12th Grade Curriculum
Senior Year: Capstone, World Religions & Philosophy
The culmination of the homeschool journey—seniors complete a year-long capstone project, explore world religions and philosophy, and prepare for life after graduation through college prep, life skills, and meaningful reflection.
Year at a Glance
📚 Core Subjects
- World Religions & Philosophy: Comparative study of major world religions, philosophical traditions, and ethics
- Mathematics: Pre-calculus and/or statistics (college prep level)
- Science: Environmental science, sustainability, and climate studies
- Language Arts: Research writing, thesis development, literary analysis
- Senior Seminar: Life skills, college/career prep, financial literacy
🎓 Senior Capstone Project
- Year-long independent research project
- Topic chosen by student (with guidance)
- Includes research paper, creative component, and presentation
- Demonstrates mastery and readiness for next chapter
- Portfolio compilation of K-12 journey
🎯 12th Grade Learning Goals
Academic Goals
- Complete a substantial independent research project
- Demonstrate understanding of world religions and philosophies
- Master pre-calculus concepts or statistical analysis
- Understand environmental systems and sustainability
- Write at a college-ready level
Life Readiness Goals
- Navigate college applications and financial aid (if applicable)
- Develop financial literacy and budgeting skills
- Build a professional portfolio and resume
- Practice interview and communication skills
- Create a post-graduation plan (college, trade, gap year, work)
Units of Study
Unit 1: Lammas
5 weeks (Aug 4 – Sept 5)
7th Principle: Respect for the interdependent web
Senior Launch & Thesis Foundations
Capstone project selection, research methods, world religions introduction
Unit 2: Mabon
6 weeks (Sept 8 – Oct 17)
7th Principle: Respect for the interdependent web
Eastern Religions & Statistical Thinking
Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism; statistics and data analysis; environmental systems
Unit 3: Samhain
5 weeks (Oct 20 – Nov 21)
2nd Principle: Justice, equity, and compassion
Abrahamic Traditions & Thesis Development
Judaism, Christianity, Islam; thesis research and drafting; social justice
Unit 4: Yule
6 weeks (Nov 24 – Jan 9)
1st Principle: Inherent worth and dignity
Indigenous & Pagan Traditions
Indigenous spiritualities, modern Paganism, UU history; pre-calculus; sustainability
Unit 5: Imbolc
7 weeks (Jan 12 – Feb 27)
3rd Principle: Acceptance and spiritual growth
Philosophy & Ethics
Major philosophical traditions, ethics, meaning of life; thesis refinement
Unit 6: Ostara
6 weeks (Mar 2 – Apr 10)
4th Principle: Free and responsible search for truth
Comparative Religion & College Prep
Interfaith dialogue, religious pluralism; college applications, financial aid
Unit 7: Beltane
7 weeks (Apr 13 – May 29)
5th Principle: Right of conscience and democratic process
Thesis Completion & Graduation
Capstone presentation, portfolio completion, graduation preparation
Unit 8: Litha (Optional)
Summer (June – July)
6th Principle: Goal of world community
Transition to Adulthood
Life skills, gap year planning, service projects, summer enrichment
🏆 Senior Capstone Project
The capstone project is the culmination of the student's homeschool journey. It demonstrates their ability to conduct independent research, think critically, and present their findings in a meaningful way.
Research Component
- • 15-20 page research paper
- • Proper citations (MLA or APA)
- • Primary and secondary sources
- • Original analysis and conclusions
Creative Component
- • Art, music, or multimedia project
- • Service learning initiative
- • Prototype or invention
- • Documentary or podcast
Presentation
- • 20-30 minute presentation
- • Visual aids (slides, posters)
- • Q&A session
- • Invite family and mentors
📝 Teaching Note: World Religions
In this curriculum, we study world religions as cultural and historical traditions—sources of wisdom, art, ethics, and community. We approach all faiths with respect and curiosity, not as doctrine to be adopted but as windows into human experience. This comparative approach helps students understand diverse perspectives and find common threads of meaning across traditions.
🌅 Suggested Daily Rhythm
Morning:
- Hearth Circle (15-20 min)
- World Religions/Philosophy (45-60 min)
- Mathematics (45-60 min)
Afternoon:
- Capstone Project Work (60-90 min)
- Environmental Science (45 min)
- Senior Seminar/Life Skills (30-45 min)
Senior year is more self-directed. Students should take increasing ownership of their schedule while maintaining accountability through regular check-ins.