(refer to Homeschooling the High Schooler – vol. 1 & 2, by McAlister.)
 
In this option, you and your student design their coursework. Not only do you choose courses, you choose and design the scope and sequence for the courses, and the methods and textbooks to be used. The parent might plan the course, or the student might. If necessary, the family might pay a “teacher/tutor” to design the course. The school could give credit for work experience, apprenticeship, travel, etc. This option I liken to cooking at home. You choose from ingredients you have available at home and if you are missing an ingredient, you go out shopping to buy it.
 
Pros:

• You have the maximum amount of freedom and flexibility.
• You can most effectively meet the needs of the individual student with this option.
• You can provide plenty of opportunity for in-depth study.
• Early graduation, apprenticeship, vocational school, and work experience credit are easier to provide.
• The student learns to take more responsibility for their learning since they are involved in the planning.
• You set the time frame.

 
Cons:

• This option takes a lot of planning time.
• The parent is very involved in the courses.
• There is no school providing accountability to you — to ensure that you follow through on your plans.
• Parent has to feel competent to design a course or hire another “teacher.”
• Parents needs to learn how to plan, document courses, keep detailed records, etc.
• Parent issues the diploma.