Home schooling, once enjoyed by the founding fathers of our country, is now being recognized as a successful option for educating children with the best learning style that fits their needs. Homeschooling creates passionate, caring and adjusted learners. Explore home schooling and its wonderful possibilities for you and your family in this thematic unit!

Seasons greetings! It's the time of year to celebrate the holidays with family, friends and traditions, such as decorating trees, singing songs, and giving gifts. During this special time, many families get together to make homemade crafts and presents. In this unit, learn about Christmas and how to create a host of Christmas crafts that are fun to make -- and make great gifts!

Can you imagine being the first person to discover what a fossil was? Just imagine the excitement you would feel holding the fossil of a dinosaur egg in your hand! But dinosaurs are not the only fossils from prehistoric times. There are fossils from plants, birds, animals, and insects! Come join us and learn more about fossils!

Dinosaurs were amazing creatures. Their great size and power have brought years of entertainment and education to children and adults alike. These creatures that journeyed through the land have a lot to teach us. Join us for the dinosaur adventure of a lifetime!

E.B. White is famous for his award winning novels, Charlotte's Web, Stuart Little, and Trumpet of The Swan. These lively and compelling stories have entertained children and adults alike for generations. But did you know that E.B. White was also a magazine writer, essay writer, and author of books for adults? Join in the adventure to learn more about this fascinating man

Stephen King. R.L. Stine. Nancy Drew. Encyclopedia Brown. The Boxcar Children. The first two are authors; the last three are fictional characters. What do they have in common? The two authors, Stephen King and R.L. Stine, are famous for horror stories and the three fictional characters are featured in mystery novels. All of them owe thanks to Edgar Allan Poe for their success.

The recent Lord of the Rings movies have thrust the works of J.R.R. Tolkien into the limelight. But who was the literary master J.R.R. Tolkien? Join us as we look at the life and explore the ideas that molded Tolkien's world both real and imagined!

Samuel Langhorne Clemens, who wrote under the pseudonym Mark Twain, is one of America's best loved writers and humorists, sometimes called the nation's first literary celebrity. His insights on the human race have stood the test of time, still relevant and funny today. His writing has been praised by critics and fellow writers as well as stirring up controversy throughout the world. Join these multi-activity lessons that explore the man, his written works and his lectures

Robert Louis Stevenson was an astounding author who wrote with feeling and imagination. He was able take his readers on his journeys as if they were right next to him. Join us in this cross-curricular adventure into his life and writings.

William Shakespeare died nearly 400 years ago, yet his work continues to be read, performed, and admired today. Learn who Shakespeare was, explore the times in which he lived, read his works-and discover why he is known as the greatest playwright who ever lived.

Did you know that gardening has been around for almost 11,000 years? The first garden art was probably decorated grape arbors. The Egyptians were the first to make paper from papyrus. And the oldest surviving garden plans for the garden of a court official in Thebes date back to 1495 BC. Gardening goes back to the beginnings of civilization. Come join us for a closer look at gardening with Spring Into Gardening.

Africa is a continent of amazing diversity. The rich cultures and ancient traditions of Africa are as beautiful as its unique geography and wildlife. Join us as we discover the land the people and the diversity of the continent of Africa.

Come and explore the "land down under." Australia has some of the most beautiful natural environments in the world. There are deserts, rainforests, and savannas to explore. See how unique the world's smallest continent really is.

Canada is the largest country in the world and yet its history and development have allowed it to remain one unit, regardless of its vastness. The growth of Canada is one of exploration, enterprise, and diplomacy. Canada has tried to give a voice to its native population and diverse citizenry while maintaining a strong national identity, and continues to do so today.

Occupying the southern part of North America, Mexico has a history that is thousands of years old. The turmoil of its history and the influence still today of the ancient cultures make Mexico a unique nation. The traditions, customs, and language of the people are a tribute to the past. While Mexico struggles to find its place today, it builds on the ruins and achievements of its history.

