Contact Us

The law requires the subjects below to be taught at some point in the elementary grades (K-6). See law. However, the law does NOT stipulate that each subject be taught every year. (The only subject that is required to be taught every year is fire safety.) (See answer from the representative of the PA Department of Education.)

The required courses for elementary grades (K-6) are:

• English, to include spelling, reading, and writing
• Arithmetic
• Science
• Geography
• History of the United States and Pennsylvania
• Civics (U.S. and Commonwealth government)
• Safety education, including regular and continuous instruction in the dangers and prevention of fires
• Health and physiology
• Physical education
• Music
• Art

As a parent you plan to provide your student with the highest quality education possible, so we recommend that you do each subject each year as best as possible.

On the following pages, you'll find recommendations for curriculum (based on the law's requirements) that we, as a family, found to be enjoyable for the student and educationally sound. Most of this curriculum has been well-established and reputable for decades. You will find that I repeat many of the same comments from grade to grade. This is because I realize that many parents will go directly to the grade that concerns their student (and not read through the entire page).

Pre-Kindergarten

There are no requirements in the law for a pre-kindergarten student; but, if you have a child who is an eager student, we encourage you to indulge your his/her mental appetite. My mother started to teach me how to read when I was four, and I was reading the King James Bible by the time I was five. We used another phonics program initially, and I did NOT like it at all. However, when my mother switched me to Sing, Spell, Read, and Write, I suddenly became interested in reading because it makes learning phonics fun with lots of songs and games.
Sing, Spell, Read & Write, Kindergarten, Level 1

I never used this particular art book by Barry Stebbing; however, I did use his art books for the later grades, and he's fantastic!
The Baby Lamb's Art Book

Kindergarten

English

This is a great program for teaching your child how to read phonetically. It makes learning fun with fun songs and games. Sing, Spell, Read & Write, Level 1 (Edition 2)

Arithmetic

As a student I used BJU math.
K5 Math, Student Worktext and Home Teacher's Edition

I love Saxon's approach to math. He teaches a new concept and then reviews it periodically to ensure that the student retains it in his/her knowledge. Some parents feel he reviews too much and only require their child to do the even or odd questions. However, as a student, I was happy to do all the work; and I really felt confident with the knowledge I gained with the continual review. When I was being home-schooled in first through third grade the Saxon math was not yet available for my grade levels; however, I have spoken with mothers that are very happy with Saxon for these levels.
Saxon Math K, Home Study Kit

Art

I didn't use this particular book by Barry Stebbing; however, I did use other art books by him, and I was very happy with them. Little Annie's Art Book/Etiquette

Fire Safety

Your local fire department should have activities for home-schoolers every year (October) during Fire Prevention Week. You can call them to find out when the activities are. Also, there is a NFPA website where you can find many stories, activities, and projects for your student.

First Grade

English

My mother was an eighth grade English teacher, and she was very particular about her choice of grammar textbook; so, for English language and grammar we used A Beka. (She also liked Scripture being used throughout the textbook, and finding subjects and verbs in verses made memorizing easy.) The book has been updated since I used it, and the title is now Language 1, #14893. One of the things my mother required of me was that I memorize the handbook. This wasn't as daunting a task as it may seem because she had me start memorizing the punctuation and capitalization rules as soon as they first taught them to me. We would then review them every week, and I would repeat them to her. I am VERY glad that my mother required this of me because, when I took tests, I was able to say the rule to myself and come up with the correct answer. Also, as an adult, I am still comfortable with my punctuation and capitalization skills. (Four years after graduating - I was able to use these skills to successfully pass the College Level Examination Placement test for English without studying.)
Spelling 1, Home School Kit

Handwriting 1, Student Worktext

Arithmetic

As a first grade student, I used BJU's math.
Math 1, Home School Kit

I love Saxon's approach to math. He teaches a new concept and then reviews it periodically to ensure that the student retains it in his/her knowledge. Some parents feel he reviews too much and only require their child to do the even or odd questions. However, as a student, I was happy to do all the work, and I really felt confident with the knowledge I gained with the continual review. When I was being home-schooled in first through third grade, the Saxon math was not yet available for my grade levels; however, I have spoken with mothers that are very happy with Saxon for these levels.
Saxon Math 2, Home Study Kit

