Wednesday, May 2, 2012
What is narration?
Narration is an important component of this subject. It is a way for the
child to develop their understanding and storytelling skills. The
process is simple: the child tells you what they have just heard or
read. If first grade, you begin to ask the child to summarize the plots
of short simple stories. Read the child the story, close the book, and
ask, "What was the story about?" Encourage the child to answer in
complete sentences. Write down the child's narration and then read it
back. As their writing capabilities increase, transition them over to
writing out narrations on their own. Narration lets you know how much a
child retains and understands. it also develops vocabulary and powers of
expression, and lays the foundation for good writing later on.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Foreign Language
Under construction!
My husband and I are both fluent in Spanish, so, that's what they're going to learn!
My husband and I are both fluent in Spanish, so, that's what they're going to learn!
Science
The four years of science are divided into subjects that roughly correspond to the history periods. First graders, who are studying the ancients, learn about those things that the ancients could see- animal life, the human body, and plants. They make collections, take nature walks, and sprout beans in jars. Second graders collect facts about the earth and sky, a division designed to go along with the medieval-early Renaissance period, when Copernicus and Tycho Brahe observed the heavens. Third graders work on basic chemistry- atoms and molecules, what elements are and how they interact. They're also reading history from the period spanning 1600-1850, the years when the first great chemists lived- Robert Boyle, Georg Ernst Stahl, Antoine Lavoisier, John Dalton. Fourth graders, studying modern times, learn basic physics and are introduced to the elements of computer science.
Grade 1 (and 5, 9): Life Science/Biology (Animals, Human Beings, Plants)
Grade 2 (and 6, 10): Earth Science and Astronomy
Grade 3 (and 7, 11): Chemistry
Grade 4 (and 8, 12): Physics
These are the years to explore. The foundation laid now has to do with basic facts, but also involves enthusiasm!
To organize your study, you'll need four science notebooks (one for each year), notebook paper, and art supplies. You'll be making notebook pages on the information you read and the observations you make.
Instead of using a single text for science, it is suggested that we use encyclopedia-type works or "spines" as guides, and supplement them with a number of different science books designed to make science clear and interesting for children. However, I'm looking into other curricula options and am reading various reviews. We want our children to have a strong foundation in science. I never liked science growing up, so I want to make it enjoyable and fun for our kids!
I'm interested in learning more about R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey and Nancy Larson Science. I want especially want our kids to be familiar with all the theories surrounding young earth, intelligent design, and evolution and be able to intelligently discuss them all. But it's extremely difficult to find a curriculum that teaches these things, and doesn't subscribe to one method! There are very few non-secular programs to choose from.
Grade 1 (and 5, 9): Life Science/Biology (Animals, Human Beings, Plants)
Grade 2 (and 6, 10): Earth Science and Astronomy
Grade 3 (and 7, 11): Chemistry
Grade 4 (and 8, 12): Physics
These are the years to explore. The foundation laid now has to do with basic facts, but also involves enthusiasm!
To organize your study, you'll need four science notebooks (one for each year), notebook paper, and art supplies. You'll be making notebook pages on the information you read and the observations you make.
Instead of using a single text for science, it is suggested that we use encyclopedia-type works or "spines" as guides, and supplement them with a number of different science books designed to make science clear and interesting for children. However, I'm looking into other curricula options and am reading various reviews. We want our children to have a strong foundation in science. I never liked science growing up, so I want to make it enjoyable and fun for our kids!
I'm interested in learning more about R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey and Nancy Larson Science. I want especially want our kids to be familiar with all the theories surrounding young earth, intelligent design, and evolution and be able to intelligently discuss them all. But it's extremely difficult to find a curriculum that teaches these things, and doesn't subscribe to one method! There are very few non-secular programs to choose from.
History and Geography
The classical approach to history is as a story. Start at the beginning, and continue onward. The goal of this curriculum is multicultural in the true sense of the word: the student learns the proper place of his community, state, and country by seeing the broad sweep of history from its beginning and then fitting his own time and place into that great landscape. The systematic study of history in the first four years lays the foundation for the logic stage, when the student will begin to understand the relationships between historical events.
World history is divided into four segments, one segment per year of study. In 1st-4th grades, the child will study history from 5000b.c. through the present day. In 5th-8th grades, he'll study it again, concentrating on cause and effect and chronological relationships. In grades 9-12, he'll repeat it yet again, this time studying original sources and writing thoughtful essays about them.
Grade 1 (and 5, 9): Ancients, 5000bc-400ad
Grade 2 (and 6, 10): Medieval - Early Renaissance, 400-1600
Grade 3 (and 7, 11): Late Renaissance - Early Modern, 1600-1850
Grade 4 (and 8, 12): Modern, 1850-present (Also plan to spend a few weeks studying the history of your own state)
To study history and geography, you'll need a 3", 3-ring notebook with lots of paper. Make 4 dividers for each of the 4 periods above (use this one notebook for 4 years). This notebook will contain the child's pictures, compositions, and narrations about history.We will need The Story of the World, and the Usborne Internet-Linked Encyclopedia, geography resources (globe, maps), and a library card.
For each chapter in The Story of the World, we'll follow the same basic pattern.
1. Make a narration page about what we've just read. Put in notebook.
2. Ask the child to illustrate what he's just read, make a caption about it, or let him color a picture related to the story. Put in notebook.
3. Find the geographical area under discussion on a globe and wall-map, and color the appropriate black-line map. Put colored map in notebook.
4. Go to the library to find out more about the subject. (For the books the child reads on their own about the subject, remember to make a narration page for the Reading notebook 2-3 times a week.)
This process will take a week, ideally three days a week for an hour each day, or two days for a slightly longer period.
Consult the WTM for lists of important biographies to read, events to thoroughly go through, and lists to memorize.
Resources to purchase:
The Story of the World Vol. 1 by Susan Wise Bauer ~$8
The Story of the World Vol. 1 Activity Book (Activity books contain comprehension questions and answers, sample narrations, cross references to the Usborne and Kingfisher history encyclopedias, maps and map exercises, coloring pages, reading lists, history activities, and review cards.) ~$23
The Story of the World Vol. 2 ~$8
The Story of the World Vol. 2 Activity Book ~$22
The Story of the World Vol. 3 ~$9
The Story of the World Vol. 3 Activity Book ~$21
The Story of the World Vol. 4 ~$11
The Story of the World Vol. 4 Activity Book ~$22
The Usborne Internet-Linked Encyclopedia of World History for grade 1 (In place of library visits, you cans use this encyclopedia to explore topics- the visual learner will enjoy looking at the pictures.) ~$10
The Kingfisher History Encyclopedia as a ready reference ~$16
World history is divided into four segments, one segment per year of study. In 1st-4th grades, the child will study history from 5000b.c. through the present day. In 5th-8th grades, he'll study it again, concentrating on cause and effect and chronological relationships. In grades 9-12, he'll repeat it yet again, this time studying original sources and writing thoughtful essays about them.
Grade 1 (and 5, 9): Ancients, 5000bc-400ad
Grade 2 (and 6, 10): Medieval - Early Renaissance, 400-1600
Grade 3 (and 7, 11): Late Renaissance - Early Modern, 1600-1850
Grade 4 (and 8, 12): Modern, 1850-present (Also plan to spend a few weeks studying the history of your own state)
To study history and geography, you'll need a 3", 3-ring notebook with lots of paper. Make 4 dividers for each of the 4 periods above (use this one notebook for 4 years). This notebook will contain the child's pictures, compositions, and narrations about history.We will need The Story of the World, and the Usborne Internet-Linked Encyclopedia, geography resources (globe, maps), and a library card.
For each chapter in The Story of the World, we'll follow the same basic pattern.
1. Make a narration page about what we've just read. Put in notebook.
2. Ask the child to illustrate what he's just read, make a caption about it, or let him color a picture related to the story. Put in notebook.
