Florida Home Based Education

• • Focus: Early literacy skills, including phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension.

• • Activities: Reading aloud, shared reading, guided reading, and writing simple sentences. Students learn to recognize letters, sounds, and basic sight words.

• • Goals: Develop a love for reading and writing, understand basic story elements, and begin to express ideas in writing.

• • Focus: Building on foundational skills with an emphasis on reading comprehension, writing structure, and vocabulary expansion.

• • Activities: Reading a variety of texts (fiction, non-fiction, poetry), writing paragraphs and short essays, and participating in discussions about texts.

• • Goals: Enhance critical thinking skills, understand main ideas and supporting details, and develop the ability to write for different purposes.

• • Focus: Analyzing texts, understanding literary elements, and improving writing skills across different genres.

• • Activities: Reading novels, short stories, and informational texts; writing essays, narratives, and research papers; and engaging in group discussions and presentations.

• • Goals: Develop analytical skills, understand themes and character development, and refine writing techniques and styles.

• • Focus: Advanced reading and writing skills, literary analysis, and preparation for college or career.

• • Activities: Studying classic and contemporary literature, writing research papers, persuasive essays, and creative pieces; participating in debates and discussions.

• • Goals: Cultivate a deep understanding of literature, enhance critical thinking and argumentation skills, and prepare for standardized tests and college-level writing.

• • Throughout all grades, ELA courses emphasize the importance of communication, both written and oral, and encourage students to express their thoughts and ideas effectively.

• • Focus: Basic number sense, counting, and foundational arithmetic.

• • Topics: Recognizing numbers, counting objects, basic addition and subtraction, understanding shapes, and measuring lengths.

• • Goals: Develop a strong understanding of numbers and operations, and introduce problem-solving skills through hands-on activities.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding arithmetic skills and introducing more complex concepts.

• • Topics: Multiplication and division, fractions, decimals, basic geometry, and data interpretation.

• • Goals: Strengthen computational skills, understand the relationships between numbers, and apply math to real-world situations.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Pre-algebra and introduction to algebraic concepts.

• • Topics: Ratios, proportions, percentages, integers, variables, expressions, equations, and basic statistics.

• • Goals: Develop algebraic thinking, solve multi-step problems, and prepare for high school mathematics.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced mathematics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Algebra I & II: Focus on solving equations, inequalities, functions, and polynomials.
    • • Geometry: Study of shapes, theorems, proofs, and spatial reasoning.
    • • Trigonometry: Exploration of angles, triangles, and trigonometric functions.
    • • Pre-Calculus: Preparation for calculus, including advanced algebra and functions.
    • • Calculus: Introduction to limits, derivatives, integrals, and their applications.

• • Goals: Develop higher-level problem-solving skills, understand mathematical concepts deeply, and prepare for college-level math and standardized tests.

• • Throughout all grades, math courses emphasize critical thinking, logical reasoning, and the application of mathematical concepts to everyday life.

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to basic financial concepts.

• • Topics: Understanding money, identifying coins and bills, and the concept of saving.

• • Activities: Role-playing with play money, simple savings activities, and discussions about needs vs. wants.

• • Goals: Develop a basic understanding of money and the importance of saving.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding knowledge of financial concepts and decision-making.

• • Topics: Basic budgeting, understanding expenses, and the importance of saving and spending wisely.

• • Activities: Creating simple budgets, classroom simulations of buying and selling, and discussions about financial goals.

• • Goals: Foster responsible financial habits and decision-making skills.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to more complex financial concepts.

• • Topics: Banking, interest, credit, and the basics of investing; understanding income and expenses.

• • Activities: Creating budgets, exploring savings accounts, and discussing the impact of credit and debt.

• • Goals: Develop critical thinking about financial choices and encourage informed decision-making.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced financial literacy and real-world applications.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Personal Finance: Topics include budgeting, saving, investing, credit management, and understanding loans.
    • • Economics: Basic principles of economics, supply and demand, and the role of government in the economy.
    • • Entrepreneurship: Introduction to starting and managing a business, including financial planning and marketing.