South America is the world's fourth largest continent, located in the southern part of the Western Hemisphere. Twelve countries and one overseas department make up this important land mass. Join us as we explore this unique and diverse continent in a two-part unit. In part one, take part in our study of some of the rich history of South America.

The United Kingdom Stretches over 4 countries. Each country is unique with its own culture, geography, population and language. Some of the most amazing architecture in the world is found in the United Kingdom and its history has effected the entire world. Join us as we look at the collective group of countries known as the United Kingdom.

Have you ever watched the Olympics and found that you knew quite a few of the world's flags? By the end of the games you had probably learned at least a bit about the flags of different nations and which anthems were associated with them. The Olympics commentary provides brief views into the lives of many athletes and glimpses of the countries they compete for. The Olympic games always whet my appetite for a closer look at these flags and the symbolism, ideology and history they represent. Come with us and explore the colorful world of flags!

Mountains are some of the largest and most spectacular landforms on earth. The United Nations has designated 2002 as the "International Year of Mountains" (IYM). The main purpose of this observance was to increase awareness around the world about the importance of mountain ecosystems. How are mountains formed? Why are mountains so important? Learn the answers to these questions and other information about mountains in this unit that will take you to the highest heights!

The ecosystems of estuaries, the places where rivers meet oceans, are some of the most biologically productive natural environments in the world. They provide habitat, nutrients and protection for a wide variety of marine and land organisms. Many are being threatened by pollution and human development. Learn more about these ecosystems so that you can help to develop ways to protect them.

The strength of the River has shaped our land. The waters carry stones from high in the source to the mouth at the sea, provided avenues for transport from distant coast to villages inland, and support the many industries and towns that develop along them. By learning about the rivers of the world you will appreciate all we can do to keep them clean and beautiful.

Forests are necessary to the health of our planet. They provide clean water for drinking; habitat for plants and animals; wood for paper, packaging, and building; recreational opportunities, and cultural and spiritual benefits. They are home to diverse biological communities and affect global climate. Forest biomes contain medicines and thousands of species. Forests have been revered and respected for years. Yet they have also been abused and destroyed. In this cross curricula unit we will explore our forests. Join us for the adventure of learning about these natural treasures.

Trees are the tallest of all plants. They are also the oldest living things. Many trees live for hundreds of years. Some of the few remaining old giants are thousands of years old. Trees comprise the majority of a forest ecosystem. The types of trees vary in the different forest biomes. Some parts of the world are thick with forests, in other parts trees do not grow at all. All over the world deforestation is reducing the number of trees and forests. Celebrate National Arbor Day and learn about trees and their important environmental home, the forest

It has been called the fairest system in the world. It is has also been berated for being too lenient. How does the American judicial system work? What are it's pros and cons? Is it fair? Join us today as we learn about how the courts of our country work from arrest to trial and acquittal to appeal.

What is a bill? How does a bill become a law? The United States legislative process is complex. Each branch of government involved in passing a law has a specific function and a rigid system of checks and balances assures that laws are fair. Join us today as we examine how an idea evolves into a law.

The Civil War was a time of great strife and conflict that divided our nation. It resulted in the end of slavery and left deep scars on the country. What were the causes of this bloody war that pitted brother against brother? Why did the South want to secede from the Union? What was it like to be alive during this tumultuous era? Join us as we examine the roots and causes of the Civil War.

Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth president of the United States, is considered by many to be the greatest American president in history. He was born into an uneducated, backwoods family. Through hard work and sheer determination he rose to the presidency during one of the most difficult times in our nation's history-the Civil War.

For over 200 years, America was enmeshed in slavery. How did this happen? How did it stop? Join us in Part 1 of a 2-Part series on Slavery during Black History Month as we explore this dark period in American history, and how it ended.

The cry of "Gold!" in 1848 sent excited groups traveling westward in the hopes of finding fortune. While most did not achieve wealth, their travels and settlements grew a nation

November is National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, a time to honor the history, culture and contributions of the first people to live in America. The theme for the 2001 celebration is "Our children, our nations, our future." Begin your study of Native Americans with this cross-curricular two-part unit!

