Paths of Progress

Paths of Progress is the third step on the Trail Guide to Learning. To grow as a country, another group of leaders had to step forward during our history—scientists and inventors. Study those who used their talents and abilities to answer questions that provided better ways of living and working. The lives of these devoted individuals and their contributions will be examined throughout our history, into the Industrial Revolution and the beginning of the 20th century. Primary science focus involves Physical Science (such as energy, motion, and work) and the economic impact of each development. Some key figures studied include Ben Franklin, Samuel Morse, George Washington Carver, the Wright Brothers, and Thomas Edison. This full one-year course is targeted for grades 5-7, but the lessons can easily be adapted for 4th and 8th grades, as well.

So pack your bags and prepare to travel through time and history with inventors and scientists as your guide!

Please note: Story of the Orchestra with CD and Classroom Atlas of United States are currently out of print and are no longer included in the packages. We are searching for a suitable replacement. Rummy Roots is also unavailable and not included in the packages.

Required student notebook pages are available for each grade level and are an integral part of this curriculum. Notebook pages provide maps, charts, space for copywork or dictation and any other template page needed throughout the year. 

Digital downloads of all three levels (5th, 6th, and 7th grades) of the Student Notebooks are included. You can also purchase printed, ready-to-use pages.

An Extension provides additional assignments and activities for the age groups below. They do not stand alone, but are meant to be used alongside the main Teacher’s Guide. Ideal for use when there is at least one other child in the family in the target range (5th -7th).

• Older (High School) Extension, grades 8-9

Check out our convenient Paths of Progress packages for significant savings. (Save both your time and money!).

If you have landed on this page and haven’t yet learned much about the Trail Guide to Learning curriculum series, we recommend you read the intro to Trail Guide to Learning. Then come back to see what Paths of Progress is all about!