You might be the parent of a middle school homeschooled student, or your student might be entering high school soon. You are wondering whether your student is prepared for the academic rigors of high school. Let’s look at each of the core subjects to see what comprises readiness.
LANGUAGE ARTS
- Reading: By high school your student should be able to read and comprehend written material. This would include textbooks as well as classic literature. A high school student should be able to read between the lines, analyze components of literature (such as theme, motif, plot line, characters, etc.), and discuss these components in a coherent manner.
- Writing: A high school student should be writing clear and correct sentences, paragraphs, and longer writing assignments. Information should be conveyed in a logical fashion (such as cause and effect, etc.). The student should have been introduced to the essay format and have written a few essays, although this would be rudimentary. The student should have written some longer assignments such as reports, but not necessarily have completed a true research paper.
- Grammar: The student should be familiar with the rudiments of grammar and able to write complete sentences using proper punctuation.
- Vocabulary: The student should be familiar with basic vocabulary and able to grasp the meaning of many words when seen in context.
- Public speaking: The student should be able to speak in front of an audience that includes people not only from his/her immediate family.
If your student is lacking in one of these areas, he/she may have to do some remedial work or will need to do level 2 classes.
MATH
Most students should have completed Pre-Algebra or have mastered the concepts leading to Pre-Algebra.
SOCIAL STUDIES
A rudimentary familiarity with U. S. and World history in preferable, along with some basic knowledge of geography is important.
SCIENCE
A general introduction to life science, earth science, and physical science is a foundation for high school science.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
While a foundation in a foreign language is helpful, it is not necessary.
ELECTIVES
Exploring music, art, and drama is a great preparation for high school fine arts.