The Industrial Revolution changed the way the world worked and lived. It affected every part of a person's day, from where and how they lived and ate, to where and how they worked. This was a time ripe for inventions and new technology.

Follow Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they journey with the Corps of Discovery across the Northwest.

The cry of "Gold!" in 1848 sent excited groups traveling westward in the hopes of finding fortune. Several gold rushes contributed to the westward expansion of the United States. The California Gold Rush, combined with a cry of "Manifest Destiny," united the country from the East Coast to the West. While most did not achieve wealth, their travels and settlements grew a nation.

In September 1939 the German army invaded Poland, starting World War II—the cruelest and most devastating war in the history of the world. It is known by historians as "the war to end all wars," yet today many young people know little about WWII. Use these lessons to help your children comprehend the scope and magnitude of this catastrophic event in world history.

Legendary newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer, who in 1911 endowed the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for exemplary journalism, had this advice for aspiring writers: "Put it before them briefly so they will read it, clearly so they will appreciate it, picturesquely so they will remember it, and above all, accurately so they will be guided by its light." The difficulty of teaching children to write creatively is also legendary. We can, however, follow Pulitzer's advice and attempt to teach them to write with clarity, accuracy, brevity, and beauty. Today's creative writing lessons will help in that effort!

Throughout history, children in countries around the world have enjoyed hearing and reading fairy tales. In a fairy tale, you might meet a beautiful princess, a gentle giant, a wicked wolf, or a fire-breathing dragon. Amazing, magical things happen in these stories: A beanstalk grows high through the clouds in the sky. A pumpkin turns into a horse-drawn carriage. A frog turns into a handsome prince. Yarn on a spinning wheel turns into golden threads. Travel to a time "long, long ago" and to a "land far away" with our across-the-grades unit about fairy tales!

Can you identify the nouns in this sentence? The subject? The predicate? Is the punctuation correct? Setting up a proper system for learning grammar is an important part of any education, from Kindergarten through high school. Join us to learn more about grammar and the resources you need to make it a part of your weekly curriculum!

Read ancient stories of adventure and love in this unit on classical mythology. Your children will learn about Greek and Roman gods and how the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome worshiped these deities. In later centuries volumes of brilliant literature was written and epic heroes were forged from the classic myths. Join us as we peer into the past for a glimpse of classic mythology through stories, games and even science!

Learning write effectively will help prepare you for success both in your learning and throughout your life! This unit provides you with the necessary tools for researching and writing paragraphs, reports, biographies, and essays.

Painters and sculptors use different types of art media to create beautiful pictures and elegant statues. Poets use different forms of poetry to create varied, unique images with words on paper. In this unit, encourage your children to explore various forms of poetry-and learn about some ways of writing poetry with today's lessons and activities!

Author Stephen Vincent Benét called the short story "something that can be read in an hour and remembered for a lifetime." Although its commercial popularity has declined steadily over the past 50 years, the short story is still the literary form most likely to seize the heart and stimulate the imagination. Explore this week's lessons to learn how to -- read and write -- this distinctive, and thoroughly American literary genre

The art of storytelling has a long and venerable history, dating back for centuries. This thematic unit explores storytelling history, and engages students to learn storytelling techniques.

You know the real story of U.S. history, but do you know the tall tales told about the heroes who shaped our nation? Learn about the real and fictional exploits of the heroes of America's past. Meet Johnny Appleseed, Paul Bunyan, Davy Crockett, John Henry, Mike Fink and others as you explore the Tall Tales that have added color and humor to American history for generations!

Many children, and many adults, are put off or frightened by mathematics. Math can be like a foreign language: beautiful sounding but also incomprehensible babble. The world of nature provides a different way of approaching math. It has been said that "mathematics is the language of nature."

Geometry is the mathematical language of shape. Children, especially in their early years of schooling, may think that math is all about numbers. When they are introduced to geometry, it may seem like an entirely new thing again. But number theory and geometry are really two different ways of talking about the precise same ideas.

