Oak Meadow was founded by a small group of parents and teachers dedicated to the idea that learning at home cultivates creativity, fosters curiosity, and engages the intellect. Our curriculum, which can be used independently or by enrolling in our accredited distance learning school, has been at the forefront of the homeschooling movement since 1975.
Now, Oak Meadow stands apart from—and above—a crowded landscape of homeschooling options.
Our print-based curriculum blends rigorous academics with creative, hands-on assignments that reach far beyond the confines of a computer screen. Our dedicated faculty meets regularly to discuss teaching practices and inform curriculum, an uncommon practice among today’s “virtual” schools.
Thousands of families across America and in 36 countries have adopted Oak Meadow as their curriculum of choice, and our thriving school has over 500 students enrolled worldwide.
At Oak Meadow, we believe that young people are sensitive and intelligent, learning can be enjoyable, and education should be integrated into life.
Whether you are new to homeschooling or a homeschooling veteran, we invite you to explore this catalog, visit us online, or speak with one of our Educational
Counselors about crafting an engaging education that integrates your education with your life goals.
Lawrence Williams, Ed.D
Cofounder and President info@oakmeadow.com e 802-251-7250 e
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Through a combination of rigorous academics, creative projects, and individual expression, Oak Meadow students develop into enthusiastic, responsible, and successful young adults.
Inspired learners are on a quest for personal growth, knowledge of how the world works, and an authentic connection to humanity. At Oak Meadow, we understand that one’s experience of education is what sparks curiosity, imagination, and a thirst for a deeper understanding of the world and oneself.
A leader in interdisciplinary homeschooling and distance learning for nearly 40 years,
Oak Meadow offers a fully accredited high school program built on strong academic standards. Our exceptional and engaging courses encourage you to learn in ways that resonate with your interests, talents, and individual learning style.
Join Oak Meadow to:
EXPLORE integrative thinking and learning while building practical skill sets.
DISCOVER a new way of understanding the world through the synthesis of curricular study and your own observations and informed opinions.
BALANCE academic accomplishment, intellectual development, and emotional engagement.
CONNECT your intelligence, creativity, sensitivity, and purpose.
View full sample lessons for each subject on our website, or call or email us to receive a printed copy.

Zlatomir at Heifetz International
Music Institute
Emma
ARIZONA
Emma
and her sister, Sophie, both Oak Meadow students, have traveled extensively with their parents and are accomplished junior fencers. Emma dreams of going to the Olympics as a
Women’s Saber Fencer. So far, she has earned a Junior Team National
Championship and a National
American Championship, and placed second in the Junior Pan
American Games and third in Junior
Individual Pan American Games.
MASSACHUSETTS
A world-class cellist as a young teen, Zlatomir enrolled in Oak
Meadow to devote more time to developing his art and to
continue his training at the
New England Conservatory.
MISSOURI
An avid reader, published writer, and aspiring classicist, Belle’s dream is to become a teacher in the field of classics and a fantasy novelist.
She enjoys learning languages, exploring mystical worlds, and studying history. She’s fluent in Latin and is studying Homeric Greek, Italian, and Korean.
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Oak Meadow Parent
CURRICULUM
PACE
SUPPORT
Receive everything you need for an entire school year, including 36 weekly lesson plans in each course with a variety of engaging assignments, activities, and readings.
Families set their own daily and weekly schedules, submitting work to their teacher every two weeks in order to receive ongoing academic and motivational support. Students may also work at an accelerated pace.
Full faculty and administrative support is available for all enrolled students.
Close partnership with an experienced professional teacher includes thoughtful feedback on each lesson, encouragement of strong learning skills and guidance in creating an effective homeschooling environment.
Progression through the curriculum is entirely self paced. Our weekly lesson plan structure allows the flexibility to accommodate to each family’s lifestyle of learning.
Families provide academic support and assess their student’s work. Families may supplement their curriculum purchase with comprehensive teacher manuals that offer a wealth of answers, evaluation tips and practical advice.
Our curriculum features a choice of creative, hands-on assigments to accommodate visual, auditory, and physical learning styles. Families may further customize by allowing students to work block style, focusing on 2-3 subjects at a time.
Families are responsible for maintaining a portfolio of their student’s work and satisfying state reporting requirements for homeschoolers.
CUSTOMIZATION
SCHOOL
RECORDS
ACADEMIC
PLANNING
TECHNOLOGY
DESIGNATION
Our curriculum features a choice of creative, hands-on assignments to accommodate visual, auditory, and physical learning styles. Teachers further assist families in tailoring curricula to meet each student’s individual needs and interests.*
Official school records, including comprehensive narrative evaluations, are maintained in the Oak Meadow office. As an accredited school, these records are transferable to other schools, and may be required documentation in some states. See page 9 for more information on the importance of accreditation.
Families receive faculty and administrative assistance regarding course selection, high school planning, college counseling, and annual transcript reviews. Teachers also guide students in developing specific interests and achieving individual goals.
Our print-based curriculum reinforces strong reading comprehension and study skills while allowing each family to determine the extent of technology involvement and skill development, and use of online resources. Carefully developed opportunities for online collaboration and class discussion are available for enrolled high school students.
Enrollment in our independent distance learning school is recognized by most states as equivalent to enrolling in a private school, which usually exempts families from homeschool reporting requirements. (Check with your state’s department of education for specific regulations on accredited distance learning schools.)
* We offer learning plans for students who may need reasonable accommodations, curriculum modifications, or additional educational support.
Our educational counseling team offers complimentary assistance with course selection and high school planning. College admission counseling is available for a fee.
Our print-based curriculum reinforces strong reading comprehension and study skills while allowing each family to determine the extent of technology involvement and skill development, and use of online resources. Curricula can be completed entirely without computer use.
Families are responsible for submitting an “Intent to Homeschool” letter to the local school district, and complying with their state’s department of education guidelines for reporting student progress.

CURRICULUM
PACE
SUPPORT
CUSTOMIZATION
SCHOOL
RECORDS
ACADEMIC
PLANNING
TECHNOLOGY
DESIGNATION
Receive everything you need for an entire school year, including 36 weekly lesson plans in each course with a variety of engaging assignments, activities, and readings.
Families set their own daily and weekly schedules, submitting work to their teacher every two weeks in order to receive ongoing academic and motivational support. Students may also work at an accelerated pace.
Full faculty and administrative support is available for all enrolled students.
Close partnership with an experienced professional teacher includes thoughtful feedback on each lesson, encouragement of strong learning skills and guidance in creating an effective homeschooling environment.
Progression through the curriculum is entirely self paced. Our weekly lesson plan structure allows the flexibility to accommodate to each family’s lifestyle of learning.
Families provide academic support and assess their student’s work. Families may supplement their curriculum purchase with comprehensive teacher manuals that offer a wealth of answers, evaluation tips and practical advice.
Our curriculum features a choice of creative, hands-on assigments to accommodate visual, auditory, and physical learning styles. Families may further customize by allowing students to work block style, focusing on 2-3 subjects at a time.
Families are responsible for maintaining a portfolio of their student’s work and satisfying state reporting requirements for homeschoolers.
Our curriculum features a choice of creative, hands-on assignments to accommodate visual, auditory, and physical learning styles. Teachers further assist families in tailoring curricula to meet each student’s individual needs and interests.*
Official school records, including comprehensive narrative evaluations, are maintained in the Oak Meadow office. As an accredited school, these records are transferable to other schools, and may be required documentation in some states. See page 9 for more information on the importance of accreditation.
Families receive faculty and administrative assistance regarding course selection, high school planning, college counseling, and annual transcript reviews. Teachers also guide students in developing specific interests and achieving individual goals.
Our print-based curriculum reinforces strong reading comprehension and study skills while allowing each family to determine the extent of technology involvement and skill development, and use of online resources. Carefully developed opportunities for online collaboration and class discussion are available for enrolled high school students.
Enrollment in our independent distance learning school is recognized by most states as equivalent to enrolling in a private school, which usually exempts families from homeschool reporting requirements. (Check with your state’s department of education for specific regulations on accredited distance learning schools.)
Our educational counseling team offers complimentary assistance with course selection and high school planning. College admission counseling is available for a fee.
Our print-based curriculum reinforces strong reading comprehension and study skills while allowing each family to determine the extent of technology involvement and skill development, and use of online resources. Curricula can be completed entirely without computer use.
Families are responsible for submitting an “Intent to Homeschool” letter to the local school district, and complying with their state’s department of education guidelines for reporting student progress.
At Oak Meadow, we believe printed curriculum is critical for encouraging personal involvement with the written word. n Reading printed materials encourages active reading skills such as writing margin notes, highlighting key phrases and vocabulary, and noting questions, thoughts, and personal responses.
n Leading research on cognitive development shows that excessive “screen time” during adolescence promotes reduced attention span, lowers executive functioning skills, and impairs relationships with parents and peers.
n Printed materials are portable and accessible in any environment, regardless of computer or internet access.
Students traveling with their families, athletes awaiting a match, and performers waiting in the wings all have technology-free access to their studies.
Online Opportunities
While Oak Meadow focuses on print-based learning, we do offer carefully developed online opportunities to engage with our curriculum. Enrolled students may choose to complement their program with online class discussions, student collaboration, and real-time teacher feedback.

