Record-keeping in high school becomes more important, especially if your student plans to apply to college. A short-cut that many families use is to register with a home school umbrella school. The school will keep your records, provide a transcript to prospective colleges, and usually gives a diploma. Another advantage is that they often provide proof of attendance, which is required for drivers' permits and licenses in some states.
If you do not use an umbrella school, you will want to document work in the following areas:
English: 4 credits
Mathematics: 3-4 credits
Science: 3 credits
US History: 1 credit
World History or Geography: 1 credit
A Single Foreign Language: 2 credits
Visual or Performing Arts: 1 credit
Economics: 1/2 credit
Physical Education: 1 credit (usually requires two years at a half credit each)
Health: 1/2 credit
Electives: 4-6 credits
For each credit you should record:
Text books and other materials or books used
Grades for each semester (There are two semesters in a high school year.)
Attendance for 90 days minimum for each semester
A sample of assignments completed such as essays or photographs of projects
A record of any applicable field trips or related activities such as science fairs, foreign travel, etc.
Documents may be stored in files or notebooks. Many families find that keeping documentation in a thick three-ring binder makes the material more portable for college interviews.