Alexander Graham Bell was a great humanitarian, a teacher of the deaf, and an inventor with 30 patented inventions. His invention of the telephone changed the world's ability to communicate forever! Join us in exploring the life of the amazing inventor Alexander Graham Bell.

Amelia Earhart wasn't afraid to break down barriers. In 1928, she was the first woman to fly as a passenger across the Atlantic Ocean. Then, in 1932, she became the first woman to pilot a plane across that ocean. There were not many female pilots back then, and her actions inspired other women to follow their dreams. This was especially important because there were few career choices available to women at that time. Amelia Earhart has inspired generations of women to do things that had never been done by women before.

The inventor who gave us the electric light bulb, the phonograph, the motion-picture camera, the microphone and a thousand other devices that improved life for humanity the world over was a hard-working, dedicated researcher. Learn about his life and his inventions in this unit.

In a century dominated by science, Albert Einstein still managed to dazzle the world and leave even the scientific community aghast with his Theory of Relativity. He was the genius among geniuses. Scholars are still debating whether Einstein was the most intellectual human being ever born. Perhaps it was his creativity that propelled him to accomplish the feats he did, or was it his ingenuity and intuitiveness that allowed him to propose such mind-boggling theorems? One thing is for sure: Albert Einstein intrigued us all. More than fifty years after his death, we are still enamored with his intellect. Join us to explore the life of Albert Einstein.

Over the last century, the number of automobiles in the United States grew from about 8,000 in 1900 to about 218 million in 2000! Many people credit the rise of the automobile to an American manufacturer named Henry Ford. While Ford did not invent the automobile, he revolutionized the way that cars were made. Ford's mass production methods made automobiles affordable to the average worker -- and transformed travel around the world. Join us as we explore the life and times of Henry Ford and the early development of the automobile.

Who was Napoleon? What was his legacy to Europe? Did he have an impact on the United States? Join us as we take an in depth look at who Napoleon Bonaparte was and how he changed the world.

Theodore Roosevelt was the twenty-sixth president of the United States. He led a progressive movement that began in 1890. Teddy, as he became affectionately known, was a great conservator, sportsman, leader, Noble Peace Prize winner, politician, and father. He began life as a sickly child and ended up as one of the most energetic leaders of our country's history. So hop on board and find out all you can about Theodore Roosevelt and his adventures.

Thomas Jefferson was one of America's greatest presidents. He authored the Declaration of Independence, was responsible for the Louisiana Purchase, and had a strong hand in shaping the future of the newly formed United States of America. Learn more about this great American statesman.

Money is such an important part of our lives that one might be tempted to think that it's always been around. But if humankind is a relative newcomer in the story of this planet, then money is a relative newcomer in the story of humanity. What is money; where did it come from; and how did it come to be so important to us? Join us for this thorough and engaging lesson on money and finances, with abundant, comprehensive worksheets.

Learn what the stock market is, how it works, and what it means to invest. Stock market simulations are are a great way to add spice to your math studies! Join us in this cross-curricular unit on the stock market and investing!

Chemistry is defined by Webster's Dictionary as: “The science of the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, especially of atomic and molecular systems.” A complex definition for a science that surrounds us every day! Join us today, as we become a catalyst to help your child understand chemistry . . . for all ages

How does the heart work? How can we keep our hearts healthy and strong? Join us for a series of lesson plans that looks at the mechanics of the heart and how to strengthen this vital organ!

Move with us from the microscopic to the macroscopic scale in our investigation of the human body. We start out at the cellular level and move our way up in scale through tissues to organs and systems. Round out the lessons with a look at keeping the whole body healthy!

Did you know that going to the movies is a great way to experience an optical illusion first hand! You see when we go to the movies our brains tell us that there is movement occurring on the screen in front of us. There certainly is movement going on, although in actuality it is the movement of many frames of still shots being projected onto the screen in rapid succession creating the optical illusion of fluid movement in front of us! Our brain does not recognize the series of still shots as they occur so quickly.