3. Find the geographical area under discussion on a globe and wall-map, and color the appropriate black-line map. Put colored map in notebook.
4. Go to the library to find out more about the subject. (For the books the child reads on their own about the subject, remember to make a narration page for the Reading notebook 2-3 times a week.)
This process will take a week, ideally three days a week for an hour each day, or two days for a slightly longer period.
Consult the WTM for lists of important biographies to read, events to thoroughly go through, and lists to memorize.
Resources to purchase:
The Story of the World Vol. 1 by Susan Wise Bauer ~$8
The Story of the World Vol. 1 Activity Book (Activity books contain comprehension questions and answers, sample narrations, cross references to the Usborne and Kingfisher history encyclopedias, maps and map exercises, coloring pages, reading lists, history activities, and review cards.) ~$23
The Story of the World Vol. 2 ~$8
The Story of the World Vol. 2 Activity Book ~$22
The Story of the World Vol. 3 ~$9
The Story of the World Vol. 3 Activity Book ~$21
The Story of the World Vol. 4 ~$11
The Story of the World Vol. 4 Activity Book ~$22
The Usborne Internet-Linked Encyclopedia of World History for grade 1 (In place of library visits, you cans use this encyclopedia to explore topics- the visual learner will enjoy looking at the pictures.) ~$10
The Kingfisher History Encyclopedia as a ready reference ~$16
Math
The first four years of elementary math lay the foundation for the high-level abstract thinking required by algebra, trigonometry, and calculus later on. Basic mathematics- the skills of addition and subtraction, multiplication and division, the knowledge of basic geometrical shapes and patterns, the ability to think through word problems, a firm grasp of the relationships between numbers- as as vital to high-level mathematical achievement as an understanding of punctuation and sentence structure is to high-level language use.
The goal of early elementary math is to move the child from manipulating real objects to picturing those objects mentally. You achieve this through lots of practice with real objects. Therefore, manipulative use will be important during this time. You can't force a child to develop abstract thinking. Instead, lay the foundation for it with practice and much repetition, and the child will have a strong foundation on which to build those higher-order skills.
Resources we plan on using:
I am still reading through a lot of different curriculum reviews. It's hard to say what will work well for my child, as my daughter is still so young and has a lot of time to develop her own learning style. I would like to use Saxon math for older grades. It seems to be more suited for independent working at that age, but really difficult to teach for the lower grades. For the younger grades, I'm interested in either A Beka Math or Singapore Primary Math. They both have their pros and cons, and I'm glad I have some time to figure out what will be best.
The goal of early elementary math is to move the child from manipulating real objects to picturing those objects mentally. You achieve this through lots of practice with real objects. Therefore, manipulative use will be important during this time. You can't force a child to develop abstract thinking. Instead, lay the foundation for it with practice and much repetition, and the child will have a strong foundation on which to build those higher-order skills.
Resources we plan on using:
I am still reading through a lot of different curriculum reviews. It's hard to say what will work well for my child, as my daughter is still so young and has a lot of time to develop her own learning style. I would like to use Saxon math for older grades. It seems to be more suited for independent working at that age, but really difficult to teach for the lower grades. For the younger grades, I'm interested in either A Beka Math or Singapore Primary Math. They both have their pros and cons, and I'm glad I have some time to figure out what will be best.
Spelling, Grammar, Reading, Writing
The goal in first through fourth grade is to make the proper use of language second nature to your child. These first four years are essential for mastering the conventions and basic facts -the "grammar"- of each academic subject. Until a student reads without difficulty, they can't absorb the grammar of history, literature, or science; until a student write with ease, they can't express their growing mastery of this material.
By first grade, your child should have covered most of the major rules of phonics, and is reading simple books without reluctance. They should also know how to form their letters, although not necessarily write with ease.
For Language Skills, purchase a 3", 3-ringed notebook. Divide the language skills notebook into four divisions- "Spelling," "Grammar," "Reading," "Writing" (you'll probably want to start a new notebook each year).
Spelling
Spelling is the first step in writing. Before you can put a word on paper, you have to know what letters to use. My husband and I both feel that spelling is an extremely important subject to master. It aids in reading, and helps to cement the connection that is shared between sounds and letters. Bad spelling also gives others a bad impression about you. No matter what you write, if the spelling is poor, the reader will notice this before anything else. The spelling notes, trouble words, and rules will be written down and placed in the "Spelling" section of the notebook.
Resources we plan on using:
All About Spelling- There are 6 levels in this program that we plan on working through until grade 4. When you begin in 1st grade, purchase: Level 1 Materials (Student Packet and the Teacher's Manual) $29.95, Basic Spelling Interactive Kit $29.95, and a 2'x3' magnetic dry-erase board ~$30. As you progress, only purchase the next level's materials. You don't need to buy the interactive kit or dry-erase board again. Here are links to the other levels: Level 2 Materials $39.95, Level 3 Materials $39.95, Level 4 Materials $39.95, Level 5 Materials $39.95, and Level 6 Materials $39.95. Level 7 is due to be released July 2012. The guarantee from this company is an unbeatable offer, I feel like there is nothing to lose. You have a full year to try out the program, and if it doesn't meet your needs, you simply return the materials and receive a full refund.
Spelling Workout is recommended in the WTM, but the majority of reviews I have read have said this is a sub-par program, is dull, and is just busy-work. It would work well for a child who struggles immensely with spelling.
Grammar
In the elementary years, grammar involves learning the names of the parts of speech, the proper relationships between these parts of speech, and the mechanics of the English language. In first grade we'll begin oral grammar lessons, transitioning slowly into a more writing-intensive course. By the end of fourth grade, the child should learn the proper names and usages of all the parts of speech, the rules of punctuation and capitalization, dictionary use, and the proper forms for letters, reports, and other common pieces of writing.
Writing done in this course of study will be placed in the "Grammar" section on the language notebook.
Resources we plan on using:
First Language Lessons by Jessie Wise. To begin, I'd like to start with levels 1 and 2 ~$20. The reviews I have read about levels 3 and 4 have been discouraging, so I'm still looking for another good program for after completion of 1st and 2nd grade. The program is appealing because it is written with the classical approach in mind, and has narration, copy work, and dictation exercises included. However, the program is very scripted for the parent and would thus be difficult to transition my child to working independently in their grammar studies. I'm interested in learning more about the Rod & Staff textbook series: $32.15 for Grade 3 English "Beginning Wisely," and $40.00 for Grade 4 English "Building with Diligence." If we decide to use a writing program like Writing Strands, then it is suggested to not complete the composition exercises in Rod and Staff grammar.
Reading
During the first four years of education, you have two purposes: to get the child to read quickly, well, and habitually; and to fill their mind with stories of every kind- myths, legends, classic tales, biographies, great stories from history. Every day, the child reads or (at first) is read to. Begin with 20-30min of reading in first grade, work up to 45-60min by fourth grade. Give your 1st-4th grader simplified versions of the original literature that they'll be reading in the higher grades, or introduce them to a writer they'll encounter later.
In the reading notebook, you and the child will make a record of these stories. Divide the "Reading" section into two sub-sections: "My Reading" and "Memory Work."
-Narration removes the need for comprehension exercises. Instead of learning to complete fill-in-the-blank questions, the child uses all his mental faculties to understand, remember, and relate the main points of a story. The "My Reading" section of the notebook should be a record of books (narrations) that the child has read and enjoyed or that you have read to them. The reading you do for this notebook ought to be difficult because the child is building reading skills. At least twice a week have your child tell you, in 2-4 sentences, something about the plot of the book you have just read. Younger students will need you to ask them specific questions, like, "What was the most exciting thing that happened?" or "Who was your favorite character, and what did he do?" Some third and fourth graders will be able to answer the more general question, "What was the book about?" and will be able to expand their summaries to a few paragraphs. It is suggested that reading follow the same pattern as history studies.
