Hi,
Have you ever had a really good idea but then in the flow of life with its ups and downs never implemented it? Or maybe you have?
Today I found I had implemented a really good idea... twice. :-)
As I have shuffled things around in this house I got 2 filing boxes in one place at one time and in looking through them realised that I had set up an almost identical filing system twice over for our homeschooling papers.
After having to read a training manual at work this last week I realised that I need a manual for homeschooling. I am creating a document that lists out my goals for homeschooling, my plans for school, where things are stored and how the paper should flow through this system.
I am even thinking of creating a flow chart to show where things go when. lol Too much?!
Folders and boxes are now getting labels with official sounding names like Future Planning - Lesson Plans and Materials (a binder for the overview of topics and how they fit into the big picture) and Future Planning - Subject Materials (a large file box with folders for each subject for those miscellaneous things you find like a great game or crossword puzzle or fun activity, and folders for each resource that I have to copy to use eg Critical Thinking books, and folders for lessons plans with the materials that relate to them and a list of other resources and their location.
I already have Subject Boxes sitting in a bookshelf that have the current books that we are using for that subject and a small file folder that contains any worksheets or printed resources that will be needed for the current week. Next week's work is in the Future Planning - Lesson Plans and Materials binder or the Future Planning - Subject Materials box.
The planning side of my personality is already feeling better. I hate feeling overwhelmed.
So, how many people have a homeschool manual? What do you have in yours and why did you decide to create it?
Best wishes
Jen
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Sunday, July 12, 2015
Monday, June 29, 2015
Good, Bad and the Ugly! Or is it vice versa?
So working 20 odd hours a week can really change how you manage your life. D'oh! Of course it does!
The Ugly bit has been that our days do not start early. My boys often don't get themselves breakfast and by the time I get up after a late night at work they are often entrenched in TV and PCs. That certainly loads on the guilt.
The Bad is that I am not getting all the school done each day that I would like to get done. We are not getting to the flesh of an education, only making bare bones a lot of the time, so school feels more like all work and no fun.
The Good is that I have learned to focus more quickly in the morning and even if I haven't had time to make a lovely written/typed out plan for the week I can still pick up each book we use daily and do something from it. We have been doing rote memorising of times tables on the lounge, and spelling, grammar and writing are happening about 3-4 days a week. The boys also work independently on their maths. That is a lot more consistent than I have been in the past where I could miss weeks without realising it. It also certainly helps when I like what we are using so there is no angst in getting out the books to do something, no matter how small.
It is school holidays and I hadn't intended to take a break but we are slowing down a little. The boys have finally decided to talk to the kids down the street that are about their age. I want them to go out and play. I need to get my head wrapped around more realistic expectations of working and homeschooling and trim those huge plans I had at the beginning of the year back so they are workable. I also need to finish off my Cert 3 course.
So, it is time to take a breather, fine tune what can be realistically done over the next 3 months and get on with some studies of my own. Actually I am feeling pretty good about a time out. Let's hope I use it effectively.
Best wishes
Jen
The Ugly bit has been that our days do not start early. My boys often don't get themselves breakfast and by the time I get up after a late night at work they are often entrenched in TV and PCs. That certainly loads on the guilt.
The Bad is that I am not getting all the school done each day that I would like to get done. We are not getting to the flesh of an education, only making bare bones a lot of the time, so school feels more like all work and no fun.
The Good is that I have learned to focus more quickly in the morning and even if I haven't had time to make a lovely written/typed out plan for the week I can still pick up each book we use daily and do something from it. We have been doing rote memorising of times tables on the lounge, and spelling, grammar and writing are happening about 3-4 days a week. The boys also work independently on their maths. That is a lot more consistent than I have been in the past where I could miss weeks without realising it. It also certainly helps when I like what we are using so there is no angst in getting out the books to do something, no matter how small.
It is school holidays and I hadn't intended to take a break but we are slowing down a little. The boys have finally decided to talk to the kids down the street that are about their age. I want them to go out and play. I need to get my head wrapped around more realistic expectations of working and homeschooling and trim those huge plans I had at the beginning of the year back so they are workable. I also need to finish off my Cert 3 course.
So, it is time to take a breather, fine tune what can be realistically done over the next 3 months and get on with some studies of my own. Actually I am feeling pretty good about a time out. Let's hope I use it effectively.
Best wishes
Jen
Sunday, June 14, 2015
Poetry Workshops Part 1
So... do you hate poetry like I do? lol I am really more a lay it out in logical order type of person and my drawing skills are horrible.
