Adventures in Homeschooling

Apr. 29, 2009 - Memoria Press

Memoria Press very graciously sent me Latina Christiana (discussed on another entry), Famous Men of the Middle Ages, and Famous Men of the Modern Times.

Memoria Press is a company that follows the classical education philosophy. There are three stages in the trivium. The first phase is the grammar stage. This is geared to first to fourth grade. At this stage memorization is key. It is the building block of getting ready for the second stage. The second stage is the logic stage. The logic stage is the "why" stage. It entails a lot of cause/effect thinking and fact-finding. Logic is applied to many areas of schooling in this part of the trivium. Analyzing literature, finding out why wars started, etc. The final stage is the rhetoric stage. This stage is when the student applies the knowlege of the grammar stage with the reasoning of the logic stage and becomes his/her own person. They are able to form strong "arguments" and begin to test out where they want to be as they get older.

Liberal arts is important (the study of various subjects that would make one an "educated" person). Also, books and thoughts of Western tradition are an important component.

(see the Well Trained Mind site and Memoria Press site for further information)

Ok, now on to the review.

Famous Men of the Middle Ages

1. Famous Men of the Middle Ages--this is geared toward the grammar stage of learning. The first 4 years.

The set includes three books. The first book is a book of stories about important figures in the Middle Ages. There are seven lessons comprised of 34 chapters.

The second book is the student workbook. This book is broken into 5 sections. The first section is Facts to Know--memorization of the facts is important. This section can be used for copywork as well. Section two is Vocabulary. The child is encouraged to find the meanings of the words in context rather than through the dictionary. These words can be used for Spelling as well. Third--comprehension questions. These questions are based on the reading sections. Fourth are the Activities/Enrichment that complement the study. It includes timelines, maps, research, writing, and art. Finally there is an appendix which includes all of the worksheets needed.

The final book is the teacher's guide. This is the student workbook answer key.

Years ago I used this book but it did not have the student workbook. I find it makes the learning a lot easier with the student book. There is vocabulary and comprehension questions that support what the student is reading.

Using it this time, I found a routine that worked well for my son and I. First we would go over the Facts to Know in the student book. I had my book to help him define the words/facts. We did a lot of this together. Then we would read the excerpt about the person (ie. Egbert--king from 802 to 837 AD). We then went over the chapter's vocabulary using the story book. Comprehension questions followed with an enrichment activity if we chose. I did the Comprehension questions orally also. My son has sensory issues and a lot of writing does not go well with him.

This book is very thorough. It is serious study with interesting stories about interesting people in history.

Pros: 1-Colorful text. (We love color in our family)

2-I LOVE the fact that there is a student book now. VERY helpful.

3- Text has a glossary with facts about the people in a more concise format.

4- Thorough, thorough, thorough

5- Inexpensive--$39.95 for ALL 3 books

Cons: 1- suggested to take a year. I personally would not want to teach the Middle Ages for a whole year. If I used the classical method for my homeschooling this would probably not be a con.

For all three books the cost is $39.95. This is a 25% discount for buying the three books at once. Seperately they are: TEXT- $16.95, STUDENT- $17.95 and TE- $17.95. Not bad!!!

Famous Men of the Middle Ages www.memoriapress.com

Famous Men of Modern Times

This set has the same basic set up as the Famous Men of the Middle Ages. There are a couple of differences. There are 33 chapters with 6 lessons. There are tests for each chapter. The Middle Ages book did not have tests.

Some of the people included in this series are:

Christopher Columbus
Sir Francis Drake
Sir Walter Raleigh
Galileo
Napoleon

Prices are great again!!! $39.95 for the set.

Check it out!!!!

• 1 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Apr. 14, 2009 - Generations of Virtue: Teknon and the Champion Warriors

It is very difficult to find good Christian books that are geared toward our boys. I was blessed enough to review one put out by Generations of Virtue. I LOVE this company. I have had the opportunity to see them the last two years at our state homeschool convention. I bought my daughter's purity ring there as well as several books.

Anyway..., this is about Teknon.....

Ok, I read this book on my own. I wasn't quite sure if my 11 year old would be able to enjoy it just yet. After reading it I think it'd be great as a read aloud for him and dad. It is a science fiction story about a boy who wants to become a warrior but must first learn several lessons about how to be a CHAMPION:

C: Courage

H: Honor God and respect others

A: Attitude

M: Mental Toughness--discernment, listening to convictions

P: Purity

I: Integrity

O: Ownership (being a good steward)

N: Navigation--trusting God to guide our life

All of these virtues are important to be CHAMPION warriors. Teknon needs to utilize them to defeat the evil Magos. Can he do it?? Will he be able to defeat Magos AND keep on the path God wants him to be on??

