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Guide to the Order of Classes

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This guide is designed to help families understand the progression of courses from upper elementary through high school. It includes recommended course sequences, typical high school credit expectations, and college-preparatory considerations to help students build a well-rounded academic foundation.

Science

Upper Elementary / Middle School

Science in the upper elementary and middle school years introduces students to the natural world and builds a foundation for more advanced scientific study. Students explore a variety of scientific disciplines, develop observation and investigation skills, and begin learning important scientific concepts.

These courses can be taken in any particular order.

Middle School

Middle school science expands on foundational concepts and introduces students to broader scientific principles. Students begin exploring the physical world, earth systems, and scientific investigation while preparing for high school-level Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Middle School / High School

These courses can serve as a transition between middle school and high school science, depending on the student's academic readiness and goals.

High School

High school science builds on earlier scientific knowledge and introduces more advanced concepts through the study of life science, physical science, and earth and space science.

Most high school graduation programs require approximately 2–3 science credits, although requirements vary by state. College-bound students are generally encouraged to complete 3–4 years of science, including laboratory-based courses. A strong college-preparatory science background typically includes Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or another approved physical or earth science course. Students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields should consider completing four years of science, including Physics.

MyFunScience offers a variety of science courses that help students build a strong foundation in scientific knowledge, investigation, and critical thinking.

Math

Upper Elementary

Middle school is an important time to strengthen basic math skills, introduce new concepts, and prepare students for high school mathematics. Students enter middle school at different skill levels, so MyFunScience offers courses that allow families to choose the level that best meets their student's needs.

Upper Elementary Math (4th–6th) is the newest addition to the MyFunScience math offerings and replaces our previous single-semester Mastering Math Basics course after the Spring 2027 semester. This class is designed to establish a strong foundation in basic math skills. It can be taken to prepare for middle school math or later if a student needs additional practice with foundational concepts. Topics include computations with decimals, fractions, mixed numbers, and percentages.

  • Upper Elementary Math (4th–6th) (*coming soon)

Middle School

MyFunScience does not follow a traditional 6th, 7th, and 8th grade math sequence because we know that homeschool students can enter middle school at different skill levels. Instead, our courses provide a flexible progression that helps students strengthen foundational skills and prepare for high school mathematics.

Middle School Math is designed to bridge the gap between elementary math and Pre-Algebra. Taken over one school year, this course covers the foundational concepts students need to succeed in Pre-Algebra. Topics include fractions, integers, decimals, percentages, one-step equations, square roots, measurements, statistics, and basic geometry.

Pre-Algebra prepares students for high school mathematics by strengthening their understanding of foundational math concepts. Students work with fractions, decimals, percents, mixed numbers, signed numbers, order of operations, algebraic expressions, and linear equations with one unknown.

High School

High school math typically begins with Algebra 1, followed by Geometry and Algebra 2. Most students graduate with at least 3 math credits, although many states and school districts require 4. College-bound students are generally encouraged to complete 3–4 years of math, including Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2. Students planning to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields or other math-intensive majors should consider continuing through Pre-Calculus and Calculus.

A complete high school math education develops skills in computation, algebraic reasoning, geometry, problem-solving, and higher-level mathematical concepts. MyFunScience offers a progression of math courses designed to build a strong foundation, strengthen essential skills, and prepare students for advanced high school mathematics.

Typical High School Math Progression:

  1. Algebra 1 – Introduces foundational algebra concepts, including equations, graphing, exponents, and problem-solving. Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra
  2. Geometry – Explores shapes, measurements, spatial reasoning, and geometric proofs. Prerequisite: Algebra 1
  3. Algebra 2 – Builds on Algebra 1 through more advanced equations, functions, and polynomials. Prerequisite: Algebra 1
  4. Pre-Calculus – Develops advanced algebra and trigonometry skills while preparing students for Calculus. Prerequisites: Algebra 2 and Geometry
  5. Calculus – Introduces limits, derivatives, and integrals, providing preparation for advanced college-level math. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

Typical High School Math Progression

  • Algebra 1 (prerequisite: Pre-Algebra)
  • Geometry (prerequisite: Algebra 1)
  • Algebra 2 (prerequisite: Algebra 1)
  • Pre-Calculus (prerequisite: Algebra 2 and Geometry)
  • Calculus (prerequisite: Pre-Calculus)

Geometry and Algebra 2 are sometimes offered in different sequences depending on the school. Completing Geometry before taking the SAT or ACT can be particularly beneficial because these exams include geometry concepts.

High School Elective

Personal Finance is an excellent financial literacy course that teaches practical math skills for everyday life, including budgeting, personal finance, and real-world applications of mathematics. While valuable as a high school elective, it is generally not considered a substitute for college-preparatory math courses such as Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, or Calculus when meeting college admission requirements.