-Memorization and recitation of poetry is an important part of the reading process; it exercises the child's memory, stores beautiful language in his mind, and gives him practice in speaking aloud. When a poem has been memorized and recited to your satisfaction, write it out (or have the child write it out if their skills are up for the job) and place it in "Memory Work" along with the date of recitation. Pick poems that that the child has read and enjoyed either during "assigned" reading or "free" reading; let them memorize anything they like.
Here is a brief outline of what to focus on in each grade. Again, the books read for the notebook should follow the history outline, and be simplified or abridged works of the greater versions they'll read in later grades. See pages 74-82 in the WTM for book ideas.
First Grade
Reading is focused on Ancients (5000bc-400ad).
Memorize 4-8 poems.
Make notebook pages at least twice a week. Write their narration down, have the child read it back to you, and then place it under "My Reading."
Second Grade
Reading is focused on Medieval - Early Renaissance (400-1600).
Memorize 8-12 poems/speeches.
Continue making notebook pages 2-3 times a week. At this point, most children can dictate short narrations to you and then copy these narrations themselves. The notebook papers should now contain less of your writing and more of the child's.
Third Grade
Reading is focused on Late Renaissance - Early Modern (1600-1850).
Memorize 12-15 poems/speeches.
Your student should be able to narrate the plot back to you and write it down themselves without the intermediate step of dictating and copying.
Fourth Grade
Reading is focused on Modern (1850-present).
Memorize 15+ poems/speeches.
The student will now be able to make notebook pages on their own. Their written summaries should fill three-quarters of a notebook page or more.
Not all reading should be linked to the history outline, however. In addition to the reading time spent on assembling the reading notebook, the child should have a set time every day to read for fun. Begin with 30min for first graders, and build up to 60min. Enjoyable and easier reading will help the child learn to simply enjoy themselves, and will also help increase speed. This free reading time ought to be spent on literature at or slightly below the child's present reading level.
Writing
Writing is a difficult skills because it requires the child to express content at the same time that he is learning the tools of expression. For this reason, early writing should not involve a great deal of original content. Early writing instruction should involve copywork, dictation, and the retelling of passages from history, science, or literature. File away exercises you do for each grade under the "Writing" section of the notebook.
First Grade
-Penmanship. At the beginner level, writing is simply penmanship practice. As the child is able, work up from 5-15min using a handwriting book.
-Copywork: Once they're writing well, your child should begin to do simple copying exercises. These exercises are included in First Language Lessons, the manual we'll be using for grammar study. In addition to this, your child should copy sentences from the literature your reading, or science/history you are studying. This should be done 3-4 times a week. Aim to work up from 5-word sentences to longer, more complex sentences. Write these sentences out on first-grade manuscript paper, put the paper in front of the child, and ask him to copy the sentence.
-This copywork, along with the oral narration done in "Reading" (above) and in history and science, is sufficient for first grade writing.
Second Grade
-Begin teaching cursive with a handwriting program.
-Begin dictation. Dictate a short sentence slowly to the child as he writes. If the child makes a mistake, stop him and have him write the word correctly. Give him all necessary help with punctuation and spelling. Start with simple sentences, 3-4 words maximum. Work up to any 10-15 word sentences from good authors. Do this 10-20min, 3 days a week.
-Ask them to write a letter to a friend or relative. photo copy and place in the "Writing" section.
-Continue doing oral narration in reading, science, and history.
Third Grade
-Continue teaching cursive. Encourage that all writing be done in cursive once they have it mastered.
-Continue with dictation 2-3 times a week. Progress to more complex sentences or 2-3 sentences at a time.
-Continue writing letters, or any stories on creative impulses.
-Continue doing oral narration in reading, science, and history.
Fourth Grade
-Continue doing dictation about twice a week now, working up to having your student do short paragraphs, inserting punctuation where needed.
-Continue writing letters, or any stories on creative impulses.
-Continue doing oral narration in reading, science, and history. At this point the student will begin to write his own summaries in these subjects.
Resources we plan on using:
Zaner-Bloser Grade 1 Student Book ~15
Zaner-Bloser Grade 2C Student Book ~15
Zaner-Bloser handwriting paper for 1st-4th grade, $8.99 a ream.
The Complete Writer: Writing with Ease- This outlines a complete four-year progression of copywork, dictation, and narration for elementary students, complete with weekly lesson plans. So, everything talked about above is found in this book. Purchase The Complete Writer: Writing with Ease ~$15, Level 1 Workbook for Writing with Ease ~$20, and Level 2 Workbook for Writing with Ease ~$20.
If my student is not struggling with the writing process, I may switch to Writing Strands for 3rd and 4th grade. Purchase Writing Strands Level 2 ~$7, and Writing Strands Level 3 ~$6.
OVERVIEW OF LANGUAGE WORK Daily Schedule
First Grade
Spelling- 10-15min Finish reading primer; begin All About Spelling Level 1.
Grammar- 15-20min First Language Lesson Levels 1 and 2.
Reading- 20-30min Structured reading focusing on ancient myths and legends. Schedule 30-60min at another time for fun reading.
Writing- 5-20min Begin with penmanship practice in Zaner-Bloser Grade 1. Progress to Level 1 of The Complete Writer.
Second Grade
Spelling- 10-15min Go onto All About Spelling 2 and 3.
Grammar- 20min First Language Lessons Levels 1 and 2.
Reading- 30min Structured reading focusing on stories of the Middle Ages. Schedule 30-60min at another time for fun reading.
Writing- 10-20min Begin cursive penmanship with Zaner-Bloser Grade 2C. Use Level 2 of The Complete Writer.
Third Grade
Spelling- 15min Go onto All About Spelling 3 and 4.
Grammar- 20-30min Use Rod and Staff "Beginning Wisely."
Reading- 30min Structured reading focusing on literature of the late Renaissance to early modern eras. Schedule 30-60min at another time for fun reading.
Writing- 20-30min Continue cursive penmanship. Use The Complete Writer or begin Writing Strands 2.
Fourth Grade
Spelling- 15min Continue using All About Spelling, working at least through level 4 (or 5 and 6).
Grammar- 20min Rod and Staff "Building with Diligence."
Reading- 30-45min Structured reading focusing on modern works. Schedule 30-60min at another time for fun reading.
Writing- 20-30min Practice penmanship. Continue with Writing Strands.
By first grade, your child should have covered most of the major rules of phonics, and is reading simple books without reluctance. They should also know how to form their letters, although not necessarily write with ease.
For Language Skills, purchase a 3", 3-ringed notebook. Divide the language skills notebook into four divisions- "Spelling," "Grammar," "Reading," "Writing" (you'll probably want to start a new notebook each year).
Spelling
Spelling is the first step in writing. Before you can put a word on paper, you have to know what letters to use. My husband and I both feel that spelling is an extremely important subject to master. It aids in reading, and helps to cement the connection that is shared between sounds and letters. Bad spelling also gives others a bad impression about you. No matter what you write, if the spelling is poor, the reader will notice this before anything else. The spelling notes, trouble words, and rules will be written down and placed in the "Spelling" section of the notebook.
Resources we plan on using:
All About Spelling- There are 6 levels in this program that we plan on working through until grade 4. When you begin in 1st grade, purchase: Level 1 Materials (Student Packet and the Teacher's Manual) $29.95, Basic Spelling Interactive Kit $29.95, and a 2'x3' magnetic dry-erase board ~$30. As you progress, only purchase the next level's materials. You don't need to buy the interactive kit or dry-erase board again. Here are links to the other levels: Level 2 Materials $39.95, Level 3 Materials $39.95, Level 4 Materials $39.95, Level 5 Materials $39.95, and Level 6 Materials $39.95. Level 7 is due to be released July 2012. The guarantee from this company is an unbeatable offer, I feel like there is nothing to lose. You have a full year to try out the program, and if it doesn't meet your needs, you simply return the materials and receive a full refund.