This book takes temptations our boys face each and every day and battles them in a novel that is engaging. Although it is science fiction, boys will relate to Teknon and the things he has to face and the struggles he has doing so.

This book sells for $13.99. There is a study guide set for fathers/sons ($15.99 and $14.99 respectively) or you can get the novel and both guides for $42.99.

www.generationsofvirtue.org

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Apr. 14, 2009 - Spellquizzer

Spellquizzer is a program that will allow your child to review their spelling lists on the computer. You type in the spelling words for your child's weekly list (or you can import a list already made). Then you record your voice saying the word, using it in a sentence and saying the word again. You need to buy a mic for this. (They can be found very inexpensively at a Radio Shack or Walmart.) Your child can then quiz themselves on the words. If the word is spelled incorrectly the correct spelling is immediately given. If your child gets the word right, then on to the next one!!

This program is extremely easy to use. It only takes a few minutes to download and not long at all to learn how to use it. This was a big plus for me.

If you do not have a mic or do not want to get one the Spellquizzer program can still be used. Instead of recording your voice, you can type in hints(called a reminder phrase) to the words. For example, if the word is "spring" you can type in "the season after winter".

Pros:

Inexpensive: $29.95 for a lifetime license
Makes studying for spelling more fun
Takes pressure off of mom to stop and quiz child
Easy to use **there is even a tutorial if needed**
Can make up your own lists or import lists
100% satisfaction guarantee
30 day free trial period

Cons:

There is no "grading"--the parent doesn't get a view of what was spelled correctly or not unless you are sitting watching. There is no progress record. This would be a nice addition.
Best if you have a microphone

Example of word and word list:

Quiz Screen

List Creation Screen

www.spellquizzer.com

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Apr. 13, 2009 - Math Mammoth Grade 1

I reviewed the workbook for Grade 1 in the Math Mammoth series. I wasn't sure how I would like it because I am used to using spiral teaching with math (a new concept is taught every lesson or so with a lot of review of past lessons mixed in). Math Mammoth takes the mastery approach. (A concept is taught until mastered. There is not a lot of review built into it.) However, there is an extra file which enables you to download worksheets from the internet to provide review for your child.

I ended up liking the mastery approach. It really focuses on one concept at a time and you know when you are done that the child/ren KNOW what they are doing. It is a step by step process which I will try to explain.

Book 1-A focuses on: addition/subtraction to 10, the relationship between adding/subtracting, greater than and less than, number lines and word problems.

The book starts off with concrete examples. There are pictures to help the child add or subtract. After that the child is encouraged to draw their own pictures to aid them in the work. Then there are no pictures so it is a little more abstract. Missing numbers in an addition problem may be one activity or word problems that reinforce the concept taught will be used. My dd worked quickly through the picture problems and the draw your own picture problems but she still needed some concrete work when the pictures were no longer used in the book. I just used counters for those problems. I know that as time goes on she will learn her facts and not need the counters. However at this point she is not ready. This is OK!! Some drills are provided to help the child memorize. Drilling is important. (My own opinion...I feel this way with addition and subtraction as well as multiplication but I digress.....)

One thing my dd really enjoyed were the math games that are suggested in the beginning of the book. They really helped her understand addition and subtraction and in a fun way!! The games are explained in detail and there are a few to choose from. They use everyday items. Nothing will need to be purchased to play them.

The second book--1B--goes over place value (tens/ones), time to the half hour, shapes (including quadrilaterals and words such as vertex!!), measuring, addition/subtraction to 100, money, number words, graphs and estimation. We havve not started this book yet but it takes the same approach as 1 A. The child masters one topic at a time.

Pros:

Concept is mastered before a new one is taught.
Review worksheets are included so you can go back to ensure your child doesn't forget a topic.
Game ideas are given
Inexpensive: $29.90 for both worktexts. Only $15.50 each if bought separately. (You can also get a CD of the books or a print copy if you want)
Concepts taught from very concrete to abstract.

