Introduction to Homeschool Curriculum Categories on Modulo

Welcome to Modulo's comprehensive guide to homeschool curriculum categories. At Modulo, we understand that each learner is unique, and we strive to provide a wide variety of secular, rigorously vetted options to cater to diverse educational needs. Whether you are looking for nature-based programs, free online resources, worksheets, open-and-go curriculums, online programs, parent and caregiver-led resources, live online classes, self-paced online courses, in-person class, , educational video games, apps, project-based learning, literature-based approaches, screen-free options, YouTube videos, or educational podcasts, we have something for every learner here. Maybe you’re just looking for something totally unique and off the beaten path. We’ve got you covered with our Weird and Wonderful tag.

We’ve also identified programs that cater to (or are particularly well suited to) children with specific special needs including Gifted, Profoundly Gifted, Autism, ADHD, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Dyspraxia and Dyslexia. To identify whether it’s worthwhile exploring if your child could benefit from a diagnosis, see our guide to homeschooling and cognitive diversity. In general, rather than trying to find the best program for a specific learning dianosis, we recommend focusing on your child’s interests and preferred modes of learning since there’s a wide variety of ways children learn best within any learning diagnosis. For instance, when given the choice, does your child most enjoy playing outside, do they spend hours on end building with legos, do they love being read to or always have their nose in a book, do they beg to play video games, or do they love watching YouTube? These preferences can give you a great indication of their preferred learning modes.

If you want some guidance walking through this process, you can also us our free curriculum wizard to identify the ideal all-in-one, math and ELA programs for your specific learner based on their interests and special needs.

Our curriculum categories span all major educational fields, including ELA, Coding, Math, Science, Social Studies, Arts, Physical Education, Life Skills, Financial Literacy, Parenting, Social-Emotional Curriculum, and World Languages. Within each category, you will find a rich selection of materials and programs designed to engage students and foster a love of learning.

Explore our offerings and discover the best fit for your homeschooling journey, knowing that every option has been carefully curated to support high-quality, effective education. Let's dive into the specifics of each category and find the perfect match for your child's educational needs.

This is a work in progress and always will be.

At Modulo, we’re extremely selective about the homeschooling programs we choose to review and recommend. If you have a curriculum you love that you’d like to recommend, or one you dislike that you see here, please let us know! If we left out a category you need, tell us. We’re constantly developing our resources to be more comprehensive and helpful for families.

You can learn more about our vetting process here.

The Categories

All In One

All In One curriculum packages offer comprehensive coverage of multiple subjects, creating a cohesive and integrated learning experience for students.

Assessment and Evaluation

Assessment programs provide tools and methods for identifying learning strengths and challenges, and evaluating student learning and progress across various subjects.

ELA

ELA programs develop students' reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills through comprehensive language instruction.

Creative Writing

Creative Writing programs encourage students to express themselves through writing fiction, poetry, and other literary forms.

Cursive Handwriting

Cursive Handwriting programs teach students the skills needed to write in cursive, improving fine motor skills and writing fluency.

English

English programs focus on grammar, literature, writing, and communication skills, providing a solid foundation in the language.

Grammar

Grammar programs focus on the rules and structures of language, improving students' writing and communication skills.

Handwriting

Mastering handwriting is essential for clear written communication in any language and has many additional benefits for memory, fine motor skills and executive functioning.

Literacy

Literacy programs focus on developing reading and writing skills, ensuring students are proficient in understanding and creating texts.

Public Speaking

Public Speaking programs teach students how to communicate effectively and confidently in front of an audience.

Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension programs help students improve their ability to understand and analyze written texts.

Spelling

Spelling programs help students improve their spelling abilities through systematic instruction and practice.

Vocabulary

Vocabulary programs help students expand their word knowledge and usage through targeted instruction and activities.

Writing

Writing programs develop students' abilities to write clearly and effectively across various genres and purposes.