Anyway, I got chatting to a friend a few weeks ago and she encouraged me to do a poetry workshop for our kids together.
Over 3 or 4 days we looked at different ways words are used in poetry. It was quite fun, especially the Dada method. My friend had a bag of magnetic words which were piled onto a tray and we chose one at random each in turn. Amazing how interesting the poems turned out. Even though these poems are supposed to be devoid of meaning we would still look for it.
It has been some time since we did this so I can't quite remember which was whose (I will correct this later when my friend reminds me. :-) ) but here are some pictures of our poetry.
I quite liked the last one and the second one.
More to come, need to take photos of the boys' work.
Best wishes
Jen
Anyway, I got chatting to a friend a few weeks ago and she encouraged me to do a poetry workshop for our kids together.
Over 3 or 4 days we looked at different ways words are used in poetry. It was quite fun, especially the Dada method. My friend had a bag of magnetic words which were piled onto a tray and we chose one at random each in turn. Amazing how interesting the poems turned out. Even though these poems are supposed to be devoid of meaning we would still look for it.
It has been some time since we did this so I can't quite remember which was whose (I will correct this later when my friend reminds me. :-) ) but here are some pictures of our poetry.
I quite liked the last one and the second one.
More to come, need to take photos of the boys' work.
Best wishes
Jen
Saturday, May 30, 2015
Handwriting Improving, Yipee!
Hi,
Made myself a plan for improving the boys' handwriting. It was really a big bug bear for me after their time in school.
It is sort of a mish mash of a few methods plus my own remembrances from school.
First stage - Magic C
Steps
1. Two lines of c shapes that start at 1 o'clock, bump the top line, curve around, bump the bottom line and come up again to 5 o'clock.
2. Continue doing one line of magic c shapes and then one line of o.
3. Half a line of magic c and half a line of o and add in a full line of a, d, g and q one at a time. We always do a half line of the basic shape and then use the other half of the line to review problem letters.
(I would get the children to circle the best 2 letters on each line in their opinion, and then I would tick above the good ones and double tick the awesome letters. Sometimes I would make a note of a detail they might need to pay attention to next time, or add a smiley face!)
Finish off the magic c letters with a game. Get them to draw a magic c then call out a letter to change it into. This has really helped with making sure that g for instance has the circle part on the line instead of the tail touching the bottom line. It also helped the shape of a to be more round instead of a bit like a tear drop. I add this game in whenever we have had a break for a while to just get them back into handwriting.
Second stage - bump letters
Steps
1. Two lines of caterpillar humps, in clusters of 4 or 5. Check for even bumps, right to the top and down to the line and symmetry.
2. Continue doing basic shape for one line and add in r, n, m, h, b and p in stages.
3. Keep adding in review letters for half or a full line as you see the need. Individualise!
Third stage - i, l, u, t, y, j
Steps
1. Practice short and tall vertical lines that start at the top and travel neatly down to the bottom line.
2. Continue doing basic shape and add in other letters.
3. Keep adding in review letters for half or a full line as you see the need. Individualise!
Fourth stage - zig zag letters: v, w, x, z
Steps
1. Practice / and \ at the appropriate angles for the above letters. One line at a time. Check for good start and finish places.
2. Continue doing the basic shapes, 1/2 line each and add in v, w, x and z in stages.
3. Keep adding in review letters for half or a full line as you see the need. Individualise!
Fifth stage - e, f, s, k
Honestly, we aren't this far yet and I can't see a common starting point for these letters so we may just do one line at a time and practice, practice, practice.
Sixth stage - Frog jump letters (Handwriting without Tears terminology)
F, E, D, P, B, R, N, M
Seventh stage - Starting Corner letters (HWT too, I think?!)
H, K, L, U, V, W, X, Y, Z
Eighth stage - Centre Starter letters (HWT too, I think?!)
C, O, Q, G, S, A, I, T, J
The biggest thing I try to remember with my boys is to not comment negatively on their handwriting in any other subject but I do comment very effusively when I see a beautifully formed a or g in their other writing.
It is working. Little g now sits on the line more often than not and a is formed much more roundly instead of a tear drop shape.
Anyway, hope that helps someone.
Best wishes
Jen
Made myself a plan for improving the boys' handwriting. It was really a big bug bear for me after their time in school.
It is sort of a mish mash of a few methods plus my own remembrances from school.
First stage - Magic C
Steps
1. Two lines of c shapes that start at 1 o'clock, bump the top line, curve around, bump the bottom line and come up again to 5 o'clock.
2. Continue doing one line of magic c shapes and then one line of o.
3. Half a line of magic c and half a line of o and add in a full line of a, d, g and q one at a time. We always do a half line of the basic shape and then use the other half of the line to review problem letters.