Spelling Workout is recommended in the WTM, but the majority of reviews I have read have said this is a sub-par program, is dull, and is just busy-work. It would work well for a child who struggles immensely with spelling.
Grammar
In the elementary years, grammar involves learning the names of the parts of speech, the proper relationships between these parts of speech, and the mechanics of the English language. In first grade we'll begin oral grammar lessons, transitioning slowly into a more writing-intensive course. By the end of fourth grade, the child should learn the proper names and usages of all the parts of speech, the rules of punctuation and capitalization, dictionary use, and the proper forms for letters, reports, and other common pieces of writing.
Writing done in this course of study will be placed in the "Grammar" section on the language notebook.
Resources we plan on using:
First Language Lessons by Jessie Wise. To begin, I'd like to start with levels 1 and 2 ~$20. The reviews I have read about levels 3 and 4 have been discouraging, so I'm still looking for another good program for after completion of 1st and 2nd grade. The program is appealing because it is written with the classical approach in mind, and has narration, copy work, and dictation exercises included. However, the program is very scripted for the parent and would thus be difficult to transition my child to working independently in their grammar studies. I'm interested in learning more about the Rod & Staff textbook series: $32.15 for Grade 3 English "Beginning Wisely," and $40.00 for Grade 4 English "Building with Diligence." If we decide to use a writing program like Writing Strands, then it is suggested to not complete the composition exercises in Rod and Staff grammar.
Reading
During the first four years of education, you have two purposes: to get the child to read quickly, well, and habitually; and to fill their mind with stories of every kind- myths, legends, classic tales, biographies, great stories from history. Every day, the child reads or (at first) is read to. Begin with 20-30min of reading in first grade, work up to 45-60min by fourth grade. Give your 1st-4th grader simplified versions of the original literature that they'll be reading in the higher grades, or introduce them to a writer they'll encounter later.
In the reading notebook, you and the child will make a record of these stories. Divide the "Reading" section into two sub-sections: "My Reading" and "Memory Work."
-Narration removes the need for comprehension exercises. Instead of learning to complete fill-in-the-blank questions, the child uses all his mental faculties to understand, remember, and relate the main points of a story. The "My Reading" section of the notebook should be a record of books (narrations) that the child has read and enjoyed or that you have read to them. The reading you do for this notebook ought to be difficult because the child is building reading skills. At least twice a week have your child tell you, in 2-4 sentences, something about the plot of the book you have just read. Younger students will need you to ask them specific questions, like, "What was the most exciting thing that happened?" or "Who was your favorite character, and what did he do?" Some third and fourth graders will be able to answer the more general question, "What was the book about?" and will be able to expand their summaries to a few paragraphs. It is suggested that reading follow the same pattern as history studies.
-Memorization and recitation of poetry is an important part of the reading process; it exercises the child's memory, stores beautiful language in his mind, and gives him practice in speaking aloud. When a poem has been memorized and recited to your satisfaction, write it out (or have the child write it out if their skills are up for the job) and place it in "Memory Work" along with the date of recitation. Pick poems that that the child has read and enjoyed either during "assigned" reading or "free" reading; let them memorize anything they like.
Here is a brief outline of what to focus on in each grade. Again, the books read for the notebook should follow the history outline, and be simplified or abridged works of the greater versions they'll read in later grades. See pages 74-82 in the WTM for book ideas.
First Grade
Reading is focused on Ancients (5000bc-400ad).
Memorize 4-8 poems.
Make notebook pages at least twice a week. Write their narration down, have the child read it back to you, and then place it under "My Reading."
Second Grade
Reading is focused on Medieval - Early Renaissance (400-1600).
Memorize 8-12 poems/speeches.
Continue making notebook pages 2-3 times a week. At this point, most children can dictate short narrations to you and then copy these narrations themselves. The notebook papers should now contain less of your writing and more of the child's.
Third Grade
Reading is focused on Late Renaissance - Early Modern (1600-1850).
Memorize 12-15 poems/speeches.
Your student should be able to narrate the plot back to you and write it down themselves without the intermediate step of dictating and copying.
Fourth Grade
Reading is focused on Modern (1850-present).
Memorize 15+ poems/speeches.
The student will now be able to make notebook pages on their own. Their written summaries should fill three-quarters of a notebook page or more.
Not all reading should be linked to the history outline, however. In addition to the reading time spent on assembling the reading notebook, the child should have a set time every day to read for fun. Begin with 30min for first graders, and build up to 60min. Enjoyable and easier reading will help the child learn to simply enjoy themselves, and will also help increase speed. This free reading time ought to be spent on literature at or slightly below the child's present reading level.
Writing
Writing is a difficult skills because it requires the child to express content at the same time that he is learning the tools of expression. For this reason, early writing should not involve a great deal of original content. Early writing instruction should involve copywork, dictation, and the retelling of passages from history, science, or literature. File away exercises you do for each grade under the "Writing" section of the notebook.
First Grade
-Penmanship. At the beginner level, writing is simply penmanship practice. As the child is able, work up from 5-15min using a handwriting book.
-Copywork: Once they're writing well, your child should begin to do simple copying exercises. These exercises are included in First Language Lessons, the manual we'll be using for grammar study. In addition to this, your child should copy sentences from the literature your reading, or science/history you are studying. This should be done 3-4 times a week. Aim to work up from 5-word sentences to longer, more complex sentences. Write these sentences out on first-grade manuscript paper, put the paper in front of the child, and ask him to copy the sentence.
-This copywork, along with the oral narration done in "Reading" (above) and in history and science, is sufficient for first grade writing.
Second Grade
-Begin teaching cursive with a handwriting program.
-Begin dictation. Dictate a short sentence slowly to the child as he writes. If the child makes a mistake, stop him and have him write the word correctly. Give him all necessary help with punctuation and spelling. Start with simple sentences, 3-4 words maximum. Work up to any 10-15 word sentences from good authors. Do this 10-20min, 3 days a week.
-Ask them to write a letter to a friend or relative. photo copy and place in the "Writing" section.
-Continue doing oral narration in reading, science, and history.
Third Grade
-Continue teaching cursive. Encourage that all writing be done in cursive once they have it mastered.
-Continue with dictation 2-3 times a week. Progress to more complex sentences or 2-3 sentences at a time.
-Continue writing letters, or any stories on creative impulses.
-Continue doing oral narration in reading, science, and history.
Fourth Grade
-Continue doing dictation about twice a week now, working up to having your student do short paragraphs, inserting punctuation where needed.
-Continue writing letters, or any stories on creative impulses.
-Continue doing oral narration in reading, science, and history. At this point the student will begin to write his own summaries in these subjects.
Resources we plan on using:
Zaner-Bloser Grade 1 Student Book ~15
Zaner-Bloser Grade 2C Student Book ~15
Zaner-Bloser handwriting paper for 1st-4th grade, $8.99 a ream.
The Complete Writer: Writing with Ease- This outlines a complete four-year progression of copywork, dictation, and narration for elementary students, complete with weekly lesson plans. So, everything talked about above is found in this book. Purchase The Complete Writer: Writing with Ease ~$15, Level 1 Workbook for Writing with Ease ~$20, and Level 2 Workbook for Writing with Ease ~$20.
If my student is not struggling with the writing process, I may switch to Writing Strands for 3rd and 4th grade. Purchase Writing Strands Level 2 ~$7, and Writing Strands Level 3 ~$6.
OVERVIEW OF LANGUAGE WORK Daily Schedule
First Grade
Spelling- 10-15min Finish reading primer; begin All About Spelling Level 1.
Grammar- 15-20min First Language Lesson Levels 1 and 2.
Reading- 20-30min Structured reading focusing on ancient myths and legends. Schedule 30-60min at another time for fun reading.
Writing- 5-20min Begin with penmanship practice in Zaner-Bloser Grade 1. Progress to Level 1 of The Complete Writer.