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Oak Meadow Parent
We’re proud of our distinguished faculty.
We believe that you should know the backgrounds of the educators you will be working with. That’s why you’ll find full descriptions of our teachers’ professional backgrounds right on our website: their advanced degrees, their hobbies and interests, and how long they’ve been with us.
Our faculty live locally and meet regularly.
As an independent school, we believe families are best served by a cohesive group of colleagues rather than a loose network of contracted teachers (a model used by many companies in the business of online learning). During our faculty meetings, teachers discuss student progress, develop new courses, and explore current issues and trends in distance learning.
Our students develop positive working relationships with their teachers, often working with the same teachers
throughout their high school experience.
Teachers provide individualized support and feedback in the form of detailed lesson comments, phone and email communication, and comprehensive semester evaluations. Our students have the opportunity to meet their teachers each year at our annual open house, where they can discuss future plans and view new course materials.

Whether you choose to enroll in our school or to use our curriculum independently, our resources support ALL families on their homeschooling journey.
Stay informed and inspired with our educational journal, Living Education .
Look forward to articles written and inspired by homeschooling families, practical tips, the latest in educational research, student profiles, faculty contributions, craft projects, and much more. Simply subscribe on our website, or send us an email at info@oakmeadow.com.
Oak Meadow’s blog, “In the Meadow ,” is a place to explore great resources, ideas, and sources of inspiration that can enhance your overall homeschooling experience. This forum allows homeschooling families to connect, find support, and engage in dialogue with one another and with the Oak Meadow faculty and staff. Join us in the Meadow at oakmeadowblogs.com.
Want to connect with homeschooling families worldwide?
Visit our Facebook page, Facebook.com/OakMeadow, where nearly 10,000 fans from around the world post questions and enjoy daily homeschooling news, tips, and advice.
Get inspired by our more than 40 Pinterest Boards on such diverse topics as cultural studies and celebrations, journaling and writing ideas, learning spaces, and recommended readings. Visit pinterest.com/oakmeadowschool/.
Every autumn, we welcome homeschoolers from around the country—and around the world—to our Annual Open House in Brattleboro, Vermont . This is a wonderful way to learn more about what Oak Meadow has to offer, and to connect with the Oak Meadow community as homeschooling families, faculty and staff gather to share ideas, experiences, and inspiration.
“inspiring”
“Definitely cool!”
“Love the articles!”
“amazed and inspired by the wealth of ideas”
issue
110
winter 2012
“full of
A pubLicAtion of
Oak Meadow
Curriculum & School
“I love that to
Oak Meadow asks kids write
very frequently and express
their opinions.
Some of the writing is of a research is of a nature and some creative
nature. the single most
This is probably important factor for me.” great stuff”
Parent response from
Oak Meadow’s
35th Anniversary
Family Survey
In this issue …
Writing
Virtual Heart of Writing e Thoughts on Teaching Writing
Student Work e Favorite Writing Books
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Choose from our broad array of comprehensive, interdisciplinary core courses. Depending on which you select, your curriculum materials may include textbooks, Oak Meadow course books, and novels. You’ll communicate with your Oak Meadow teachers to ask questions, discuss assignments, and receive feedback on your work. An Oak Meadow education is truly an active learning partnership.
Oak Meadow off ers Advanced Placement and computer technology courses through CTYOnline, for which you earn Oak Meadow credit.
Th e AP courses prepare you to take the College Board AP exams. See the course listings in this catalog for exciting options that push and sharpen your intellectual and practical skill set.
To enrich the distance learning experience, Oak Meadow off ers Life
Experience Elective Credit. Earn elective credit for extracurricular activities in music, sports, the arts, work experience—or for pursuing an interest or talent you’re passionate about. Documented engagement in 180 hours of classes, activities, or work equals one Life Experience credit. Students often earn Life Experience Elective Credit by participating in these special activities over the course of several years.
Oak Meadow supports dual enrollment, allowing students to follow their interests and broaden their education. Our course credits are transferable to public and private schools, and courses taken at other accredited schools can be included on your Oak Meadow transcript.
Students engage in classroom science labs, group language courses, and other opportunities at local high schools and community colleges.

In the spirit of integrating learning into life, Oak Meadow requires juniors and seniors to participate in a self-directed Advanced Study project.Th e semester-long project allows students to pursue an academic or professional study of their own design. You’ll work with both a local mentor and an Oak
Meadow faculty advisor to create a proposal and outline for your course of study, including a reading list, assignment descriptions and deadlines, and fi nal project evaluation measures. Your advisor provides guidance throughout, yet you are empowered to create a learning experience that is personally meaningful and relevant to your own goals.
Th ere are three program options for our Advanced Study Program: an academic project, a professional work experience, or a hybrid project which combines both to create a uniquely rich and practical experience.
Academic Advanced Study
For the academic project, students write a research paper, compile a portfolio of experiments or essays, or produce a video presentation. Topics can include any area of interest broadly categorized into the subjects of science, literature, or history. Here are some examples: alternative fuel sources, bird migration, current foreign policy, peace studies, multicultural literature, graphic novels, and the Civil War. Our faculty advisors work with you to clarify interests and create guidelines for study and assignments.
Professional Advanced Study
Students immerse themselves in an active working environment for valuable hands-on learning through our Professional Advanced
Study project. A professional in the fi eld of your choice mentors you as you gain skills and real-life experience. Areas include musical or visual arts, crafts and trades like carpentry and building, weaving, farming, cooking, fi lm production, business and accounting, web design, and education. Your fi nal evaluation is based on your weekly journal, documentation of hours and accomplishments, a mentor review, and a refl ective essay.
Oak Meadow is a fully accredited school that has met strict professional standards.
Because our academic records and high school credits are backed by the prestige of our accrediting agencies, our school credits are easily transferable.
Oak Meadow Accreditation n Approved Independent School in the
State of Vermont.
n Accredited in grades 9–12 by the
Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools (SACS/CASI) (AdvancED).
n Member of the National Honor
Society.
n Registered with the NCAA
Clearinghouse. Courses approved for student athletes who wish to meet
NCAA Collegiate eligibility standards for Division I and II.*
* NCAA does not endorse Oak Meadow. Please refer to the NCAA website for further information.
See our student handbook for current Oak Meadow graduation requirements and policies.
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(Course availability subject to change.)
The courses listed can be used with or without enrollment in our school, unless noted. Please see the Oak Meadow Curriculum Price Sheet, included with this catalog, for our current prices or check our bookstore online at oakmeadow.com
.
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Intro to Literature & Composition
Students read three novels, explore poetry from a variety of authors, read a play and enact a scene, and strengthen grammar and vocabulary. Writing skills are strongly emphasized in the Oak Meadow English curriculum, and this course develops those skills through a variety of writing assignments (expository, interpretive, satirical, and character portraits). Students are encouraged to develop critical reading skills, ask questions, look deeply, and make discoveries. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Introduction to Literature &
Composition Syllabus
The Least You Should Know About English
A Wizard of Earthsea
Animal Farm
To Kill a Mockingbird
Our Town
Literature & Composition II
Literature & Composition II continues the development of writing skills started in Introduction to Literature & Composition, and includes a wide variety of writing assignments, such as compare/contrast, process, analysis, archetypal stories, and vignettes.
Grammar and punctuation skills are refined through written work. In addition, students write two research papers following the traditional form. Students also read three novels and explore poetry by a variety of authors. Reading comprehension and critical thinking are emphasized. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Literature & Composition II Syllabus
A Separate Peace
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Anthem
American Literature
Students explore the thoughts and feelings of American men and women who have helped create and articulate the unique heritage of the American people and the rich fabric of the culture. Active reading and critical evaluation is emphasized. Students refine composition and presentation skills by writing essays (expository, interpretive, contrast/compare), magazine columns, travel guides, interviews, editorials, and speeches. In addition, students explore the works of modern American poets and write a literary research paper. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow American Literature Syllabus
The Great Gatsby
The Red Badge of Courage
To Be a Slave
World Literature
Students read the works of international authors, both contemporary and historical, and refine grammar and composition skills through numerous writing assignments. In addition to active reading and critical evaluation of literature, students’ writing instincts are further honed and challenged with a variety of essays
(expository, compare/contrast, personal opinion, and interpretive), a biographical research paper, poetry, movie reviews, news articles, an analysis of symbolism and irony, and a one-act play. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow World Literature Syllabus
Don Quixote
The Ramayana
The Metamorphosis
A Doll’s House
For pricing information, please see the insert included with this catalog or visit our website at oakmeadow.com.

