America the Beautiful

"America the Beautiful" by Charlene Notgrass is a comprehensive one-year American history, geography, and literature course designed for students in grades 5-8. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Chronological Approach: The curriculum guides students chronologically through American history, highlighting key events, people, and places from before 1492 to the present day.
2. Integration of Subjects: The course integrates U.S. history, geography, and literature, making it a multi-subject curriculum that can satisfy history, geography, and literature requirements.
3. Christian Perspective: The curriculum is centered in God's Word, incorporating biblical perspectives and lessons that encourage "thinking biblically".
4. Engaging Lessons: Each lesson includes various activities such as reading primary sources, creative writing, map study, timeline work, and family activities to keep students engaged.

Plot Summary

The curriculum is divided into two parts:

1. Part 1: America from 1000 to 1877:

   • Covers the early history of America, including Native American nations, European exploration, colonial periods, and the Civil War.
   • Includes biographies of each president from George Washington through Ulysses S. Grant.

2. Part 2: America from the Late 1800s to the Present:

   • Continues the chronological journey through American history, covering significant events from the late 1800s to the present day.
   • Includes biographies of each president from Rutherford B. Hayes to Joe Biden.

Each unit is structured with five lessons, each focusing on a different aspect:

• Our American Story: Significant historical events.
• God’s Wonders: Descriptions of God’s beautiful creations in America.
• An American Landmark: Exploration of places that have played an important role in American history.
• An American Biography: Biographies of notable Americans.
• Daily Life: Daily life in different eras of American history.

Critical Reception

1. Engagement and Accessibility:

   • The curriculum is praised for its engaging and accessible approach to history, with vivid images and well-organized lessons that make history come alive for students.
   • The use of primary sources and historical documents in "We the People" is particularly noted for its educational value and ability to take students on a historical journey.

2. Comprehensive Coverage:

   • The curriculum is commended for its thorough coverage of American history, including topics often neglected in other courses, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps and significant religious events.
   • The inclusion of family activities and multi-age projects adds a practical and enjoyable element to the learning experience.

3. Parental Flexibility:

   • Parents appreciate the flexibility in assigning tasks, allowing them to tailor the curriculum to their child’s interests and abilities.

Overall, "America the Beautiful" by Charlene Notgrass is a well-rounded and engaging homeschool curriculum that provides a comprehensive education in American history, geography, and literature while incorporating a Christian perspective.