The idea of homeschooling through high school strikes fear into many homeschool moms’ hearts. Taking responsibility for subjects that we may not know, or if we did, we have likely long forgotten, can seem like a daunting task. But before you become too concerned that you just aren’t equipped for the job, check out these favorite online resources that can help you homeschool high school.
Take heart, homeschool mama. You are more capable of teaching your high schooler than you may think, and these resources are here to help you do just that!
Teaching High School Writing
Writing is an important skill for any teenager to develop. If you are a parent who enjoys writing and just ‘gets’ it, then teaching about this topic probably comes easy to you. However, if you are not a natural writer, then you may struggle to pass on the necessary skills to your children. That is where online writing resources can be a handy tool for everyday use in your homeschool.
Scour the internet and you will find lessons on expository writing, dialectical journaling, ideas for writing short stories, and so much more. There are many forms of curricula available to you for teaching writing. One effective way to teach different kinds of writing, and have fun doing it, is with free writing prompts.
Or perhaps you’d just rather not even tackle this one and you’d like a full, online course; if that’s the case, Write at Home and Essentials in Writing offer thorough online writing courses.
Teaching High School Math
Math is one of those topics that often feels threatening to homeschool parents who don’t consider it to be their ‘thing’. The good news? There are a large number of online resources available to you for teaching and practicing math skills. You may even find what you need on a free list like this one.
Online courses are also available. Simply sign your child up, and he can get started learning everything he needs to know from someone who does consider math their ‘thing’. Some top ones are Teaching Textbooks, CTC Math, Unlock Math, and Mr. D Math.
Teaching High School History
You may wonder if your child can learn history online. If you’re thinking “yes” then you are correct! And many of the resources at your fingertips are even free.
Use Primary Sources, Teacher Resources, and online exhibits to pique your teen’s interest in what came before.
You may wish to choose a topic or a historical figure to learn more about and use movies to gain an education.
Something a bit more traditional that still incorporates today’s technology is Google Classroom Resources for United States and World History.
Teaching High School Science
One of the biggest needs for homeschool families is a way to complete Science labs. Take a look at these five web sites where your child can take part in virtual labs.
If your teen desires to learn about more non-traditional science topics, try this pre-recorded Forensic Science course.
For interactive learners check out these science web sites that offer games, videos, and more.
If you have a motivated student who wishes to take an advanced course, you may wish to explore the possibility of an online course like Introduction to Earth Science.
Teaching High School Electives
Electives are an exciting part of any homeschool and can range from art to music to fencing to acting and more. There are many online resources available to you to help teach these topics and skills.
For children who would like to explore and learn more about theater and acting, why not work through a 10-week study on Shakespeare?
If you have a budding artist on your hands, then these online art lessons will be loads of fun.
Has your teen been asking to learn to play the piano? Here is a no-book introduction to piano that she can take for free!
Are you considering voice lessons for your high schooler? Try searching for YouTube videos like this one for specific kinds of lessons. For more tech-savvy parents and teens, download an app such as Smule. Your child can practice and record alone or with others, to music she loves, and then replay to hear how she did.
With just a bit of research, you will easily find many more resources to use as you homeschool high school.
Do you already have a favorite online high school resource that you use frequently in your homeschool? Share it with us!
Sarah Avila is a homeschooling mom of 8 children – ages 17 down to 3. She is the founder and owner of the website My Joy-Filled Life. For over eight years, My Joy-Filled Life has been a leading and trusted place where moms can come to find encouragement, inspiration, tips, and resources to help them flourish in the areas of parenting, homeschooling, marriage, and homemaking. She is also the co-owner and co-founder of the brand new online forum, Homeschool Speak – a safe, online community where homeschoolers can connect, fellowship, ask questions, and share wisdom. You can connect with Sarah, and other homeschool moms, in the thriving My Joy-Filled Homeschool Facebook community or on Homeschool Speak.
Be sure to check out all our other posts in the Breathe New Life into Your Homeschool Series
Annette lived many years as an exhausted wife of 1 and mother of 6. Grab your fuzzy blanket, pour your favorite drink, and browse through our encouraging tips, printables, and curriculum options. Read more about me and the ministry here at In All You Do
This Post Has 11 Comments
The thing that scares me the most is still trying to get everything in when we are “behind” in learning due to learning disabilities. I am letting her work at her pace and she is 12 now.
That is definitely a valid concern. I say keep working at her level and just re-evaluate each year.
I think my biggest concern is not preparing my daughters enough for “hard work” in the real world and college. We have a much more laid back attitude than public schools.
I think that is a valid concern. I’m not sure the answer, but I agree it needs to be addressed. Great point.
Some of my favorite online resources for high school include Hillsdale college’s online courses and Kahn academy.
I’m nervous about keeping track of everything my high schooler will be required to take for college entry.
I have had the same fear. But once I dug in, it really wasn’t as bad as I thought! 😉
I loose track of what I have covered and a 4-year planner would give me the ability to keep track of what we do each year and what I hope to cover the following years. That way I know I will give my child the right credits needed for graduation.
algebra….its my kryptonite!
Thanks for including UnLock Math in your list of high school math resources!
You’re welcome!