Homeschooling in Tennessee (TN): Requirements, Law & Standards

TN ·

Minimum 4 hours of instruction per day for the same number of instructional days required of public schools (180 days per year) for independent (Option 1) home schools.

Tennessee homeschooling is governed primarily by TCA 49-6-3050 (and TCA 49-50-801 for church-related schools). Three options exist. Independent home schooling (Option 1) requires annual notice to the local director of schools, a parent-teacher holding at least a high school diploma or GED (the former requirement that parents of grades 9-12 hold a college degree or use a tutor with one was REPEALED effective April 28, 2023), at least 4 hours/day for 180 days, attendance recordkeeping, and state standardized testing in grades 5, 7, and 9 (the grade-9 test is NOT the high school proficiency test). If an independent home-schooled student scores one year or more below grade level for two consecutive years, the superintendent may require enrollment in public/private school unless the child has a learning disability. The vast majority of TN homeschoolers instead enroll in a church-related 'umbrella' school (Option 2, Category IV) or an accredited online school (Option 3, Category III), which are NOT subject to the state notification or grades 5/7/9 testing requirements (those schools set their own policies). Immunization records (or a religious/medical exemption statement) are generally required.

Tennessee has three legal homeschool pathways. Option 1 (independent home school under TCA 49-6-3050(b)): the parent-teacher must give annual notice to the local director of schools (LEA) before each school year, providing the names, number, ages, and grade levels of the children, the location of the school, the proposed curriculum, the proposed hours of instruction, and the qualifications of the parent-teacher. Option 2 (church-related/'umbrella' school, a Category IV school under TCA 49-50-801): the family enrolls/registers with the church-related school and notifies that school rather than the LEA; no notice to the director of schools is required. Option 3 (accredited online/distance Category III school): the student enrolls in the accredited school. Roughly 95% of TN homeschoolers use Option 2 to avoid state notification and testing.

Independent (Option 1) home schools must maintain attendance records, which are subject to inspection by the local director of schools and are submitted to the director/superintendent at the end of the school year. Church-related (Option 2) and accredited-online (Option 3) families keep records per their umbrella/online school's requirements.

Tennessee statute (TCA 49-6-3050) does not enumerate specific required subjects for independent home schools; it requires the parent to submit a 'proposed curriculum' but does not mandate named courses. Families generally follow the core academic areas (English/language arts, mathematics, science, social studies).


Math	Tennessee Academic Standards for Mathematics (state-adopted document, CCSS-aligned content and notation)
ELA	Tennessee Academic Standards for English Language Arts (state-adopted document, CCSS-derived; a revised set is approved for statewide implementation in 2029-30)
Science	Tennessee Academic Standards for Science (state-specific; built on the NRC 'Framework for K-12 Science Education' but NOT NGSS verbatim)
Social Studies	Tennessee Academic Standards for Social Studies (state-specific; not the C3 Framework)

· Tennessee Academic Standards for Mathematics (state-adopted document, CCSS-aligned content and notation) · 114