• • Activities: Real-life simulations, projects, and discussions about current financial events.

• • Goals: Prepare students for financial independence, develop skills for managing personal finances, and encourage responsible financial behavior.

Throughout all grades, Math and Financial Literacy courses emphasize the importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world applications, equipping students with the skills they need for academic success and financial well-being.

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to basic scientific concepts and exploration of the natural world.

• • Topics: Life sciences (plants and animals), earth sciences (weather, seasons), physical sciences (matter, simple machines), and basic scientific inquiry.

• • Activities: Hands-on experiments, observations, and nature walks to encourage curiosity and exploration.

• • Goals: Develop observational skills, understand basic scientific principles, and foster a sense of wonder about the world.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding knowledge in life, earth, and physical sciences with more structured inquiry.

• • Topics: Ecosystems, human body systems, geology, weather patterns, and basic physics concepts (force, motion).

• • Activities: Experiments, projects, and field trips to deepen understanding and encourage scientific thinking.

• • Goals: Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and understand the scientific method.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to more complex scientific concepts and interdisciplinary connections.

• • Topics: Life sciences (cell biology, genetics), earth sciences (plate tectonics, climate), physical sciences (chemistry basics, energy), and introductory physics.

• • Activities: Laboratory experiments, research projects, and collaborative group work to apply scientific concepts.

• • Goals: Develop analytical skills, understand scientific principles in depth, and prepare for high school science courses.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study in specialized science disciplines.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Biology: In-depth study of living organisms, ecosystems, genetics, and human biology.
    • • Chemistry: Exploration of matter, chemical reactions, the periodic table, and laboratory techniques.
    • • Physics: Study of motion, forces, energy, waves, and fundamental principles governing the physical world.
    • • Earth Science: Examination of geology, meteorology, oceanography, and environmental science.
    • • Advanced Placement (AP) and Electives: Options for advanced study in specific areas, such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, and Environmental Science.
    • • Goals: Cultivate a deep understanding of scientific concepts, enhance research and laboratory skills, and prepare for college-level science and careers in STEM fields.

Throughout all grades, science courses emphasize inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and the application of scientific knowledge to real-world problems.

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to basic concepts of community, culture, and geography.

• • Topics: Family, community helpers, local geography, holidays, and basic history (important figures and events).

• • Activities: Storytelling, role-playing, and simple map activities to help students understand their place in the world.

• • Goals: Develop an awareness of community and culture, and foster respect for diversity.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding knowledge of local, national, and world history, as well as geography and government.

• • Topics: U.S. history (colonization, independence, key historical figures), basic government structure, and introduction to world cultures and geography.

• • Activities: Research projects, presentations, and field trips to historical sites to engage students in learning.

• • Goals: Understand the significance of historical events, develop research skills, and appreciate cultural diversity.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: More in-depth study of world history, U.S. history, and geography, along with civics and economics.

• • Topics: Ancient civilizations, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, U.S. history from the founding to the Civil War, and basic economic principles.

• • Activities: Analyzing primary sources, group discussions, and projects that connect historical events to contemporary issues.

• • Goals: Develop critical thinking skills, understand cause-and-effect relationships in history, and recognize the importance of civic engagement.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study of history, government, economics, and social issues.

• • Courses:
    
    • • World History: Exploration of global civilizations, major events, and cultural developments from ancient times to the present.
    • • U.S. History: Comprehensive study of American history, including key events, movements, and figures from pre-colonial times to modern day.
    • • Government/Civics: Understanding the structure and function of government, the Constitution, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
    • • Economics: Basic principles of micro and macroeconomics, including supply and demand, market structures, and economic systems.

• • Goals: Cultivate a deep understanding of historical contexts, develop analytical and research skills, and prepare for informed citizenship and further academic pursuits.

Throughout all grades, Social Studies and History courses emphasize the importance of understanding diverse perspectives, critical thinking, and the relevance of history to current events and societal issues.