Saxon Math 1, Home Study Kit

Science

I used the Lifepac science when I was in school, and there were times when I wished for more color in the books (they were only black and white). However, looking back, I do remember parts of the Lifepac science books that did fascinate me. I have no idea what later editions of the workbooks look like now, but the outside is definitely more colorful!
Lifepac Science, Grade 1, Complete Set

BJU science is also a good choice for a science textbook.
Science 1, Home School Kit, Updated Second Edition and Tests

History and Geography

For history I used A Beka's My America and My World, #51225. A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. As a student I always found A Beka history books to be very fascinating!

Health

I used A Beka's Health, Safety, and Manners 1, #54089, along with the test/study book. A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. I really did enjoy the A Beka health books as a student.

Fire Safety

Your local fire department should have activities for home-schoolers every year (October) during Fire Prevention Week. You can call them to find out when the activities are. Also, there is a NFPA website where you can find many stories, activities, and projects for your student.

Physical Education

Community sports, outdoor games with the neighbors, home aerobics videos, etc. are just a few examples of things you can document in your log for physical education.

Music

Personal instrumental lessons, handbell choirs, orchestra, etc. can all count for music studies.

Art

I didn't use this particular book by Barry Stebbing; however, I did use other art books by him, and I was very happy with them.

Little Annie's Art Book/Etiquette

Spanish

As a child, I LOVED this introduction to Spanish. (It allows for the children's active little bodies AND their busy little minds.) Studies have shown that it is beneficial to introduce children to a foreign language at a young age because it creates the paths in the brain. That way, learning the foreign language is easier when they study it as an adult.
Springboard to Spanish: Introduction to the Spanish Language (Springbboard Series)

Second Grade

English

My mother was an eighth grade English teacher, and she was very particular about her choice of grammar textbook; so, for English language and grammar we used A Beka. (She also liked Scripture being used throughout the textbook, and finding subjects and verbs in verses made memorizing easy.) The book has been updated since I used it, and the title is now Language 2, #26883. One of the things my mother required of me was that I memorize the handbook. This wasn't as daunting a task as it may seem because she had me start memorizing the punctuation and capitalization rules as soon as they first taught them to me. We would then review them every week, and I would repeat them to her. I am VERY glad that my mother required this of me because, when I took tests I was able to say the rule to myself and come up with the correct answer. Also, as an adult, I am still comfortable with my punctuation and capitalization skills. (Four years after graduating - I was able to use these skills to successfully pass the College Level Examination Placement test for English without studying.)
Handwriting 2, Student Worktext

Spelling 2, Home School Kit

Arithmetic

As a second grade student, I used BJU's math.
Math 2, Student Worktext

I love Saxon's approach to math. He teaches a new concept and then reviews it periodically to ensure that the student retains it in his/her knowledge. Some parents feel he reviews too much and only require their child to do the even or odd questions. However, as a student, I was happy to do all the work; and I really felt confident with the knowledge I gained with the continual review. When I was being home-schooled in first through third grade the Saxon math was not yet available for my grade levels; however, I have spoken with mothers that are very happy with Saxon for these levels.
Saxon Math 2, Home Study Kit

Science

Science 2 Student Text, Second Edition

I used the Lifepac science when I was in school, and there were times when I wished for more color in the books (they were only black and white). However, looking back, I do remember parts of the Lifepac science books that did fascinate me. I have no idea what later editions of the workbooks look like now, but the outside is definitely more colorful!
Lifepac Science, Grade 2, Complete Set

History and Geography

For history I used A Beka's Our America, #49158, along with the A Beka maps and test books. A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. As a student I always found A Beka history books to be very fascinating!

Health

I used A Beka's Health, Safety, and Manners 2, #56871, along with the test/study book. A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. I really did enjoy the A Beka health books as a student.

Fire Safety

Your local fire department should have activities for home-schoolers every year (October) during Fire Prevention Week. You can call them to find out when the activities are. Also, there is a NFPA website where you can find many stories, activities, and projects for your student.

Physical Education

Community sports, outdoor games with the neighbors, home aerobics videos, etc. are just a few examples of things you can document in your log for physical education.