British Literature: Heroes, Monsters,
Faeries, and Kings
ENROLLED STUDENTS ONLY
Open to Eleventh and Twelfth Graders
This course presents a selection of works from British
Literature, spanning from its origins through the 20th century. Beginning with the earliest written work of British Literature, Beowulf, students will read an illustrated translation of this epic poem whose hero becomes a king by defeating a family of dreadful monsters. King Arthur and the Arthurian legends will be explored in The Once and Future King by T.H.
White. The second semester brings a comic confusion of magical creatures—faeries, monsters, kings and heroes—cavorting in Shakespeare’s play, A Midsum-
mer Night’s Dream. Students then move forward in time to the 19th century to explore the Hero as a child in David Copperfield, by Charles Dickens. A study of Victorian poems will be followed by a selection of English short stories, where students will need to look more carefully to discover the magical creatures, heroes and monsters within. Written assignments include interpretive essays, creative stories and projects.
The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow British Literature Syllabus
Beowulf
The Once and Future King
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
David Copperfield
The Oxford Book of English Short Stories
AP English Language and Composition*
While preparing students to take the AP English
Language and Composition exam, this course provides training in literary analysis as well as analytical and persuasive writing. In addition to practicing essay test-taking techniques, organization, and time management, students study the interactions among subject, authorial purpose, audience needs, generic conventions, and the resources of the English language. Assignments include a directed narrative, analyses of test questions, analyses of rhetorical strategies, and persuasive essays. Students will also practice taking multiple choice tests which mirror those found in the AP exam. This course has been reviewed and approved by the College Board. Prerequisite: Qualifying reading/verbal score, completion of grade 10
English, and the submission of a satisfactory writing sample. Required materials:
A textbook purchase is required for this course.
An Introduction to Short Fiction
ONE SEMESTER
This course weaves together active reading and analysis of the short story with the fundamentals of writing fiction. Students will be introduced to accomplished writers from many cultures and countries while exploring the following formal aspects of the genre: point of view, character, plot, setting, symbolism, motif and theme. Creative writing assignments will provide opportunities for further exploration. The course emphasizes the development of awareness, from the tiny details that make writing come alive, to the universal truths that help define what it means to be human. The following books are included with the course:
Oak Meadow Introduction to Short Fiction Syllabus
The Seagull Reader: Stories
Oak Meadow offers Advanced Placement, technology, and selected elective courses through CTY Online , the Center for Talented
Youth program of Johns Hopkins University. Please visit the CTY Online website
(cty.jhu.edu/ctyonline) for important information on eligibility requirements, and for more information on the courses and course calendar. AP courses are sessionbased and have an application deadline; technical courses are individually paced and may be started at any time during the year. CTY Online courses earn Oak Meadow credit and AP courses prepare students for the College Board AP exams.
Please note that some courses may have prerequisites and are typically suitable for juniors and seniors only. You will be required to submit documentation to verify your eligibility before the enrollment process can be completed. These courses follow the CTY Online refund policy. See tuition sheet for details. Materials for these courses must be purchased separately.
* CTYOnline courses are for enrolled students only and materials are not included in tuition and must be purchased separately.

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OAK MEADOW STUDENT PROFILE
MOROCCO n Was skeptical about home– schooling. Didn’t know what
“independent” learning was.
n Has no regrets about her homeschooling adventure.
WHAT SHE HAS DISCOVERED:
I always associated learning with tests, so I never really got into what
I learned. After Oak Meadow, I realized how fun learning can be!
HER TYPICAL DAY: Sometimes I stay home and sometimes I go to the university library to do schoolwork. This was an exciting adjustment to homeschooling—I used to spend more than 50% of my time in school buildings; you don’t realize how much is going on outside.
It was a bit of a shocker to realize
I could study almost anywhere I wanted to. Whether I am at the university or at home, I eat lunch at my house. In Morocco, everyone comes home for lunch!
Pre-Algebra
Th is course can be taken as a precursor to Algebra
I. Th e course is a combination of a full pre-algebra course and an introduction to geometry and discrete mathematics. Some topics covered include prime and composite numbers, fractions and decimals, the order of operations, coordinates, exponents, square roots, ratios, algebraic phrases, probability, the Pythagorean Th eorem, and more. Th e text is included with this course.
Algebra ½ Homeschool Edition (Saxon)
Consumer Math
ENROLLED STUDENTS ONLY
Th is course is designed to enhance understanding of basic, practical math applications. Th e course focuses on “real life” processes such as budgeting, compound interest, sales tax, small business management, and data processing to teach algebra, geometry, and statistics. Th e text is included with this course.
Mathematics Connections Integrated and Applied
(Glencoe)
Algebra I
Th is course covers the following skills: evaluation of expressions involving signed numbers, exponents and roots, properties of real numbers, absolute value and equations and inequalities involving absolute value, scientifi c notation, unit conversions, solution of equations in one unknown and solution of simultaneous equations, the algebra of polynomials and rational expressions, work problems requiring algebra for their solution, graphical solutions of simultaneous equations, the Pythagorean theorem, algebraic proofs, functions and functional notation, solution of quadratic equations via factoring and completing the square, direct and inverse variation, and exponential growth. Th e text is included with this course.
Algebra I (Saxon)
Geometry
Th is course introduces students to the basic theorems of Euclidean plane geometry and their applications, and explores both plane and solid geometric fi gures.
Students learn how to prove theorems by the axiomatic method, and to use these theorems in solving a variety of problems. Students also learn how to accomplish a variety of geometric constructions. Th e text is included with this course.
Oak Meadow Geometry Syllabus
Geometry (McDougal-Littell)
Algebra II
In this course, students integrate topics from Algebra
I and Geometry and begin the study of trigonometry.
Th e course provides opportunities for continued practice of the fundamental concepts of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to enable students to develop a foundation for the study of Advanced Mathematics.
Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra I. Th e text is included with this course.
Algebra II (Saxon)
Advanced Mathematics
Advanced Math prepares the student for further study of mathematics at the college level through a presentation of standard pre-calculus topics, including substantial new material on discrete mathematics and data analysis. Prerequisite: Algebra II. Th e text is included with this course.
Advanced Mathematics (Saxon)
* CTYOnline courses are for enrolled students only and materials are not included in tuition and must be purchased separately.

Calculus
Calculus treats all the topics normally covered in an
Advanced Placement AB-level calculus program, as well as many of the topics required for a BC-level program. The text begins with a thorough review of those mathematical concepts and skills required for calculus. In the early problem sets, students practice setting up word problems they will later encounter as calculus problems. The problem sets contain multiple-choice and conceptually-oriented problems similar to those found on the AP Calculus examination. Whenever possible, students are provided an intuitive introduction to concepts prior to a rigorous examination of them. Proofs are provided for all important theorems. Prerequisite: Advanced Math.
The text is included with this course.
Calculus (Saxon)
AP Calculus AB*
This AP Calculus AB course covers topics typically found in a first-year college Calculus I course and explains topics in differential and integral calculus.
This course prepares students to succeed in the Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB exam and the subsequent courses. Students will learn calculus by actively becoming engaged with the lectures, readings, animations, activities, and resources in the online textbook. In addition to the online textbook, students will be provided with written materials. Students can progress at their own rate with full comprehension of the course materials. Student knowledge will be assessed by completion of weekly exercises, online tutorials, supplementary readings, homework assignments, chapter tests, and other activities. This course has been reviewed and approved by the College Board to use the “AP” designation. Prerequisites: Qualifying math score and completion of Pre-calculus with
Trigonometry or the equivalent. Required materials:
Graphing calculator required (TI-89 recommended); although no textbooks are required for Calculus AB, students may find it helpful to use a single variable calculus textbook as a reference book.
AP Calculus BC*
This AP Calculus BC course covers topics typically found in a first-year college Calculus I and Calculus II course and advances the student’s understanding of concepts normally covered in high school calculus.
Major themes include differential and integral calculus.
This course prepares students to take the Advanced
Placement (AP) Calculus BC exam. The instructor is the guide for this course, but the student is the learner and will learn calculus by actively becoming engaged with the lectures, readings, animations, activities, and resources in the online textbook and written materials provided. Students can progress at their own rate with full comprehension of the course materials. Student knowledge will be assessed by completion of weekly exercises, online tutorials, supplementary readings, homework assignments, chapter tests, and other activities. This course has been reviewed and approved by the College Board to use the “AP” designation.
Prerequisites: Qualifying math score and completion of Precalculus with Trigonometry or AP Calculus AB or equivalent. Required materials:
Graphing calculator required (TI-89 recommended); although no textbooks are required for Calculus AB, students may find it helpful to use a single variable calculus textbook as a reference book.
—Oak Meadow parent

