The Renaissance – A Homeschool Guide for Ages 12–18

The Renaissance! This was the age of art, discovery, and innovation! It began in Italy during the 14th century and spread across Europe, transforming how people thought about science, creativity, and humanity itself. From the genius of Leonardo da Vinci to the writings of Shakespeare, this was the era when the modern world truly began to take shape.

But how do you make this exciting time come alive for teens?

Instead of memorizing dates or names of painters, give them opportunities to analyze the choices that defined this period—Why did art suddenly focus on realism? How did the printing press spark new ways of thinking? Let them connect Renaissance ideas to today’s world of invention and creativity!

Free Learning Resources

Here are some FREE online resources and activities that help you dive into the Renaissance!

General

• Ducksters — Great overview for quick reviews.

• PBS — Interactive 3D models. 

• History.com — Concise articles, timelines, and videos. 

Free Videos & Documentaries

Visual/auditorial learners will love these!

• CrashCourse: Renaissance (part one) & CrashCourse: Renaissance (part two) . — Short, fun videos packed with info!

• The Age of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci — DW Documentary.

Hands-On Activities

Bring the Renaissance home with creative projects!

•  Printing Press Model: Build your own printing press just like Johannes Gutenberg! (Explore how this invention changed the world, here.)

• Renaissance Fair Night: Dress-up, cook an Italian dish, and listen to music from the 1500s!

• Invent Like Da Vinci: Sketch your own “machine of the future” inspired by his notebooks.

Books to Explore

Great reads for older students and homeschool libraries:

•  The Renaissance Thinkers — Diane C. Taylor.

• The Oxford Illustrated History of the Renaissance — Gordon Campbell.
  
• The Renaissance Artists — Diane C. Taylor.

History Plus Brings It All Together

At History Plus, students don’t just learn about the Renaissance—they experience it! Teens discover how curiosity and creativity shaped an entire era through:

• Engaging video lessons made specifically for ages 12–18.

• Printable worksheets and hands-on activities.

Ready to experience history the fun way? Join History Plus  and start exploring today!

— Janaya Allers