Second Grade
Spelling- 10-15min Go onto All About Spelling 2 and 3.
Grammar- 20min First Language Lessons Levels 1 and 2.
Reading- 30min Structured reading focusing on stories of the Middle Ages. Schedule 30-60min at another time for fun reading.
Writing- 10-20min Begin cursive penmanship with Zaner-Bloser Grade 2C. Use Level 2 of The Complete Writer.
Third Grade
Spelling- 15min Go onto All About Spelling 3 and 4.
Grammar- 20-30min Use Rod and Staff "Beginning Wisely."
Reading- 30min Structured reading focusing on literature of the late Renaissance to early modern eras. Schedule 30-60min at another time for fun reading.
Writing- 20-30min Continue cursive penmanship. Use The Complete Writer or begin Writing Strands 2.
Fourth Grade
Spelling- 15min Continue using All About Spelling, working at least through level 4 (or 5 and 6).
Grammar- 20min Rod and Staff "Building with Diligence."
Reading- 30-45min Structured reading focusing on modern works. Schedule 30-60min at another time for fun reading.
Writing- 20-30min Practice penmanship. Continue with Writing Strands.
Contact Me
If you'd like any more information or have any questions, please email me- ecsquared (at) gmail (dot) com, or just comment on a post with your question and contact info and I'll respond promptly.
Kindergarten Years
The first four or five years of a child life should be spent in informal teaching and preparing the child for first-grade work. In about thirty minutes per day, plus informal teaching as you go about your family life, you can easily teach your child beginning reading, writing, and math concepts. And remember to let them keep PLAYING and EXPLORING as much as possible!!
Reading
Reading is simple. Parents have the ability to teach their children how to read. Continue to immerse your child in language, just as you've been doing since birth. Listen to books on tape. Stock a child's mind with the sounds of thousands of words. When children start sounding out words later on, they'll progress much more quickly if they recognize the words. Keep reading together and start to ask slightly more complex questions about the stories.
By age four, the average child should know the alphabet and the sounds that each letter makes. And sometime around the age of four or five, most children are ready to start reading. Sit down with a simple primer that teaches phonics. Progress systematically and slowly, with plenty of repetition. Do for five minutes to start with, and work up to ten and fifteen minutes per session. At other times during the day, sit down with a "real book" and let them read it. Your goal is to get your child reading as quickly and fluently as possible during these years.
These are the resources we plan to use (check on amazon for lower prices):
-Phonics primer- The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading by Jessie Wise ($29.95 from publisher)
-Reading skills and beginning reader books- Explode the Code (There are 14 different workbooks, each book $7.60 from publisher), and Bob Book Series by Bobby Lyn Maslem ($16.99 for each boxed set, there 8 books in a set)
-Check your library for thousands of beginning reader books and audio books!
Writing
Many phonics programs combine writing with reading, which can be frustrating for young readers who are ready to read long before they have the muscular coordination to write. So do writing and reading drills separately. When they can hold a pencil comfortably and have some control over it, move on to formal writing instruction. Teach any one letter (always do a capital and a small letter together) or one number at a time until you've gone through the entire alphabet and the numbers 1-100.
This is the resource we plan to use:
-Zaner-Bloser Handwriting with Continuous Stroke Alphabet Series Grade K Student Book ($10.69 from publisher)
--Also purchase handwriting paper for extra practice, $8.99 per ream (one ream is enough for the year), Grade K paper (1 1/8" wide)
Math
Continue using math in every day life. Let them help you set the table or cook. Play games like Uno or Go-Fish. Use manipulatives for practice adding and subtracting. Read "math books" like Sir Cumference and the First Round Table by Cindy Neuschwander, and One Hundred Angry Ants by Bonnie MacKain. Keep math as more of a game than an academic pursuit.
What we use to make math fun:
Pattern blocks and pattern cards
Fraction Action Board puzzle
Bead Sequencing Set
Creative Color Cubes and activity cards
Science
Although no more K4-K5 curriculum is needed, we like to do science experiments once or twice a week. Find experiment books at the library that offer clear instructions and use common household items. More formal science study isn't necessary at this age. Just get them excited!
History/Religion
Again, no formal K4-K5 curriculum is needed here. Get them excited about stories, myths, folk tales. Before we begin a formal study of history, this year we are going to focus on creation stories from around the world and from different religions. Then we will gradually transition into the beginning of life (evolution).
These are some resources I'd like to use:
In the Beginning: Creation Stories from Around the World
Out of the Ark: Stories from World's Religions
The Kids Book of World Religions
Religious books about Bible Stories, Book of Mormon stories, Buddhist stories, Hindu stories, etc.
Anything having to do with Mythology
What Do You Believe?
The Universe Series (Book 1, Born With a Bang; Book 2, From Lava to Life; Book 3, Mammals who Morph)
Our Family Tree
This Evolution and Classification of Life poster
Globe and world/country/state maps
Reading
Reading is simple. Parents have the ability to teach their children how to read. Continue to immerse your child in language, just as you've been doing since birth. Listen to books on tape. Stock a child's mind with the sounds of thousands of words. When children start sounding out words later on, they'll progress much more quickly if they recognize the words. Keep reading together and start to ask slightly more complex questions about the stories.
By age four, the average child should know the alphabet and the sounds that each letter makes. And sometime around the age of four or five, most children are ready to start reading. Sit down with a simple primer that teaches phonics. Progress systematically and slowly, with plenty of repetition. Do for five minutes to start with, and work up to ten and fifteen minutes per session. At other times during the day, sit down with a "real book" and let them read it. Your goal is to get your child reading as quickly and fluently as possible during these years.
These are the resources we plan to use (check on amazon for lower prices):
-Phonics primer- The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading by Jessie Wise ($29.95 from publisher)
-Reading skills and beginning reader books- Explode the Code (There are 14 different workbooks, each book $7.60 from publisher), and Bob Book Series by Bobby Lyn Maslem ($16.99 for each boxed set, there 8 books in a set)
-Check your library for thousands of beginning reader books and audio books!
Writing
Many phonics programs combine writing with reading, which can be frustrating for young readers who are ready to read long before they have the muscular coordination to write. So do writing and reading drills separately. When they can hold a pencil comfortably and have some control over it, move on to formal writing instruction. Teach any one letter (always do a capital and a small letter together) or one number at a time until you've gone through the entire alphabet and the numbers 1-100.
This is the resource we plan to use:
-Zaner-Bloser Handwriting with Continuous Stroke Alphabet Series Grade K Student Book ($10.69 from publisher)
--Also purchase handwriting paper for extra practice, $8.99 per ream (one ream is enough for the year), Grade K paper (1 1/8" wide)
Math
Continue using math in every day life. Let them help you set the table or cook. Play games like Uno or Go-Fish. Use manipulatives for practice adding and subtracting. Read "math books" like Sir Cumference and the First Round Table by Cindy Neuschwander, and One Hundred Angry Ants by Bonnie MacKain. Keep math as more of a game than an academic pursuit.
What we use to make math fun:
Pattern blocks and pattern cards
Fraction Action Board puzzle
Bead Sequencing Set
Creative Color Cubes and activity cards
Science
Although no more K4-K5 curriculum is needed, we like to do science experiments once or twice a week. Find experiment books at the library that offer clear instructions and use common household items. More formal science study isn't necessary at this age. Just get them excited!
History/Religion
Again, no formal K4-K5 curriculum is needed here. Get them excited about stories, myths, folk tales. Before we begin a formal study of history, this year we are going to focus on creation stories from around the world and from different religions. Then we will gradually transition into the beginning of life (evolution).
These are some resources I'd like to use:
In the Beginning: Creation Stories from Around the World
Out of the Ark: Stories from World's Religions
The Kids Book of World Religions
Religious books about Bible Stories, Book of Mormon stories, Buddhist stories, Hindu stories, etc.
Anything having to do with Mythology
What Do You Believe?