K	K.CC.A.2	Count forward by ones beginning from any given number within the known sequence.
K	K.CC.A.3	Write numbers from 0 to 20; represent a quantity of objects with a written number.
K	K.CC.B.5	Understand the relationship between numbers and quantities; connect counting to cardinality.
K	K.CC.C.7	Identify whether the number of objects in one group is greater than, less than, or equal to another.
K	K.G.A.2	Correctly name shapes and solids (squares, circles, triangles, rectangles, etc.).
K	K.G.B.6	Compose a figure using simple shapes/solids and identify the resulting shapes.
K	K.MD.B.3	Identify the penny, nickel, dime, and quarter based on attributes.
K	K.OA.A.1	Represent addition and subtraction with objects, fingers, drawings, sounds, or equations.
K	K.OA.A.4	Find the number that makes 10 when added to any given number 1 to 9.
1	1.G.A.3	Partition circles and rectangles into two and four equal shares.
1	1.MD.B.3	Recognize a clock as a measurement tool; tell and write time to the half hour.
1	1.NBT.B.4	Compare two two-digit numbers based on the meanings of the tens and ones digits.
1	1.NBT.C.7	Subtract multiples of 10 from any number in the range 10-90.
1	1.OA.A.2	Add three whole numbers whose sum is within 20 to solve contextual problems.
1	1.OA.B.4	Understand the relationship between addition and subtraction.
1	1.OA.C.6	Use mental strategies flexibly and efficiently to develop fluency in addition and subtraction within 20.
2	2.G.A.3	Partition circles and rectangles into two, three, and four equal shares.
2	2.MD.A.1	Measure the length of an object in whole number units using appropriate tools.
2	2.MD.C.8	Solve contextual problems involving amounts of money (dollars and coins).
2	2.NBT.A.1	Know that the three digits of a three-digit number represent hundreds, tens, and ones.
2	2.NBT.B.6	Add up to four two-digit numbers using properties of operations and place value.
2	2.OA.C.4	Use repeated addition to find the total number of objects in rectangular arrays.
3	3.G.A.2	Partition shapes into parts with equal areas; recognize areas as unit fractions of the whole.
3	3.MD.C.6	Measure areas by counting unit squares (square cm, square m, square in, square ft).
3	3.NBT.A.3	Multiply one-digit whole numbers by multiples of 10 in the range 10-90.
3	3.NF.A.2	Understand a fraction as a number on the number line.
3	3.NF.A.3	Explain equivalence of fractions and compare fractions by reasoning about their size.
3	3.OA.A.3	Multiply and divide within 100 to solve contextual problems.
3	3.OA.D.8	Solve two-step contextual problems using the four operations.
4	4.G.A.3	Recognize and draw lines of symmetry for two-dimensional figures.
4	4.MD.A.3	Know and apply the area and perimeter formulas for rectangles.
4	4.MD.C.6	Measure angles in whole-number degrees using a protractor.
4	4.NBT.A.3	Round multi-digit whole numbers to any place.
4	4.NBT.B.4	Fluently add and subtract within 1,000,000 using the standard algorithm.
4	4.NF.A.2	Compare two fractions with different numerators and denominators.
4	4.NF.B.3	Understand a fraction a/b with a > 1 as a sum of fractions 1/b.
4	4.NF.C.6	Read and write decimal notation for fractions with denominators 10 or 100.
4	4.OA.A.1	Interpret a multiplication equation as a comparison.
5	5.G.B.3	Classify two-dimensional figures in a hierarchy based on properties.
5	5.MD.C.3	Recognize volume as an attribute of solid figures and understand concepts of volume measurement.
5	5.NBT.A.3	Read and write decimals to thousandths using base-ten numerals and expanded form.
5	5.NBT.B.5	Fluently multiply multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm.
5	5.NBT.B.7	Add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals to hundredths.
5	5.NF.B.5	Interpret multiplication as scaling (resizing).
5	5.NF.B.7	Apply and extend previous understandings of division to divide unit fractions by whole numbers and vice versa.
5	5.OA.A.2	Write numerical expressions that record calculations with numbers.
6	6.EE.A.2	Write, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers.
6	6.EE.B.5	Understand that a solution to an equation or inequality makes the statement true.
6	6.EE.C.9	Use variables to represent two quantities in a real-world problem that change in relation.
6	6.G.A.2	Find the volume of a right rectangular prism with fractional edge lengths.
6	6.NS.B.2	Fluently divide multi-digit numbers using a standard algorithm.
6	6.NS.C.6	Understand a rational number as a point on the number line.
6	6.NS.C.7	Understand ordering and absolute value of rational numbers.
6	6.RP.A.1	Understand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to describe a relationship.
6	6.RP.A.2	Understand the concept of a unit rate a/b associated with a ratio a:b.
6	6.SP.B.5	Summarize numerical data sets in relation to their context.
7	7.EE.B.4	Use variables to represent quantities and construct equations/inequalities to solve problems.
7	7.G.B.5	Solve real-world and mathematical problems involving angle measure, area, surface area, and volume.
