Planning a four-year high school curriculum for your homeschooled student may feel overwhelming, but with a clear structure and goals, it becomes an empowering process. A well-thought-out plan ensures your teen meets graduation requirements, prepares for college or career, and explores their interests.
Step 1: Define Your Student’s Goals
Start by identifying your student’s post-graduation plans. Will they attend college, enter a trade program, join the military, or begin working? Their goals will guide the coursework you include. It’s also essential to research your state’s homeschool laws to determine what’s required to graduate.
If college is the goal, look at a few college admission websites to see what subjects and credits they expect. Most colleges recommend:
- 4 years of English
- 3–4 years of Math (including Algebra I and II, Geometry, and possibly Pre-Calculus)
- 3 years of Science (Biology, Chemistry, and a third lab science)
- 3 years of Social Studies (U.S. History, World History, Government, Economics)
- 2–3 years of a foreign language
- Additional electives and extracurriculars
Step 2: Create a Graduation Checklist
Once you know your goals, make a personalized graduation checklist. This helps you track credits and ensures your student is covering essential subjects. Here’s a sample structure:
| Subject | Credits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| English | 4 | Literature, Writing, Composition |
| Math | 3 – 4 | Algebra I & II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus |
| Science | 3 | Biology, Chemistry, Physics |
| Social Studies | 3 | U.S. History, Government, Economics |
| Foreign Language | 2 | Preferably the same language |
| P.E. / Health | 1 – 2 | Varies by state |
| Fine Arts | 1 | Art, Music, Theater |
| Electives | 3 – 6 | Career exploration, tech, life skills |
Step 3: Map Out Each Year
Divide the courses across the four years. Here’s an example:
9th Grade (Freshman Year)
- English 9
- Algebra I or Geometry
- Biology
- World Geography or Civics
- Foreign Language I
- PE or Fine Arts
- Elective
10th Grade (Sophomore Year)
- English 10
- Geometry or Algebra II
- Chemistry
- World History
- Foreign Language II
- Health or PE
- Elective
11th Grade (Junior Year)
- English 11 (often American Literature)
- Algebra II or Pre-Calculus
- Physics or other science
- U.S. History
- Elective
- Elective
12th Grade (Senior Year)
- English 12 (British Lit or Writing-focused)
- Pre-Calculus, Statistics, or Consumer Math
- Government and Economics
- Elective or Capstone Project
- Internship, job shadowing, or dual credit course
- Elective
Step 4: Choose Curriculum and Materials
Select curriculum that fits your teen’s learning style. Some students thrive with structured textbooks, while others prefer online courses, project-based learning, or dual credit options through a community college. Don’t be afraid to mix methods across subjects.
Look for:
- Accredited or well-reviewed providers
- College-level or AP courses for advanced students
- Real-world electives like budgeting, coding, or auto mechanics
Step 5: Track Progress and Keep Records
Maintain detailed records for each year. This includes:
- Course titles and descriptions
- Grades and credits earned
- Curriculum and materials used
- Standardized test scores (if applicable)
- Volunteer work, extracurriculars, and certifications
These records are crucial for building a high school transcript, applying to colleges, or demonstrating readiness for work or trade school.
Step 6: Review and Adjust Annually
Each year, take time to review progress and make adjustments. Your student’s interests, career goals, and strengths may evolve, so it’s okay to update the plan as needed. This is especially true when selecting electives or considering options like early graduation or gap year plans.
By approaching the high school years with a flexible but focused curriculum plan, you give your homeschooled teen the structure they need to succeed—and the freedom to explore who they’re becoming.