Math

Math programs cover a wide range of mathematical concepts and skills, from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus.

Algebra

Algebra programs cover principles, equations, and problem-solving techniques, providing essential foundations for advanced mathematics.

Early Math

Early Math programs introduce foundational math concepts to young learners through engaging activities and exercises.

Financial Literacy

Financial Literacy programs teach students about managing money, budgeting, investing, and making informed financial decisions.

Science

Science programs explore various scientific disciplines and promote inquiry-based learning.

Chemistry

Chemistry programs cover chemical principles, experiments, and applications, helping students understand the physical world.

Environmental Science

Environmental Science programs explore ecological principles, environmental issues, and the importance of sustainability.

Medicine

Medicine programs introduce students to medical knowledge, healthcare practices, and the basics of human anatomy and physiology.

Physics

Physics programs cover the principles of physics, including mechanics, electricity, and magnetism, through theoretical and experimental learning.

Social Studies

Social Studies programs cover various aspects of society, including history, geography, economics, and culture.

African American Studies

African American Studies explore the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans through a range of educational resources.

Asian American History

Asian American History curriculum explores the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans through engaging materials and activities.

Black History

Black History programs offer an in-depth study of the history, culture, and contributions of Black individuals and communities.

Civics

Civics programs teach students about government structures, political systems, and the responsibilities of citizenship.

Economics

Economics programs cover economic principles, systems, and the impact of economic decisions on society.

Geography

Geography programs cover physical and human geography, helping students understand the world's landscapes, cultures, and environments.

Government

Government programs provide an understanding of political systems, governance structures, and the role of citizens in the political process.

Holocaust Education

Holocaust Education programs provide an in-depth study of the Holocaust, its historical context, and its impact on the world.

Indigenous History

Indigenous History programs explore the history, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples.

LGBTQ Plus History

LGBTQ Plus History programs examine the history, struggles, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.

Social Justice

Social Justice programs explore issues of equity, justice, and human rights, encouraging students to become advocates for change.

US Government

US Government programs provide an understanding of the American political system, including the Constitution, branches of government, and civic duties.

US History

US History programs cover significant events, movements, and figures in American history, helping students understand the nation's past.

World Cultures

World Cultures programs explore the diverse cultures, traditions, and customs of different societies around the globe.

World History

World History programs cover significant global events, civilizations, and movements from ancient times to the present.

STEM

STEM programs integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, promoting interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving.

Coding

Coding programs introduce students to computer programming languages and logical problem-solving skills through interactive projects.

Java

Learning Java is essential for developing applications and software in the tech industry. It is a robust, object-oriented programming language that is widely used for building enterprise-scale applications, Android apps, and complex systems. Its versatility and widespread use make it a valuable language for any aspiring developer.

HTML

HHTML programs teach students the basics of web development, including how to create and structure web pages using HTML. HTML (HyperText Markup Language) is the foundation of all web pages, allowing developers to organize content and elements on the web. Understanding HTML is crucial for anyone looking to create websites or engage in web development.

Python

Python programs introduce students to programming with Python, a versatile and widely-used programming language. Known for its simplicity and readability, Python is an excellent second language for beginners after Scratch. It is used in a variety of fields, including web development, data science, artificial intelligence, and automation, making it a powerful tool for solving a wide range of problems.

Scratch

Scratch programs introduce students to coding using Scratch, a visual programming language designed for beginners. It allows learners to create interactive stories, games, and animations through a drag-and-drop interface. Scratch is an ideal first language because it simplifies the concepts of coding, making it accessible and engaging for young learners or those new to programming.

Computers

While not a curriculum category persay, acquiring affordable or free devices is critical to families who need access to learning outside school. This category includes resources for finding free and recycled electronic devices. You can also make a donation to the organizations we’ve vetted here.

Digital Literacy

Digital Literacy programs teach students essential skills for navigating and utilizing digital technology safely and effectively.