7	7.NS.A.1	Apply and extend previous understandings of addition and subtraction to rational numbers.
7	7.RP.A.1	Compute unit rates associated with ratios of fractions.
7	7.RP.A.2	Recognize and represent proportional relationships between quantities.
7	7.RP.A.3	Use proportional relationships to solve multi-step ratio and percent problems.
7	7.SP.C.6	Calculate theoretical and experimental probability of simple events.
7	7.SP.C.7	Develop a probability model and use it to find probabilities of events.
8	8.EE.A.1	Know and apply the properties of integer exponents to generate equivalent expressions.
8	8.EE.C.7	Solve linear equations in one variable.
8	8.EE.C.8	Analyze and solve systems of two linear equations.
8	8.F.A.3	Know and interpret the equation y = mx + b as defining a linear function.
8	8.F.B.4	Construct a function to model a linear relationship between two quantities.
8	8.G.A.1	Describe the effect of translations, rotations, and reflections on figures.
8	8.G.B.3	Explain a model of the Pythagorean Theorem and its converse.
8	8.NS.A.2	Use rational approximations of irrational numbers to compare and locate them on a number line.
8	8.SP.A.1	Construct and interpret scatter plots for bivariate measurement data.
Algebra I	A1.A.REI.D.5	Understand that the graph of an equation in two variables is the set of its solutions.
Algebra I	A1.A.SSE.A.1	Interpret expressions that represent a quantity in terms of its context.
Algebra I	A1.F.BF.B.2	Identify the effect on the graph of replacing f(x) by transformations.
Algebra I	A1.F.IF.B.6	Calculate and interpret the average rate of change of a function over an interval.
Algebra I	A1.F.LE.A.1	Distinguish between situations that can be modeled with linear vs. exponential functions.
Algebra I	A1.N.Q.A.1	Use units as a way to understand problems and guide the solution of multi-step problems.
Algebra I	A1.S.ID.A.1	Use measures of center to solve real-world and mathematical problems.
Algebra I	A1.S.ID.C.6	Use technology to compute and interpret the correlation coefficient of a linear fit.
Algebra II	A2.A.APR.A.1	Know and apply the Factor Theorem and Remainder Theorem.
Algebra II	A2.A.CED.A.1	Create equations and inequalities in one variable and use them to solve problems.
Algebra II	A2.F.BF.B.4	Find the inverse of a function.
Algebra II	A2.F.IF.B.4	Graph functions expressed symbolically and show key features of the graph.
Algebra II	A2.N.M.A.1	Use matrices to represent data in a real-world context.
Algebra II	A2.S.CP.B.3	Use the Law of Large Numbers to assess the validity of statistical claims.
Algebra II	A2.S.IC.A.2	Identify potential sources of bias in statistical studies.
Algebra II	A2.S.ID.A.3	Compute, interpret, and compare z-scores.
Geometry	G.CO.A.1	Describe transformations as functions that take points in the plane as inputs.
Geometry	G.CO.A.3	Develop definitions of rotations, reflections, and translations.
Geometry	G.CO.C.9	Use definitions and theorems about lines and angles to prove relationships.
Geometry	G.CO.D.12	Use geometric constructions to solve geometric problems.
Geometry	G.GMD.A.1	Understand and explain the formulas for circumference, area, and volume.
Geometry	G.GPE.A.2	Use the slope criteria for parallel and perpendicular lines to solve problems.
Geometry	G.N.Q.A.1	Use units as a way to understand problems and guide solutions.
Geometry	G.SRT.C.8	Solve triangles using trigonometric ratios and the Pythagorean Theorem.
Integrated Math I	M1.A.REI.C.3	Write and solve a system of linear equations in context.
Integrated Math I	M1.A.SSE.A.1	Interpret expressions that represent a quantity in terms of its context.
Integrated Math I	M1.F.IF.A.2	Use function notation.
Integrated Math I	M1.F.LE.A.2	Construct linear and exponential functions given a description, table, or two points.
Integrated Math I	M1.G.CO.A.1	Describe transformations as functions that take points in the plane as inputs.
Integrated Math I	M1.G.GPE.A.2	Use the slope criteria for parallel and perpendicular lines.
Integrated Math I	M1.S.ID.B.4	Explain the differences between correlation and causation.
Integrated Math II	M2.A.CED.A.1	Create equations and inequalities in one variable (quadratic, square root) to solve problems.
Integrated Math II	M2.A.REI.B.2	Solve quadratic equations and inequalities in one variable.
Integrated Math II	M2.F.IF.C.7	Write a function defined by an expression in different but equivalent forms.
Integrated Math II	M2.G.CO.B.7	Explain how the criteria for triangle congruence follow from the definition of congruence.
Integrated Math III	M3.A.APR.A.1	Know and apply the Factor Theorem and Remainder Theorem.
Integrated Math III	M3.F.BF.A.3	Find the inverse of a function.
Integrated Math III	M3.G.SRT.A.1	Use side ratios in right triangles to define trigonometric ratios for acute angles.
Integrated Math III	M3.S.CP.C.5	Find the conditional probability of A given B.
Integrated Math III	M3.S.CP.C.6	Understand and apply the Addition Rule for probability.
Integrated Math III	M3.S.ID.A.4	Use the mean and standard deviation to fit data to a normal distribution.