Cons:

People who like the spiral approach may not like this.
Not a ton of color (this may be a pro for many people)

Now a note on the rest of the series. There are several ways to purchase the Math Mammoth books. It would be a good idea to check out the website. http://www.mathmammoth.com/ There are a couple of different book series available. The book I reviewed is from the Light Blue series which is leveled by grade. There is the Blue series which is for grades 1-5 separated by topic. The Golden series is a set of worksheets that focuses on one topic at a time. The Green series goes across grade levels but focuses on one concept such as measuring or multiplication/division. And, last but not least is the Make It Real series-this allows the student to see math in real life. How it applies. It helps with that question: When will I ever use this?? Each of the 11 books in this series is only $4.99 or all 11 are $39.99. Take a look at the site!!

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 27, 2009 - TOS Easter gifts!!

Hey Everybody.

Well, spring is in the air and our most important holiday as Christians is right around the corner. TOS has some free gifts to celebrate our Lord's resurrection.

1. The Real Easter Story WeE-book---the Easter story with activities, puzzles, Scripture, etc.

2. The Real Easter Story Copywork WeE-book

3. Easter Place cards

There is a lot packed into these free items....check it out at:

http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/Easter-Giveaway/Easter-Giveaway.html

This is all given through The Old Schoolhouse magazine: www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com

Happy Easter!!!!!

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 27, 2009 - Apologia Biology

We used Apologia Biology with my oldest daughter. We used it in the 10th grade. When we got our evaluation (required in our state) we were told that the Biology covered in this book was equal to a beginning college level class. My daughter struggled a bit with this class but it was worth it.

There are 16 modules in all in this book. The topics covered include:

DNA

Kingdoms: Monera, Protista, Fungi

Cells

Invertebrates

Evolution (refutes evolution completely....I LOVE this about this series)

Phylum: Chordata, Arthropoda,

Each chapter includes questions to check comprehension, experiments, and study sections to prepare for tests.

As in the other Apologia books there is a master list of what is needed for labs. This is so helpful!! I like having this available because I have been caught without materials in other programs and that is not fun. My kids get excited about experiments and it makes an unhappy day when you are missing something!!

I also LOVE the fact that all of the books in the Apologia series stands behind the Christian faith completely. Evolution is denied and creation is the standard. Reasons for evolution not being true are discussed. This has brought up some really great conversations at home!

This set retails for $85.00 which includes the Solutions/Tests and the textbook.

http://www.highschoolscience.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=4

• 1 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 27, 2009 - Schleich animal figures

There is a local store that carries these animals and my girls could always be found looking at them and playing with them whenever we visited. I actually purchased a few many years ago. I was so happy to receive several of these to review. We received the rabbit, pig, elephant, panda,sheep and goat.

These animals are well made and my children have spent HOURS playing with them. They are using their imagination all of the time. I like to take them into restaurants so that my little ones can be occupied while waiting.

One thing that is important to note is that these animals are anatomically correct...this may cause some discussions to begin.....

These animals are hand painted. They are really excellent quality toys and I would invest in more of them. They are available at AC Moore, Target, Toys R Us, as well as small independent stores. The website lists places that the figures are available.

The prices range from $2.50 to 5.99. http://www.schleich-s.com

There are several categories that Schleich has: Farm Animals, Forest Animals, Pets, Trees/Plants, Human Figures, Knights, American Frontiers, Smurfs, and Elves.

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 26, 2009 - Auralog Tell Me More (Spanish)

I love the Spanish language. I took it for several years in school and wanted to minor in it in college but ended up not being able to. I have lost a lot of the language due to not using it but it is always first pick for my kids to learn. So, when we had a choice on what language to pick for Tell Me More Spanish was the natural choice.

I set up an account on this as well as my 14 y/o dd and 11 y/o ds. The program was most difficult for my son. The program uses an immersion approach. All instruction is done in the language and basically as you go and use the language you learn it. (A lot like how our children learn to speak English as babies/toddlers.) This can be hard My dd enjoys knowing WHY you do something. This type of program does not do that. That being said, once she got used to it my dd really took off.

There are four years of language study included. A total of ten levels are in the whole program. You start with five levels depending on where you place. For instance, if you place in level 1 then you will receive levels 1 to 5. When you accomplish the five levels then you can contact Tell Me More to get the next levels. You can be a Complete Beginner, Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced student within the program.

In the program you can create accounts for everyone in your family. There are three different modes to choose from. Guided mode has specific lessons scheduled in a suggested order. Free to Roam mode allows the student to move around the lessons in any order, and the Dynamic Mode which adjusts lessons according to how you are doing. It personalizes the lessons. There is also a workbook that can be printed out if you so choose.

