9th Grade {course plans}

These are the plans I have put together for my children's freshman year. The classes were chosen based on the guidelines for graduation in the state of Virginia, but may be varied based on each child's personal needs.   * This post contains affiliate links.

Algebra 1
Prerequisites: Pre Algebra
Grade Level: 9
Credit: 1


Option #1: 
This course provides a comprehensive teaching of the fundamental aspects of problem solving. It offers a substantial review of pre algebra fundamentals while also offering  a basic overview of geometry concepts of area, volume, angles, Pythagorean Theorem, and perimeter of geometric figures. Major topics include evaluation of algebraic equations, thorough coverage of exponents, polynomials, solving and graphing linear equations, complex fractions, solving systems of equations, radicals, word problems, solving and graphing quadratic equations, solving systems of equations, and solving equations by factoring. With Algebra 1, students begin developing the understanding required for entrance into Algebra 2 or Geometry courses and will solve problems with practical applications for use in carpentry, construction, consumer economics, investing, and more.

Curriculum List

• Algebra 1, Saxon
• Mastering Algebra John Saxon's Way: Algebra 1, DVD Set

Website  

• Virtual Home School Group (free self-paced course using the Saxon text)

• Recorded Lectures
• Computer-Scored Problem Sets
• Computer-scored weekly tests

Notes: As a homeschool  student, I hated Saxon math and vowed to never use it with my children. However, my children began looking through my old books and decided that they enjoyed the Saxon approach. My 2nd born son is really good at math, and was able to get himself through algebra, as well as answering any questions his brothers and sisters might have. But since he is now working full time, I decided I needed something extra to help the next set of children to make it through. In my search, I found three different sets of teaching videos for the Saxon series: DIVE, Mastering Algebra John Saxon's Way (by Art Reed), and Saxon's own DVD's. After reading numerous reviews, I decided that the Art Reed set would be a better fit for our family.                                     

Option #2: 
This course introduces students to the language through which we describe patterns. It provides students with the foundation needed to understand higher-level math subjects. Some of the topics include linear equations, linear inequalities, linear functions, systems of equations, factoring expressions, quadratic expressions, exponents, functions, and ratios.

Website  

• Khan Academy (free self-paced course)

• Practice Exercises
• Instructional Videos
• Personal Learning Dashboard

Notes: My fifth born son has not done well using Saxon. As a result, he has needed to do some remedial math to strengthen areas where he struggles. We began using Khan's academy out of desperation, but will continue using it because it makes my job so much easier. The whole program is based on mastery, so he doesn't move on until he knows the material. And since everything is graded by the computer, I can just look at his dashboard to see how he is doing, rather than trying to find time to grade all his lessons. The best part is that he LOVES doing his math lessons this way. 

Physical Science
Prerequisites: none (Pre Algebra recommended)
Grade Level: 8-9
Credit: 1

This course is designed to be the last science course the student takes before high school biology. It discusses such topics as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, weather, the structure of the earth, environmentalism, the physics of motion, Newton’s Laws, gravity, and astrophysics. Students will participate in weekly  laboratory  experiments.



Curriculum List

• Exploring Creation With Physical Science, Apologia
• Apologia Physical Science 2nd Edition Lapbook Journal

Website  

• Virtual Home School Group  (free self-paced course using the Apologia text)

• Recorded Lectures
• Computer-Scored Lecture Quizzes (OYO and study guide questions)
• Lab Report Starters
• Computer-scored module exams

Notes: I don't see any of my children pursuing a career path which involves science, so I have decided to follow Apologia's slower track for science. If you plan to take Physical Science during highschool, keep in mind that it must be completed in 9th grade to count for credit.  

English 9
Prerequisites: English 8
Grade Level: 9
Credit: 1

Option #1:

This course focuses on further developing basic skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and critical thinking. In addition to a review of basic grammar concepts, several new concepts will be introduced. Additional topics include lessons on outlining, poetry, letter writing, and practice in the five essay formats used in high school writing. Research and editing skills will also be taught and practiced.



Curriculum List

• English 9 & 10, book 1, Rod & Staff
• Essay Styles For High School, Epi Kardia

Option #2:
Students will focus this year on analyzing literature including poetry, short stories, novels, and plays. Students will develop their understanding of literary devices and terminology to be able to express researched critiques of literature. Students will produce a number of literary analysis papers as well as other essays. Additionally, students will be engaged creatively in writing short stories and poetry. Students will use the complete writing process and submit work for peer editing. Students will also read a variety of nonfiction and will be expected to produce a newspaper, newsletter and podcast as part of their nonfiction studies. To improve in their writing, students will study spelling, vocabulary, grammar, suspense, irony, metaphor, theme, mood and foreshadowing.   


Website  

• Easy Peasy All-In-One Homeschool  (free self-paced course using online resources)

History & Social Sciences (1/2 or full credit of choice)

Option #1:  
Geography: Map Skills
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: .5

In this course students will learn the basics of reading maps, the history of cartography, and how to draw maps of the places they study. After completing all of the mapping activities, the student will have drawn practically every area of the world, including many of the Pacific islands and Antarctica. Additional skills covered include using a compass, reading latitude and longitude lines, drawing map symbols, using time zone maps,  and understanding political, physical, road, city, weather, and product maps. The five themes of geography will also be covered. 

Curriculum List

• Mighty Maps!
• International Geography Quest Note Pack
• Mapping The World With Art

Option #2:
Virginia State History
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: .5


This course covers state government and leaders, historical events, growth and population, natural resources, economics and business, tourism, and cultural distinctions. Students will reinforce research skills as they prepare essays, employ math skills, enhance their writing, and learn about business. 



Curriculum List

• Switched On Schoolhouse State History: Virginia

Keyboarding 
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9-11
Credit: .5




See my Keyboarding {course plan} for more details.


Foods
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: .5

See my Foods {course plan} for more details.


Health: Safety & Personal Care
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9-12
Credit: 1


(I haven't finished planning this class yet.)


Additional Activities

• homeschool co-op classes on fridays
• Bible copywork: beginning to copy the book of Genesis
• Penmanship using Writing For Your Future
• reading from assigned book list, as able