Now that the school year is coming to a close, it's time to talk about how things went. Use this checklist or make your own to see what went right and what you would like to improve so that you can adjust for next year.  Remember, we all have different styles in teaching and this may not apply to some families - however, this great way to get an over all view of how you think you did and how your students feel they did.  It's great to do now, while things are fresh in your mind.  You might want to discuss these items as a family and/or do a private interview with each member to get a complete picture. 
    

Remember, this is to encourage you in your homeschool journey.  Please do not let this evaluation discourage you.  Rejoice and thank the Lord for what went well and learn from weak areas so that you do even better next year.

--------- Evaluation Checklist -----------

Academics

[_]  Were basic foundational skills of reading, language, and math improved, mastered,

       reviewed, and practiced enough?

[_]  Were specific facts connected to the big picture of overall knowledge through the use

       of a globe, maps, timelines, charts, and related information?

[_]  Did we use a variety of teaching methods and materials,        (e.g., textbooks,

       workbooks, unit studies, hands-on activities, computer software, library or supervised

       Internet research, field trips, oral and written reports)?

[_]  Were thinking skills taught and encouraged by the types of discussions we had (e.g.,

       comprehension, knowledge, analysis, synthesis, application, and evaluation)?
       
[_]  Was there enough good supplemental reading done as a family or independently?

[_]  Was there time, resources, and encouragement available to pursue individual interests?

Logistics

[_]  Was the schedule realistic and easy to keep?  Too strict or too lax?  Was doing

       schoolwork a regular, daily habit (along with chores and personal grooming)?

[_]  Did we have a good balance between group and independent study?

[_]  Were the classes we did as a group interesting, and did they allow each student to

       learn?

[_]  Was mother available for help when needed?  Was there a need for alternative

       activities or procedures when she was unavailable?

[_]  Did we care for our toddlers and babies in the best way for them and for our studies?

[_]  Were the settings for our studies appropriate and conducive to learning (e.g., dining room table, couch, individual desks)?

[_]  Did we have enough, not enough, or too much independent
       study?  Was there enough time, space, supervision, and help
       available for these studies?

[_]  What got bogged down that could have gone more quickly?

[_]  Was there enough organization and planning for space,
       materials, schedule, and chores?

[_]  Were there enough varied experiences or too many outside
       activities?  Were our supplemental and outside activities
       worth the time and effort?

[_]  Was the atmosphere of our home warm, loving, and supportive?

Bottom Line

[_]  What do you want to do the same or differently next year?