Absolute Best High School Homeschool Curriculum: My Top Picks

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Homeschooling high school? It can feel like you're staring at a giant, confusing textbook, right? I get it! Figuring out the best high school homeschool curriculum feels like a massive puzzle. But don't worry, I've been there, done that, and I'm here to share what worked for us. We're not talking about dry, boring textbooks here. Instead, think of it more like an exciting adventure where we’re exploring different subjects with great books and hands-on activities. This article will walk you through my personal favorite resources for English, history, math, science, government, Bible, and even some fun electives. I'm not going to pretend that this is the only way, but it's a path that led to some fantastic learning experiences. So, if you're ready to ditch the overwhelm and discover a curriculum that can actually spark your teen's curiosity, let’s jump in! We'll be covering everything from living literature to hands-on science experiments, offering a glimpse into what a fulfilling homeschool high school journey can look like. I'll share the resources that transformed our homeschool from a chore into a joy, and I hope it'll do the same for you.

English and History: Bringing Stories to Life

English: More Than Just Grammar

Okay, so when it comes to English, I'm not about those boring grammar drills all day. I want my kids to actually enjoy language, not just dissect it. That's why I'm a big fan of the Wordsmith series. It’s like a secret weapon for making writing fun! Instead of just learning rules, they get to play with words, explore different writing styles, and even create their own stories. It's less about memorizing and more about doing. And for a literature component? Learning Language Arts Through Literature is fantastic. It weaves grammar and writing into the stories they’re already reading, which means they are learning without even realizing it. It's sneaky good, in the best way.

And if you are looking for something that makes reading feel like a grand adventure, check out the Beautiful Feet curriculum sets. They pick amazing books and help you discuss them in a way that gets everyone thinking. It's not just reading; it's about connecting with ideas and characters, which is exactly what I want for my kids. It's like stepping into another world, and who wouldn't want that?

History: Stepping Back in Time

History doesn't have to be a list of dates and names. It can be an incredible journey. For a more engaging approach, I love Diana Waring's History Revealed series. She tells history like a story, which makes it so much easier to remember and actually care about. It’s history that doesn't feel like a chore, but like a fascinating movie unfolding before your eyes. Then there's the A History of US Series by Joy Hakim. These books are packed with interesting details and stories that bring the past to life. Sure, they lean a bit to the liberal side, especially the modern times book, but we've had some great discussions because of it. I like when books make you think, not just agree.

And if you want to explore history through literature, Beautiful Feet's Modern U.S. and World History is another winner. They use fantastic books to teach about different time periods and places. It's a great way to get a feel for how people lived and thought in the past. It’s like traveling in time, but without the risk of getting lost in the 1800s. It's a win-win, if you ask me.

Math and Science: Building a Solid Foundation

Math: Making Sense of Numbers

Alright, let's talk math. I know, I know, it can be a subject that causes some serious eye-rolling, but it doesn’t have to! My go-to for math is Saxon Math. It's like the old reliable friend that always gets the job done. It's structured, it's thorough, and it builds a solid foundation. Some might say it's a bit repetitive, but I think that's exactly why it works. The constant review helps the concepts really stick. Now, if Saxon feels like a bit too much of a march for you, I also have some other options. For geometry, Jacob's Geometry is fantastic. It's more visual and hands-on, which makes it a lot less intimidating. And then there’s Teaching Textbooks, which is a great option if you want something that's more independent. It's like having a math tutor on your computer, which can be a lifesaver on busy days.

I've found that the key is to find a math curriculum that fits your teen, not the other way around. Some kids love the structure of Saxon, while others prefer the more visual approach of Jacob's or the independence of Teaching Textbooks. It's like finding the right pair of shoes; it has to fit well to be comfortable.

Science: Exploring the World Around Us

Science should be about discovery, not just memorizing facts. For that, I can't recommend Apologia Science enough. Their books are engaging, and they encourage my kids to really think about the world around them. It's not just about reading a textbook; it's about doing experiments and exploring scientific concepts firsthand. It's the kind of science that makes you go "Wow, that's cool!" And if you want to add a bit of fun to your science lessons, check out Ellen McHenry's Basement Workshop. She has some seriously creative ways to teach science concepts. It’s like turning your kitchen into a science lab, and who doesn't love that? It's messy, but it's also incredibly fun and effective.

I really believe that science should be a mix of learning from books and getting your hands dirty. It's not just about knowing the names of things; it's about understanding how they work and why they matter. It's about fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity, which is why I love these resources so much.

Government, Bible, and Electives: Rounding Out the Curriculum

Government: Understanding How Things Work

Okay, so government might not be the most exciting topic for everyone, but it's super important to understand how our society functions. I like to use American Government in Christian Perspective for this. It explains the ins and outs of government while also bringing in a Christian viewpoint, which is something that's important to our family. It's not just about memorizing facts; it's about understanding the principles and values that shape our nation. It helps them see the bigger picture, not just the day-to-day political drama you see on TV.

I think it's important for kids to learn about their responsibilities as citizens and how they can make a positive impact on the world around them. It's not just about knowing who the president is; it's about understanding the system and how they can participate in it. I want them to be informed and engaged, not just passive observers.

Bible: Growing in Faith

For Bible study, we keep it simple but meaningful. I'm a fan of Rose Publishing's pamphlets. They’re easy to use and cover a wide range of topics. It's like having a mini-Bible study in your hands. They're also great for quick reference and are packed with information. I think it's important to have resources that are engaging and easy to understand, especially for high schoolers who might be juggling a lot of different subjects.

I've always felt that the goal is to encourage a deeper relationship with God. It's not just about knowing the stories in the Bible; it's about applying those stories to their lives. It's about growing in faith and understanding, which is a journey, not a destination. I want them to have a faith that's real and personal, not just something they learned in a book.

Electives: Exploring Interests

Electives are where you can really let your kids' interests shine. For economics, I like Economics for Everybody. It's practical and easy to understand, even if you're not a math whiz. It's important for them to grasp the basics of how money works and how the economy operates. It gives them practical knowledge they can use in their everyday lives.

For psychology, Psychology: A Christian Perspective is a great choice. It explores the human mind while also integrating a Christian viewpoint. It's a fascinating topic, and it helps them understand themselves and others better. And for something a bit different, I also recommend Philosophy Adventure. It introduces kids to philosophical thinking in a way that's engaging and thought-provoking. It’s like stretching their minds in a new and exciting way. Electives are a chance to explore, to discover, and to learn about something you’re actually excited about, and that's the best kind of learning there is.