14
—Oak Meadow parent
Biology with Lab
Th is course helps students build success in science.
Th e text is friendly and accessible, with abundant photos and technical illustrations. Th e 50 labs and activities included in the course develop a range of important science skills in data collection, modeling, and exploration. Necessary materials can be found in the Oak Meadow Biology Lab Kit. Th e following materials are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Biology Syllabus
Biology (Holt)
Oak Meadow Biology Lab Kit
Environmental Science
Th is course introduces fundamental ecological concepts and explores the interactions within ecosystems.
Students learn about the biosphere, major biomes, ecosystems, chemical cycles, and the role of living things in ecosystems. In addition to learning about environmental problems such as pollution, overpopulation, and habitat destruction, students explore practical alternatives for protecting the environment and moving toward a sustainable future. Th e following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Environmental Science Syllabus
Environmental Science (Holt)
AP Biology*
Th e AP Biology course covers topics typically found in a fi rst-year introductory college biology course and advances the student’s understanding of concepts normally covered in high school biology. It provides a solid preparation for the AP Biology exam. Major course themes include biochemistry, energy transfer, cellular structure and specialization, cellular metabolism, mitosis and meiosis, genetics, ecology, and evolution. Organismal diversity, from microorganisms to plants and animals, and the continuity of life through genetics and development are emphasized. Highly qualifi ed instructors guide students through online lectures, readings, animations, laboratory exercises, and other resources. Student knowledge is assessed through homework assignments and exams. Th is course includes a laboratory component designed to meet College Board standards and has been reviewed and approved by the College Board. Prerequisites:
Qualifying math score, completion of Algebra I and high school biology.
Chemistry with Lab
Chemistry is the study of matter through observation and experimentation. In this course, students get a rigorous hands-on introduction to the tools, terms, and practices of the study of Chemistry.
The course syllabus includes 36 engaging and thought-provoking lessons, affording students a chance to read, write, and refl ect on chemistry principles and their real-world applications. Th e course features 32 laboratory activities, ranging from simple calculations and graphs to full-featured experiments with solutions, gases, and electrochemical cells. Th ese activities employ standard household items, while more specialized tools and substances are included in the Oak Meadow Lab Kit. Th is course fulfi lls all the standards of a college-preparatory Chemistry course.
Th e following materials are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Chemistry Syllabus
Oak Meadow Chemistry Lab Workbook
Oak Meadow Chemistry Lab Kit
Chemistry (Prentice Hall)
Th e Joy of Chemistry (Prometheus Book)

AP Chemistry*
The AP Chemistry course covers topics typically found in a first-year introductory college chemistry course and advances the student’s understanding of concepts normally covered in high school chemistry.
It provides a solid preparation for the AP Chemistry exam. Major course themes include relationships in the periodic table, atomic theory, chemical bonding, phases of matter and solutions, equilibria, reaction kinetics, organic chemistry, and thermodynamics.
Highly qualified instructors guide students through online lectures, readings, animations, laboratory exercises, and other resources. Student knowledge is assessed through homework assignments and exams. This course includes a laboratory component designed to meet College Board standards and has been reviewed and approved by the College Board.
Hands-on labs require a materials kit that must be purchased separately by the student. Prerequisites:
Qualifying math score, completion of Algebra I and high school chemistry. Required materials:
Students are required to purchase a lab kit for this course.
Physics
This course combines traditional physics instruction with modern quantum theories of the nature of the universe. The subject is taught at an introductory level, which will allow the average student to grasp the concepts of Newton’s laws, statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, optics, DC circuits, waves, electromagnetics, and special relativity. Prerequisite: Algebra II. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Physics Syllabus
Physics (Saxon)
Coming of Age in the Milky Way (Harper)
AP Physics B*
The AP Physics B course covers topics typically found in a first-year introductory college physics course and advances the student’s understanding of concepts normally covered in high school physics. It provides a solid preparation for the AP Physics B exam. Major course themes include Newton’s Laws, Pascal’s and
Archimedes’ Principles, solid and fluid mechanics, wave motion and sound, magnetism, thermodynamics, circuits, optics, quantum mechanics, particle physics, and astrophysics. Highly qualified instructors guide students through online lectures, readings, animations, laboratory exercises, and other resources.
Student knowledge is assessed through homework assignments and exams. This course includes a laboratory component designed to meet College Board standards and has been reviewed and approved by the
College Board. Hands-on labs require a materials kit that must be purchased separately by the student. This demanding course requires a substantial time commitment throughout the entire session and should not be combined with other CTY courses. Prerequisites:
Qualifying math score, completion of trigonometry and high school physics. Required materials:
Students are required to purchase a textbook and lab kit for this course.
* CTYOnline courses are for enrolled students only and materials are not included in tuition and must be purchased separately.
OAK MEADOW STUDENT PROFILE
VERMONT n Loves being active in the outdoors, on his farm, and in the day to day life of his community.
n Plans to attend Vermont
Technical College for his BS in Diversified Agriculture with hopes to return home and run the family farm.
HIS TYPICAL DAY: I get up at 5 am to milk the cows and do other barn work. After that I usually come in for breakfast. In the winter, I start my schoolwork after breakfast, but that changes in the summer when there is fieldwork to do.
WHAT HE THINKS MAKES A
SUCCESSFUL OAK MEADOW
STUDENT: Imagination and enthusiasm.
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U.S. History
Th is course explores American history from 1775 to the dawn of the 21st century and the War on Terrorism, through an interdisciplinary approach that includes literature, art, and biographies. Students are encouraged to integrate information, discover patterns, and develop critical thinking skills in their responses to signifi cant issues and events in American history. Th roughout this course, students are required to use information from the text and related sources to evaluate causes and explore values in history. All assignments are designed to help students think more widely, make connections, and reach their own conclusions.
Prerequisite: World History. Th e following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow U.S. History Syllabus
Th e American Vision (Glencoe)
AP US History*
Th is course is designed to provide a college-level experience and preparation for the AP United States
History exam. An emphasis is placed on interpreting historical documents, mastering a signifi cant body of factual information, and writing critical essays.
Students will analyze historical material, synthesize their own ideas, and develop the skills to make conclusions on the basis of a knowledgeable judgment.
Th ey will also learn how to present their reasoning and clear evidence persuasively in essay format. Th is course has been reviewed and approved by the College
Board. Prerequisites: Qualifying reading/verbal score, completion of high school history or equivalent.
Required materials:
An online textbook purchase is required for this course.
World History
In addition to historical facts, students are introduced to the literature, artists, musicians, and infl uential people of historical periods. Th is course integrates geography throughout and emphasizes critical thinking, the development of research skills, and the analysis of relationships between people and events as a means of understanding current world events.
Students are encouraged to interpret factual information, determine cause and eff ect, separate facts from opinions, explore values, synthesize, form hypotheses, and evaluate conclusions. Th e following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow World History Syllabus
World History (Glencoe)
World Geography
This course presents a clear and comprehensive coverage of geography, encourages active learning, and introduces the tools and technologies used by geographers. Th e course is organized into eleven units by geographic region, with individual lessons on each region’s physical and cultural geography, and its place in the modern world. Th roughout the course, students learn how geography has aff ected historical events in various regions of the world, and case studies provide opportunities to discuss the environmental challenges facing the world’s regions. Th e following books are included with this course.
Oak Meadow World Geography
World Geography (Glencoe)
U.S. Government
Based upon the premise that analyzing current information is essential to an eff ective citizenry, this course asks students to research, compare, contrast, and think critically about government-related issues. Students learn the ideals behind the American system of government and the mechanics of its operation in preparation for taking their places as independent thinking citizens of the nation. Prerequisite: World History. Th e following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow U.S. Government Syllabus
Democracy in Action (Glencoe)
AP US Government & Politics*
US Government and Politics is the study of the United
States national government’s policies, institutions, and foundations. These include constitutional theories forming the basis of government; political beliefs and behaviors; political parties, interest groups, and the mass media; the Congress, presidency, bureaucracy, and federal court system; public policy; and civil rights and civil liberties. Th e course provides students with an analytical perspective on American
* CTYOnline courses are for enrolled students only and materials are not included in tuition and must be purchased separately.

