American History (Exploring America, Colonies)
2nd yr- World History Overview (Middle Ages, 50BC-AD1500)
American History (Revolutionary War)
3rd yr- World History Overview (Renaissance/Reformation/Revolutions,1500-1920)
American History (Pioneers, Civil War, Native American Indians)
4th yr- World History and American History Merge (Modern History, 1920-2000)
British History
5th yr- Non-European Continents and Cultures
British History
6th yr- World History in Depth (Ancients, Creation-AD500)
7th yr- World History in Depth (Middle Ages 500-1400)
8th yr- World History in Depth (Renaissance/Reformation/Exploration 1400-1600)
9th yr- World History in Depth (American & French Revolutions 1700-1800)
10th yr- World History in Depth (American Civil War, Victorian Age 1800-1900)
11th yr- World History in Depth (Modern History 1900-today)
We study world history in chronological order. The first four-year cycle begins with a brief overview of ancient history. This is where I differ somewhat from Charlotte Mason methodology. She did not include biblical readings with history but studied it separately. I want my children to realize that the Bible is a valid historical record of the Hebrews (and other early civilizations) and so, have included it in our study of ancient history.
At the same time we study American history and the two studies (world and American) merge in year four with the 20th century. Meanwhile, in year four and five, the student studies British history, which is really a study of our own ancestry. By this time, the students are making daily connections with the literature readings and their excitement is truly a joy to behold.
In year five we take a break from the chronological study of history and study non-European cultures. The focus is on geography as well. We loosely follow Sonlight’s year five booklist; but you will see that I have made quite a few changes, and additions.
The World history cycle starts over in year six with Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. And in year seven the student continues the study of world history by moving on to medieval times using living books and many original sources..
I believe Charlotte Mason’s educational theory is a classical model of education but 'pre-Dorothy Sayers.' If you would like to read more about this, I highly recommend the following sources as starting points:
Norms and Nobility by David Hicks
Reforming Education by Mortimer Adler