There are several areas covered as well. Listening, speaking, word association, grammar, and cultural lessons are all included. Headphones and a microphone are included in the package to allow the student to practice their pronunciation--this was cool!! It really brought back my "accent" and improved the way I was pronouncing the words.

The cost of the program seems to be steep but you have to consider all you are getting. You are getting 5000 lessons, 10 levels, various learning modes, practice speaking, listening, and writing. The cost is $249.99. There is a 90 day money back guarantee.

Check it out. www.tellmemore.com

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 21, 2009 - Homeschool in the Woods New Testament

Do your kids enjoy Hands-on activities? Have you ever tried lapbooking? This author, Amy Pak, has put together several hands-on projects to teach the New Testament.

I personally have purchased Amy Pak's products (American Revolution CD and Colonial America CD). I have always been pleased with the product and that still holds true.

This particular product can be used on its own or as a supplement to a NT study. You can choose to do every activity or you can pick and choose according to what you are currently studying. There is so much in this product that I hope I can do it justice.

An overview: There are fifteen activities covered in this particular download (or CD if you prefer). I will list them and describe the activity....
1. Lineage of Jesus--This consists of a 2 panel booklet
2. Triptych of the Birth of Jesus--This activity is similar to a diorama
3. Miracles--We enjoyed this one. There are pictures of loaves and fishes with information on the back of each picture. When this is all colored in it looks really nice.
4. Beatitudes Pie Book--A pie book....this one can be tricky to put together but we ended up getting it to look nice even though our attempt wasn't perfect
5. Fruit of the Spirit--Consists of a basket of fruit with descriptions of the Fruits of the Spirit on the back
6. Parables of Jesus--A small booklet
7. Last Supper--A picture of the Last Supper
8,9, 10. The Crucifixion, Ascension, and the Pentecost--(This is where we are currently) This activity is a paddle book. This has a pullout section to it kind of like what is in a pop-up book but not 3-D.
11. Resurrection--A 3-D card.
12. Prophesy Fulfilled--a booklet
13. The 12 Disciples--This is a picture and description of each disciple. I am looking forward to this because I am always getting confused about some of the 12 men who were blessed enough to be His disciples.
14. Paul's Missionary Journeys--A map is made.
15. Postcards from Paul--This is a cute idea--the student makes a mailbox with postcards about Paul's various travels.

All of this is put together in a lapbook--basically file folders with the various projects put in the folders. Materials you will need include cardstock or good construction paper, glue/tape, crayons/markers/or colored pencils and file folders.

There are two additional activities included. One is a poster of the Armor of God and the other is a "newspaper". If you are familiar with notebooking the newspaper pages remind me of that. There are headlines given with picture spaces and captions and there are man areas for the child to write about what was learned.

I am not a creative person but I love to create...(does that make sense) and these products allow you to create while being creative. The work is done for you. I really appreciate that and you come out with a lapbook to be very proud of. As I said, I don't know if I can do this justice so PLEASE check it out at
http://www.homeschoolinthewoods.com/HTTA/AP/NewTestament.htm

The home page address is: www.homeschoolinthewoods.com. There are a lot of pictures to see what each activity will look like.

**I will try to add pictures later. They are not uploading for some reason. **

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 13, 2009 - March Madness is here!!!!!!!!

Do you like saving up to 80%?
Get next year's shopping done early and for less money at the March Madness sale in
the Schoolhouse Store! Check out some of the unit studies
and copy work to help round out this school year or for fun summer
activities. Almost 200 items are on sale from vendors such
as Auralog, Trigger Memory, Draw and Write Through History, American
Schoolhouse Readers, and MANY more. Start shopping and saving NOW!

Check it out!!! March Madness sale in the Schoolhouse Store
Start shopping and saving NOW!
Use this link: http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=specials

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 13, 2009 - Apologia General Science

Exploring Creation with General Science 2nd edition:

This book was written by Dr. Jay Wile. It is geared to teh 7th grader but I used it with an 8th grader. My dd is not very strong in Science and this was a perfect fit.

Each of the Apologia books take a creationist viewpoint. This curriculum is unapologetically Christian which I greatly appreciate.

There are 16 modules or chapters which are designed to take two weeks each to complete. It took our family a bit longer to get through the modules generally speaking. It is suggested that 30 to 45 minutes be given to Science each day.

As with the elementary series each text has a website that can be accessed with a special password to extra links/information that may be helpful or just plain fun for the student.