Electronics

Electronics programs teach students about electronic components, circuits, and practical applications of electronics in everyday life.

Engineering

Engineering programs introduce students to engineering principles, problem-solving, and the design process through hands-on projects.

Game Design

Game Design programs introduce students to the principles of game creation, including storyboarding, coding, and graphic design.

Robotics

Robotics programs teach students about designing, building, and programming robots, integrating principles of engineering and technology.

Arts

Arts programs foster creativity and artistic expression through various mediums and techniques.

Art History

Art History programs examine different art movements, influential artists, and the cultural impact of visual art throughout history.

Dance

Dance programs offer instruction in various dance styles, promoting physical fitness, coordination, and artistic expression.

Music

Music programs cover various aspects of music education, including performance, theory, and music history.

Instruments

Instrument programs provide instruction on playing various musical instruments, enhancing students' musical skills and appreciation.

Drums

Drum programs provide instruction on drumming techniques, rhythms, and musical styles, enhancing students' musical abilities.

Piano

Piano programs provide instruction on piano playing techniques, music reading, and performance skills.

Rhythm

Rhythm programs focus on understanding and performing rhythmic patterns, enhancing musical and movement skills.

Singing

Singing programs teach vocal techniques, music reading, and performance skills for aspiring singers.

Ukulele

Ukulele programs provide instruction on playing the ukulele, including basic chords, strumming patterns, and songs.

Music Appreciation

Music Appreciation programs help students develop an understanding and appreciation of different musical genres and styles.

Music Composition

Music Composition programs teach students how to create and arrange their own music using various techniques and tools.

Music History

Music History programs explore the development of music over time, focusing on significant periods, composers, and works.

Music Theory

Music Theory programs cover the fundamentals of music notation, harmony, and structure, providing a deeper understanding of music.

Theater

Theater programs teach acting, stage production, and performance skills, fostering creativity and confidence.

Physical Education

Physical Education programs promote physical fitness and healthy living through various sports and exercise activities.

Yoga

Yoga programs teach physical postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness practices to promote physical and mental well-being.

Life Skills

Life Skills programs teach practical skills for everyday living, including cooking, budgeting, and time management.

Parenting

Parenting programs offer guidance and strategies for effective homeschooling, parenting and caregiving, including information about child development, cultivating life skills, and peaceful or gentle parenting techniques.

Social-Emotional Curriculum

Social-Emotional Curriculum focuses on developing students' emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills.

World Languages

Albanian

Spoken by around 7.5 million people primarily in Albania and Kosovo, learning Albanian opens a gateway to the rich cultural heritage of the Balkans.

Ancient Greek

Once the language of classical literature and philosophy, Ancient Greek is invaluable for understanding historical texts and the roots of Western civilization.

Ancient Hebrew

Key to studying religious texts such as the Old Testament, Ancient Hebrew offers deep insights into ancient Jewish culture and history.

Arabic

Spoken by over 300 million people across the Middle East and North Africa, Arabic is crucial for engaging with a diverse and influential cultural region.

Armenian

With approximately 6 million speakers, Armenian provides access to the rich traditions and history of Armenia.

Azerbaijani

Spoken by about 23 million people, primarily in Azerbaijan and parts of Iran, learning Azerbaijani connects you to a unique Turkic culture.

Basque

An isolated language with no known relatives, Basque is spoken by around 750,000 people in the Basque Country and offers a fascinating linguistic challenge.

Bengali

With over 230 million speakers, Bengali is the official language of Bangladesh and significant in the Indian state of West Bengal.

Brazilian Portuguese

Spoken by over 200 million people in Brazil, this variant of Portuguese is key to understanding South America's largest country.

Bulgarian

The official language of Bulgaria, spoken by about 9 million people, Bulgarian offers insight into the country's Slavic roots and history.

Cantonese

Spoken by about 70 million people, mainly in Guangdong province and Hong Kong, Cantonese is vital for accessing Cantonese-speaking communities worldwide.

