Twenty-nine states have partnered with K12 to provide an online public school curriculum, often called a virtual academy. The advantages of an online public school are that textbooks are free, and some states even provide free Internet access, a loaner computer and a loaner printer to use for homeschooling. The curriculum is thorough and complete, but there is not a lot of room for parent teaching or creative use of the materials.
Christian-based home-school curricula are the most popular in the homeschooling community. In a 2007 National Center for Education Statistics survey, 83 percent of homeschooling parents listed "religious or moral instruction" as the reason they chose to home school. A Christian home-school curriculum offers bible study and religion courses in addition to the academic curriculum. Many curricula integrate Christianity into all subjects, as well as require bible verse memorization on every test or quiz. Some of the science and history courses are based upon creation theory, and evolution is not taught. The history courses tend to follow the events in the Bible.
Secular curricula teach evolution in their science programs. In addition, the history includes all civilizations and their belief systems. If religion is taught, it is within the study of history and culture, and the religion is presented without bias toward one particular religion.
Many Christian curricula are still worthy of consideration for those seeking a secular curriculum, if the Bible study is an optional and separate component.
Home-school curriculum programs can be online or offline. Online programs may include interactive homework on the computer, games that reinforce learning concepts and a community of teachers and students. Some are operated like a private school, except students learn at home with their parents.
Other curriculum programs comprise of textbooks, workbooks and tests. Internet access is not necessary, although many offline programs offer DVDs or CDs to help guide the student's learning experience.
When choosing home-school curriculum programs, one thing to consider is whether you want the program to be accredited or not. Accreditation means that a third-party has verified that the homeschooling program meets the standards of their organization or state. This accreditation works like a seal of approval, giving parents confidence in the program.
Accreditation, however, is not necessary for children to get into college. Many parents prefer the greater freedom that comes without accreditation, so they can focus on their own educational priorities and desires. Other parents have decided to home school their children because they want the final say in what their children learn, not what the state or an organization that offers accreditation considers standard.