The literature-based homeschool avoids the use of textbooks and workbooks whenever possible, using high-quality literature instead. “High-quality literature” is also referred to as “Great Books”, “Living Books” and “real books”. Literature choices may include: fiction or non-fiction written by renowned authors; children’s books; chapter books; popular best sellers; biographies; historic fiction; online magazines; relevant ancient texts and original source material such as historic journals, eyewitness accounts and correspondences. A literature-based homeschool day might include sitting on the couch to read books together; some memory work or copy work from good literature; discussion, quizzes, written summaries or student narrations about what was read; some colouring or crafts while listening to stories; and, further reading or discussion over dinner about what was learned during the day.

STRENGTHS

• with a careful choice of books, learning can be current and in-depth
• well-chosen books can help a subject “come alive” and lead a student into further research
• interesting learning allows for better memory retention
• high-quality literature offers rich vocabulary, grammar and word usage and demonstrates excellent writing for the student to emulate
• read-aloud choices are often read to the child above their grade level which further expands their vocabulary and knowledge
• high quality literature promotes a desire for independent learning
• this style of homeschooling can be integrated into most other homeschool methods
• can be a low-cost method by using the library

POINTS TO CONSIDER

• an excellent choice for parents and students who already love to read and write; may not be the best choice for very active hands-on learners or for students who struggle with reading and writing
• higher level math may be a challenge to teach without the use of textbooks

RESOURCES

• https://www.movingbeyondthepage.com/curriculum/literaturebased.aspx
• “You CAN Teach your Child Successfully” by Ruth Beechik
• http://greatbooksacademy.org
• http://www.sonlight.com