity and resilience allows teenagers to view obstacles as stepping stones to success. This allows them to develop the tenacity reminiscent of the sharks in the business world.
Nurturing Strategic Thinking
Strategic thinking is a vital skill for any entrepreneur. Teenpreneurs should learn to evaluate market trends, identify gaps, and conceptualize innovative business models. By analyzing customer needs and devising effective strategies, young entrepreneurs can position themselves for success in the competitive landscape of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
Our Entrepreneurial Skills track is just what you are looking for! We are offering so many marketable skills classes– including Entrepreneurship! And yes, our Entrepreneurship class includes a Shark Tank Challenge- how cool is that?
Embracing Collaboration and Networking
The interconnected nature of the modern business world highlights the importance of collaboration and networking. Teenpreneurs can leverage social media platforms, attend entrepreneurial events, and connect with mentors to expand their horizons and gain valuable insights. The Shark Tank approach emphasizes the power of partnerships, fostering relationships that can elevate both ideas and execution.
Developing Pitching Skills
The art of pitching is a key aspect of Shark Tank, where entrepreneurs have limited time to capture the interest of potential investors. Teenpreneurs should learn to communicate their ideas effectively, highlighting the unique value propositions of their products or services. By mastering the art of storytelling, teens can inspire confidence, attract investors, and propel their ventures forward.
Embracing Failure and Learning from it
Failure is an inevitable part of entrepreneurship. Teenagers must embrace this reality, recognizing that setbacks are opportunities for growth. By adopting a resilient mindset and learning from their mistakes, young entrepreneurs can develop a steely determination that sets them apart in the fast-paced, ever-changing business landscape.
Leveraging Digital Tools
In the 4th Industrial Revolution, digital tools are essential for success. Teenpreneurs should familiarize themselves with various software applications, automation tools, and digital marketing strategies. By harnessing the power of technology, they can streamline operations, scale their businesses, and create a strong online presence.
Shark Week serves as a reminder of the incredible power and potential of the natural world. Similarly, the 4th Industrial Revolution offers unprecedented opportunities for teenagers to unleash their entrepreneurial spirit. By adopting the qualities seen in the Shark Tank arena—strategic thinking, innovation, resilience, collaboration, and a hunger for success—teenpreneurs can navigate the complex waters of the 4th Industrial Revolution and leave their mark on the business world. So, let us encourage and empower young minds to dive fearlessly into entrepreneurship, transforming challenges into opportunities, and paving the way for a brighter future.