Castilian Spanish

The standard form of Spanish spoken in Spain, with over 460 million native speakers globally, it's one of the world's most widely spoken languages.

Catalan

Spoken by around 10 million people in Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands, Catalan has a distinct identity within the Romance language family.

Cherokee

With fewer than 2,000 speakers, learning Cherokee helps preserve the language and culture of the Cherokee Nation.

Chinese

Encompassing several dialects, Chinese (Mandarin being the most spoken) connects learners to over 1 billion speakers and one of the world's oldest cultures.

Croatian

The official language of Croatia, spoken by around 5 million people, Croatian is vital for exploring the Adriatic coast's cultural heritage.

Czech

Spoken by 10 million people, Czech offers access to the rich history and literature of the Czech Republic.

Danish

With about 6 million speakers, Danish is the official language of Denmark and essential for understanding Scandinavian culture.

Dari Persian

One of the official languages of Afghanistan, Dari connects learners to the Persian literary tradition and Afghan culture.

Dutch

Spoken by 23 million people in the Netherlands and Belgium, Dutch is key to accessing the vibrant culture and history of the Low Countries.

Dzongkha (Bhutanese)

The official language of Bhutan, Dzongkha is spoken by about 700,000 people and offers a unique insight into the Himalayan kingdom's culture.

ESL

Teaching ESL empowers non-native speakers to communicate in English, the global lingua franca, broadening their opportunities.

Esperanto

A constructed international auxiliary language designed to foster global communication, Esperanto is spoken by a dedicated community of enthusiasts.

Farsi

The official language of Iran, spoken by over 80 million people, Farsi connects learners to a rich literary and cultural heritage.

Finnish

Spoken by about 5.4 million people, Finnish is known for its unique linguistic structure and offers insight into Finnish culture.

French

With over 220 million speakers worldwide, French is an official language in 29 countries and vital for international relations and culture.

German

Spoken by over 90 million people, German is the most widely spoken native language in Europe and crucial for business and cultural engagement.

Greek

Modern Greek, spoken by about 13 million people, connects learners to Greece's rich historical and cultural legacy.

Gujarati

Spoken by over 50 million people, primarily in the Indian state of Gujarat, Gujarati provides access to a vibrant regional culture.

Haitian Creole

With around 12 million speakers, Haitian Creole is the primary language of Haiti, reflecting the country's unique history and culture.

Hawaiian

With fewer than 24,000 speakers, learning Hawaiian helps preserve the language and cultural heritage of Hawaii.

Hebrew

Modern Hebrew, spoken by over 9 million people, is the official language of Israel and key to accessing Jewish culture and history.

High Valyrian

A constructed language from the "Game of Thrones" series, High Valyrian appeals to fans and language enthusiasts.

Hindi

Spoken by over 600 million people, Hindi is one of India's official languages and crucial for engaging with the country's diverse culture.

Hungarian

With about 13 million speakers, Hungarian is known for its unique grammar and offers insight into Hungary's rich cultural heritage.

Icelandic

Spoken by around 350,000 people, Icelandic has remained relatively unchanged for centuries, preserving the heritage of medieval Norse.

Igbo

Spoken by about 45 million people, primarily in Nigeria, Igbo is vital for understanding the culture and history of the Igbo people.

Indonesian

The official language of Indonesia, spoken by over 200 million people, Indonesian is key to accessing Southeast Asia's largest economy.

Irish

With around 1.7 million speakers, learning Irish supports the preservation of Ireland's linguistic and cultural heritage.

Italian

Spoken by over 60 million people, Italian is essential for appreciating Italy's rich cultural and artistic legacy.

Japanese

Spoken by about 125 million people, Japanese is crucial for engaging with Japan's culture, technology, and global influence.

Javanese

With around 82 million speakers, Javanese is widely spoken on the island of Java and provides insight into Indonesia's cultural diversity.