· Tennessee Academic Standards for English Language Arts (state-adopted document, CCSS-derived; a revised set is approved for statewide implementation in 2029-30) · 96


K	K.FL.F.5	Read emergent-reader texts with purpose and understanding.
K	K.FL.PA.2	Demonstrate understanding of spoken words, syllables, and sounds (phonemes).
K	K.FL.PC.1	Demonstrate understanding of the organization and basic features of print.
K	K.FL.PWR.3	Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills when decoding words.
K	K.FL.SC.6	Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing/speaking.
K	K.FL.WC.4	Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills when encoding words (spelling).
K	K.RI.IKI.8	With prompting and support, identify the reasons an author gives to support points in a text.
K	K.RI.KID.1	With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in an informational text.
K	K.RL.KID.1	With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in a literary text.
K	K.RL.KID.2	With prompting and support, retell familiar stories, including key details.
K	K.RL.KID.3	With prompting and support, identify characters, settings, and major events in a story.
K	K.SL.CC.1	Participate in collaborative conversations with peers and adults about kindergarten topics and texts.
K	K.W.TTP.1	With prompting and support, use drawing, dictating, and/or writing to state an opinion about a topic.
1	1.FL.PA.2	Demonstrate understanding of spoken words, syllables, and sounds (phonemes).
1	1.FL.PC.1	Demonstrate understanding of the organization and basic features of print, including sentence features.
1	1.FL.VA.7a	Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases.
1	1.RI.KID.2	Identify the main topic and retell key details of an informational text.
1	1.RL.CS.4	Identify words and phrases in stories or poems that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses.
1	1.RL.KID.1	Ask and answer questions about key details in a literary text.
1	1.W.TTP.3	Write narratives recounting two or more sequenced events with details and a sense of closure.
2	2.FL.F.5	Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
2	2.FL.PWR.3	Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills when decoding words.
2	2.RI.CS.4	Determine the meaning of words and phrases in a grade-level informational text.
2	2.RL.KID.1	Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of key details in a literary text.
2	2.SL.PKI.4	Tell a story or recount an experience with appropriate facts and descriptive details, speaking audibly.
2	2.W.TTP.2	Write informative/explanatory texts that introduce a topic, use facts, and provide a conclusion.
3	3.FL.PWR.3	Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills when decoding words.
3	3.FL.SC.6	Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage.
3	3.FL.VA.7a	Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases.
3	3.FL.WC.4	Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills when encoding words (spelling).
3	3.RI.IKI.8	Explain how reasons support specific points an author makes in a text.
3	3.RI.KID.3	Describe the relationship between a series of events, ideas, concepts, or steps in a text.
3	3.RL.CS.6	Distinguish reader perspective from that of the narrator or characters.
3	3.RL.KID.1	Ask and answer questions, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for answers.
3	3.RL.KID.2	Recount stories and determine the central message, lesson, or moral.
3	3.SL.CC.1	Engage effectively in collaborative discussions, building on others' ideas and expressing one's own.
3	3.W.TTP.1	Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons.
4	4.FL.F.5	Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
4	4.RI.IKI.7	Interpret information presented visually, orally, or quantitatively and explain how it contributes to the text.
4	4.RL.CS.5	Explain major differences between poems, drama, and prose, referring to their structural elements.
4	4.RL.KID.1	Refer to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says and when drawing inferences.
4	4.W.PDW.4	Produce clear and coherent writing appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
4	4.W.TTP.2	Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas clearly with facts and details.
5	5.FL.PWR.3	Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills when decoding words.
5	5.FL.SC.6	Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage.
5	5.FL.VA.7c	Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases.
5	5.FL.WC.4	Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills when encoding words (spelling).
5	5.RI.CS.4	Determine the meaning of words and phrases as used in a grade-level informational text.
5	5.RI.KID.2	Determine the central idea of a text and explain how it is supported by key details; summarize the text.
5	5.RL.CS.6	Describe how a narrator's or speaker's point of view influences how events are described.
5	5.RL.KID.1	Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says and when drawing inferences.
5	5.RL.KID.2	Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details, including how characters respond to challenges.
5	5.W.TTP.3	Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences using effective technique and descriptive details.
6	6.L.CSE.1	Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
6	6.L.VAU.4	Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words using context and reference materials.
6	6.RI.IKI.8	Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, distinguishing claims supported by evidence.
6	6.RL.CS.4	Determine the meaning of words and phrases, including figurative and connotative meanings.
6	6.RL.KID.1	Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly and inferences drawn from it.
6	6.SL.CC.1	Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues.
6	6.W.TTP.1	Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
7	7.L.KL.3	Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
7	7.RI.CS.5	Analyze the structure an author uses to organize a text, including how major sections contribute to ideas.
7	7.RL.KID.2	Determine a theme and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary.
7	7.W.RBPK.7	Conduct research to answer a question, drawing on several sources and generating additional questions.
7	7.W.TTP.2	Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas with relevant content.
8	8.L.CSE.1	Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
8	8.L.CSE.2	Demonstrate command of conventions of capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
8	8.L.VAU.5	Explain the function of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
8	8.RI.KID.1	Cite textual evidence that most strongly supports analysis of explicit meaning and inferences.
8	8.RL.CS.4	Determine the meaning of words and phrases, including figurative, connotative, and allusive meanings.
8	8.RL.IKI.7	Analyze the extent to which a filmed or live production stays faithful to or departs from the text.
8	8.RL.KID.2	Determine a theme and analyze its development, including its relationship to characters, setting, and plot.
8	8.SL.PKI.4	Present claims and findings, emphasizing salient points with relevant evidence and sound reasoning.
8	8.W.TTP.1	Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence, acknowledging counterclaims.
9	9.L.VAU.4	Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words using context and references.
9	9.RI.CS.6	Determine an author's point of view or purpose and analyze how rhetoric advances that purpose.
9	9.RL.KID.1	Analyze what a text says explicitly and draw logical inferences, citing the strongest textual evidence.
9	9.SL.CC.1	Initiate and participate effectively in collaborative discussions on grades 9-10 topics, texts, and issues.
9	9.W.TTP.1	Write arguments to support claims using valid reasoning and relevant, sufficient evidence.
10	10.L.CSE.1	Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
10	10.L.KL.3	Apply knowledge of language to understand how language functions in different contexts.
10	10.RI.IKI.8	Evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing the validity of reasoning and evidence.
10	10.RL.CS.5	Analyze how an author's choices concerning text structure create effects such as mystery, tension, or surprise.
10	10.RL.KID.2	Determine a theme or central idea and analyze its development; provide an objective summary.
10	10.W.PDW.5	Develop and strengthen writing by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
11	11.L.CSE.1	Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
11	11.L.VAU.6	Acquire and use accurately general academic and domain-specific words and phrases at the college/career level.
11	11.RI.KID.2	Determine multiple central ideas and analyze their development over the course of the text.
11	11.RL.CS.4	Determine the meaning of words and phrases, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze word choice.
11	11.RL.KID.1	Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis, including determining matters left uncertain.
11	11.SL.PKI.4	Present information, findings, and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically.
11	11.W.RBPK.7	Conduct research to answer a question or solve a problem, synthesizing multiple authoritative sources.
11	11.W.TTP.2	Write informative/explanatory texts to convey complex ideas clearly and accurately through effective selection.
12	12.RI.CS.6	Determine an author's point of view or purpose, analyzing rhetorically powerful or persuasive texts.
12	12.RL.RRTC.10	Read and comprehend a range of complex literary texts independently and proficiently at the high end of the grade band.
12	12.W.TTP.1	Write arguments to support claims using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.