A lab notebook should be kept throughout the course. This is the perfect introduction to the "official lab". This book has many opportunities to experiment and be hands-on.

The first module is heavy on scientists throughout time. We made 3 x 5 index cards to help us remember names and contributions. This helps with vocabulary throughout the text as well.

Each module has a couple of basic characteristics:

The text is definitely written to the student.
On Your Own Questions--these are questions that check comprehension. They are placed through the chapter. They are not saved for just the end of the chapter which could be overwhelming. I like the way this is set up.
Experiments--Also placed through the chapter. This breaks up the module so there is variety.
Answers to On Your Own Questions--These are listed at the end of the module
Study Guide--GREAT preparation for the Chapter test.

There is a CD that can be purchased that can enhance the text. It includes word pronunciation, videos, and some solutions to problems in the text that are explained in a different way. I purchased this and it has helped in our study.

This book covers many areas in Science. Everything from Simple Machines to DNA is touched upon. Topics from the Limitations of Science to Metabolic Rates throughout Creation are discussed.

The cost of the entire set which includes text, solutions manual and tests is $85.00

This is a well thought out, challenging curriculum and we are learning more and more each day. We are able to know about science and keep our faith strong while doing it.

Thank you, Dr. Wile!!

https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=2

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 12, 2009 - Flying Creatures of the Fifth Day--Apologia

OK, I am a little biased when it comes to these Apologia Elementary Books. These books are what got my ds (now 12) interested in Science!! He is a tough one. School of any kind is not his favorite BUT he ASKS to do Science now!!! You have no idea how significant this is! Why?? Well, I will focus on Flying Creatures of the Fifth Day (although I also own Astronomy and Swimming Creatures of the Fifth Day and I will be purchasing Land Animals this year....)

ANYWAY....

To begin, in the front of the book there is a materials list of all you will need for the chapters. This is soooo convenient. I like to have everything on hand so I am not running around on the day of the experiment/project. It is so much easier being able to collect everything in advance.

Most importantly, this series take a creationist view. This is so important when we are usually bombarded with evolution/Darwin/natural selection, etc.

Third, the book is written in an engaging manner to the student. My son is perfectly capable of reading this on his own but we enjoyed reading it together and honestly, I learned quite a bit along with him!!

Fourth, the classification of animals is explained in a very understandable way.

Experiments are given in each chapter. The think I really like is that Jeannie Fulbright explains what the results should be. Have you ever done an experiment and you weren't really sure of what should have happened?? This has frustrated me and the kids to no end in the past. This doesn't happen with the Apologia books. (even in the older grades but that is another review--).

Students are to keep a notebook throughout the book. My son does not enjoy writing but he could narrate what he learned back to me with no problem. He keeps a lab sheet for each experiment and that along with drawings and his narrations are making a great keepsake. There are also lapbooks available to go along with the Apologia books if your child enjoys those instead of or in addition to notebooking.

Another bonus is that there is a website and a special password included in the text that gives you access to extra information and links to various sites that connect with whatever topic you are studying in the text. This was really neat to go to and look at. Also, it made it easier to look further into topics that interested my son.

The answers to the narrative questions are given in the back of the book. This is also quite helpful. It is easy enough to find the answers but this is a time saver.

Note: This would definitely NOT apply to everyone but we live near a city. We do not have the advantage of seeing the varous birds. We mostly see pigeons!! However, we are still learning a lot and there are beautiful pictures in the book. Also, my family is not big on bugs so the second half of the book is being read and the activities are being skipped. We did not collect the insects or mount any and we even had to cover a picture or two...(those mealworms--EWWW! ). but again, we learned a ton even while skipping some of the activities.

I highly recommend this whole series. EXCELLENT!!! The book retails for $35.00.

https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=1

• 1 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 12, 2009 - One 2 Believe: Noah's Ark

We received a second shipment from One to Believe to review. It is the Noah's Ark set. The minute this set came in the mail my three youngest were all over it!! They played with it for over an hour and I found my youngest walking around with the animal figures long after that.

The only complaint I have about this set is the difficulty in getting the top part of the ark off to store the animals. My littles had a very hard time with this and almost pinched their fingers.

Overall, I like these sets a lot. I like the fact that my kids can play with a toy that is Bible based and have a good time using their imagination with a wholesome plaything. I also like the fact that this is not another video game or some other kind of technology. This company is all about simple play which I so appreciate in this technological world.