government and politics and prepares them to take the AP United States Government and Politics exam.
This course has been reviewed and approved by the
College Board. Prerequisites: Qualifying reading/ verbal score, completion of high school US History or equivalent.
AP Macroeconomics*
AP Macroeconomics is an introduction to how the market system works, how prices are determined, why shortages and surpluses occur, and why incomes differ. The course emphasizes the study of national income, economic growth, price determination, economic performance measures, and international economics. This course prepares students to take the
AP Macroeconomics exam and has been reviewed and approved by the College Board. Prerequisites: Qualifying reading/verbal score, completion of Algebra II.
AP Microeconomics*
AP Microeconomics is an introduction to the study of the consumers and producers that make up the economy: households, firms, governments, and community organizations. The course provides particular emphasis on the function of consumers and producers within the economic system. The course also offers analysis of the markets in which consumers and producers interact as well as non-market economics. This course prepares students to take the
AP Microeconomics exam and has been reviewed and approved by the College Board. Prerequisites:
Qualifying reading/verbal score, completion of Algebra II.
Religions of the World
ONE SEMESTER
Taking a comparative approach, this course explores the rich diversity of religious life, beginning with defining religion according to its role and purpose in human life. The course examines within a cultural and historical context a variety of human religious responses, including symbol, sacred text, myth, belief, and rituals.
Students will survey the broad range of religious expressions from across the globe, from indigenous traditions to the world’s major religions.
Comparative essays and reflective writing guide students to synthesize course material and their own unique perspectives.
Living Religions, 8th ed. (Prentice Hall)
The Modern Middle East
ONE SEMESTER
This course is an introduction to the history, religious life, and politics of the Middle East. Focusing on the region’s confrontation with the West since
Napoleon’s invasion of Egypt in 1798, students will learn how European colonialism introduced modern and secular ideas into the Middle East, creating tensions with traditional patterns of belief and culture. Students will explore how the intrusive actions of Western colonizers caused the region’s political affairs to become weak and unstable. The course also looks at the conflicts between Israel and its regional neighbors, the role of Islamic revivalist movements, and the impact of oil.
The Middle East Today (Routledge)
Midaq Alley
Psychology
ONE SEMESTER
This is an experiential course designed to help students become more aware of themselves as unique individuals. Using their own experiences as a guide, students are encouraged to be scientists in the process of exploring themselves and their place in the universe as they examine such topics as love, beauty, joy, spontaneity, and selfactualization. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Psychology Syllabus
George Orwell’s 1984
AP Psychology*
AP Psychology covers the material typically covered in a one semester college-level introductory psychology course. It prepares students to take the AP Psychology exam. Through textbook readings, projects, and directed online activities emphasizing critical thinking and applications, students explore psychology as the science of behavior and of mental processes. Topics include historical perspectives in psychology, scientific method, biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, consciousness, learning, cognition, motivation and emotion, development, personality, psychological testing and individual differences, abnormal psychology, psychological disorders, and social psychology. This course has been reviewed and approved by the College Board. Prerequisites:
Qualifying reading/verbal score, completion of high school biology. Required materials:
An online textbook purchase is required for this course.
For pricing information, please see the insert included with this catalog or visit our website at oakmeadow.com.
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Oak Meadow offers advanced study in all languages through an individualized tutorial developed in partnership with the language teacher.
These full year courses give the student experience in reading literature, writing compositions, and exploring the culture through personal and creative projects. Prerequisite: Level III or conversation with teacher.
Available to enrolled students only
Latin I
Using a reading-based approach, students read a variety of stories written in Latin and gain mastery of grammar rules as their comprehension develops.
Students also complete creative projects that refl ect aspects of Rome or Greece. Th e newest additions to our updated Latin program are the CD audio component and the Omnibus Workbook. Both elements serve to keep the student more engaged in the process of learning language and culture. Th e following materials are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Latin I Syllabus
Latin Course I text (Cambridge University Press)
Cambridge Latin I Audio CD
Latin I Omnibus Workbook (Cambridge
University Press)
Latin II
Th e primary focus of this course is translation of works written in Latin. In addition, using readings and activities in a wide variety of topics, students learn more about the culture of the Roman people. Our updated
Latin program includes the CD audio component and the Omnibus Workbook which help to keep the student actively engaged in the learning process of learning language and culture. Prerequisite: Latin I.
Th e following materials are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Latin II Syllabus
Latin Course II text (Cambridge University Press)
Cambridge Latin II Audio CD
Latin II Omnibus Workbook (Cambridge
University Press)
Latin III
Th is course continues the translations of the Latin
II works based more closely on historical fact. Th e setting is the 1st century A.D. both in Britain and in Rome. Th e readings reveal the standard of living, the culture and customs of the people, the high level of architecture and engineering, the art and entertainment as well as the education and sports of the time. Students perfect their skill of reading and understanding writings directly from Latin, while they enhance their sense for word derivation and grammar structures. With the help of their teacher, students will develop a mid-term project on the Classics. Prerequisite: Latin II. Th e following materials are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Latin III Syllabus
Latin Course III text (Cambridge University Press)
Cambridge Latin III Audio CD
Latin III Omnibus Workbook (Cambridge
University Press)
Spanish I
Th is is an introductory-level course that is studied both with a textbook and online. Th e goal is to engage students right from the start of each lesson and to have them feel confi dent in communicating in Spanish at this beginning level. Each chapter contains sections on vocabulary, grammar, culture, cultural readings, writing, and review exercises. Th e student has access to the Holt website which provides audio comprehension narratives and dialogues that complement the textbook, in addition to interactive exercises, learning resources, and cultural activities. Th e following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Spanish I Syllabus
Spanish 1 ¡Expresate! (Holt)
Internet access required
For pricing information, please see the insert included with this catalog or visit our website at oakmeadow.com.

Spanish II
Spanish II is an intermediate-level course which uses both textbook and online material. Students begin to develop strong vocabulary and grammar skills through a study of culture, cultural readings, and writing. The Holt website provides audio comprehension narratives and dialogues that compliment the textbook, in addition to interactive exercises, learning resources, and cultural activities. Prerequisite: Spanish
I. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Spanish II Syllabus
Spanish 2 ¡Expresate! (Holt)
Internet access required
Spanish III
Students move to a higher level of the spoken and written language and become comfortable using
Spanish in a wide variety of conversational and written activities. More advanced vocabulary and grammatical structures provide the basis for “real-life” activities that deepen the appreciation for different cultures throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Internet access required. Prerequisite: Spanish II. The following materials are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Spanish III Syllabus
Spanish 3 ¡Expresate! (Holt)
French I
This introduction to the study of French is newly designed and written to be studied with a printed text and online access. The Holt website provides audio comprehension narratives and dialogues to accompany the course, interactive practice exercises, learning resources, and cultural activities. The goal for the student is to feel confident in using French. The student will acquire listening, speaking, and writing skills through practice with vocabulary, dialogues, and stories. This course includes a strong focus on the life and culture of the
French-speaking countries. Internet access required.
The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow French I Syllabus
French 1 Bien dit! (Holt)
French II
French II is an intermediate-level course that is studied both with a textbook and online. Each chapter contains sections on vocabulary, grammar, culture, cultural readings, writing, and review exercises. The student has access to the Holt website which provides audio comprehension narratives and dialogues that complement the textbook, in addition to interactive exercises, learning resources, and cultural activities. Internet access required. Prerequisite: French
I. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow French II Syllabus
French 2 Bien dit! (Holt)
French III
The new French III program uses the latest technology in learning a world language. This updated course consists of the student text and online access to links with valuable resources. Features include interactive activities, games, cultural videos, and electronic tutors. Our new French III program emphasizes the skills of listening, understanding, speaking, and writing. The goal is for the student to gain fluency in communicating in French. Internet access required.
Prerequisite: French II. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow French III Syllabus
French 3 Bien dit! (Holt)
German I
This course is designed to help students gain confidence in speaking and writing German. It includes both the student text and online access to the audio comprehension and interactive components of the course. The Komm mit! website provides spoken narratives and dialogues that accompany the course, as well as learning resources and cultural activities.
The course works at developing the skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing in German. In all levels of Komm mit! the student continues to look at the rich culture of the German-speaking world. Internet access required. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow German I Syllabus
German 1 Komm mit! (Holt)
German II
This course enhances the foundation established in the German I course. It further develops vocabulary, grammar, and writing. Through a study of German culture, students gain a contextual understanding of the language. The audio and interactive components of the course support intermediate level students of German as they hone their listening, speaking, writing, and reading skills. Internet access required. rerequisite: German II.The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow German II Syllabus
German 2 Komm mit! (Holt)
German III
The goal of this course is for students to gain fluency in communicating in German. This course includes many valuable resources; interactive activities, games, and cultural videos emphasize real-world application towards mastery of and fluency in German. Internet access required. rerequisite: German II. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow German III Syllabus
German 3 Komm mit! (Holt)
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20
OAK MEADOW STUDENT PROFILE
NEW ORLEANS n Dually enrolled in Oak Meadow and the New Orleans Center for
Creative Arts (NOCCA).
n Published writer and semi-finalist in the 2011William Faulkner–
William Wisdom Creative Writing
Competition.
n Hopes to write comedies for
American and British television.
WHY SHE CHOSE OAK MEADOW:
I was thrilled when I learned there was an arts school near my house that taught creative writing. However, it was difficult to go to NOCCA and a normal public or private high school, and my mother believed she could not effectively homeschool me for high school courses.
Then we discovered Oak Meadow and distance learning. Oak Meadow made it easy to go to NOCCA.
DESCRIBING OAK MEADOW TO A
FRIEND: Oak Meadow is convenient, useful, and helpful. I have never had a teacher yet that was not willing to help out and answer any question I had, or explain what I need to know. This program truly helped me learn.
Integrated Drawing
This experiential course is designed to help people of all skill levels learn to draw. Students learn the basics of perspective, shading, proportion, color, and compositional balance. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Integrated Drawing Syllabus
Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain (Tarcher)
Color and How To Use It (Foster)
The Study of Art
From early cave drawings to the nonrepresentational works of modern-day artists, students explore some of the great works of art in conjunction with corresponding or concurrent musical and architectural themes. In addition, students experience original works in art galleries, parks, streets, libraries, and concert halls in their local area. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow The Study of Art Syllabus
The Story of Art (Phaidon Press)
Drawing and Design
Students are introduced to the primary concepts of drawing and design using exercises and readings designed to enhance artistic skills and appreciation.
These drawing and design principles develop a student’s capacities to think creatively and to develop an eye for aesthetics. Exercises include gestural drawing, contour drawing, the use of values to add dimension, portraits, visual composition, and proportion. Students gain experience drawing with pencil, charcoal, colored pencils, soft pastels, and oil pastels. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Drawing and Design Syllabus
The Art of Seeing (Prentice Hall)
Painting
This course introduces painting in terms of color and design, and explores representational skills as well as non-representational and abstract elements.
This course helps develop basic skills and creative thinking, and students are asked to explore their creative thoughts in a written journal, and to conduct self-evaluations. Using acrylics, students learn to paint still life, portraits, and landscapes, and to use texture, pattern, light, and color to create expressive paintings. Prerequisite: Drawing and Design. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Painting Syllabus
50 Paintings You Should Know (Prestel, 2009)