· Tennessee Academic Standards for Science (state-specific; built on the NRC 'Framework for K-12 Science Education' but NOT NGSS verbatim) · 108


K	K.ESS2.1	Make observations to gather weather data (precipitation, wind, temperature, cloud cover) using tools.
K	K.ESS3.2	Explain the purpose of weather forecasting to prepare for and respond to severe weather in Tennessee.
K	K.ETS1.1	Apply an engineering design approach to identify and solve practical problems.
K	K.LS1.1	Use information from observations to identify the differences between plants and animals and how they live and grow.
K	K.LS1.3	Explain how animals, including humans, use their five senses to interact with the environment.
K	K.LS3.1	Collect and analyze observational data to show that young living things are like, but not exactly like, their parents.
K	K.PS1.1	Plan and conduct an investigation using patterns to classify materials by observable properties, uses, and whether natural or manufactured.
K	K.PS1.2	Conduct investigations to understand that matter can exist in different states (solid, liquid) with observable, testable properties.
K	K.PS4.1	Record data from an investigation using senses to detect light, sound, and vibrations and communicate observations.
1	1.ESS1.1	Use observations or models of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.
1	1.ETS1.2	Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation to define a simple problem to be solved.
1	1.LS1.1	Develop and use a model to explain the structure of plants and describe the function of the parts.
1	1.LS2.1	Conduct an experiment to show how plants depend on air, water, minerals from soil, and light to grow and thrive.
1	1.PS3.1	Make observations to determine how sunlight warms Earth's surfaces (sand, soil, rocks, water).
1	1.PS4.1	Construct an evidence-based account that objects are visible when light shines on them or if they produce their own light.
1	1.PS4.2	Conduct an investigation to describe how the path of a beam of light can be changed by interactions with materials.
2	2.ESS2.2	Observe and analyze how blowing wind and flowing water move Earth materials, changing landforms and habitats.
2	2.ETS2.2	Predict and explain how human life and the natural world would be different without current technologies.
2	2.LS1.2	Obtain and communicate information to classify animals (vertebrates and invertebrates) based on physical characteristics.
2	2.LS2.2	Predict what happens to animals when the environment changes (temperature, cutting down trees, wildfires, pollution, drought).
2	2.PS2.1	Analyze the push or pull that occurs when objects collide or are connected.
2	2.PS3.2	Make observations and conduct experiments to provide evidence that friction produces heat and changes object motion.
2	2.PS4.1	Plan and conduct investigations to demonstrate the cause-and-effect relationship between vibrating materials and sound.
2	2.PS4.3	Obtain information to describe how devices communicate over a distance using light or sound.
3	3.ESS1.1	Use data to categorize different bodies in our solar system (inner/outer planets, moons, asteroids, comets, meteoroids) by properties and motion.
3	3.ESS2.2	Develop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth's spheres driven by energy from the sun.
3	3.ESS3.1	Evaluate existing solutions that reduce the impact of natural hazards on the environment.
3	3.LS1.1	Use graphical representations to compare how species including humans and other organisms have unique and diverse life cycles.
3	3.LS2.1	Obtain information to compare ways groups organize to explain the benefits of animal group behavior.
3	3.LS4.1	Use evidence to explain the cause-and-effect relationship between a naturally changing habitat and how well an organism survives.
3	3.PS1.1	Develop a model of solids, liquids, and gasses to describe that each state of matter is made of particles too small to be seen.
3	3.PS1.2	Construct an explanation about the effects of heating/cooling, differentiating reversible from non-reversible changes.
3	3.PS2.1	Explain cause-and-effect relationships of forces not seen, including interactions between objects not in contact (static electricity, magnetism, gravity).
3	3.PS3.2	Develop a model to show that energy can be transferred from place to place by electric currents in a system.
4	4.ETS2.1	Explain how existing technologies have been designed or improved to increase benefits, decrease risks, and meet societal demands.
4	4.LS2.1	Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems standard at grade 4 (per component-idea progression table).
4	4.LS4.1	Standard for Evidence of Common Ancestry at grade 4 (per component-idea progression table).
4	4.PS3.1	Use evidence to construct an explanation relating the speed of an object to the energy of that object (per component-idea table).
4	4.PS4.1	Develop a model of waves to describe patterns in terms of amplitude and wavelength (per component-idea table).
5	5.ESS1.4	Explain the cause-and-effect relationship between positions of sun, earth, and moon and resulting eclipses, tides, and moon appearance.
5	5.ESS1.5	Relate the tilt of Earth's axis to varying sunlight intensities; evaluate how this causes changes in day-lengths and seasons.
5	5.ETS1.1	Plan and carry out tests on prototype elements with controlled variables and failure points to identify improvements; apply to redesign.
5	5.LS1.1	Compare and contrast animal responses that are instinctual versus those learned through the senses and stored as memories.
5	5.LS3.1	Distinguish between inherited characteristics and those that result from direct interaction with the environment.
5	5.LS4.1	Use evidence to construct an explanation for how variations in characteristics among individuals may provide survival/reproductive advantages.
5	5.PS1.1	Analyze and interpret data from observations and measurements of physical properties to explain phase changes between solid, liquid, gas.
5	5.PS1.2	Analyze and interpret data to show that the amount of matter is conserved even when it changes form.
5	5.PS2.1	Plan and carry out an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.
5	5.PS2.3	Use evidence to support that the gravitational force exerted by Earth on objects is directed toward the Earth's center.
6	6.ESS2.4	Develop and use a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth's systems driven by energy from the sun and gravity.
6	6.ESS2.6	Develop a model to explain the role of greenhouse gases in regulating Earth's average surface temperature and habitability.
6	6.ESS3.1	Use data to explain the consumption and sustainability of natural resources and the resulting impact on Earth's system.
6	6.ETS1.1	Design, evaluate, and improve a possible solution for maintaining biodiversity of ecosystems.
6	6.LS2.3	Use a model to construct an explanation about the transfer of energy through a food web and energy pyramid in an ecosystem.
6	6.LS4.1	Explain how changes to biodiversity in a system would impact human resources and ecosystem services.
6	6.PS3.1	Analyze sources of energy in a system to gather evidence that energy is conserved during transfers of kinetic, potential, and thermal energy.
6	6.PS3.2	Use a model to gather evidence that changes to a system can be caused by transfers of sound or thermal energy (conduction, convection, radiation).
7	7.ETS1.1	Examine a problem from the medical field and design a solution considering criteria, constraints, and relevant scientific principles.
7	7.LS1.1	Develop models that identify and explain the structure and function of major cell organelles and structures.
7	7.LS1.7	Develop a model using evidence that explains photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and anaerobic respiration in cycling matter and flow of energy.
