Credit Hours and a Transcript
So, how does a CM education "look" on a
transcript? Well, it can either look similar to any
other traditional high school transcripts (click
here to see some sample transcripts) or it can be creative and
unique. It is best to check with the school your student is
interested in attending FIRST and find out if they want a
traditional or creative transcript. I made a sample Narrative
Transcript for my son's 9th grade year to show what a
"creative" type transcript might look like.
Graduation
When and how you graduate your home school student
will greatly depend on the state you live in. Here in Arizona,
we have very few requirements for graduation. Most parents do
pay attention to the admittance requirements for Arizona State
University (our largest state school) and will plan to follow their
suggested program for credits. However, there is no reason why
a home school family must follow a traditional program. In my
opinion, it is the learning that matters. If the student has
studied and learned from a variety of subjects and is well-rounded
and articulate, they will do just fine in college courses.
Typically, highly sought after colleges now require
students to have taken:
(4) units of English (literature and composition
based)
(4) units of Math (Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry and Advanced Math)
(4) units of Science (Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
(3-4) units of Social Studies (US and World History,
Government/Economics and electives)
(2-4) units of Foreign Language (most want 3-4 years)
(1) unit Fine or Performing Arts
Our Requirements
English 1-4 (4 units)
U.S. History (1 unit)
Social Studies (1 unit required from U.S History - other options
include World History, Geography,
European, Ancient, or Modern)
Science (3 units, 1 with lab: Biology, Chemistry, Physics;
Physical Science as elective)
Math (3 units: Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry)
Health (1/2 unit)
PE (1/2 unit - 1 year)
Visual/Performing Arts (1 unit)
Foreign Language (2 units)
Economics (1/2 unit)
Electives (4 units)
Our son will graduate with many more credits than
what we require. Our approach is to cover the basics for
application to our state school as well as make sure he has taken
a variety of courses touching on each subject area during his high
school years.
Copyright 1998-2007. Carol Hepburn.