No lesson you can teach your children is more important than the lesson of how to live a healthy life. Today's lessons and activities present the subject of nutrition in a way your children can understand, appreciate, and incorporate into their lives today and in the future. March is National Nutrition Education Month. Take this opportunity to nourish your children's bodies as well as their minds!

Compared to other vertebrates, amphibians tend to be overlooked. Why? Perhaps it is because they are not "warm and fuzzy" like mammals. Or could it be that they don't evoke the fear, fascination and respect that reptiles inspire? They most certainly lack the sporting appeal of fish. Many more people prefer watching birds to amphibians. Come with us today to explore the wet and wild world of amphibians.

About 2,000 species of reptiles and 350 species of amphibians live in North America. Reptile species include lizards, snakes, turtles and tortoises, crocodiles and alligators, and tuataras. Amphibian species include frogs and toads, salamanders, newts, and sirens, and caecilians. Although reptiles and amphibians have some physical similarities, they are not the same kind of animal. Can you tell the difference?

Water is a richly complex substance that is vital to our physical existence. Without water, life as we know it would not exist. Water is like no other substance on earth, which makes it truly unique. Scientists can help us understand why water is so essential to life, but they do not fully comprehend its chemical and physical properties, nor can they explain where it came from, or why it exists. Come with us and explore what makes this life-giving substance so mysterious.

September is National Food Safety Education Month! Let's take this opportunity to learn basic food safety tips and facts, and also about Louis Pasteur and his contributions to food safety. This unit's lessons will take you across the grades and across the curriculum!

Look through your window right now. What's the weather like outside? Learn about weather with ten lessons and activities, plus a bonus lesson that's out of this world!

Nearly 400 years ago, a group of people left Europe to seek religious freedom. They made a treacherous voyage across the Atlantic Ocean on a ship called the Mayflower. Learn about the Mayflower and its journey to America with lessons and activities across the grades!

Fall is the season when the leaves change colors from green to shades bright red, orange and yellow. This unit's lessons will take you on a "leafy" exploration of this colorful time of year!

Volcanoes are powerful forces of nature! Molten rock from inside the earth makes its way to the surface to relieve the pressure and shifts happening below the earth's surface. Learn more about the basics of where volcanoes come from in this unit for all ages!

Earthquakes are frightening events of nature that have terrible aftereffects for mankind. How do earthquakes happen? What have been the major earthquakes in history, and how can we protect ourselves from them? Join us in this cross-curriculum thematic unit on earthquakes.

To this day, Helen Keller remains an inspiration and a heroine to people throughout the world. Find out why!

Energy comes in many different forms including heat (thermal energy), light (radiant energy), mechanical, electrical, chemical, and nuclear energy. In this thematic unit, you will find out what kinds of energy sources you use and review some ways to conserve!

Come with us and explore the fascinating world of plants, the producers and providers of energy to the world's host of living organisms-humans and animals alike!

The seashore is a great place to play and learn about science! Did you know that there many kinds of beaches? Did you know that some beaches are better than others for collecting shells? Did you know that some beaches are black or green? Grab your pails and shovels as we head to the beach for some fun information about the many things you can find at the beach!

Some animals live on Australia exclusively! Since this continent had no ties to other lands in known history, some of the animal and plant life evolved there in very special ways. Explore the "land down under" in this unit and find out about the kangaroos, frogs, sharks, insects, reptiles and mammals that live only in Australia!

Butterflies and moths are members of the same order of insects, Lepidoptera. Together they make up the second largest order of insects. There are many different families of butterflies and moths. Come join us as we explore the fascinating, mysterious world of butterflies

What is Classical Music? Where did it come from? How has it evolved? These questions have no simple answers. However complex, explanations are as beautiful and rich in history as the pieces of music that inspire the questions. Join us as we embark on a journey into the world of Classical Music and discover what this genre of concert sounds is all about.