The Study of Music
Students are introduced to both the theory and history of music, from monophonic chant to modern popular music. By studying and listening to music across the centuries, students gain a broad perspective on this art form that draws all humanity together. The basic elements of music are explored, including pitch and timbre, rhythm, instrument families, texture, and style.
The history of music begins in the Middle Ages with
Gregorian chant, and continues through the Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical periods with the study of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, classical opera, and the music of Ludwig van Beethoven. Students will explore the Romantic period of the 19th century, when music expanded into many experimental forms, and then the
20th century, which saw an explosion of dramatic and confrontational styles including jazz, rock, and rap. The course concludes with a study of nonwestern music, including Indian and African forms. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Study of Music Syllabus
Music: An Appreciation (with accompanying
5-CD set) (McGraw-Hill)
Introduction to Photography: The
Eye, the Shutter, the Light, the Color
ONE SEMESTER
Photography is a relatively new art, less than 200 years old, but one that changes the way we interpret the world around us and, quite simply, the way we see.
This course will teach such fundamental concepts as frame, focus, and composition, while also exploring the more interpretive side of photography. Students will complete weekly assignments, getting hands-on experience and a chance to convey their unique vision of the world. Students will also keep a journal and collect ideas, magazine clippings, inspiring images, and some personal writing about their experiences.
Students are expected to have a working knowledge of and general familiarity with the camera they choose to use for this class. Either a 35-mm camera (pointand-shoot or SLR) or a digital camera is required. The following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Introduction to Photography Syllabus
OAK MEADOW STUDENT PROFILE
CITIZEN OF THE WORLD n Has lived in Vietnam, the Shenandoah
Valley of Virginia, Costa Rica, and New
Hampshire. Loves to travel! n Participated in The Experiment in
International Living program. Had a fantastic time strolling through Paris, living with a Basque family, hiking in the majestic Pyrenees, and dipping her toes in Spain’s vibrant culture.
HER PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL
GRADUATION: Since I will be graduating a year early, I am going to take a year off before heading to college.
I plan to travel abroad, and try internships to figure out what I like doing. I plan on going into college with a better idea of what I want to study.
SOMETHING SHE WOULD LIKE
PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT HOME-
SCHOOLING: Though it is not for everyone, homeschooling has real value.
I “go” to school to learn how to learn. I don’t go to memorize facts, names, and dates just to get a good score on a test.
That, too, has some value, but so does invoking an interest in whatever one is learning. Learning something doesn’t have to end with the final test. Homeschooling, I feel the freedom to learn beyond what the books tell me.

OAK MEADOW STUDENT PROFILE
VERMONT n Placed 1st in two pro-class snowboarding competitions in 2012 n Won the USASA National
Halfpipe Championship at age 11 n Chooses Oak Meadow during the winter semester while training and competing n Plans to graduate with his public high school
HIS TYPICAL DAY: My day starts with a very large breakfast. I go to the mountain around 9 and snowboard until 3. I nap and then snack before starting my school work.
HIS DREAM : It would be great to get paid to travel the world doing what
I love the most—snowboarding.
ON GOING PRO: I was really excited when I got to design my own pro model burger. It is on the Zoohoo’s menu at Mount Snow. It’s called the Gunzburger.
22
Integrated Health & Fitness
Th is course is an in-depth evaluation of health and wellness, exploring all aspects of health, including physical, emotional, and social well-being. We cover anatomy and body systems as a basis for understanding the body. We take a refreshing look at diet; while examining in detail the components of food, we also simplify the elements of diet to make it accessible.
Some of the many topics covered are personal health care, drugs, sexuality, aging, alternative medicine, and the environment and health. An integral part of the course is fi tness; students engage in a regular aerobic and strength building fi tness program, using a heart rate monitor as a tool. Students learn the value of exercise for optimal brain function. Th is course includes a variety of project choices, including research, interviews, multi-media presentations, introspection, and more. Th e course reading incorporates cuttingedge research, and students are encouraged to tune into the media for health related topics. Societal and medical infl uences on diet and health are explored.
Th e following books are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Integrated Health & Fitness Syllabus
Health: Making Life Choices (McGraw-Hill)
Human Anatomy Coloring Book (Matt)
Spark: Th e Revolutionary New Science of Exercise
and the Brain (Ratey)
In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto (Pollan)
Physical Education
ENROLLED STUDENTS ONLY
Oak Meadow students can meet their Physical Education requirements in many ways. For example, students may belong to a local gym, take formal lessons in martial arts, or take swimming at the YMCA. For students who are not taking formal lessons or who may not belong to a gym, their PE requirements can still be met by keeping a log of the physical activities they are involved in.

All of our technology courses are offered through CTY Online , the Center for Talented Youth program of Johns
Hopkins University.
Scratch Programming*
In this course, students enter the world of computer science by learning how to create animations, computer games, and interactive projects. Using Scratch, a graphical programming language developed at MIT, students learn fundamental programming concepts such as variables, loops, conditional statements, and event handling. As they teach a mischievous cat to dance, explore a maze, or play games, students learn how to use math and computer code to think creatively.
The course will show students how to make and import objects, create audio recordings, and use them to develop interactive projects. At the end of the course, students create their own computer game and share it with their CTYOnline instructor and classmates. No previous programming skills are required, but students should be comfortable using a computer and browser, and managing files. Students are expected to be familiar with standard computer operations (e.g., login, cut & paste, email attachments, etc.). Prerequisite: Qualifying math score; students are strongly encouraged to take
CTY’s free, online, computer literacy placement test before enrolling in this course.
Introduction to Web Design*
ONE SEMESTER
This course introduces students to basic web design using HTML (Hypertext Markup Language). Although students should be comfortable with computers, file management, and navigating an internet website using a web browser (such as Firefox, Internet Explorer, or
Safari), the course does not require any prior knowledge of HTML or web design. The course will show students the process of creating web pages by writing HTML code, planning and designing effective web pages, and enhancing web pages with the use of graphics, images, and multimedia. Ultimately, students will combine all of these elements to create their own functional website. Students do not need to purchase any software in order to successfully complete this class. Students are expected to be familiar with standard computer operations (e.g., login, cut & paste, email attachments, etc.).
Prerequisite: Qualifying math or verbal score; students are strongly encouraged to take CTY’s free, online computer literacy placement test before enrolling in this course. Required materials:
A textbook purchase is required for this course.
Advanced Web Design*
ONE SEMESTER
This course introduces students to advanced concepts and skills in web design. Students will learn techniques for designing an effective website, the similarities and differences between HTML and XHTML, and the importance of web page validation. They will explore the use of Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), the box model, and advanced techniques for page layout, and learn how to style and incorporate tables, images, multimedia, and forms. Students will also be given an introduction to client-side web page scripting, will complete numerous assignments requiring application of advanced techniques, and will develop a fully functional website as a course project. At the end of the course students will submit a comprehensive final examination. Prerequisites: Qualifying math or verbal score, and completion of Intro to Web Design or equivalent (placement test available). Required materials:
A textbook purchase is required for this course.
JavaScript*
ONE SEMESTER
JavaScript introduces students to the basics of Java
Script, one of today’s leading web development languages. The course requires knowledge of HTML and
CSS and is an ideal transition from HTML into more advanced web technologies and Web 2.0 tools. As students explore the fundamentals of JavaScript, they gain an understanding of how to implement interactivity, special effects, and enhanced functionality in web development. The course features current web-standards compliance techniques for the web and covers the most up-to-date practices in JavaScript. For students new to programming, the course is even more enriching as it covers basic computer programming concepts and introduces the concepts of variables, operators, arrays, conditional statements, loops and functions--all an indispensable part of higher level languages like C,
C++, and Java. Students do not need to purchase any software in order to successfully complete this class.
Students are expected to be familiar with standard computer operations (e.g., login, cut & paste, email attachments, etc.). Prerequisites: Qualifying math or verbal score and completion of Advanced Web Design or equivalent; students are strongly encouraged to take
CTY’s free online placement test before enrolling in this course. Required materials:
A textbook purchase is required for this course.
23
* CTYOnline courses are for enrolled students only and materials are not included in tuition and must be purchased separately.

