Pillars of History

Name: Pillars of History
Brand: Common Sense Press

by Common Sense Press

Religious_studiesGrades K–8

Pillars of History: Hands-On Old Testament Chronology with 3D Organizers

Pillars of History is a visual, hands-on Old Testament curriculum for grades K-8 that uses 3D graphic organizers and craft activities to teach biblical chronology. The curriculum covers creation through Joshua in 24 lessons, emphasizing Scripture reading, timeline creation, and interactive learning activities.

Best for

Homeschooling families seeking a visual, craft-based approach to Old Testament chronology for multiple grade levels, particularly those with hands-on learners

Evaluation Criteria

2 strengths · 1 concern · 2 neutral · 1 insufficient evidence

Historical ContextStrength

The curriculum emphasizes biblical chronology and includes map work and historical timeline activities. It treats Old Testament narratives as historical events within their geographical and temporal context.

Students 'create a timeline, map book' and engage in 'map-related activities' that require atlas use; curriculum is described as 'chronological study'

Primary Text EngagementStrength

The curriculum requires direct Scripture reading and discussion as the foundation of each lesson. Students read biblical passages first, then engage with activities based on those texts.

Review states 'You begin each lesson by reading and discussing the Scripture passage' and 'the Bible is your primary text'

Teacher TrainingConcern

The curriculum provides minimal teacher preparation requirements but lacks comprehensive training materials. Parents need existing biblical knowledge to effectively use the program.

Review notes 'preparation time is minimal since so much is supplied' but also states 'parents/teachers need to be familiar enough with Scripture to evaluate student responses' with 'no answer key'

Direct InstructionNeutral

The curriculum requires active parent/teacher instruction for lesson presentation and Scripture discussion. However, much of the learning occurs through hands-on activities rather than direct teaching.

Review states 'Parent/teacher lesson presentation is essential' and notes teachers must be 'familiar enough with Scripture to evaluate student responses'

Theological KnowledgeNeutral

The curriculum focuses on biblical chronology and historical narrative rather than systematic theological instruction. It covers selected stories from Genesis through Joshua without comprehensive doctrinal development.

Review notes 'One story is highlighted in each lesson, so this is not comprehensive Bible study' and emphasizes 'chronological study that will help students grasp the historical timeline'

Vocabulary BuildingInsufficient Evidence

Limited evidence of systematic vocabulary instruction, though Scripture memorization is included. The focus appears to be on narrative comprehension rather than theological terminology.

Review mentions students 'memorize Scripture verses' but provides no specific information about vocabulary development or theological terms

Sources: cathyduffyreviews.com