The Universe Series (Book 1, Born With a Bang; Book 2, From Lava to Life; Book 3, Mammals who Morph)
Our Family Tree
This Evolution and Classification of Life poster
Globe and world/country/state maps
Friday, April 27, 2012
Letter of the Week 3-5yrs
There are two curriculum options I would like to suggest. Both programs are great, but definitely have their differences.
The first is the Letter of the Week curriculum as found on the Confessions of a Homeschooler website. It costs $10 to purchase the whole package. This can either be used as a supplementary curriculum to the Brightly Beaming, or just on it's own. It can also be used as 'file folder' games for a rainy day, as there are many different kinds of activities for each, individual letter. I would also use this to repeat or reinforce the letters if the child needs a little more time and practice.
The second is the Letter of the Week curriculum found on the Brightly Beaming website. This program is a little more rigorous, as it tailors the letter of the week to a theme and different elementary subjects. Included is a poem, rhyme, and various book suggestions, a musical composer to learn about, songs to sing, a bible story/character trait, a math concept, science ideas, social studies ideas, an art project, a sport/game/activity, and a field trip-ALL based on the letter A (or B, C, D,...)! It's pretty amazing.
The first is the Letter of the Week curriculum as found on the Confessions of a Homeschooler website. It costs $10 to purchase the whole package. This can either be used as a supplementary curriculum to the Brightly Beaming, or just on it's own. It can also be used as 'file folder' games for a rainy day, as there are many different kinds of activities for each, individual letter. I would also use this to repeat or reinforce the letters if the child needs a little more time and practice.
The second is the Letter of the Week curriculum found on the Brightly Beaming website. This program is a little more rigorous, as it tailors the letter of the week to a theme and different elementary subjects. Included is a poem, rhyme, and various book suggestions, a musical composer to learn about, songs to sing, a bible story/character trait, a math concept, science ideas, social studies ideas, an art project, a sport/game/activity, and a field trip-ALL based on the letter A (or B, C, D,...)! It's pretty amazing.
Steps to Reading Preparatory Curriculum
Ages 2-3 I will begin the Brightly Beaming Steps to Reading Preparatory Curriculum. This curriculum teaches the child to recognize letters, numbers, colors and shapes. The lessons include a weekly theme and other activities that teach basic concepts. The curriculum lasts approximately 26 weeks.
As your child progresses through the lessons, they complete a learning poster each week. I'll use a magnet board so we don't go through 26 different poster boards. Create a space on the board for the weekly theme, vocab word, shape/color, letter, number, and nursery rhyme. By keeping this poster in a highly visible place, your child will be reminded often of the concepts they are learning. By the end of the first week you will have a full board. On the following week change the pictures for the weekly theme and vocab word on Monday, color in the shape on Tuesday, change the letter on Wednesday, change the number on Thursday, and replace the nursery rhyme on Friday. Each concept is shown on the board for a full week, only changing as you introduce a new concept.
Here is an example of the first week of the program: Lesson 1 week theme is Cows.
On Monday you talk all about cows! You learn the vocab word- calf. Check out lots of books from the library about cows! Read poems and sing songs (all provided in the lesson plan) about cows! For a gross motor skills activity, put on some music and move around your home like a cow, don't forget to make sound effects! Put a picture of a cow and the vocab word up on the learning poster.
Tuesday is the shape/color day. This week you teach square (Next week you'll teach the color green, and color in the square with that color. And so on, you rotate shape to color from week to week). Collect 3-5 everyday objects in the shape of a square to share with your child and discuss. Walk through your home looking for squares. Cut squares out of play-doh or cookie dough! Put a drawing of your square on your learning poster.
Wednesday is letter day. This week is the letter A. Give your child a printout of the letter A to color. Teach your child to trace the letter A using their finger. You can trace in pudding, finger paint, a shallow cookie sheet filled with rice or beans, etc. Post the letter A on your learning poster.
Thursday is number day. This week is the number 1. Show your child one object to count, or eat (one cheerio, one cracker, etc.). Show your child the written symbol (numeral) for 1 and put on your learning poster. Add one sticker to your counting book. Draw one square on a piece of paper and count it with your child. Walk around your home counting one of many different objects.
Friday is nursery rhyme day. This week the nursery rhyme is Hey Diddle Diddle. Recite often! Do a fine motor skills activity- build a cow with squares. You will need some black and white paper. Cut out one 4" square of white for the body, one 2" square of white for the head, about nine 1" squares of white to make the legs and tail, three or four 1" squares of black for the cow spots, and three or more 1/2" squares of black for the eyes, ears, etc. Help your child glue the cow together on another sheet of paper (of a different color).
As your child progresses through the lessons, they complete a learning poster each week. I'll use a magnet board so we don't go through 26 different poster boards. Create a space on the board for the weekly theme, vocab word, shape/color, letter, number, and nursery rhyme. By keeping this poster in a highly visible place, your child will be reminded often of the concepts they are learning. By the end of the first week you will have a full board. On the following week change the pictures for the weekly theme and vocab word on Monday, color in the shape on Tuesday, change the letter on Wednesday, change the number on Thursday, and replace the nursery rhyme on Friday. Each concept is shown on the board for a full week, only changing as you introduce a new concept.
Here is an example of the first week of the program: Lesson 1 week theme is Cows.
On Monday you talk all about cows! You learn the vocab word- calf. Check out lots of books from the library about cows! Read poems and sing songs (all provided in the lesson plan) about cows! For a gross motor skills activity, put on some music and move around your home like a cow, don't forget to make sound effects! Put a picture of a cow and the vocab word up on the learning poster.
Tuesday is the shape/color day. This week you teach square (Next week you'll teach the color green, and color in the square with that color. And so on, you rotate shape to color from week to week). Collect 3-5 everyday objects in the shape of a square to share with your child and discuss. Walk through your home looking for squares. Cut squares out of play-doh or cookie dough! Put a drawing of your square on your learning poster.
Wednesday is letter day. This week is the letter A. Give your child a printout of the letter A to color. Teach your child to trace the letter A using their finger. You can trace in pudding, finger paint, a shallow cookie sheet filled with rice or beans, etc. Post the letter A on your learning poster.
Thursday is number day. This week is the number 1. Show your child one object to count, or eat (one cheerio, one cracker, etc.). Show your child the written symbol (numeral) for 1 and put on your learning poster. Add one sticker to your counting book. Draw one square on a piece of paper and count it with your child. Walk around your home counting one of many different objects.
Friday is nursery rhyme day. This week the nursery rhyme is Hey Diddle Diddle. Recite often! Do a fine motor skills activity- build a cow with squares. You will need some black and white paper. Cut out one 4" square of white for the body, one 2" square of white for the head, about nine 1" squares of white to make the legs and tail, three or four 1" squares of black for the cow spots, and three or more 1/2" squares of black for the eyes, ears, etc. Help your child glue the cow together on another sheet of paper (of a different color).
Baby and Toddler
For my babies (3-12mo), I use the Brightly Beaming resources. I like having so called "lesson plans" even though they're more of a collection of age-appropriate activities. This curriculum includes 20 lesson plans. There are 2 lessons for each month of a baby's life from 3 months to 12 months of age. You can spend approximately 2 weeks on each lesson plan with your baby. The lessons are geared to a baby's development as he/she progresses through the first year of life. The lessons include a book, nursery rhyme, poem, scripture selection (I use LDS primary scriptures), vocab to emphasize, a classical song, baby game, and lullaby. These lessons were more for me, as a new parent, to feel like I was accomplishing something each day. It helped me remember to recite a rhyme, or sing a song while I was doing things like changing her diaper or feeding her.