This set is $29.99 for a sturdy ark, Noah, and 14 animals.

http://www.one2believe.com/

• 1 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Mar. 12, 2009 - Artistic Pursuits

I was chosen to review this wonderful art curriculum. The grade range I picked was K-3 Book 1. There are several books available in this program. I have listed them below.

Pre K--The Way They See It

K-3--Book 1: Intro. to Visual Arts, Book 2: Stories of Artists and Their Art and Book 3: Modern Painting and Sculpture

Grades 4-6--Book 1: Drawing and Book 2: Color and Painting

Junior High--Book 1: The Elements of Art and Composition and Book 2: Color and Composition

Senior High--Book 1: The Elements of Art and Composition and Book 2: Color and Composition

The begininning of the book breaks down the supplies needed into groups. The individual lessons indicate which group of supplies will be needed. This is VERY convenient. I had shoe boxes with each group in its own box so I could just pull out the box with the correct supplies. Artisic Pursuits offers kits that includes the supplies needed and links are also provided for discounted suplies if you choose to look for the best bargain.

Each lesson in the K-3 Book 1 book discusses a particular artist's work and a topic such as what the artist sees---shapes, form, line, color, edges, etc. What artists do--compose, imagine, look, make landscapes, portraits and still lifes are some other topics covered. And last but certainly not least, the book covers where art is found--caves, underground, palaces pyramids, roadsides, and on and on with more places. It is very comprehensive and introduces the child to many famous artist and their works.

The child is encouraged to draw, paint, etc from his/her own experience and NOT just duplicate the artist. The child truly owns his/her own work. a very special touch that I loved about his curriculum is the sample works that every day kid's produced. Each one was very unique to the child.

I cannot wait to get the other levels of this program. I am going to get the levels needed for each age group in our family. (I think I'll have books from every level!!) This curriculum is fun, educational, and easy to implement.

www.artisticpursuits.com

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Feb. 25, 2009 - Rocket Phonics

This phonics program was created by Stephen and Maureen Guffanti. They created it when they were teaching one of their daughters how to read. This approach is very different than the traditional phonics I am used to teaching. But before I get into that let me share what comes with this program.

1. Two large books

2. Symbol cards. These cards have the symbols for each of the letters. For instance, for the long sound of "e" a picture of an eagle is shown, for short "e" an egg is the picture symbol.

3. Bingo chips/cards

4. A "peeker"

5. Word Lists

6. Twenty-eight supplements that will come weekly to your inbox (includes extra stories, games, etc) valued at $69.95

7. Treasure hunts with small gifts included!!

8. A word find treasure hunt and the Rocket Phonics Phrase Game.

Here is an example of how a lesson would look with the sound clues:
At first, this overwhelmed me as I have always taken a traditional approach to phonics. So far, it seems to be working with my 6 y/o but my 5 y/o is struggling. It could be that she is simply not ready so I will probably table this program with her for a little while longer.

One negative is that some of the pictures on the symbol cards aren't the best choices. For instance, for u a picture of a duck is used. This stumps my daughter every time. Why not an umbrella or something that begins with the letter u at the least. Also, the letter "o" can be confusing. There is a picture of an otter which may not be familiar to some children.

Another negative for some may be the price. This program goes for $160. If it works then it is wonderful. It is non consumable (except for the little prizes but they can be replaced easily). However, if it doesn't work it is a very big investment financially.

Some positives?? It is not the traditional way to teach reading so this may help with a child that has a different learning style or a child that is having difficulty and needs a different approach. Also, it is very colorful and fun! There are a lot of game elements which definitely keeps my kids' interest.

Another good thing is that after a while the visual clues are removed. This prevents the student from relying on them continuously.

A third pro to this curriculum is that it only takes 15 to 30 minutes a day. Just long enough to hold a child's interest and not get too boring/monotonous.

The program is colorful. (This happens to be important in my family.) While this may not be a pro in someone else's family it is in ours.

And finally, the program is laid out step by step. There is no guesswork on how to present the concepts.

Check it out for yourself. See if this would be a good fit for your family.

http://www.rocketphonics.org/

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Feb. 24, 2009 - Math Tutor DVDs (Word Problems and Algebra 2)

When I first received these two DVDs two thoughts went through my head....how can all of this be taught in 8 hours and Yes!!!, maybe someone with a Math brain can help my kids!!!!