7	7.LS2.1	Develop a model to depict the cycling of matter, including carbon and oxygen, and the flow of energy among biotic and abiotic parts of an ecosystem.
7	7.LS3.1	Evaluate and communicate information that chromosomes contain many distinct genes which code for proteins, impacting the traits of an individual.
7	7.LS3.3	Predict the probability of individual dominant and recessive alleles to be transmitted from each parent to offspring; represent phenotypic/genotypic patterns using ratios.
7	7.PS1.4	Use computational thinking to demonstrate that all atoms in the reactants are present in the products, supporting the Law of Conservation of Mass.
7	7.PS3.2	Develop a model to explain how food is utilized through chemical reactions to form new molecules and release energy as matter moves through an organism.
8	8.ESS1.1	Research, analyze, and communicate that the universe began with a period of rapid expansion using redshift/blueshift, elemental concentrations, and cosmic background radiation.
8	8.ESS2.3	Gather and evaluate evidence that energy from Earth's interior drives convection cycles in the asthenosphere, creating plate movements and sea-floor spreading.
8	8.ESS3.1	Collect data, map, and describe patterns in locations of volcanoes and earthquakes related to plate boundaries to forecast future events.
8	8.LS4.3	Construct an explanation based on evidence that explains how genetic variations of traits increase some individuals' probability of surviving and reproducing.
8	8.LS4.4	Develop a scientific explanation of how natural selection plays a role in the survival and reproduction of a species in a changing environment.
8	8.PS1.1	Use a model to understand that atoms are a system of a positively charged nucleus surrounded by negatively charged electrons.
8	8.PS1.2	Develop a model to explain how light from distant stars and formation of heavier atoms results from changes in nuclear composition during nuclear fusion.
8	8.PS2.5	Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that the change in an object's motion depends on the sum of the forces and the mass of the object.
8	8.PS2.6	Evaluate and interpret that for every force exerted on an object there is an equal force exerted in the opposite direction.
8	8.PS4.1	Develop and use models to represent the basic properties of waves including frequency, amplitude, wavelength, and speed.
Biology I	BIO1.LS1.1	Construct an explanation that essential life functions are carried out by proteins coded by genes in DNA, as described by the Central Dogma.
Biology I	BIO1.LS1.4	Use a model to describe how photosynthesis converts light energy into stored chemical energy by converting CO2 and H2O into sugar and other organic molecules.
Biology I	BIO1.LS2.1	Use mathematical/computational representations to support explanations of factors affecting carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
Biology I	BIO1.LS3.1	Engage in argument from evidence that cellular division (mitosis) creates diploid daughter cells genetically identical to the parent cells.
Biology I	BIO1.LS3.2	Engage in argument from evidence that meiosis exists to create genetic variation from new combinations of genetic material in haploid gametes.
Biology I	BIO1.LS4.1	Analyze and interpret scientific data that common ancestry and biological evolution are supported by multiple lines of empirical evidence.
Biology I	BIO1.LS4.4	Construct an explanation based on evidence for how natural selection leads to adaptation in populations.
Biology II	BIO2.ETS2.1	Research the development of the microscope and advances in microscopy technology for the discovery and understanding of microorganisms.
Biology II	BIO2.LS2.2	Compare innate versus learned behavior; construct an argument showing the value of both types and their importance to species survival.
Biology II	BIO2.LS4.3	Use molecular data to construct cladograms depicting phylogenetic relationships between major groups of organisms.
Biology II	BIO2.LS4.8	Construct an explanation for the evolution of eukaryotes and multicellularity based on evidence supporting the theory of endosymbiosis.
Chemistry I	CHEM1.PS1.12	Use the Ideal Gas Law (PV=nRT) to quantitatively evaluate the relationship among moles, volume, pressure, and temperature for ideal gases.
Chemistry I	CHEM1.PS1.2	Use the Periodic Table as a model to predict chemical and physical properties of main group elements based on locations on the periodic table.
Chemistry I	CHEM1.PS1.5	Evaluate components of a substance to write the chemical name and formula using IUPAC criteria, including covalent, ionic compounds, polyatomic ions, and common acids.
Chemistry I	CHEM1.PS1.7	Perform stoichiometric calculations involving mole-mole, mass-mass, mole-mass, mole-particle, and mass-particle relationships.
Chemistry I	CHEM1.PS3.3	Analyze the energy changes involved in calorimetry using the law of conservation of energy quantitatively (q=mcDeltaT) and qualitatively.
Chemistry II	CHEM2.PS1.1	Illustrate and explain the arrangement of electrons surrounding atoms and ions and relate the arrangement with observed periodic trends.
Chemistry II	CHEM2.PS2.5	Investigate parameters of chemical equilibria: writing equilibrium expressions (Kc, Kp, Ksp, Ka, Kb), calculating Q, and equilibrium concentrations.
Chemistry II	CHEM2.PS3.2	Apply scientific principles and mathematical representations to predict if a reaction is spontaneous using Gibbs Free Energy, DeltaG = DeltaH - TDeltaS.
Earth and Space Science	ESS.ESS1.1	Construct an explanation regarding the rapid expansion of the universe based on light spectra, motion of distant galaxies, and composition of matter.
Earth and Space Science	ESS.ESS1.3	Analyze and interpret data about the mass of a star to predict its composition, luminosity, and temperature across its life cycle.
Earth and Space Science	ESS.ESS1.7	Analyze and interpret data to compare and explain characteristics of objects in the solar system (sun, planets, satellites, planetoids, asteroids, comets).
Human Anatomy and Physiology	HAP.ETS2.1	Research system disorders to communicate information on known facts and identify technology developed to diagnose and/or treat the disorders.
Human Anatomy and Physiology	HAP.LS1.16	Explain blood pressure in terms of systole and diastole; describe factors affecting blood pressure and its role in homeostasis (item 16 in HAP.LS1).
Physical Science	PSCI.PS1.5	Predict how elements may combine using the patterns of electrons in the outermost energy level.
Physical Science	PSCI.PS2.3	Plan and carry out an investigation and provide a mathematical explanation about the relationship among force, mass, and acceleration using F=ma.
Physical Science	PSCI.PS3.1	Use mathematics and computational thinking to solve problems regarding the work-energy theorem and power using various forms of energy.
Physical Science	PSCI.PS4.1	Construct an explanation to compare and contrast the properties of transverse and longitudinal waves, including examples of each.
Physical World Concepts	PWC.PS1.4	Describe three forms of radioactivity in terms of changes in atomic number and mass number to write balanced equations for radioactive decay.
Physical World Concepts	PWC.PS2.11	Using the law of universal gravitation, predict how gravitational force changes when distance or mass changes.
Physical World Concepts	PWC.PS2.4	Using Newton's second law, analyze the relationship among net force, mass, and resulting acceleration through mathematical and graphical methods.
Physical World Concepts	PWC.PS3.8	Mathematically quantify the relationship among electrical potential, current, and resistance in an ohmic system.
Physical World Concepts	PWC.PS4.6	Using real world application, explain the principle of the Doppler Effect.

