School at Home – School at home is a form of homeschooling where the parents and children duplicate the methods and atmosphere of the classroom. This is usually unintentional. Many new homeschooling families begin homeschooling with the school-at-home method.
Scope & Sequence – Scope & sequence information is usually provided by the publisher to inform the parent what is taught in the text or program. It is usually in outline form and includes grade level or course outline. This information can be used in the student’s portfolio to detail what was learned.
Sight-reading – Unlike the phonics method of decoding a word, Sight-reading emphasizes memorizing words instead. It can work well when used alongside phonics to memorize words that are not easily decoded. Many schools exclusively teach sight-reading however, and the effectiveness is questioned.
Socialization – The “S” Word (as many homeschoolers call it) is the concept that children need to be around other children their age to learn how to communicate and get along with others. Of course, the “fact” that homeschoolers do not receive proper socialization for parents and acquaintances is misguided at best.
Standardized Tests – Standardized tests are used to evaluate how well a child has learned a subject or grade level when compared to other children in his grade and age group. Many states require homeschoolers to take standardized tests. Studies have shown that homeschoolers consistently outscore government schooled children.
Structured Learning – Structured learning is very much like school at home. It resembles a traditional public school education, with lessons planned by the parent in a systematic format. Classical homeschooling is also a type of structured learning and it can have outstanding results if it suits the personality of the child and parents.
Supplemental Resources – Supplemental resources are any thing, or experience that enhances learning. This can include workbooks, field trips, and projects, movies and games.
Support groups – Also called homeschooling groups, and homeschooling networks, a support group is a group of homeschooling parents who meet for support, and shared resources. A co-op is a form of homeschool support group.
Find the rest of the homeschool glossary here
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