The toddler curriculum is very similar. It includes 24 lesson plans, two lessons for each month of your toddler's life from 13 months to 24 months of age. You can spend approximately 2 weeks on each lesson plan. The lessons are geared to a toddler's development as he/she progresses through the second year of life. Keep everything fun and only do activities when your toddler wants to. The lessons include a book, scripture selection, nursery rhyme, vocab to emphasize, indoor and outdoor games, classical music, a children's song, arts and crafts, poem, sign language, musical exploration ideas, lullaby, puppetry, nature study, and art appreciation.
I adapted and printed these lesson plans for my family. If you'd like a Word document copy of my version, please email me!
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Our Goals
Our family mission is to:
· Be critical thinkers.
Relationship Goals: What is the use of an academic child, who has no relationship with his or her family, and who has not learned how to live in company with others?
Familial Relationships: To develop strong relationships in our home, we plan on spending plenty of meaningful, quality time together. We dedicate one night a week as a family night, complete with mini-character lesson.
Relationships with Others: To develop positive and fulfilling relationships with others, we plan on mainly leading by example. We are respectful to others. We'll teach manners (teach how to greet visitors and welcoming/looking after them in our home, phone skills, how to carry on a conversation). They must develop listening skills. Love others through service.
Relationship with Creation: To fully enjoy the beautiful world around us, they will learn how to take care of our earth. Learn how to garden and compost. Learn how to take care of a pet. Spending time in nature.
Practical Goals: These are aspects of practical living that we consider important for our children to know.
Our Bodies: Focus on healthy eating habits, getting adequate rest, exercise, and developing good hygiene habits.
Cooking: How to prepare, purchase, and cook meals. Ways to be economical in shopping, planning, and storing food. Dietary knowledge.
Sports: Learning how to participate with a team. Learn how to swim. Learning endurance.
Safety: Learning first aid, CPR. Proper handling and maintenance of guns.
Newborn care: Learn how to change diapers, how to hold/bathe them, etc.
Music: Learn competence in an instrument.
Chores: How to maintain a clean home.
Manners: Meal etiquette. Date etiquette.
Money Management: How to save and budget money. How to write a check. Learn about investments, interest, loans. Teach how to keep a record of finances.
Equipment Maintenance: How to take care of a car. How to change a tire, clean the car...
There are so many areas! I'm sure I'm missing a ton of important things, but these are what come to mind right now.
Academic Goals:
What does education mean to you?
Education means EVERYTHING! It's the single most important part of a person's life. It brings happiness and success.
What is your ultimate goal for your children?
Our goal is to enable them to be good decision makers and critical thinkers. Always to challenge and question authority. The more education you have encompassing all realms of learning, the better decision maker you are (academically, financially, socially, etc.). We are preparing them for life-long learning. We want our children to be spiritually, emotionally, physically, financially, and socially strong participants in our world.
When they leave your home, what sort of person do you want them to be?
No matter who they turn out to be, we want them to know they are loved unconditionally. We want them to have the skills to think critically and make good decisions. We trust that how they decide to live their lives, will be in the best possible way for them.
How will you achieve you goals?
What do you want your homeschool to look like?
I want to be organized. I want our days to roughly start and end at the same time. I want to kids to know their tasks for the day/week. I want siblings to help each other.
How will you design your homeschool?
How can you be effective without burning out?
I would like to try and plan school Mon-Thurs, and then use Friday as a catch-up day. We're bound to have weeks where there are appointments, sicknesses, out-of-the-way errands to be done... I would like to have a day that is devoted to getting back on track. For the weeks that we don't get behind, I would like Friday to be a day where the kids can work extra in an area they're enjoying (such as doing extra math pages, or doing another science experiment, or just reading). It could also be a day devoted to field trips, or a day that allows us to go on a long weekend vacation somewhere.
What is the vision of your family?
· Be critical thinkers.
· Provide a quality education for our children.
· Prepare them for lifelong learning, for employment, and for their roles as citizens and parents.
· Maintain a wholesome academic, cultural, and social environment.
· Maintain a wholesome academic, cultural, and social environment.
Relationship Goals: What is the use of an academic child, who has no relationship with his or her family, and who has not learned how to live in company with others?
Familial Relationships: To develop strong relationships in our home, we plan on spending plenty of meaningful, quality time together. We dedicate one night a week as a family night, complete with mini-character lesson.
Relationships with Others: To develop positive and fulfilling relationships with others, we plan on mainly leading by example. We are respectful to others. We'll teach manners (teach how to greet visitors and welcoming/looking after them in our home, phone skills, how to carry on a conversation). They must develop listening skills. Love others through service.
Relationship with Creation: To fully enjoy the beautiful world around us, they will learn how to take care of our earth. Learn how to garden and compost. Learn how to take care of a pet. Spending time in nature.
Practical Goals: These are aspects of practical living that we consider important for our children to know.
Our Bodies: Focus on healthy eating habits, getting adequate rest, exercise, and developing good hygiene habits.
Cooking: How to prepare, purchase, and cook meals. Ways to be economical in shopping, planning, and storing food. Dietary knowledge.
Sports: Learning how to participate with a team. Learn how to swim. Learning endurance.
Safety: Learning first aid, CPR. Proper handling and maintenance of guns.
Newborn care: Learn how to change diapers, how to hold/bathe them, etc.
Music: Learn competence in an instrument.
Chores: How to maintain a clean home.
Manners: Meal etiquette. Date etiquette.
Money Management: How to save and budget money. How to write a check. Learn about investments, interest, loans. Teach how to keep a record of finances.
Equipment Maintenance: How to take care of a car. How to change a tire, clean the car...
There are so many areas! I'm sure I'm missing a ton of important things, but these are what come to mind right now.
Academic Goals:
What does education mean to you?
Education means EVERYTHING! It's the single most important part of a person's life. It brings happiness and success.
What is your ultimate goal for your children?
Our goal is to enable them to be good decision makers and critical thinkers. Always to challenge and question authority. The more education you have encompassing all realms of learning, the better decision maker you are (academically, financially, socially, etc.). We are preparing them for life-long learning. We want our children to be spiritually, emotionally, physically, financially, and socially strong participants in our world.
When they leave your home, what sort of person do you want them to be?
No matter who they turn out to be, we want them to know they are loved unconditionally. We want them to have the skills to think critically and make good decisions. We trust that how they decide to live their lives, will be in the best possible way for them.
How will you achieve you goals?
What do you want your homeschool to look like?
I want to be organized. I want our days to roughly start and end at the same time. I want to kids to know their tasks for the day/week. I want siblings to help each other.
How will you design your homeschool?
How can you be effective without burning out?
I would like to try and plan school Mon-Thurs, and then use Friday as a catch-up day. We're bound to have weeks where there are appointments, sicknesses, out-of-the-way errands to be done... I would like to have a day that is devoted to getting back on track. For the weeks that we don't get behind, I would like Friday to be a day where the kids can work extra in an area they're enjoying (such as doing extra math pages, or doing another science experiment, or just reading). It could also be a day devoted to field trips, or a day that allows us to go on a long weekend vacation somewhere.
What is the vision of your family?
About Us
Well, I'm not exactly in the throes of homeschooling several children right now. I have a three year old daughter, one year old daughter, and expecting a baby boy. I have, however, written a lot of the info from the perspective as "this is what we plan on using," but I am definitely open to changing that in the future.
My interest in homeschooling began when I started college. I graduated in Spanish Education, but in the back of my mind I was always collecting golden nuggets of information about homeschooling, and what would benefit me in that arena (as opposed to a Spanish classroom in a public school). It has been my passion. I love reading, talking, blogging, and thinking about it. I feel like this sets me apart from many other homeschoolers, who started with having no intention before-hand of doing so. I am a planner, and am definitely planning on doing this! I have a lot of time to get prepared, too, and so I enjoy reading other blogs about homeschooling life to help give me a reality check.
I understand that homeschooling isn't for everyone, and shouldn't be! I went to public school and enjoyed it just fine, and came out as (what I believe to be) a pretty well-rounded person. I am fortunate enough, however, to have the desire and opportunity to be able to stay at home with my children, and devote my time to teaching them. My husband and I have decided it would be a great opportunity for our children and for us.
