Planning-Scope-Goals...Whatever You Want to Call It

So.....as I'm helping a 12th grader, sorting out goals to accomplish this, his last year, I did a real double-take on some courses we were going to use. The operative word here is "were". As homeschool parents sometimes we overachieve on behalf of our children, loading them up with studies and extras they may not necessarily need. Students and parents can be overwhelmed, and buried alive under a mass of stuff and activities. We can look at these things and decide they are worthy, but are they profitable for us right now? Every year has been different, but here's an example of some goals we've written out as our son has grown towards adulthood and the books and materials used to reach the goals:

Goals

• Bible & Christian walk- Know what you believe and have a ready defense. "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.." 1 Peter 3:15. Hide large blocks of scripture in your heart. Use a prayer journal. Lead devotions and/or a study group. Ask God where He wants you.

• Life skills & Relationships- Continue learning home and car maintenance. Continue watching for what needs to be done and acting on it. Strengthen and invest in your Christian friendships.

• Math- Sharpen basic math skills for life situations, such as figuring interest, percentages, finding area, math associated with construction, financial skills...

• Writing- Be able to communicate effectively and to write for pleasure.

• Physical- Work on strength and health with manly work.

Some materials we will use:

The Bible (NKJ, John MacArthur study Bible)

Apologia Science
Wordsmith Craftsman
Math
Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace
The New Answers Books 1, 2 & 3, by Ken Ham
The Case for Christ, by Lee Strobel
More Than a Carpenter, by Josh McDowell
Christian Worldview for Students Volumes 1 & 2, by Brannon Howse
What He Must Be To Marry My Daughter, by Voddie Baucham
Marriage By Design, by Voddie Baucham
Family Driven Faith, by Voddie Baucham
Various videos and sermons from Voddie Baucham, Paul Washer, John MacArthur, and others.