First thought: These DVDs are intended to SUPPLEMENT your current program. The author does not claim for these to be all inclusive courses. They are to help in the most common areas that kids would have difficulty.

Second thought: I was very happy with the content of the DVDs. Things that I couldn't explain well were explained carefully and methodically.

More info needed?? OK....In the Word Problem DVD key words are looked for---what is the problem asking the student to figure out? Are we supposed to add, subtract, multiply or divide?? The problems are taken one step at a time and worked out slowly and explained very well. Word problems are always such an issue for some kids and this DVD takes some of the bite out. ($26.99)
Topics include:
Disc 1
Section 1: Adding Whole Numbers
Section 2: Subtracting Whole Numbers
Section 3: Multiplying Whole Numbers
Section 4: Dividing Whole Numbers
Section 5: Adding Decimals
Section 6: Subtracting Decimals
Section 7: Multiplying Decimals
Section 8: Dividing Decimals

Disc 2
Section 9: Adding Fractions
Section 10: Subtracting Fractions
Section 11: Multiplying Fractions
Section 12: Dividing Fractions
Section 13: Percents, Part 1
Section 14: Percents, Part 2
Section 15: Ratio and Proportion

The second DVD I reviewed was Algebra 2....ACK, right?? Wrong. Again, each example is slowly and methodically explained. Several examples in each area are given and worked out. The teacher reminds the student that the best way to get better at math is to do it!! And he clears up common problems. ($26.99)
The topics on this DVD are:

Disk 1
Section 1: Graphing Equations
Section 2: The Slope Of A Line
Section 3: Writing Equations Of Lines
Section 4: Graphing Inequalities
Section 5: Solving Systems Of Equations By Graphing
Section 6: Solving Systems Of Equations By Substitution
Section 7: Solving Systems Of Equations By Addition

Disk 2
Section 8: Solving Systems Of Equations In Three Variables
Section 9: Simplifying Radical Expressions.
Section 10: Add/Subtract Radical Expressions.
Section 11: Multiply/Divide Radical Expressions.
Section 12: Solving Equations With Radicals.
Section 13: Fractional Exponents.
Section 14: Solving Polynomial Equations.
Section 15: The Quadratic Formula.

There are worksheets that can be purchased to help out in the above areas as well.

Is the DVD engaging and entertaining? No, not really but it does it's job. Sometimes a more straight forward approach is better. The less bells and whistles, the less distractions.

There are several other DVDs that cover a gamut of areas. They are listed here:

These DVDs are a job WELL DONE!!
They come with a money back guarantee and for a limited time you can get free math help--here is the deal straight from the site:

LIMITED TIME FREE BONUS: Each new Math Tutor DVD customer receives 60 minutes of FREE live online tutoring available 24/7 through Tutor.com! A $35.00 Value!

http://www.mathtutordvd.com/public/main.cfm

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Feb. 24, 2009 - Bible Story Songs

My family is full of music lovers. We don't care what it is, if we are cleaning the house or doing an art project we have music on. Our tastes run from Michael W. Smith to Barlow Girls to Relient K.

Well, now we have a younger group!! Bible Story Songs. We received the "The Bible - Let's Sing About the Book We Love". The first time we listened to it the older kids thought it was a little hokey. But, as time went on I saw them put it on for the little ones as well! The tunes are catchy and yes, a little corny but so what?? I am just happy they are enjoying singing and dancing to songs about the Bible. There are 32 songs on this particular DVD with lyrics in the paper included.

Each CD retails for $9.99 and the more you buy the less expensive it gets.

In addition, the website includes puzzle books, song sheets, and sheet music that can be purchased.

This is a fun way for little ones to learn more about the important people in the Bible....check it out.

https://biblestorysongs.com/

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Feb. 24, 2009 - Homeschooling ABCs by Terri Johnson (Knowledge Quest)

When I first started homeschooling I really had no clue what I was doing. I had a few friends who were beginning the journey around the same time as I was and we chatted often about what was working and what was not. Oh, how I wish I had these booklets then!! And, don't think if you are a "seasoned" homeschooler you won't get anything out of this. That is not true. Every week I am learning new ideas and ways to do things that are refreshing and a change in my norm.

This "class" is $10 per month for six months and many months have extras. Maybe an e-book for encouragement, maybe a sample curriculum.

The first week (A) was entitled "Ten Steps to a Great Start in Homeschooling", the second week--week "B" is "Let's Begin with the Basics", "C" is "Copy the Classroom---Not!" (oh, how I wish I had had that lesson!! I still struggle with that!) Each week builds on the one before with TONS of great advice that comes from experience. At this point I have received up to Lesson "S" (Can you guess the topic???)---Socialization!!

