Elementary students call it Social Studies. In the upper grades, it’s History. Sometimes it includes Geography, but not always. On transcripts, it may fall into a category called Social Sciences.
The American Historical Association explains that history should be studied because, “…it is essential to individuals and to society, and because it harbors beauty. ” Learning history is important not only to gain identity and understand our past, but also for developing good citizenship and analyzing the examples of the past for making good decisions in the future. Plus, it can be fascinating to glimpse into the past, read about the lives and times of our ancestors, and imagine what the world must have been like during times of great transformation and world-changing events.
There are many ways that homeschoolers may study history. These lessons may come from textbooks, but may also come from reading biographies, watching educational television, visiting history and science museums and from many other places, too. History can be studied as a subject all by itself, but may also be combined with other academic areas as well (see HERE).
The list of history products in today’s homeschool marketplace is vast and growing every year. Some products have a different take on history than others, too, making it possible to teach from almost every individual point of view. Not every product is suitable for every learner, but you can be sure — with a list this long – you’ll find exactly what you need for your student!
Begin by checking out these resources and by doing additional research on your own, too. Remember that this list represents just a small subset of the resources available and that homeschoolers may bring history to life any way they like.
The Kingfisher History Encyclopedia
Childhood of Famous Americans Series
American Girl Books & Learning Guides
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