2nd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to basic concepts of music, voice, and performance.

• • Topics: Singing techniques, rhythm, melody, basic music theory, and simple choreography.

• • Activities: Group singing, movement activities, and performances for school events or assemblies.

• • Goals: Develop a love for music and performance, build confidence in self-expression, and foster teamwork through group activities.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding skills in vocal performance, drama, and dance.

• • Topics: Vocal techniques, character development, improvisation, and basic stagecraft.

• • Activities: Participation in school musicals, drama productions, and vocal ensembles; exploration of different genres of music and performance styles.

• • Goals: Enhance vocal and acting skills, encourage creativity and self-expression, and introduce students to the collaborative nature of performing arts.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study and performance in voice, theater, and dance.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Vocal Music: Techniques in singing, music theory, and performance; participation in choirs or vocal ensembles.
    • • Theater Arts: Acting techniques, script analysis, character development, and stage production; involvement in school plays and musicals.

• • Goals: Develop a high level of proficiency in performance skills, foster creativity and artistic expression, and prepare for potential careers in the performing arts or further education in the field.

Throughout all grades, Voice and Performing Arts courses emphasize collaboration, creativity, and the importance of artistic expression, encouraging students to explore their talents and develop confidence in their abilities.

2nd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to basic music concepts and foundational skills.

• • Topics: Understanding musical notes, rhythms, dynamics, and simple melodies; introduction to musical symbols and terminology.

• • Activities: Singing, clapping rhythms, playing simple instruments (like recorders or xylophones), and engaging in music games.

• • Goals: Develop a basic understanding of music notation, rhythm, and melody, and foster a love for music.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding knowledge of music theory and application in performance.

• • Topics: Scales, intervals, chords, key signatures, and more complex rhythms; introduction to harmony and basic composition techniques.

• • Activities: Analyzing music pieces, composing simple melodies, and playing instruments in ensembles.

• • Goals: Enhance understanding of musical structure, improve listening skills, and apply theory concepts in performance settings.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study of music theory and its application in various musical contexts.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Music Theory I: In-depth study of scales, chords, harmony, and musical forms; analysis of classical and contemporary music.
    • • Music Theory II: Further exploration of advanced concepts such as counterpoint, modulation, and composition techniques.

• • Activities: Composing original pieces, analyzing complex scores, and participating in discussions about music history and theory.

• • Goals: Develop a comprehensive understanding of music theory, enhance composition and analytical skills, and prepare for further study in music or related fields.

Throughout all grades, Music Theory courses emphasize the importance of understanding the language of music, fostering creativity, and enhancing performance skills through a solid theoretical foundation.

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to basic art concepts and exploration of various materials.

• • Topics: Color theory, shapes, lines, textures, and basic techniques in drawing, painting, and collage.

• • Activities: Hands-on projects using crayons, markers, paint, and other materials; exploring different art forms and styles.

• • Goals: Encourage creativity and self-expression, develop fine motor skills, and foster an appreciation for art.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding artistic skills and understanding of art elements and principles.

• • Topics: More advanced techniques in drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking; introduction to art history and famous artists.

• • Activities: Creating projects that incorporate various media, participating in art shows, and exploring cultural art forms.

• • Goals: Enhance creativity, develop critical thinking about art, and understand the role of art in society and culture.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Developing individual artistic style and deeper understanding of art concepts.

• • Topics: Composition, perspective, color mixing, and the use of different materials and techniques; exploration of contemporary and historical art movements.

• • Activities: Creating more complex projects, experimenting with mixed media, and critiquing peer work.

• • Goals: Foster artistic expression, improve technical skills, and encourage personal interpretation of art.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study in various visual arts disciplines and preparation for potential careers in the arts.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Drawing and Painting: Techniques in various mediums, including watercolor, acrylic, and oil; focus on developing a personal style.
    • • Sculpture and 3D Art: Exploration of materials like clay, metal, and found objects; understanding form and space.
    • • Photography: Basics of photography, composition, digital editing, and visual storytelling.
    • • Art History: Study of significant art movements, artists, and cultural contexts; analysis of artworks.
    • • Portfolio Development: Preparation of a professional portfolio for college applications or art careers.