I highly recommend these!! I look forward to seeing the rest of the alphabet!

http://www.homeschoolingabcs.com/

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Feb. 18, 2009 - One Year Adventure Novel

I have been blessed with a lot of different curriculum this year but I have to say this is one of my favorites. I have a 16 y/o dd who LOVES to write and this was a definite success. My 14 y/o dd does NOT like to write and I am able to use it with her as well!! This program is fun, challenging and takes a big job and breaks it down into manageable chunks.

There are several different components in the program. There is a set of DVDs, a resource disc, an adventure novel (The Prisoner of Zenda), a teacher's guide, a textbook (called The Compass), and a workbook (aka The Map).

I will take each item and describe it as best I can. You really have to go to the site to see all that is involved and how interesting the author, Daniel Schwabauer, of this program has made writing.

The program is meant to last a year using the OYAN curriculum 3 to 5 times a week.

First, the OYAN is meant to be low prep. for us. The student can go through this with little help. Some guidance is recommended and ways to help the student is discussed in the Teacher's Guide. How to Grade, Guidance and Evaluation, Score Sheets, and Weekly Quizzes are all included in the Guide. This is my biggest problem area. I am not good with grading writing. This guide takes the fear out of this.

The base of the program are the DVDs. There are 7 DVDs that are the basis of the instuction. They are to be watched first, before the student goes on to the workbook/text. The DVD lessons are engaging, fun and easy to watch. They last approximately 15 - 20 minutes.

The second part of the program is the Compass which is the text. After watching the DVD, the student goes to the textbook and reads the lesson. It is written to the student. Some of the lessons have sections of novels to back up the concept of the day. For instance, in the text there is a section that talks about how to create a sense of fear or dread in a story. An excerpt from The Blood Ship by Norman Springer is used to back up that concept. Discussion questions to further increase understanding may be used as well. Throughout the Compass, the student will be assigned readings in the novel included with the set The Prisoner of Zenda.

The next step is the Map, or workbook. This book will help the student write the novel step by step in little increments. This works so well. Each lesson in the workbook takes what could be a daunting task and makes it easy!! This helped my non-writer tremendously. It was not overwhelming at all!!! The various sections of a good novel are taken and broken down so all of the important sections are included. Does this make sense?? I don't think I can describe this as well as I want to!!

On the resource disc there are actual novels. Some examples are, The Adventures of Huckleberry FInn, The Jungle Book, and Peter Pan to just name three of the fourteen. In addition, there are quizzes and other resources on this disc.

Now, this part is really cool. Your child can get on the forum at OYAN and ask the author or other kids using this program anything about their novel. There were several instances where a student didn't know where to go next and wanted advice. Both Mr. Schwabauer and other kids helped. Maybe your child has a new idea and wants input...put it on the forum!!

Finally, your child can "publish" their completed novel on the site. This is great incentive. All the time and effort put into this program can be rewarded by actually being able to share the work they have done.!!

The OYAN can count as a one credit course in Creative Writing for High School. The author makes it clear that this is not a spelling/grammar course but it is challenging and on the site it is stated that more is covered than an average college course BUT don't let that overwhelm you!!

Note: Each student needs their own workbook which allows them to have their own registration to get into the forum. Additional workbooks are $25.00.

The cost for the whole curriculum is $199. This is a very good price for all that you are getting.

www.oneyearnovel.com

• 0 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link

Feb. 13, 2009 - TOG customer service

I really feel led to share this with you before I even begin my review of Tapestry of Grace. Their customer service is AWESOME!!

As I have stated on several Crew member's blogs and even here (I think ) I am in no way Tech Savvy. I was blessed with a digital edition of TOG's Year 2 Unit 1 lessons. I had the hardest time getting it to work. After several e-mails to both Scott and Ray (the greatest Tech guy around!!) I finally contacted them again. Ray suggested I call and allow him to "remote on" to my computer to help me. Well, that is the coolest thing first of all but I digress..... He got it to work!! And, he was patient, and he was kind, and he didn't make me feel like an idiot. I so appreciated it!

If I got ANYTHING at all out of this company so far, it is that I would LOVE to deal with them. I have a fine impression so far. I can't wait to start the program.

Thanks Ray!!

• 2 Comments • Post A Comment! • Permanent Link