Music

Personal instrumental lessons, handbell choirs, orchestra, etc. can all count for music studies.

Art

Barry Stebbing is a marvelous teacher. He teaches a student all the basics of art in short, easy-to-understand lessons.
Lambs' Book of Art 1

Spanish

As a child, I LOVED this introduction to Spanish. (It allows for the children's active little bodies AND their busy little minds.) Studies have shown that it is beneficial to introduce children to a foreign language at a young age because it creates the paths in the brain. That way, learning the foreign language is easier when they study it as an adult.
Springboard to Spanish: Introduction to the Spanish Language (Springbboard Series)

Third Grade

English

My mother was an eighth grade English teacher, and she was very particular about her choice of grammar textbook; so, for English language and grammar we used A Beka. (She also liked Scripture being used throughout the textbook, and finding subjects and verbs in verses made memorizing easy.) The book has been updated since I used it, and the title is now Language 3, #36447, along with the test booklet. One of the things my mother required of me was that I memorize the handbook. This wasn't as daunting a task as it may seem because she had me start memorizing the punctuation and capitalization rules as soon as they first taught them to me. We would then review them every week, and I would repeat them to her. I am VERY glad that my mother required this of me, because when I took tests I was able to say the rule to myself and come up with the correct answer. Also, as an adult, I am still comfortable with my punctuation and capitalization skills.(Four years after graduating - I was able to use these skills to successfully pass the College Level Examination Placement test for English without studying.)

Handwriting 3, Student Worktext

Spelling 3, Home School Kit

Arithmetic

As a student I used BJU's math.
Math 3, Student Worktext

I love Saxon's approach to math. He teaches a new concept and then reviews it periodically to ensure that the student retains it in his/her knowledge. Some parents feel he reviews too much and only require their child to do the even or odd questions. However, as a student, I was happy to do all the work; and I really felt confident with the knowledge I gained with the continual review. When I was being home-schooled in first through third grade the Saxon math was not yet available for my grade levels, however, I have spoken with mothers that are very happy with Saxon for these levels.
Saxon Math 3, Home Study Kit

Science

I used the Lifepac science when I was in school, and there were times when I wished for a more color in the books (they were only black and white). However, looking back, I do remember parts of the Lifepac science books that did fascinate me. I have no idea what later editions of the workbooks look like now, but the outside is definitely more colorful!
Lifepac Science, Grade 3, Complete Set

BJU is also a good choice for a science textbook.
Science 3 Student Text, Second Edition

History and Geography

For history I used A Beka's Our American Heritage, #58246, along with the A Beka maps and test books. A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. As a student I always found A Beka history books to be very fascinating!

Health

I used A Beka's Health, Safety, and Manners, #58106, along with the test/study book. A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. I really did enjoy the A Beka health books as a student.

Fire Safety

Your local fire department should have activities for home-schoolers every year (October) during Fire Prevention Week. You can call them to find out when the activities are. Also, there is a NFPA website where you can find many stories, activities, and projects for your student.

Physical Education

Community sports, outdoor games with the neighbors, home aerobics videos, etc. are just a few examples of things you can document in your log for physical education.

Music

Personal instrumental lessons, handbell choirs, orchestra, etc. can all count for music studies.

Art

Barry Stebbing is a marvelous teacher. He teaches a student all the basics of art in short, easy-to-understand lessons.
Lambs' Book of Art 1

Spanish

As a child, I LOVED this introduction to Spanish. (It allows for the children's active little bodies AND their busy little minds.) Studies have shown that it is beneficial to introduce children to a foreign language at a young age because it creates the paths in the brain. That way, learning the foreign language is easier when they study it as an adult.
Springboard to Spanish: Introduction to the Spanish Language (Springbboard Series)

Fourth Grade

English

My mother was an eighth grade English teacher, and she was very particular about her choice of grammar textbook; so, for English language and grammar we used A Beka. (She also liked Scripture being used throughout the textbook, and finding subjects and verbs in verses made memorizing easy.) The book has been updated since I used it, and the title is now God's Gift of Language A, #61115, along with the test booklet. One of the things my mother required of me was that I memorize the handbook. This wasn't as daunting a task as it may seem because she had me start memorizing the punctuation and capitalization rules as soon as they first taught them to me. We would then review them every week, and I would repeat them to her. I am VERY glad that my mother required this of me, because when I took tests I was able to say the rule to myself and come up with the correct answer. Also, as an adult, I am still comfortable with my punctuation and capitalization skills.
Spelling 4, Home School Kit

