Principle Approach
Homeschooling Method

FREE Lesson Plans and Activities!

Children are taught to think and reason from principles and leading ideas. The notebook method is used to research, reason, relate, and record.

The Foundation for American Christian Education (FACE) identified seven principles of America's Christian history and government:

1. Principle of Individuality - Each created thing has a unique identity from God
2. Principle of Self-Government - True liberty & Godly rule is from within
3. Principle of Christian Character - Internal character affects outward environment
4. "Conscience is the Most Sacred of All Property" - James Madison, individuals govern self by conscience
5. Principle of Biblical Form of Government - Scriptural guidelines for role of government
6. Principle of Local Self-Government - "Liberty is individual responsibility..." - Samuel Adams
7. Principle of Political Union - Spheres of government work together when they agree in spirit

Works Best With These Learning Styles...

Uses These Teaching Methods...

• Self-discipline and self-education
• Characterized by the supremacy of the Bible and its teaching methodology in all instruction
• Applies Biblical principles in scholarship, reasoning, character formation, and developing Christian self-government
• Acknowledges America's Christian history and Biblical form of government
• Uses Webster's 1828 dictionary
• Values the worth and dignity of each student
• Employs a Biblical-classical curriculum
• Produces a Biblical Christian worldview
• Utilizes the notebook method
• Study of fine and performing arts
• Romance languages
• Systematic progression through subjects

Planning Made Easy

Download a Principle Approach scope and sequence PDF file (opens new window) tailored to this teaching method.

Remember to use your child's learning styles profile as your planning guide.

Use the Academic Subject Areas PDF file (opens new window) as a springboard for additional ideas.

Download a course of study PDF file (opens new window) to outline the topics you are planning to cover during the upcoming school year. This is also handy when it comes time to order your materials.

For More Information...

• Teaching and Learning America's Christian History: The Principle Approach by Rosalie J. Slater
• A Guide to American Christian Education for Home & School: Principle Approach by James Rose
• The Foundation for American Christian Education Website (opens new window)