• • Activities: Participation in art exhibitions, critiques, and collaborative projects; exploration of personal themes and concepts in art.

• • Goals: Cultivate a high level of artistic skill, develop a unique artistic voice, and prepare for further education or careers in the visual arts.

Throughout all grades, Visual Arts courses emphasize creativity, self-expression, and the importance of visual literacy, encouraging students to explore their artistic potential and appreciate the role of art in society.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to the violin and basic playing techniques.

• • Topics: Proper posture, holding the violin and bow, basic finger placement, and simple rhythms; introduction to reading music.

• • Activities: Group lessons, playing simple melodies, and participating in school performances or recitals.

• • Goals: Develop foundational skills in playing the violin, foster a love for music, and encourage teamwork through ensemble playing.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding technical skills and musical understanding.

• • Topics: More advanced finger techniques, bowing styles, scales, and simple pieces from various musical genres; introduction to music theory relevant to violin playing.

• • Activities: Participation in orchestras or string ensembles, solo performances, and practice of more complex pieces.

• • Goals: Enhance technical proficiency, develop a deeper understanding of musical concepts, and encourage individual expression through performance.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study of violin performance and repertoire.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Violin Technique: Focus on advanced techniques, including vibrato, shifting, and advanced bowing techniques.
    • • Repertoire Study: Exploration of classical, contemporary, and world music pieces; preparation for solo and ensemble performances.
    • • Music Theory and Ear Training: Understanding of advanced music theory concepts and developing listening skills.
    • • Chamber Music and Orchestra: Participation in small ensembles and larger orchestras, focusing on collaboration and ensemble playing.

• • Activities: Solo recitals, participation in competitions, and collaboration with other musicians; opportunities for masterclasses with guest artists.

• • Goals: Achieve a high level of technical skill and musicality, prepare for college-level music programs or professional opportunities, and develop a personal artistic voice.

Throughout all grades, Violin courses emphasize the importance of practice, discipline, and musical expression, encouraging students to explore their passion for music and develop their skills as violinists.

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to the piano and basic musical concepts.

• • Topics: Familiarization with the keyboard layout, basic musical notes, simple rhythms, and hand coordination.

• • Activities: Fun, interactive games, singing along with piano melodies, and playing simple songs using one hand.

• • Goals: Develop a love for music, encourage creativity, and build foundational skills in music and piano playing.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding skills and understanding of piano playing.

• • Topics: Introduction to reading music, playing simple melodies with both hands, basic scales, and chords.

• • Activities: Group lessons, playing simple pieces from various genres, and participating in school performances.

• • Goals: Enhance technical skills, develop a basic understanding of music theory, and foster confidence in performance.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Developing more advanced techniques and musical understanding.

• • Topics: More complex pieces, scales, chords, dynamics, and expression; introduction to different musical styles (classical, pop, jazz).

• • Activities: Participation in piano ensembles, solo performances, and practice of more challenging repertoire.

• • Goals: Improve technical proficiency, deepen understanding of musical concepts, and encourage individual expression through performance.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study of piano performance and repertoire.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Piano Technique: Focus on advanced techniques, including finger dexterity, dynamics, and expression.
    • • Repertoire Study: Exploration of classical, jazz, contemporary, and popular music pieces; preparation for solo and ensemble performances.
    • • Music Theory and Composition: Understanding of advanced music theory concepts, harmony, and basic composition techniques.
    • • Chamber Music and Accompaniment: Participation in small ensembles and accompanying other musicians or vocalists.

• • Activities: Solo recitals, participation in competitions, and collaboration with other musicians; opportunities for masterclasses with guest artists.

• • Goals: Achieve a high level of technical skill and musicality, prepare for college-level music programs or professional opportunities, and develop a personal artistic voice.