Kazakh

Spoken by about 13 million people, primarily in Kazakhstan, Kazakh is key to understanding the country's culture and history.

Klingon

A constructed language from "Star Trek," Klingon appeals to fans and those interested in linguistic creativity.

Koine Greek

The common language of the Hellenistic world and early Christian texts, Koine Greek is crucial for historical and theological studies.

Korean

Spoken by about 77 million people, Korean is essential for engaging with the culture and innovations of both South and North Korea.

Latin

Although no longer spoken natively, Latin is the root of many modern languages and essential for studying historical texts and legal terminology.

Malay

The official language of Malaysia, spoken by over 20 million people, Malay is vital for engaging with Southeast Asian culture and commerce.

Malayalam

Spoken by about 35 million people in the Indian state of Kerala, Malayalam is known for its rich literary tradition.

Mandarin Chinese

The most spoken language in the world, with over a billion speakers, Mandarin is essential for engaging with China's global influence.

Navajo

With around 170,000 speakers, learning Navajo helps preserve the language and culture of the Navajo Nation.

Norwegian

Spoken by about 5 million people, Norwegian connects learners to the cultural and historical heritage of Norway.

Pashto

One of the official languages of Afghanistan, spoken by about 50 million people, Pashto is key to understanding Afghan culture.

Persian

With over 80 million speakers, Persian (Farsi) is crucial for engaging with the cultural and historical heritage of Iran.

Polish

Spoken by about 45 million people, Polish offers insight into the rich cultural and historical traditions of Poland.

Portuguese

With over 220 million speakers, Portuguese is the official language of Portugal and Brazil, crucial for engaging with these diverse cultures.

Punjabi

Spoken by over 100 million people, primarily in India and Pakistan, Punjabi is essential for accessing the culture of the Punjab region.

Quebec French

A variant of French spoken by about 7 million people in Quebec, learning it provides unique insights into Canadian culture.

Romanian

Spoken by around 24 million people, Romanian connects learners to the Latin roots and cultural heritage of Romania.

Russian

With over 150 million speakers, Russian is a key language for accessing the culture, history, and geopolitical landscape of Russia.

Scottish Gaelic

Spoken by around 60,000 people, primarily in Scotland, learning Scottish Gaelic supports the preservation of a rich Celtic heritage.

Serbian

With approximately 9 million speakers, Serbian is essential for understanding the culture and history of Serbia and the Balkans.

Shanghainese

A Wu Chinese dialect spoken by about 14 million people in Shanghai, learning Shanghainese connects you to one of China's major urban centers.

Slovak

Spoken by about 5 million people, Slovak provides insight into the cultural and historical heritage of Slovakia.

Swahili

With over 16 million native speakers and many more using it as a lingua franca in East Africa, Swahili is key to engaging with the region's diverse cultures.

Swedish

Spoken by about 10 million people, Swedish connects learners to the cultural and historical legacy of Sweden.

Tagalog

The basis of Filipino, spoken by around 28 million people, learning Tagalog is essential for engaging with the culture of the Philippines.

Taiwanese Mandarin

A variant of Mandarin spoken in Taiwan, this dialect is crucial for understanding Taiwan's unique cultural and political context.

Tajik

Spoken by about 8 million people, primarily in Tajikistan, learning Tajik connects you to the Persian-speaking world of Central Asia.

Tamil

With over 70 million speakers, Tamil is one of the oldest classical languages, rich in literature and spoken primarily in India and Sri Lanka.

Telugu

Spoken by around 75 million people, Telugu is known for its rich literary tradition and is one of India's major languages.

Thai

The official language of Thailand, spoken by about 69 million people, Thai is key to accessing the culture and traditions of Thailand.

Spanish

With over 460 million native speakers worldwide, Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages and essential for engaging with Latin American and Spanish culture.

Turkish

Spoken by about 75 million people, Turkish connects learners to the rich history and culture of Turkey.

