FAQ's
Are there history textbooks that go with the boxes?
Rather than including one large history textbook, each History Unboxed box contains a complete set of learning materials that function like a chapter of a high-quality history curriculum.
Every box includes:
- A full-color educational magazine that introduces the history, people, and culture of the topic.
- A lesson plan with discussion questions and teaching guidance.
- Clear learning objectives so you know exactly what students should master.
- Curated reading lists for families who want to explore the topic in greater depth.
- Maps, timelines, and other visual learning resources.
- Assessment ideas and rubrics to help evaluate understanding.
Instead of asking students to read a single textbook chapter, History Unboxed combines engaging reading, hands-on projects, meaningful discussion, and additional resources into a complete learning experience. The result is a history curriculum that is more interactive, memorable, and flexible than a traditional textbook alone.
History Unboxed can be used as a complete history curriculum or alongside another curriculum if you’d like additional depth or a different historical perspective.
Is this a resource for homeschoolers or for traditional classrooms?
History Unboxed is an excellent learning resource, adaptable for all styles of education. Thousands of homeschoolers use this resource. History Unboxed is approved as a learning resource for use in dozens of schools. Teachers and parents enjoy the convenience of having everything included, and many choose History Unboxed in lieu of a textbook.
Are all the supplies for the crafts included in the box?
The boxes include a full-color magazine and other printed information, as well as a book list. Although they do not include a large textbook, you can use our boxes as a stand-alone curricula for younger students or with a traditional textbook for older students. Every box includes downloadable lesson plans with discussion questions. If you’re looking for a deeper dive, Ancient History: A Secular Exploration of the World gathers the information in all the magazines into a beautiful single volume, with added chapters on the Americas, Christianity, and East Africa. Looking for a culinary companion? Pair your boxes with Ancient Eats: An Edible Exploration of the World.
Are there lesson plans included in each box?
Yes! Every History Unboxed box includes professionally designed lesson plans that make teaching easy, whether you’re a homeschool parent, classroom teacher, or co-op leader.
Each lesson plan includes:
- Clear learning objectives
- Background information for the instructor
- Step-by-step directions for each activity
- Discussion questions to encourage critical thinking
- Suggested assessments and grading rubrics
- Recommended books and additional resources for students who want to explore the topic more deeply
Combined with the educational magazine, hands-on projects, enrichment activities, and other learning materials included in every box, History Unboxed provides a complete learning experience. Many families use History Unboxed as their primary history curriculum, while others incorporate it alongside another curriculum to add hands-on learning and deeper historical exploration.
Our curriculum emphasizes meaningful learning over memorization. Rather than relying on traditional tests and quizzes, we provide assessment ideas and rubrics that allow students to demonstrate their understanding through discussion, writing, projects, and other authentic learning activities.
What does secular mean to us?
Our materials focus on historical events, facts, and perspectives without favoring any particular religion. We recognize the important role religion has played in history and include discussion of world religions in our materials. Our content is inclusive and accessible to learners of all backgrounds.
I have multiple children. Do you offer deals for siblings?
Yes! If you teach multiple students take advantage of our multi-learner discount! Purchase one box at full price and get 20% off each additional box of the same box type. Take 20% off the total order for 5 or more!
If you are ordering using purchase orders, please reach out to hello@historyunboxed.com to receive discounted boxes for additional students.
What are the key differences between youth and young adult boxes?
Our youth box is more visual and contains high interest, briefer conversation points to help start a dialogue about history. It is also more heavily screened for historic violence and is kept age appropriate for the youngest students. We additionally provide a sheet of information for parents or educators so they can learn more about each civilization to discuss with their student. This box is meant to be used under the direction of a parent, older student, or educator. Additionally, for older kids and those who want to learn more, this box comes with a penpal style letter from “Ava,” our time traveling teenager. There is additional detail and in-depth information, plus a detailed coloring sheet. These resources can be enjoyed independently or with the educator.
The young adult box features an additional 4 page booklet with detailed historic information relating to cultural and historic points that would be discussed at the high school level and above. A detailed coloring page and monthly art challenge section are also included.
The crafts materials in each box are selected for their enjoyability by all age groups. Each box variation contains the same craft supplies and souvenirs.
Do you ship internationally?
At this time, History Unboxed ships only within the United States.
