CK Sequence

Description:

The Sequence also includes general information about Core Knowledge including why and how it was developed. There are also 4 Appendices. They are a sample phoneme sequence, bible supplement (stories not doctrine), common misconceptions, and the focus of Core Knowledge. Finally on the back is a 3 page layout of the Sequences major topic headings. This is helpful when planning especially when coordinating two or more children.

The Core Knowledge site provides examples and a brief overview of the entire scope and sequence. You can purchase the Sequence only through the Core Knowledge site.

Learn more about The Sequence at the Core Knowledge site.

Example of topic with subheadings:

World History: Grade 4

Note to teacher: Information about geography and its importance to understanding history.

       IV.  Early and Medieval African Kingdoms

           A. Early African

                 Kush: once ruled by Egypt, then became rulers of Egypt

                 Axum (also spelled Aksum): a trading kingdom in what is now Ethiopia

           B.  Medieval Kingdoms

                2 bulleted points

           C.  Geography of Africa

                 6 bulleted points

Example of teacher notes provided:

1st grade American History: The American Revolution

Note: "The American Revolution will be studied in greater depth and detail in grade 4. First grade teachers should examine the forth grade guidelines to see how these topics build in the later grade. It is recommended that first grade teachers focus on the topics specified here, and leave for fourth grade the more detailed study of the Revolution. In first grade, emphasize the story of how we went from colonies to an independent nation.

Then in the side margins it says: See symbols and figures: Liberty Bell and the music Yankee Doodle.
 

How do homeschoolers use the Sequence?

For planning: There are many ways in which homeschoolers use the sequence. The first way is to find the year you are teaching look at the subjects to be covered and then plan when you will be covering them for the school year. Then when developing the lesson look at the points to be covered and include them in your study.

For ideas: Others who may not work within the current "grade level" often refer to the sequence when covering a specific subject to see what main points are recommended. Still others refer to the Sequence when they need new ideas for topics.

For a checklist: Another idea was to use different color pen for each child and simply check off the topic once the child had covered it.

For review: If you are starting midstream you can use the sequence as a review for previous grades. Ask questions to your child about the topic or ask them to tell you what they remember. If they seem to have a good grasp of the topic move on and if not take time to explore the topic. You can even use it as a review for the subjects covered within that year.

For the ambitious: One member has taken apart the sequence and put each page in plastic sleeves. Then put each grade in a 3 ring notebook. Then uses wet erase pens and mark off what has been done. You could have the binding cut off at a local copy store and then have each grade bound or three holed punched to save time. She also made a list of the recommended songs, went to the library and checked out a copy, and then copied them on to one CD to have for the year!

Some Disadvantages:

This requires planning on the parents part. You must decide what your schedule is going to be. If you want to "blend" different subjects together you must familiarize yourself with the entire year and figure out which topics would work well together. (the K-8 guide does this for you.)