Notgrass History offers a highly acclaimed Christian homeschool history curriculum series created by veteran homeschool parents Ray and Charlene Notgrass. Known for its engaging narrative style, Biblical integration, and multi-subject credit potential, this program combines the structure of a textbook with the depth of a unit study—making history come alive while honoring God and His Word. Ideal for homeschoolers seeking a faith-based, easy-to-use curriculum that teaches heart, soul, and mind, Notgrass emphasizes primary sources, hands-on activities, classic literature, and real-world application. Courses stand alone, allowing flexible start points regardless of prior curriculum.
Key Features of Notgrass History
- Christian Worldview: Lessons apply Scripture to historical events, ideas, and people, upholding the Bible as God's Word and Jesus as Savior.
- Engaging Narratives: Conversational, readable text written directly to students, with beautiful full-color illustrations, photos, maps, and timelines.
- Multi-Subject Integration: High school courses often earn credits in history + English (literature/composition) + Bible/worldview; middle/elementary include geography and literature.
- Open-and-Go Ease: Minimal prep for parents; clear instructions, optional reviews/quizzes, and family activities.
- Hands-On Learning: Projects, primary documents (e.g., speeches, letters), recommended literature, and maps/timelines.
- Flexible Pacing: One-year full courses or half-credit options; adaptable for various homeschool styles (classical, Charlotte Mason, eclectic).
Course Levels and Options
- Elementary (Grades 1–4): Our 50 States (U.S. geography/history), Our Star-Spangled Story (American history), and Our Great Big World (world geography/cultures) offer gentle introductions to history, geography, and social studies. Packages contain the materials needed to complete each curriculum.
- Middle School (Grades 5–8): Features 1-year curriculum options such as America the Beautiful (U.S. history/geography/literature with timeline/maps), From Adam to Us (world history from Creation), and Uncle Sam and You (civics). Programs for these grade levels include richly illustrated texts, optional workbooks, primary sources, and recommended books.
- High School (Grades 9–12): These courses offer college prep rigor with credit-earning packages: Exploring World History (full-year: world history, English, Bible—ancient to modern, global coverage), Exploring America (full-year: U.S. history, English, Bible), Exploring World Geography (full-year: geography, English, worldview), Exploring Government (half-year: U.S. government, English), Exploring Economics (half-year: economics, English).
Components typically include core text(s), student review packs (questions/quizzes), literature guides, primary source books, and optional supplements.
What to Know Before Purchasing
Notgrass History is text-heavy with daily reading that engaging but substantial. It is best for independent readers or family read-alouds. The program's conservative Protestant perspective may not suit all families. High school literature requires separate purchases (classic titles). Notgrass is praised in reviews by Cathy Duffy for depth without busywork, strong writing emphasis, and memorable learning. Discover why thousands of homeschool families choose Notgrass History as their go-to for Christian homeschool history curriculum and get ready for an inspiring journey through God's story in the past and present!