Building a Timeline Binder
A timeline binder allows students to compile all their history timeline learning, notebooking pages, and maps for easy reference & study.
We started our timeline binders at the very beginning of ancient history and will be adding to them as we travel along through history over the next several years. Our family is using Story of the World, but this would also work as a wonderful compliment to Classical Conversations, Mystery of History, My Father's World, or any timeline curriculum.
The process of putting the timeline binder together is pretty simple and only requires a few basic supplies and ten minutes of your time. It's a worthwhile investment for the years ahead.
Supplies List
Choosing a Binder
The size of binder you choose to use can be dependent on how many notebooking pages and maps you plan to use in your study. I chose to start with a smaller size (inch or 1.5 inch) and can upgrade to a larger ring in the future if we need more room.
I really like the Up & Up brand from Target, because they have additional pockets inside the front and back covers of the binder that many brands don't have.
The perfectionist in me likes to include a cover sheet on my binders, so I always choose a clear view binder with exterior pockets on the cover and binding for adding my own personal touch. This keeps things more orderly and easier for me to find on the shelf.
Create the Timeline Tabs
Begin by counting out one set of 8 dividers. Mark each tab with the following dates on a timeline.
- Creation
- 3000 BC
- 2000 BC
- 1000 BC
- Jesus Christ
- 1000 AD
- 2000 AD
- 3000 AD
Fill the 3 Ring Binder
Insert the tabs into your 3 ring binder. Yes, it's that easy. You've done it!
Timeline Binder Cover
If you'd like to include a decorative cover for your timeline binder you can do so. Some companies (like My Father's World) actually include timeline binder covers in their printed materials. (Often ties the first cover page in printed student pages is a great option).
Using the Timeline Binder
To use the binder, simply have your student file their papers in the appropriate place between the tabs on the binder. Sometimes it can be tricky to remember that BC dates count down, so 1200 BC goes BEFORE the 1000 BC tab, not after. If a mistake happens it's easy to correct and reorganize. Of course, nothing will come after 3000 AD because we aren't there yet, but I like that it creates bookends to our current millenia, and fits in the 8 tabs nicely.
If you're looking for notebooking pages be sure to check out the printables avaialble under the resources tab.
I also have a timeline notebooking printable which I specifically made for our history notebooking. You can find it and information on how we use it on my Timeline Notebooking Page post.