English and Literature

Upper Elementary

Upper elementary English focuses on developing foundational language arts skills, including reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary. These skills prepare students for more advanced reading comprehension, composition, and literature study in middle and high school.

Middle School

Middle school English builds on foundational reading and writing skills while introducing students to more advanced grammar, vocabulary, composition, and literature. Students develop stronger communication skills and begin exploring literary works with greater depth and understanding.

The following classes are taught at a high school level, but advanced middle school students may be ready for these courses.

Middle School English Elective

Strong writing skills are essential for academic success and effective communication. These electives provide opportunities for students to strengthen important language arts skills, build confidence, and develop a solid foundation for future learning.

High School

Most high school transcripts should include at least four English credits to meet typical graduation requirements. A complete high school English credit includes three essential components: writing, vocabulary, and literature. Students develop strong writing skills through composition, grammar, and effective written communication while building vocabulary and studying a variety of literary works. MyFunScience Core English courses integrate all three components—writing, vocabulary, and literature—to provide a comprehensive language arts education that covers the essential elements of a high school English credit.

MyFunScience Core English credits offer a complete language arts education covering all the essential components of a high school English credit.

High School English Electives

Many parents recognize that their students could benefit from additional writing practice and skill development. MyFunScience offers focused writing electives designed to provide more intensive instruction and help students strengthen their composition, grammar, and overall written communication skills.

  • Writing ER (9th–12th)
  • Speech and Communication (*coming soon)

History and Social Science

Upper Elementary

Upper elementary history introduces students to important historical events, people, and cultures. Students begin developing an understanding of the past, how societies have changed over time, and how historical events have shaped the world we live in today.

Middle School

Middle school history expands students' understanding of American and world history, geography, and different cultures. Students explore historical events and civilizations, develop critical thinking skills, and begin connecting historical events to the larger world.

High School

Most high school graduation programs require approximately 2–3 history and social science credits, although requirements vary by state. College-bound students are generally encouraged to complete at least 3 years of social studies, with 4 years providing additional academic depth.

A complete high school history and social science education typically includes American History, World History, Geography, American Government, and Economics. These subjects help students understand historical events, government systems, cultures, economic principles, and their impact on the world around them.

MyFunScience offers a variety of history and social science courses that help students develop historical knowledge, critical thinking, and a broader understanding of the world.

For a more integrated learning experience, consider pairing American Literature with US History.

Electives

Electives play an important role in rounding out a student's high school transcript and providing a well-rounded education. Depending on the state and graduation pathway, students typically need approximately 20–26 total high school credits, with a portion of those credits coming from elective courses.

When planning electives, families should consider a variety of subjects that encourage exploration, develop practical skills, and complement a student's academic interests. Some areas to consider include:

  • Fine Arts: Art, music theory, theater, photography, and other creative pursuits.
  • World Languages: Developing communication skills and exploring other languages and cultures.
  • Biblical Studies and Christian Living: Strengthening biblical knowledge and developing a deeper understanding of Scripture, Christian faith, and biblical principles.
  • Business Courses: Exploring entrepreneurship, business principles, marketing, management, and other topics that help students develop practical business knowledge and skills.
  • Technology and Computer Science: Building digital skills, exploring programming, and understanding technology.
  • Personal Finance: Learning about budgeting, financial responsibility, and practical money management.
  • Career and Interest-Based Courses: Exploring subjects related to a student's potential career path or areas of personal interest.
  • Life Skills and Personal Development: Developing practical skills for everyday life through courses such as Logic and Reasoning, Home Economics, and other subjects that encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, and independent living.
  • Additional Academic Enrichment: Taking additional courses in English, math, science, or history to strengthen knowledge in areas of interest.

Electives are also an opportunity to begin tailoring a student's transcript toward future goals. Students interested in healthcare, for example, may want to explore additional science courses, while those interested in business, technology, education, or the arts can choose electives that introduce them to those fields. A thoughtful selection of electives can help students discover their interests, build valuable skills, and prepare for life beyond high school.

Planning Ahead for College: Some colleges and specific degree programs may require or recommend particular elective courses or subject areas for admission. Families should research the admission requirements of prospective colleges and consider those recommendations when selecting high school electives. Planning ahead can help ensure students are choosing courses that support their future academic goals.

Important Planning Notes for Parents

High School Credit Note: High school-level courses completed during middle school may be eligible for high school credit and can be included on a student's high school transcript.

High school graduation requirements vary by state. College admission requirements also vary by institution and intended major.

The credit recommendations in this guide are intended to help families plan a well-rounded high school education and prepare students for future college opportunities. Parents should verify specific graduation and admission requirements with their state or prospective colleges.