Throughout all grades, Piano courses emphasize the importance of practice, discipline, and musical expression, encouraging students to explore their passion for music and develop their skills as pianists.

Kindergarten to 2nd Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to basic coding concepts and robotics through play and exploration.

• • Topics: Understanding sequences, patterns, and basic problem-solving; introduction to simple programming languages and robotics kits (like LEGO WeDo).

• • Activities: Using visual programming tools (like ScratchJr), engaging in unplugged coding activities (like coding games), and building simple robots.

• • Goals: Foster creativity, develop logical thinking, and encourage collaboration through hands-on activities.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding coding skills and introducing more complex robotics concepts.

• • Topics: Basic programming languages (like Scratch), algorithms, loops, and conditionals; introduction to more advanced robotics kits (like LEGO Mindstorms).

• • Activities: Creating simple games and animations, programming robots to complete tasks, and participating in coding challenges.

• • Goals: Enhance problem-solving skills, develop computational thinking, and encourage teamwork through collaborative projects.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Developing intermediate coding skills and understanding robotics applications.

• • Topics: Introduction to text-based programming languages (like Python), data structures, and more complex robotics concepts (like sensors and motors).

• • Activities: Building and programming robots for specific challenges, creating interactive projects, and participating in robotics competitions.

• • Goals: Strengthen coding and robotics skills, foster creativity in problem-solving, and prepare for more advanced concepts in high school.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study of coding, robotics, and their real-world applications.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Advanced Programming: In-depth study of programming languages (like Java, C++, or Python) and software development principles.
    • • Robotics Engineering: Exploration of robotics design, programming, and control systems; hands-on projects involving building and programming robots.
    • • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Introduction to AI concepts, algorithms, and applications in robotics and coding.
    • • Capstone Projects: Opportunities to work on individual or group projects that integrate coding and robotics skills.

• • Activities: Participation in robotics competitions, internships, and collaborative projects with real-world applications.

• • Goals: Achieve a high level of proficiency in coding and robotics, prepare for college-level courses or careers in STEM fields, and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Throughout all grades, Coding and Robotics courses emphasize creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, encouraging students to explore technology and its applications in a fun and engaging way.

3rd to 5th Grade:

• • Focus: Introduction to the game of chess and basic strategies.

• • Topics: Understanding the rules of chess, piece movements, basic tactics (such as forks, pins, and skewers), and the importance of controlling the center of the board.

• • Activities: Playing games against peers, participating in friendly matches, and engaging in chess puzzles and exercises.

• • Goals: Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, foster sportsmanship, and encourage strategic planning.

6th to 8th Grade:

• • Focus: Expanding knowledge of chess strategies and tactics.

• • Topics: Advanced tactics, opening principles, basic endgame strategies, and common chess openings; introduction to chess notation and analysis of games.

• • Activities: Participating in school chess clubs, tournaments, and online chess platforms; studying famous games and players.

• • Goals: Enhance strategic thinking, improve decision-making skills, and develop a deeper understanding of chess theory.

9th to 12th Grade:

• • Focus: Advanced study of chess strategies, competitive play, and analysis.

• • Courses:
    
    • • Advanced Tactics and Strategies: In-depth exploration of complex tactics, positional play, and advanced openings; analysis of high-level games.
    • • Endgame Techniques: Study of key endgame principles and techniques, including pawn structures and king and pawn endings.
    • • Chess History and Theory: Understanding the evolution of chess, famous players, and significant games in chess history.
    • • Tournament Preparation: Strategies for competing in chess tournaments, including psychological aspects and time management.

• • Activities: Competing in local, regional, or national tournaments; participating in chess clubs and online competitions; analyzing personal games for improvement.

• • Goals: Achieve a high level of proficiency in chess, prepare for competitive play, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the game.

Throughout all grades, Chess courses emphasize critical thinking, strategic planning, and sportsmanship, encouraging students to engage with the game both recreationally and competitively while developing valuable cognitive skills.