A Child's History of the World

by BN Publishinghttps://bn-publisher.com

Social_studiesGrades 1–6

About This Curriculum

A classic elementary-level world history survey covering events from prehistoric times through the 20th century, written in an engaging, conversational style that speaks to children without talking down to them.

What makes it unique: Written by Calvert School's first headmaster in a warm, storytelling style that makes world history accessible and engaging for young children while avoiding choppy, simplified language typical of elementary texts.

A Child's History of the World: Classic Conversational World History Survey

A Child's History of the World is a classic 460-page world history survey originally written by V.M. Hillyer, covering events from prehistoric times through the 20th century in a conversational, narrative style. The curriculum provides broad chronological coverage of world civilizations but lacks structured lessons, activities, or teacher guidance materials.

Best for

Homeschooling families seeking a classical world history survey for family read-alouds or parents with strong history backgrounds who can supplement with activities and instruction

Evaluation Criteria

1 strength · 5 concerns · 1 neutral

Chronological KnowledgeStrength

The curriculum builds strong chronological knowledge through 91 chapters covering history from prehistoric times to the 20th century in proper sequence. Coverage extends beyond Europe and North America to include civilizations worldwide, providing comprehensive historical context.

Reviews note the book covers major historical periods and figures 'in their proper settings' with 'depth and interest' spanning from ancient civilizations to modern times

Primary SourcesConcern

The curriculum does not incorporate primary source documents or historical evidence analysis. The text relies on Hillyer's narrative retelling rather than engaging students with original historical materials.

Reviews describe the book as having 'minimal illustrations: a few maps, line drawings' with no mention of primary sources or document analysis

Teacher TrainingConcern

The curriculum provides no teacher training or professional development materials. Teachers must rely on their own background knowledge to address content gaps and pedagogical needs.

Reviews indicate teachers would need to 'prepare additional support materials' and that the book could serve as 'useful resource for teachers needing background knowledge' but provides no formal guidance

Direct InstructionConcern

The curriculum lacks structured direct instruction components, functioning primarily as a narrative text for reading aloud or independent study. Teachers must create their own instructional framework around the content.

Reviews consistently note 'no chapter questions or assignments' and that 'significant pedagogical support would be needed' for classroom implementation

Retrieval PracticeConcern

The curriculum does not include built-in retrieval practice or review activities. Optional workbooks are available separately but the core text lacks systematic reinforcement of learning.

The main text has 'no chapter questions or assignments' though separate workbooks with 'comprehension exercises' are mentioned as optional additions

Vocabulary BuildingConcern

The curriculum does not provide explicit vocabulary instruction despite using sophisticated historical terminology. The conversational style may introduce academic vocabulary naturally but without systematic development.

Reviews note the book 'doesn't talk down to them in the short, choppy sentences typical of most texts' but mention no vocabulary support or glossaries

Geographic KnowledgeNeutral

Geographic knowledge is implicitly included through the global scope of historical coverage but not systematically developed. The curriculum includes some maps but lacks structured geographic instruction.

Reviews mention the book 'reaches beyond Europe, the Middle East, and North America with selective topics on other countries and cultures' and includes 'a few maps'

Review Sources

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educational research techniques

cathyduffy

Cathy Duffy

Key Facts
GradesGrades 1–6
SubjectSocial_studies
PedagogyClassical
Faith-BasedNo
FormatDigital + Physical
Pricing$17.99 at Amazon.com | $7.11 Used at Amazon.com Marketplace

Looking for something different?

If none of these options feel right, explore a non-traditional approach. Pallas Center offers a unique curriculum, or design your own with Palladay.

Data sources: cathyduffy, homeschoolcom