My interest in homeschooling began when I started college. I graduated in Spanish Education, but in the back of my mind I was always collecting golden nuggets of information about homeschooling, and what would benefit me in that arena (as opposed to a Spanish classroom in a public school). It has been my passion. I love reading, talking, blogging, and thinking about it. I feel like this sets me apart from many other homeschoolers, who started with having no intention before-hand of doing so. I am a planner, and am definitely planning on doing this! I have a lot of time to get prepared, too, and so I enjoy reading other blogs about homeschooling life to help give me a reality check.
I understand that homeschooling isn't for everyone, and shouldn't be! I went to public school and enjoyed it just fine, and came out as (what I believe to be) a pretty well-rounded person. I am fortunate enough, however, to have the desire and opportunity to be able to stay at home with my children, and devote my time to teaching them. My husband and I have decided it would be a great opportunity for our children and for us.
Approaches We Integrate
During the early years, a large heaping of play, small dose of letters/phonics, and hours spent reading.
First and foremost, we want to encourage critical and free thinking within our children. We want them to have the freedom to explore and question and wonder. We want to provide the resources on subjects that interest them.
Classical Education is the approach we most identify with. Classical education depends on a three-part process of training the mind. The early years of school are spent in absorbing facts, systematically laying the foundations for advanced study (The Grammar Stage). In the middle grades, students learn to think through arguments (The Logic Stage). In the high school years, they learn to express themselves (The Rhetoric Stage). This classical pattern is called the trivium. To the classical mind, all knowledge is interrelated. A classical education meets this challenge by taking history as its organizing outline — beginning with the ancients and progressing forward to the moderns in history, science, literature, art and music.
The twelve years of education consist of three repetitions of the same four-year pattern: Ancients, Middle Ages, Renaissance and Reformation, and Modern Times. The child studies these four time periods at varying levels — simple for grades 1-4, more difficult in grades 5-8, and taking an even more complex approach in grades 9-12.
The other subject areas of the curriculum are linked to history studies.This pattern lends coherence to the study of history, science, and literature — subjects that are too often fragmented and confusing. The pattern widens and deepens as the student progresses in maturity and learning.
This method is known to be rigorous. In order to tailor this method to our family, we would like to spend more time learning and experimenting in science. I'm not sure what subject(s) we're going to have to spend less time on in order to accomplish this, but I will continue to adapt and report on what we are doing.
I reference The Well Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise a lot! This book is essential for any family wanting to homeschool with this approach. It is a wonderful resource. Our family, however, will not be following the book's methods and outlines unwaveringly.
First and foremost, we want to encourage critical and free thinking within our children. We want them to have the freedom to explore and question and wonder. We want to provide the resources on subjects that interest them.
Classical Education is the approach we most identify with. Classical education depends on a three-part process of training the mind. The early years of school are spent in absorbing facts, systematically laying the foundations for advanced study (The Grammar Stage). In the middle grades, students learn to think through arguments (The Logic Stage). In the high school years, they learn to express themselves (The Rhetoric Stage). This classical pattern is called the trivium. To the classical mind, all knowledge is interrelated. A classical education meets this challenge by taking history as its organizing outline — beginning with the ancients and progressing forward to the moderns in history, science, literature, art and music.
The twelve years of education consist of three repetitions of the same four-year pattern: Ancients, Middle Ages, Renaissance and Reformation, and Modern Times. The child studies these four time periods at varying levels — simple for grades 1-4, more difficult in grades 5-8, and taking an even more complex approach in grades 9-12.
The other subject areas of the curriculum are linked to history studies.This pattern lends coherence to the study of history, science, and literature — subjects that are too often fragmented and confusing. The pattern widens and deepens as the student progresses in maturity and learning.
This method is known to be rigorous. In order to tailor this method to our family, we would like to spend more time learning and experimenting in science. I'm not sure what subject(s) we're going to have to spend less time on in order to accomplish this, but I will continue to adapt and report on what we are doing.
I reference The Well Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise a lot! This book is essential for any family wanting to homeschool with this approach. It is a wonderful resource. Our family, however, will not be following the book's methods and outlines unwaveringly.
Charlotte Mason is a humanities- based approach with heavy emphasis on literature. Children are not exposed (much) to textbooks, but rather to "living books" which make the subject matter come to life- novels about the Civil War are read, for example, to explore that time period. Classical literature is also emphasized in this approach, with parents doing a lot of read-alouds while the child is still young and developing their reading abilities. My favorite part about the philosophy is the emphasis on spending time outdoors, interacting with nature firsthand and learning the living ways of the world.
Our homeschool is secular in nature, although we highly encourage religious literacy.
Our homeschool is secular in nature, although we highly encourage religious literacy.
Resources
Articles and Websites
Academic Excellence Grades K-4
Classical Schooling with Multiple Ages
Curriculum Reviews
Homeschool 101, Curriculum Info, and much more
So You're Thinking About Homeschooling? (and further reading)
Setting Goals and How To Design Your Homeschool
The Well Trained Mind Website
What is Classical Education?
You Can Homeschool
Books
Teaching with Love and Logic by Jim Faye and David Funk
The Educated Child: A Parents Guide From Preschool Through Eighth Grade by William J. Bennett
The Well-Adjusted Child: The Social Benefits of Homeschooling by Rachel Gathercole
The Well Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise
Math
Pattern blocks and pattern cards
Fraction Action Board puzzle
Bead Sequencing Set
Creative Color Cubes and activity cards
Printables
Preschool Shape Tracers
File Folder Games
Nursery Rhymes and Stories
Unit Study Printables
Shape Coloring Pages
Reading
Phonics primer The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading by Jessie Wise
Reading skills and beginning reader books- Explode the Code and Bob Book Series
Check your library for thousands of beginning reader books and audio books!
Science
Thames and Kosmos Science Kits
The Young Scientists Club and Magic School Bus Kits
Writing
Zaner-Bloser Handwriting with Continuous Stroke Alphabet Series Grade K Student Book
Zaner-Bloser Handwriting Paper
Academic Excellence Grades K-4
Classical Schooling with Multiple Ages
Curriculum Reviews
Homeschool 101, Curriculum Info, and much more
So You're Thinking About Homeschooling? (and further reading)
Setting Goals and How To Design Your Homeschool
The Well Trained Mind Website
What is Classical Education?
You Can Homeschool
Books
Teaching with Love and Logic by Jim Faye and David Funk
The Educated Child: A Parents Guide From Preschool Through Eighth Grade by William J. Bennett
The Well-Adjusted Child: The Social Benefits of Homeschooling by Rachel Gathercole
The Well Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise
Math
Pattern blocks and pattern cards
Fraction Action Board puzzle
Bead Sequencing Set
Creative Color Cubes and activity cards
Printables
Preschool Shape Tracers
File Folder Games
Nursery Rhymes and Stories
Unit Study Printables
Shape Coloring Pages
Reading
Phonics primer The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading by Jessie Wise
Reading skills and beginning reader books- Explode the Code and Bob Book Series
Check your library for thousands of beginning reader books and audio books!
Science
Thames and Kosmos Science Kits
The Young Scientists Club and Magic School Bus Kits
Writing
Zaner-Bloser Handwriting with Continuous Stroke Alphabet Series Grade K Student Book
Zaner-Bloser Handwriting Paper
Characteristics of the Rhetoric Stage
“The final phase of a classical education, the “rhetoric stage,” builds on the first two. At this point, the high-school student learns to write and speak with force and originality. The student of rhetoric applies the rules of logic learned in middle school to the foundational information learned in the early grades and expresses her conclusions in clear forceful, elegant language. The student also begins to specialize in whatever branch on knowledge attracts her; these are the years for art camps, college courses, foreign travel, apprenticeships, and other forms of specialized training.”
-The Well Trained Mind
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