Computer Security Fundamental*
ONE SEMESTER
Th is course introduces students to the fundamentals of computer security as the fi rst step towards learning how to protect computers from hackers.
Th e course begins by explaining the very basic concepts of computer security and provides substantial technical details to keep students interested and involved. It includes hands-on labs and graded and non-graded assignments for each unit that provide an opportunity to practice what the students learn.
It also includes a few security games to make learning more exciting and interactive. Th e course will be summed up with a fi nal project and a fi nal exam.
Students are expected to be familiar with standard computer operations (e.g., login, cut & paste, email attachments, etc.) before enrolling in the course.
Prerequisites: Qualifying math score and basic knowledge of computer systems.
Introduction to Java*
ONE SEMESTER
Th is course introduces students to the basic features of the Java programming language. Students will learn about Java primitive and non-primitive data types, control fl ow constructs, built-in class libraries, and
Java applets. Th ey will also explore object-oriented programming concepts such as classes, objects, method overloading and encapsulation. Typical assignments and projects include using built-in and programmerdefi ned classes, performing basic input and output operations, writing applets that incorporate sound and images, and solving programming problems like
Morse code translation and simulation. At the end of the course, students submit a comprehensive fi nal examination. Students are expected to be familiar with standard computer operations (e.g., login, cut
& paste, email attachments, etc.) before enrolling in the course. Prerequisites: Qualifying math score.
Required materials:
Students must purchase a textbook and will need a
Java language compiler.
Advanced Java Programming*
ONE SEMESTER
Th is course introduces students to advanced features of the Java programming language. Students will learn how to use inheritance, interfaces, exception handling, fi le input and output, and generic types, and how to incorporate graphical user interfaces (GUIs) into their programming applications. Students will also learn how to apply object-oriented design and programming principles to their programs. Typical assignments and projects include using built-in and programmer-defi ned classes to develop full-featured, easy-to-use programs. At the end of the course, students submit a comprehensive fi nal examination. Students are expected to be familiar with standard computer operations (e.g., login, cut & paste, email attachments, etc.). Prerequisites: Qualifying math score and completion of Intro to Java or equivalent; students are strongly encouraged to take CTY’s free, online placement test before enrolling in this course. Required materials:
Students must purchase a textbook and will need a
Java language compiler.
AP Computer Science*
ONE SEMESTER
AP Computer Science A covers topics typically found in a fi rst year college level computer science course and provides a solid preparation for the AP Computer Science A examination. Th e course emphasis is on procedural abstraction, data abstraction, object oriented design and programming methodology, using the Java programming language and algorithms and data structures. Major course topics include the concepts of computer science, program control constructs, use of arrays and strings, class methods, object oriented design and programming concepts, creating and modifying classes, understanding existing designs and code, the use of sorting and searching algorithms, recursion, and the use of standard Java class libraries.
Highly qualifi ed instructors guide students through online lectures, readings, forum discussions, design and programming exercises and project assignments, and other resources. Student knowledge is assessed through homework assignments, projects, and exams. Th is course has been reviewed and approved by the College
Board. Th is course is only off ered during the 30-week academic session. Prerequisite: Qualifying math score, completion of Algebra I and high school introductory computer science course. Required materials:
A textbook purchase is required for this course.
Oak Meadow ESOL: English for
American Classrooms Course Book
(12-WEEK NON-CREDIT COURSE)
ENROLLED STUDENTS ONLY
Th is ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course is designed for students who plan to attend high school in the U.S. and want to polish their
English reading, writing and speaking skills to help them be better prepared for their American classroom experience. Th is course presents the English language through the lens of U.S. culture, cultural history, and national identity. Using reading selections from Oak Meadow’s curriculum, assignments are designed to allow students to practice skills that are typically expected in American schools. In the U.S., students are expected to readily give their opinions, to relate personal perspectives and experiences, to argue persuasively, and to speak to multiple sides of a controversial or complex issue. In this course,
24 For pricing information, please see the insert included with this catalog or visit our website at oakmeadow.com.

students will develop a rich vocabulary, and learn to make good use of descriptive and figurative language in order to express themselves fully and eloquently.
Using Skype and VoiceThread technology, this 12week ESOL Intensive will give students experience in talking and writing about issues that they might find themselves faced with in a high school classroom in the U.S. This is a non-credit course. A Certificate of
Completion will be provided at the end of the course.
The following books are included:
Oak Meadow ESOL: English for American Classrooms Coursebook
Compelling Conversations (Chimayo Press)
Speak English Like an American (Language Success
Press)
Chess
ENROLLED STUDENTS ONLY
This intermediate chess course is for players who already know something about how to move the pieces and the general rules of the game. The course takes students through two refresher sessions to bring them up to speed, then in a measured way substantially expands their insight into the game, evolving pattern recognition skills plus an array of tactical abilities.
The course can be taken for one or two semesters of eighteen lessons each, using texts, DVDs and chess software course materials, and is mentored by strong chess-playing coaches. This course is appropriate for any age level with sufficient reading ability. The following materials are included with this course:
Oak Meadow Chess Syllabus
Manual of Chess: Chess School Tactics for Champions
Two chess DVDs: Learning How to Make a Plan;
Opening Traps and Pitfalls
Chess School 1A
Chess School 1B
* CTYOnline courses are for enrolled students only and materials are not included in tuition and must be purchased separately.
Art of
Cooking:
Kitchen
Basics and
Beyond
In this course, teens will learn the basics of how to nourish themselves by cooking healthy meals based on whole foods. Students will actively explore the basic elements of cooking, including the use of kitchen tools, cooking techniques and ingredients.
Students will gain experience with planning and preparing inexpensive, quick meals that are nutritious and delicious. This engaging and dynamic course goes beyond food preparation with relevant topics in each lesson ranging from the farm-to-table connection and sustainability to food photography, food blogs and food writing. Additional topics include nourishing connections around the table, planning meals on a budget, cooking for friends, and more. Students are required to demonstrate hands-on skills as well as to complete written assignments that are thoughtful, reflective and analytical. The following books are included:
Oak Meadow Art of Cooking: Kitchen Basics and
Beyond Coursebook
How to Cook Everything- The Basics: All You Need to
Make Great Food (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)
Eat Fresh Foods: Awesome Recipes for Teens (Bloomsbury USA Childrens)
An Everlasting Meal: Cooking with Economy and
Grace (Scribner)
—Matt McGann MIT Admission
Oak Meadow is delighted to support you in your continued success beyond graduation.
Students choosing to attend college have a unique opportunity to use the homeschooling experience to their advantage in the admissions process.
Benefits of an Oak Meadow education
With a history of one-to-one attention from your teachers, your admission materials will show distinctive depth and will stand out from other applications.
What we offer: n A College Counselor who will help you navigate the complicated college application process.
n A useful College Admissions Guide to introduce juniors to the process and help seniors find the best possible college fit.
n Faculty who have inspired you, know you well, and are dedicated to writing effective, supportive letters of recommendation .
n Helpful staff to take care of the details of sending your transcripts and other important documents.