Handwriting 4, Student Worktext

Arithmetic

I love Saxon's approach to math. He teaches a new concept and then reviews it periodically to ensure that the student retains it in his/her knowledge. Some parents feel he reviews too much and only require their child to do the even or odd questions. However, as a student, I was happy to do all the work; and I really felt confident with the knowledge I gained with the continual review.
Saxon Math 54, Home Study Kit

Science

I used the Lifepac science when I was in school, and there were times when I wished for a more color in the books (they were only black and white). However, looking back, I do remember parts of the Lifepac science books that did fascinate me. I have no idea what later editions of the workbooks look like now, but the outside is definitely more colorful!
Lifepac Science, Grade 4, Complete Set

The BJU science books are another good option.
Science 4, Student Text

History and Geography
Pennsylvania History

Fourth grade is the year we chose to do our Pennsylvania history. Pennsylvania history is a difficult area to find curriculum (the book I used is now out of print). You could teach your student PA History by finding good books about Pennsylvania and famous Pennsylvanians. Book reports would be a good way to document your child's studies. Also, you might want to visit the Explore PA History website for other aspects of Pennsylvania's history.

Health

I used A Beka's Developing Good Health, #60984, along with the test/study book.A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. I really did enjoy the A Beka health books as a student.

Fire Safety

Your local fire department should have activities for home-schoolers every year (October) during Fire Prevention Week. You can call them to find out when the activities are. Also, there is a NFPA website where you can find many stories, activities, and projects for your student.

Physical Education

Community sports, outdoor games with the neighbors, home aerobics videos, etc. are just a few examples of things you can document in your log for physical education.

Music

Personal instrumental lessons, handbell choirs, orchestra, etc. can all count for music studies.

Art

Barry Stebbing is a marvelous teacher. He teaches a student all the basics of art in short, easy-to-understand lessons.
Lambs' Book of Art 2

Spanish

As a child, I LOVED this introduction to Spanish. (It allows for the children's active little bodies AND their busy little minds.) Studies have shown that it is beneficial to introduce children to a foreign language at a young age because it creates the paths in the brain. That way, learning the foreign language is easier when they study it as an adult.
Springboard to Spanish: Introduction to the Spanish Language (Springbboard Series)

Fifth Grade

English

My mother was an eighth grade English teacher, and she was very particular about her choice of grammar textbook; so, for English language and grammar we used A Beka. (She also liked Scripture being used throughout the textbook, and finding subjects and verbs in verses made memorizing easy.) The book has been updated since I used it, and the title is now God's Gift of Language B, #65013, along with the test booklet. One of the things my mother required of me was that I memorize the handbook. This wasn't as daunting a task as it may seem because she had me start memorizing the punctuation and capitalization rules as soon as they first taught them to me. We would then review them every week, and I would repeat them to her. I am VERY glad that my mother required this of me, because when I took tests I was able to say the rule to myself and come up with the correct answer. Also, as an adult, I am still comfortable with my punctuation and capitalization skills. (Four years after graduating - I was able to use these skills to successfully pass the College Level Examination Placement test for English without studying.)
Spelling 5, Home School Kit

Handwriting 5, Student Worktext

Arithmetic

I love Saxon's approach to math. He teaches a new concept and then reviews it periodically to ensure that the student retains it in his/her knowledge. Some parents feel he reviews too much and only require their child to do the even or odd questions. However, as a student, I was happy to do all the work, and I really felt confident with the knowledge I gained with the continual review.
Saxon Math 65, Home Study Kit

Science

I used the Lifepac science when I was in school, and there were times when I wished for a more color in the books (they were only black and white). However, looking back, I do remember parts of the Lifepac science books that did fascinate me. I have no idea what later editions of the workbooks look like now, but the outside is definitely more colorful!
Lifepac Science, Grade 5, Complete Set

BJU is also a good choice for a science textbook.
Science 5, Student Text

History and Geography

For history I used A Beka's Old World History and Geography, #61344, along with the A Beka maps and test books. A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. As a student I always found A Beka history books to be very fascinating!