· Tennessee Academic Standards for Social Studies (state-specific; not the C3 Framework) · 100


K	K.02	Compare and contrast family traditions and customs, including food, clothing, homes, and games.
K	K.07	Recognize and describe different types of jobs, including work done in the home, school, and community.
K	K.08	Use the language of location (e.g., up, down, near, far, left, right, in front of, and behind) to describe a student's location, items on a map, and items in the classroom.
K	K.10	Recall the student's and/or school's street address, city/town, and state.
K	K.12	Recognize the name, image, and role of the current President of the United States.
1	1.01	Describe the components of culture (e.g., food, clothing, traditions, recreation) of a student's community and state.
1	1.03	Compare and contrast family traditions and customs among different cultures within a student's community and state.
1	1.10	Locate on a map Tennessee, Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Washington, D.C.
1	1.19	Explain the importance of patriotic traditions (e.g., Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem) and respectful behavior.
1	1.20	Identify Tennessee symbols, including the state flag, state tree (tulip poplar), state flower (iris), state bird (mockingbird), and state animal (raccoon).
1	1.22	Interpret information from simple timelines, including past, present, and future events.
2	2.01	Compare and contrast beliefs, customs, ceremonies, and traditions of various cultures represented in the United States.
2	2.06	Define the concepts of supply and demand.
2	2.13	Identify and locate on a map the four hemispheres, as defined by the boundaries created by the equator and prime meridian.
2	2.23	Identify the ways one becomes a U.S. citizen (e.g., by birth or naturalization).
2	2.27	Examine the significant contributions of historic figures.
3	3.01	Compare and contrast the geographic regions of North American Indians, and examine their cultures.
3	3.09	Identify the economic, political, and religious reasons for founding the Thirteen English Colonies.
3	3.18	Explain the historical and present-day significance of the Declaration of Independence.
3	3.29	Explain the impact of Andrew Jackson's presidency, including the Indian Removal Act and Trail of Tears.
3	3.31	Examine the impact of President James K. Polk's view of Manifest Destiny on westward expansion.
4	4.03	Compare characteristics of the lives of enslaved persons on plantations, in cities, and on other farms.
4	4.13	Describe the significance of the Gettysburg Address.
4	4.23	Examine the impact of important entrepreneurs on American society during the Gilded Age.
4	4.36	Explain the structures and goals of the governments in Germany and Japan during the 1930s.
4	4.43	Explain the effects of the Civil Rights Movement, including the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act.
5	5.11	Identify the year Tennessee became a state, its first governor, and the original capital.
5	5.22	Identify how the rise of vigilante action (e.g., the Ku Klux Klan), black codes, and Jim Crow laws affected African Americans.
5	5.26	Describe Tennessee's contributions during World War I and World War II, including the conversion of factories to wartime production and the importance of Oak Ridge to the Manhattan Project.
5	5.36	Examine major human features on globes and maps, including transportation and political boundaries.
5	5.46	Describe how physical features influence and impact human settlement patterns.
6	6.06	Analyze how geographic (e.g., rivers, mountains) and climatic features (e.g., heavy rains, flooding) led to the region being known as the Fertile Crescent.
6	6.15	Explain how agricultural practices impacted life in ancient Egypt, including the use of irrigation.
6	6.32	Analyze the achievements of ancient India, including medical education and techniques and yoga.
6	6.48	Examine the influence of major ancient Greek philosophers (Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle).
6	6.61	Explain the division of the Roman Empire into East and West, and identify why Constantinople was important.
7	7.17	Describe the reunification of China during the Sui Dynasty, including the spread of Buddhism.
7	7.32	Describe how political relationships both fostered cooperation (Charlemagne and Pope Leo III) and created conflict.
7	7.46	Explain the significant causes of the Protestant Reformation, including the Catholic Church's taxation.
7	7.54	Identify and locate on a map the geographical features of the Americas, including the Andes Mountains and Appalachian Mountains.
7	7.65	Explain the impact of Spanish colonization in the Americas, including the introduction and spread of disease.
8	8.01	Compare and contrast the British, Dutch, French, and Spanish colonies in North America.
8	8.15	Analyze the influence of Benjamin Franklin as a revolutionary thinker, including the 'Join or Die' cartoon.
8	8.34	Evaluate the effectiveness of negotiations between the U.S. government and American Indians.
8	8.53	Explain the reasons for and the provisions of the Missouri Compromise (Compromise of 1820).
8	8.74	Explain the outcome of the Election of 1876, including the Compromise of 1877 and its role in ending Reconstruction.
African American History	AAH.01	Explore the legacy of rich African kingdoms such as Ghana, Mali, and Songhai.
African American History	AAH.12	Compare and contrast the experiences of African Americans in free states versus slave states.
African American History	AAH.23	Analyze the successes and failures of Reconstruction as they relate to African Americans.
African American History	AAH.40	Describe the experience of African Americans at home during and after World War II, such as unequal treatment.
African American History	AAH.56	Identify the major contributions of contemporary African Americans in America.
Ancient History	AH.05	Identify and locate on a map early civilizations (e.g., China, Egypt, Indus-Sarasvathi River Valley, Mesopotamia), and explain why civilizations arose in those places.
Ancient History	AH.17	Compare and contrast the impact of eastern religions (e.g., Confucianism, Taoism) on cultural development.
Ancient History	AH.34	Explain the reasons for establishing Constantinople as the capital of the Roman Empire.
Ancient History	AH.48	Describe the characteristics of civilizations in the Americas, with emphasis on the Maya.
Ancient History	AH.60	Describe how economic and technological advances led to networks of trade and cultural diffusion.
Contemporary Issues	CI.02	Identify markers of verification, transparency, accountability, and independence in a news story.
Contemporary Issues	CI.09	Examine key features of major world regions, and explain how current issues link or divide those regions.
Contemporary Issues	CI.16	Describe the patterns of stability and change within political governance (e.g., elections).
Contemporary Issues	CI.22	Analyze the changing role of media and technology on the spread of information.
Economics	E.13	Analyze causes and effects of shortages and surpluses on supply and demand.
Economics	E.24	Explore the roles that research and development, equipment and technology, and the training of workers play in productivity.
Economics	E.36	Define gross domestic product (GDP), economic growth, unemployment, and inflation.
Economics	E.37	Define externalities, and identify examples of them.
Economics	E.47	Evaluate the arguments for and against free trade.
U.S. Government and Civics	GC.01	Describe the purpose and functions of government.
U.S. Government and Civics	GC.09	Describe the purposes of government as outlined in the Preamble of the Constitution.
U.S. Government and Civics	GC.23	Trace the sequence of a presidential election from initial candidacy through inauguration.
U.S. Government and Civics	GC.31	Analyze the First Amendment and its application to freedom of religion in historical and contemporary contexts.
U.S. Government and Civics	GC.47	Explain the requirements to be considered a U.S. citizen, and describe the process of naturalization.
Psychology	P.01	Describe the scientific method and its role in psychology.
Psychology	P.17	Describe and discuss the role of genetics in human behavior.
Psychology	P.32	Identify cognitive, moral, and social development theories.
Psychology	P.47	Interpret psychological research to examine differences in individual cognitive and physical abilities.
Psychology	P.61	Describe the availability of treatment for psychological disorders and the impact of treatment options on society.
Sociology	S.01	Define sociology as a field of study, and explain why it is a science.
Sociology	S.11	Compare and contrast various elements of cultures of the world.
Sociology	S.21	Define deviance, and explain how sociologists approach the study of deviant behavior.
Sociology	S.32	Explain education from the point of view of the major sociological perspectives.
Sociology	S.43	Explain the various sociological perspectives on stratification and social inequality.
Tennessee History	TN.01	Describe the geographic features that make up the three grand divisions of Tennessee (East, Middle, West).
Tennessee History	TN.14	Describe major features of the Tennessee Constitution of 1796. (T.C.A. 49-6-1028)
Tennessee History	TN.32	Describe the importance of the Medal of Honor, its origins in Tennessee, and its continued legacy.
Tennessee History	TN.44	Discuss the impact of the yellow fever epidemic on Memphis.
Tennessee History	TN.67	Describe significant and/or unique products from Tennessee (e.g., Cracker Barrel, Goo Goo Cluster).
U.S. History and Geography	US.03	Summarize the efforts of Benjamin 'Pap' Singleton and the Exodusters.
U.S. History and Geography	US.15	Compare and contrast the ideas and philosophies of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois.
U.S. History and Geography	US.36	Describe changes and limitations in the social and economic status of women during this era.
U.S. History and Geography	US.67	Analyze the increasing impact of television and mass media on American homes, politics, and culture.
U.S. History and Geography	US.90	Describe the impact of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
World History and Geography	W.01	Describe the types of kingdoms, leaders, and government systems in major world regions.
World History and Geography	W.21	Describe the various strategies and outcomes of African resistance to European imperialism.
World History and Geography	W.34	Identify the causes and consequences of the Bolshevik Revolution and Russian Civil War.
World History and Geography	W.56	Analyze the rise of communism and Mao Zedong in China, and the related political and social changes.
World History and Geography	W.73	Compare and contrast the causes and effects of modern genocide, including in Cambodia, Rwanda, and elsewhere.
World Geography	WG.09	Describe the purposes and uses of geospatial technologies (i.e., GIS, GPS, remote sensing), and apply them in relevant contexts.
World Geography	WG.10	Explain how geographers use geographic knowledge, skills, and perspectives to analyze problems.
World Geography	WG.22	Describe the impact and challenges of migration on both the sending and receiving countries.
World Geography	WG.36	Differentiate between developed and developing countries, and evaluate how economic and social factors differ.
World Geography	WG.45	Describe urban infrastructure and how it relates to local economics, politics, and the environment.

