The What We Believe Series is a four-volume Christian worldview curriculum from Apologia designed for grades K-8, building biblical foundations through engaging stories and discussion-based learning.
What is the What We Believe Series?
The What We Believe Series is a Christian worldview curriculum published by Apologia Educational Ministries in partnership with Summit Ministries. Unlike a traditional Bible study, this four-volume series teaches children to view the world through a biblical lens while applying Christian truths to everyday life. Written directly to students in a conversational tone, it combines fictional stories, biographies, discussion questions, and journaling prompts to build a comprehensive understanding of Christian faith.
Key Takeaways
- Four volumes progressing from God's nature to Christian service and stewardship
- Designed for family-style learning with children ages 6-14
- Includes notebooking journals for grades K-3 and 4-8
- Features full-color illustrations throughout all volumes
- Created in partnership with Summit Ministries' worldview framework
The Four Volumes
Teaching Approach
Each lesson covers a two-week period with three days per week of instruction. The format mixes fictional stories featuring children from different worldviews, non-fiction content, historical biographies, Scripture memory verses, and extensive discussion questions. The conversational writing style speaks directly to students rather than through the parent, making it accessible for independent reading while still encouraging family discussion. Many families work through it more slowly to let concepts take root.
What Makes It Distinctive
Unlike devotional Bible studies, this curriculum builds systematic worldview thinking. Children learn not just what Christians believe, but why—and how those beliefs apply to real-world situations. The series has earned endorsements from Chuck Colson, Andy Stanley, and Sean McDowell, who called it "excellent, Bible-rich worldview curriculum." Parents consistently report being surprised by the theological depth of conversations their elementary-aged children initiate after working through the material.
Age Recommendations and Materials
The publisher recommends grades 4-8 as the primary audience, though the content works for ages 6-14 with appropriate adaptation. Younger children (K-3) can participate using the Junior Notebooking Journal, which includes age-appropriate activities. The Standard Notebooking Journal serves grades 4-8 with deeper writing prompts and activities. The beautifully illustrated hardcover texts can be read aloud for family study or assigned as independent reading. A four-volume boxed set with slipcover is available for families planning to complete the entire series.
The Bottom Line
The What We Believe Series fills an important gap for families wanting more than Sunday school material but something more accessible than adult theology texts. It systematically builds worldview thinking rather than just Bible knowledge, equipping children to understand why they believe what they believe. For homeschool families prioritizing faith formation alongside academics, this curriculum provides substance without being dry. Pair it with your regular family devotions for a comprehensive approach to Christian education.