Introducing theater arts is a fun and rewarding way to expand any curriculum. Here is a set of games and activities to use with children to help them explore their world and learn too!

Rocks. We often think of them as nuisances or obstacles. For example, when building homes, highways, railroads or trying to cultivate gardens or fields for planting crops. Yet they contain the essence for our survival—minerals. Rocks are composed of one or more minerals necessary to sustain life as we know it. Rocks also act as an impenetrable skin, shielding us from the molten hot magma that resides inside the earth. It is the weathering of these rocks that provides us with rich soils so that plants and animals can exist on Earth. Were it not for rocks, we simply would not exist. Come with us to explore the exciting world of rocks and minerals!

National Kite Month is celebrated in April with kite activities all around the country. Come learn more about the many surprising uses of kites in historical and modern times!

Every year, on the third Monday in February, Americans celebrate Presidents' Day, a holiday set aside to honor all the men who have served as chief executive of the United States. Although 42 men have held that office throughout this country's 200-year history, most Americans are familiar with the achievements of only a very few of them. Why not take advantage of this year's celebration -- and of today's lessons -- to introduce your children to the rest?

When you look at the sky on a clear day, you see the Sun, shining light and giving off heat. When you look at the sky on a clear night, you see the Moon, stars and maybe some planets. Many of these objects are part of our solar system. Learn about our solar system in this unit with lessons that will take you across the curriculum -- and out of this world!

"A picture is worth a thousand words" is a familiar phrase for many people. With a simple "click" of a camera, scenes and events are recorded on film. Once developed, the images in photographs can spark discussions and evoke emotions that range from roars of laughter to tears of sadness. Zero in and join this exploration of the history, art and process of photography.

There are many different types of printmaking. Today we look at some of these types and explore the beauty created by them. Join us today as we learn about printmaking techniques and how your child can use them!

"No Taxation Without Representation!" This statement would help launch the American colonies into a war for economic and political freedom. There were many factors that led the colonists to revolt against British rule and the ensuing battles and sentiments culminated in a meeting of the Second Continental Congress and the Declaration of Independence. Join us in exploring more about this exciting time in U.S. History!

In most regions of the world, certain changes happen in the environment every few months. These changes signal the start of a new cycle called a season. Known as spring, summer, autumn and winter, each season brings unique natural events to our surroundings. Join us as we explore the seasons of the year.

On TV and in the movies, sharks have gained the reputation of being very large, very mean, and very scary. In reality, of the 370 species of sharks, most never reach over five feet in size with the smallest shark species, the spiny pygmy shark, being a treacherous 7 inches in length.

New Unit Titles Added as of 10/14/05:

        · Ancient Egypt (grades K-2)

        · China (grades K-2)

        · Mammals (grades 2-4)

        · Music Appreciation (grades K-2)

        · Astronomy (grades K-2)

        · Fun with Dollars and Sense (grades K-6)

        · American Folk Art (grades 3-6)

        · Baby-Sitting (grades 6-12)

        · Cinematography

        · Criminology

        · It's a Mystery (grades 7-12)

        · The Names of Jesus

Other Unit Titles:

· 13 Colonies (grades K-3)

· Africa (grades 2-4)

· Asia (grades K-3)

· Birds (grades K-5)

· Charles Dickens (grades 2-4)

· Christmas Around the World (grades K-5)

· Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs

· Electricity (grades K-3)

· Solar System (grades K-3)

· Human Body (grades K-3)

· Undersea Stories (grades 1-4)

· Pumpkins (PS)

· Preschool A-Z

Books & Curriculum:

· Writing Mini-Lessons (grades 3-6)

· Blood and Guts: A Working Guide to Your Own Insides (ages 9-14)

· Five In a Row – Literature Based Multi-Subject Unit Study (ages 4-8)

· Focus on Presidents (grades 4-8)

· Build Your Own Human Skeleton (grades 5-8)

· 100 Things to Do With Children (grades 3-8)

· High School Consumer Math