Is homeschooling legal in Tennessee?

Yes. Tennessee homeschooling is governed primarily by TCA 49-6-3050 (and TCA 49-50-801 for church-related schools).

Do I have to notify anyone to homeschool in Tennessee?

Is standardized testing required for homeschoolers in Tennessee?

Yes (grades 5, 7, 9). Independent (Option 1) home schools must maintain attendance records, which are subject to inspection by the local director of schools and are submitted to the director/superintendent at the end of the school year. Church-related (Option 2) and accredited-online (Option 3) families keep records per their umbrella/online school's requirements.

What subjects are required for homeschooling in Tennessee?

Tennessee requires instruction in: Tennessee statute (TCA 49-6-3050) does not enumerate specific required subjects for independent home schools; it requires the parent to submit a 'proposed curriculum' but does not mandate named courses. Families generally follow the core academic areas (English/language arts, mathematics, science, social studies)..

Does Tennessee have its own learning standards?

Math: Tennessee Academic Standards for Mathematics (state-adopted document, CCSS-aligned content and notation). ELA: Tennessee Academic Standards for English Language Arts (state-adopted document, CCSS-derived; a revised set is approved for statewide implementation in 2029-30). Science: Tennessee Academic Standards for Science (state-specific; built on the NRC 'Framework for K-12 Science Education' but NOT NGSS verbatim). Social studies: Tennessee Academic Standards for Social Studies (state-specific; not the C3 Framework).

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