Tuvan

A Turkic language spoken by around 280,000 people in Siberia, learning Tuvan provides unique insights into the nomadic cultures of Central Asia.

Ukrainian

Spoken by about 30 million people, Ukrainian is key to understanding the culture and history of Ukraine.

Urdu

With over 70 million native speakers, primarily in Pakistan and India, learning Urdu provides access to a rich literary and cultural tradition.

Uzbek

Spoken by around 32 million people, primarily in Uzbekistan, learning Uzbek connects you to the cultural heritage of Central Asia.

Vietnamese

With over 80 million speakers, Vietnamese is essential for engaging with the culture and history of Vietnam.

Welsh

Spoken by around 700,000 people, learning Welsh helps preserve the language and culture of Wales.

Yiddish

Historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews, Yiddish connects learners to a rich cultural and literary tradition, though it has fewer speakers today.

Zulu

With about 12 million speakers, Zulu is one of South Africa's official languages and key to understanding the region's diverse cultural landscape.


Manisha Snoyer (co-founder of Modulo)

For the last 20 years, I’ve taught over 2000 children in 3 countries (of all socio-economic backgrounds). I pioneered an English language program in a conflict region in the Middle East. I’ve worked as a bilingual public school teacher at some of the highest and lowest performing public schools and in all five boroughs of NYC. I’ve tutored 18 subjects in three languages to some of the wealthiest families in NYC, San Francisco and Paris to make up for shortcomings in private schools they were paying up to $60,000 a year to attend.

Since 2015, I’ve helped hundreds of parents start microschools (way before this was a household buzzword). I founded CottageClass, the first marketplace for microschools and learning pods that was part of the Techstars 2018 class. In 2019, I created a virtual learning program to help families through the pandemic, a free online math tutoring program (masteryhour.org), and schoolclosures.org, a hotline developed in collaboration with Twilio and 80 other partners including Khan Academy, Revolution Foods and the Crisis Text Line, that served 100,000 families impacted by school closures.

I’ve climbed trees with children in forest schools in San Francisco, and tested new digital apps with kids in seven countries.

I’ve also coached dozens of families at different stages in their homeschooling journey. Most recently, I founded Modulo with homeschooling dad, best-selling author and tech entrepreneur Eric Ries, to help families curate their children’s education, social and childcare experiences drawing from a diverse array of in-person and online resources.


During the last three years, I’ve devoted much of my time to reviewing and testing secular homeschooling curriculum and other resource. I’ve spent the last three years talking to thousands of secular homeschooling families, and poring over tens of thousands of secular curriculum reviews and testing physical curriculum and digital apps for with hundreds of students to find the highest quality, most engaging, personalized learning materials for every type of learner.

I’ve spoken about homeschooling and modular learning at multiple venues including SXSW EDU, NY Tech Meetup, and on the LiberatedEd podcast.

In 2022, Modulo was one of 8 organizations who were awarded the Bridge Grant from the Vela Education Fund to expand access to homeschooling and modular learning to under-resourced communities.

My experience in education and homeschooling has led me to believe that there is no perfect education for every child, but families have an extraordinary amount of wisdom they can apply to building the perfect education for their individual child.

My goal with Modulo is to make it possible for any family to easily build a customized education that their child will love, and that will empower the whole family to thrive, taking into account, social, emotional and academic needs.

I love to answer questions from parents and receive feedback on how we can improve Modulo, so feel free to reach out anytime! I personally answer all the questions and comments readers leave on my blogs.

In my free time, I like hiking, traveling the world, tasting ceremonial grade matcha, enjoying dark chocolate.

I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Brandeis University with highest honors, with a double degree in French Literature and American Studies and minors in Environmental Studies and Peace & Conflict Studies.

And I love to learn!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/manisha-snoyer-5042298/
Previous
Previous

Thinkwell Homeschool

Next
Next

Curiosity Chronicles: A comprehensive review