How Do You Teach Your Kids How to Learn?
That’s the question we keep seeing in our community, and it’s what sparked this episode of the podcast.
If you’re looking for a way to build independent learners who can analyze, think critically, and engage with any subject matter—then let us introduce you to one of our favorite tools: The Five Common Topics.
This method, adapted from classical education and used widely in both classical and principle-based homeschooling, gives your kids a thinking framework they can apply to anything—from Shakespeare to science to social situations.
The Five Common Topics: A Breakdown
- Definition
Start by defining your terms. It’s the first step to clarity, understanding, and deeper conversation in any subject area—or relationship! - Comparison
What’s similar or different about these two things? Comparison is a powerful way to build critical thinking and discernment. - Relationship
Explore how people, places, ideas, or things relate to each other. This is key in history, literature, theology, and even current events. - Circumstance
Consider the context. When and where is this happening? What are the surrounding events? - Authority
Ask: Who says? What’s the source or foundation for what’s being claimed? Is it reliable? What is the ultimate standard?
Why This Matters
Whether you’re just starting out or have been homeschooling for years, these tools help you move beyond rote learning and into rich conversations that stick. They’re adaptable across ages and subjects and incredibly effective for teens who need to build college- or life-level thinking skills.
🧠 “This is one of the best study skills you can give your child. And it’s free!” – Lisa
You’ll also hear how Gina used this method alongside her Principle Approach homeschool model to raise kids who can reason biblically—and how her now-adult kids are still using these tools in college and beyond.
Real-World Applications
- Use the Five Common Topics while watching a movie as a family.
- Apply them to a news article or current event.
- Integrate them into your Bible study or literature analysis.
- Let your kids use them to create a DIY unit study on a topic they love—like trebuchets or WW2.
Ready to Try It?
We’ve created a simple, helpful eBook to guide you through this approach. It includes real examples (like a medieval warfare unit!) and shows you how to use the Five Common Topics for any subject.
👉 Download the eBook: Five Common Topics: Not So Common Anymore (on sale until 6/30/25)
Sponsored By: CTC Math
If math is the subject that keeps derailing your homeschool day, we highly recommend CTC Math.
🎥 Clear video lessons
📊 Instant feedback
🧮 Independent learning
And peace of mind for you. Try the free trial at ctcmath.com today.
Have questions about how to use this tool in your homeschool? Drop them in the comments—we love hearing from you!
Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a show!
Lisa Nehring and her husband, Dr. David Nehring, a Clinical Psychologist, and Biblical Scholar speak together on a wide variety of topics, including education, classical education, vision, mission, parenting, marriage, and more.