Health

I used A Beka's Enjoying Good Health, #65137, along with the test/study book, #61913.A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. I really did enjoy the A Beka health books as a student.

Fire Safety

Your local fire department should have activities for home-schoolers every year (October) during Fire Prevention Week. You can call them to find out when the activities are. Also, there is a NFPA website where you can find many stories, activities, and projects for your student.

Physical Education

Community sports, outdoor games with the neighbors, home aerobics videos, etc. are just a few examples of things you can document in your log for physical education.

Music

Personal instrumental lessons, handbell choirs, orchestra, etc. can all count for music studies.

Art

Barry Stebbing is a marvelous teacher. He teaches a student all the basics of art in short, easy-to-understand lessons.
Lambs' Book of Art 2

Foreign Language

Learnables is a great way for a child to become acquainted with a foreign language (through pictures and audio). You can obtain Learnables in many different languages, including: Russian, German, French, Spanish, etc.
Learnables

Sixth Grade

English

My mother was an eighth grade English teacher, and she was very particular about her choice of grammar textbook; so, for English language and grammar we used A Beka. (She also liked Scripture being used throughout the textbook, and finding subjects and verbs in verses made memorizing easy.) The book has been updated since I used it, and the title is now God's Gift of Language C, #67741, along with the test booklet. One of the things my mother required of me was that I memorize the handbook. This wasn't as daunting a task as it may seem because she had me start memorizing the punctuation and capitalization rules as soon as they first taught them to me. We would then review them every week, and I would repeat them to her. I am VERY glad that my mother required this of me, because when I took tests I was able to say the rule to myself and come up with the correct answer. Also, as an adult, I am still comfortable with my punctuation and capitalization skills. (Four years after graduating - I was able to use these skills to successfully pass the College Level Examination Placement test for English without studying.)
Spelling 6, Home School Kit

Handwriting 6, Student Worktext

Arithmetic

I love Saxon's approach to math. He teaches a new concept and then reviews it periodically to ensure that the student retains it in his/her knowledge. Some parents feel he reviews too much and only require their child to do the even or odd questions. However, as a student, I was happy to do all the work; and I really felt confident with the knowledge I gained with the continual review.
Saxon Math 76, Home Study Kit

Science

I used the Lifepac science when I was in school, and there were times when I wished for a more color in the books (they were only black and white). However, looking back, I do remember parts of the Lifepac science books that did fascinate me. I have no idea what later editions of the workbooks look like now, but the outside is definitely more colorful!
Lifepac Science, Grade 6, Complete Set

The BJU science books are also another good option for science textbooks.
Science 6, Student Text

History and Geography

For history I used A Beka's Old World History and Geography, #61344, along with the A Beka maps and test books. A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. As a student I always found A Beka history books to be very fascinating!

Health

I used A Beka's Choosing Good Health, #61891, along with the test/study book, #61913.A Beka is the sole supplier of their books; and, unfortunately, I can't link you directly to the item. However, you can shop online at their site or call them at (877) 223-5226 to order. I really did enjoy the A Beka health books as a student.

Fire Safety

Your local fire department should have activities for home-schoolers every year (October) during Fire Prevention Week. You can call them to find out when the activities are. Also, there is a NFPA website where you can find many stories, activities, and projects for your student.

Physical Education

Community sports, outdoor games with the neighbors, home aerobics videos, etc. are just a few examples of things you can document in your log for physical education.

Music

Personal instrumental lessons, handbell choirs, orchestra, etc. can all count for music studies.

Art

Barry Stebbing is a marvelous teacher. He teaches a student all the basics of art in short, easy-to-understand lessons.
Lambs' Book of Art 2

Foreign Language

Learnables is a great way for a child to become acquainted with a foreign language (through pictures and audio). You can obtain Learnables in many different languages, including: Russian, German, French, Spanish, etc.
Learnables

• Organizing your school year
• Keeping a log
• Grading your students' work
• Testing
• Portfolios
• Evaluations