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The Experiment in International Living Experiment programs are not trips or tours, but rather journeys that allow you to experience another culture in a very powerful way and to enjoy a summer that you’ll remember for a lifetime. communities they join. Areas of focus include language training, arts exploration, eco-adventure, community service, and travel and discovery. n Investigate rare plant and animal species in
Ecuador.
Oak Meadow students may take advantage of our exciting partnership with Th e Experiment in
International Living . Since 1932, Th e Experiment has off ered high school students the unique opportunity to enrich themselves and the world around them by off ering three-, four-, and fi ve-week programs in 30 countries around the world.
Th e Experiment is an ideal fi t for our many students and families committed to incorporating global awareness and a sense of adventure into their lifestyle of learning. All Oak Meadow students participating in
Th e Experiment may earn credit upon completion of a follow-up essay. In addition to a tailored orientation for Oak Meadow students and waived application fee, Th e Experiment will off er a limited number of
Oak Meadow scholarships.
Each Experiment program off ers students an opportunity to focus on an aspect of the host culture and to become active participants in the n Study Spanish in classes and an immersive homestay in Spain.
n Work at an orphanage in Ghana.
n Hike along the Great Wall of China.
To learn more about Th e Experiment’s full range of programs, program fees, and application procedures, or to request an Experiment catalog, visit www.
experimentinternational.org or call 800-345-2929.
To learn more about earning Oak Meadow credit through participation in this program, please call the
Oak Meadow offi ce at 802-251-7250 or email info@oakmeadow.com.
Marlboro College Oak Meadow students are invited to take advantage of Marlboro College’s teen summer programs, which include explorations in art, history, philosophy, religion, politics, poetry, chemistry, math and screenwriting.
Each program off ers an introduction to college-level academic work, combined with hands-on exploration.
Space is limited to 12 participants per program, creating vibrant communities with room for every voice.
All Oak Meadow students are eligible for an automatic 10 percent discount for any Marlboro College
Summer Program for Teens. In addition, students enrolled in Oak Meadow High School may document their experience with a project or essay and receive Life Experience Elective Credit on their Oak Meadow transcript.
Here are a few examples of Marlboro’s teen summer programs: n Eating Against the Machine (Food, Farming & Politics) n Poetry on the Peaks (Creative Writing) n DNA: Barcode of Life (Chemistry) n Screenwriting Fascination (Film) n Finding the Key (Math & Puzzles)
For details, visit marlboro.edu/summer or contact 802-451-7118.

For students planning to graduate high school with Oak Meadow, we require a distribution of academic subjects that provides a comprehensive education and a well-rounded transcript for college entrance requirements.
n Graduating seniors must be fully enrolled to receive a diploma.
n Students must take at least three courses per year to be fully enrolled. n Students who wish to receive a high school diploma from Oak Meadow must complete a minimum of
21.5 credits. (One credit equals a full-year course, or two semesters.) n If you intend to apply to college, plan to graduate with more than the minimum number of credits.
These are the Oak Meadow courses currently available in each subject area:
ENGLISH: 4 Credits
Intro to Literature & Composition
Literature & Composition II
American Literature
World Literature
British Literature
Intro to Short Fiction (0.5 credit)
SCIENCE: 3 Credits (4 recommended)
Biology with Lab (1.5 credits)
Environmental Science
Chemistry with Lab (1.5 credits)
Physics
MATHEMATICS: 3 Credits (4 recommended)
Pre-Algebra
Consumer Math
Algebra I
Geometry
Algebra II
Advanced Mathematics
Calculus
SOCIAL STUDIES: 4 Credits
U.S. History
World History
U.S. Government
World Geography
Religions of the World (0.5 credit)
The Modern Middle East (0.5 credit)
Psychology (0.5 credit)
FINE ARTS: 1 Credit
Integrated Drawing
Drawing & Design
The Study of Art
Painting
The Study of Music
Intro to Photography (0.5 credit)
WORLD LANGUAGE: 2 Credits
Latin I, II, III, IV
Spanish I, II, III, IV
French I, II, III, IV
German I, II, III, IV
HEALTH: 1 Credit
Integrated Health & Fitness (also earns 0.5 PE credit)
FITNESS/PE: 0.5 Credit
ADVANCED STUDY: 0.5 Credit
ELECTIVES: 2.5 Credits
OAK MEADOW STUDENT PROFILE
NEW YORK n Dancing with the American Ballet
Theater.
n Recently danced in The Nutcracker at The Kennedy Center.
n Her dream is to dance Juliet in
Romeo and Juliet .
HER TYPICAL DAY: I arrive at dance class at 6:30 AM, dance for four hours, and come home to get started on school work. I often return in the afternoon for another class or rehearsal. Because of
Oak Meadow’s flexible schedule, I am able to attend all of the show rehearsals and performances. This is a huge advantage over dancers that attend traditional school.
THREE WORDS SHE WOULD USE
TO DESCRIBE OAK MEADOW:
Rigorous. Progressive. Supportive.
WHAT SHE WANTS OTHER TEENS
TO KNOW ABOUT OAK MEADOW:
The teachers are very supportive. They really make you feel like you are their only student. They want you to succeed.
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—Oak Meadow parent
Th e sample schedule below represents the minimum requirement, 21.5 credits, for graduation from Oak Meadow High School. Please note that our college-bound students typically graduate with
24-26 credits . Th ese additional credits can include AP courses, computer technology courses, additional core courses, or electives in other areas of interest.
G
RADE
9
World Geography
Environmental Science
Intro to Lit & Comp
Algebra I
Language/Fine Art/Elective
1 Credit
1 Credit
1 Credit
1 Credit
1 Credit
G
RADE
10
World History 1 Credit
Biology with Lab 1.5 Credits
Literature & Composition II 1 Credit
Geometry
Language/Elective
1 Credit
1 Credit
G
RADE
11
Chemistry with Lab
American Literature
Algebra II
1.5 Credits
1 Credit
1 Credit
U.S. History/U.S. Government 1 Credit
Language/Elective 1 Credit
G
RADE
12
Social Studies elective
Integrated Health & Fitness
World Literature
Advanced Study Program
Language/Electives
1 Credit
1.5 Credits
1 Credit
0.5 Credits
2.5 Credits
Course Credits and Graduation Requirements e Upon enrollment you will receive an Oak Meadow
Student Handbook outlining current graduation requirements and policies.
e Students who intend to enroll in college should plan to use some of their electives to fulfi ll the specifi c requirements for college entrance. We highly recommend that college-bound students take three years of a world language .
e Oak Meadow requires three credits of math for graduation; however, we recommend that collegebound students carefully review the math requirements for each college program being considered.
e Students wishing to graduate from Oak Meadow must be full-time students for both semesters of their senior year.
e To be considered full-time, at least three full credits must be taken per school year.
e Oak Meadow accepts credits from other accredited high school and college programs.
For example, credits earned from local high schools or community colleges, or other accredited distance-learning schools, can be used to satisfy Oak Meadow graduation requirements.
e Oak Meadow offers Advanced Placement courses through CTY Online . These online courses can be taken for Oak Meadow credit and will prepare students for the College Board AP exams. Please see the course listings in this catalog for more information about our AP offerings.
e Also through CTY Online , we offer a range of online computer technology courses which can be taken for elective credit. See the course listings in this catalog for more information.

To determine if Oak Meadow is the right fit for you, we invite you to call our office and speak to one of our Educational Counselors.
Our counselors give the time and careful attention needed to address each family’s unique range of questions.
Affording an Oak Meadow education
At Oak Meadow, we work hard to keep our tuition low so we can provide an affordable private school experience. Tuition dollars go toward supporting our expert faculty and developing engaging curriculum. Families may elect to follow a payment plan to help spread the cost of tuition over six months. For curriculum pricing and tuition information, please visit our website or see the insert included with this catalog.
Ready to enroll?
When you fill out our Ready to Enroll form on our website, an Oak Meadow Educational Counselor will contact you to discuss options and answer any questions you have. You can also call our office to begin the enrollment process. We offer rolling enrollment, so you may choose the start date that works best for your family.
A welcome packet is included with your curriculum materials. It contains teacher information, a
Verification of Enrollment letter, and a comprehensive Student Handbook outlining the unique nature of distance learning and our school policies.
If you experience any problem with your enrollment, if your circumstances change, or if the program does not meet your expectations, please let us know. We pledge to work with you to find the best educational fit for your student. Visit our website for withdrawal guidelines and refund policies.
Oak Meadow community
Wherever you are in your decision-making process, we invite you to get to know Oak Meadow better by subscribing to our free seasonal journal, Living Education. This resource-rich publication is packed with in-depth articles to inform and enrich the home learning experience. You can subscribe and view past issues on our website. Our lively Facebook community also provides excellent tips, ideas, and links to the most current online resources in a supportive, informative forum.
How many students are homeschooling in the United States?
According to the National Home Education
Research Institute (nheri.org), there were an estimated 1.7 to 2.1 million children homeschooled in the United States during the 2002-2003 school year. This represents a growth rate of 7 to 15 percent over the previous decade.
How well do homeschooled students do academically?
One study found that home-educated students outperformed their public school counterparts by 30 to 37 percentile points in all subjects (1997, Dr. Brian Ray, NHERI).
This same study found that students who were homeschooled for two or more years scored especially high. “The difference becomes especially pronounced during the higher grades, suggesting that students who remain in home school throughout their high school years continue to flourish in that environment” (Home School Legal Defense
Association, hslda.org).
What about socialization? How well do homeschooled children do in the “real world”?
At Oak Meadow, opportunities for socialization are built into our curriculum.
We encourage our students to participate in volunteer service, field trips, travel, book discussion groups, or classes in the arts.
HSLDA data shows that homeschoolers are engaged in multiple activities outside the home, with 98 percent involved in two or more activities in and around their communities.

PO Box 1346 Brattleboro, Vermont 05302 info@oakmeadow.com e 802-251-7250 oakmeadow.com
—Oak Meadow student