Government: Grades 5 and up
Government 101
Author:  Laura Petrisin
Publisher: Press On Products
For more information or to order: www.presson-products.com

Homeschool mom Laura Petrisin has done a wonderful job putting together a concise, easy-to-implement course to teach students the basics of how our government works.  Actually, after spending just 5 or 6 weeks with Government 101, you and your children will probably know more about how our government works than many adults!

Consisting of a 20-page booklet, which is your "text", a 13-page teacher's guide, a packet of worksheets and a final exam, Government 101 is not a "bells & whistles" program.  Each lesson involves reading specific sections of the booklet and completing a corresponding activity/worksheet.  The author also recommends a few supplemental activities that provide a great jumping off point for a more in-depth study if you desire.  Topics covered in this course include the three branches of government, how a bill becomes a law, and how a citizen can become more involved in the legislative process.  Although it is not in-depth enough to count for a high school credit, Government 101 would serve well as a starting point for upper level studies and provides "just enough" information for elementary - middle school students to have a good understanding of how the wheels of American government work. 

If you are like me and have put off presenting "Government" to your students, let Government 101 do the work for you.  The short lessons are easy to add to your school routine, the entire course can be completed in just 5 weeks AND the price is easy on the homeschool budget!


Making the grade: A
Cost: $9.50
Value for your homeschool dollar: 10
Reviewed by Cindy Prechtel, Editor