(I would get the children to circle the best 2 letters on each line in their opinion, and then I would tick above the good ones and double tick the awesome letters. Sometimes I would make a note of a detail they might need to pay attention to next time, or add a smiley face!)
Finish off the magic c letters with a game. Get them to draw a magic c then call out a letter to change it into. This has really helped with making sure that g for instance has the circle part on the line instead of the tail touching the bottom line. It also helped the shape of a to be more round instead of a bit like a tear drop. I add this game in whenever we have had a break for a while to just get them back into handwriting.
Second stage - bump letters
Steps
1. Two lines of caterpillar humps, in clusters of 4 or 5. Check for even bumps, right to the top and down to the line and symmetry.
2. Continue doing basic shape for one line and add in r, n, m, h, b and p in stages.
3. Keep adding in review letters for half or a full line as you see the need. Individualise!
Third stage - i, l, u, t, y, j
Steps
1. Practice short and tall vertical lines that start at the top and travel neatly down to the bottom line.
2. Continue doing basic shape and add in other letters.
3. Keep adding in review letters for half or a full line as you see the need. Individualise!
Fourth stage - zig zag letters: v, w, x, z
Steps
1. Practice / and \ at the appropriate angles for the above letters. One line at a time. Check for good start and finish places.
2. Continue doing the basic shapes, 1/2 line each and add in v, w, x and z in stages.
3. Keep adding in review letters for half or a full line as you see the need. Individualise!
Fifth stage - e, f, s, k
Honestly, we aren't this far yet and I can't see a common starting point for these letters so we may just do one line at a time and practice, practice, practice.
Sixth stage - Frog jump letters (Handwriting without Tears terminology)
F, E, D, P, B, R, N, M
Seventh stage - Starting Corner letters (HWT too, I think?!)
H, K, L, U, V, W, X, Y, Z
Eighth stage - Centre Starter letters (HWT too, I think?!)
C, O, Q, G, S, A, I, T, J
The biggest thing I try to remember with my boys is to not comment negatively on their handwriting in any other subject but I do comment very effusively when I see a beautifully formed a or g in their other writing.
It is working. Little g now sits on the line more often than not and a is formed much more roundly instead of a tear drop shape.
Anyway, hope that helps someone.
Best wishes
Jen
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Daily List for School
In discussing how school worked and didn't work for the boys they mentioned that they liked having a daily list up to see so they knew what was coming next.
I have had this roll of Ikea paper for ages and not known what to do with it. Now it sits up on top of the shelves we have in our school room. Behind this board is a small white board that we use for spelling and then behind that are boxes for each boy and various odds and sods.
I just roll up the paper for spelling and then drop it back down to keep crossing things off. I must admit it helps me too as I plan out the day in large writing which is just right for my morning brain.
Best wishes
Jen
I have had this roll of Ikea paper for ages and not known what to do with it. Now it sits up on top of the shelves we have in our school room. Behind this board is a small white board that we use for spelling and then behind that are boxes for each boy and various odds and sods.
I just roll up the paper for spelling and then drop it back down to keep crossing things off. I must admit it helps me too as I plan out the day in large writing which is just right for my morning brain.
Best wishes
Jen
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Let's Try This Again, Shall We?
So, we have started back at school again after the hiatus with my training and recovering.
It isn't going too bad now. I have got a very serious plan together for Language Arts, I have made a list for the Maths books the boys are working through, and I am getting some headway with my Geography plans.
In this last week I saw some great headway made by my middle two with their handwriting and spelling. They are getting back into their maths books but really need to focus better. And work faster!
This week and last week were one day short due to the long weekend for Easter but due to the school holidays the homeschool group activity we go to on a Wednesday won't be on so I will catch up a bit then with a full day of work instead of a half day.
I met a new family last week with one boy. He gets on really well with my second boy. And we all had a great time visiting them. What else could you want if you have a kitten, a tank full of frogs, Lego everywhere, Minecraft on a network and a Wii? Boy Heaven!!
I am slowly getting used to the midnight finishes. My body clock keeps resisting the change but I am staying consistent so that my driving home time is an alert time. And the boys don't mind a little play time first thing in the morning while I sleep.
Better get to bed now though, it is almost 12.20am.
Best wishes
Jen in Qld
It isn't going too bad now. I have got a very serious plan together for Language Arts, I have made a list for the Maths books the boys are working through, and I am getting some headway with my Geography plans.
In this last week I saw some great headway made by my middle two with their handwriting and spelling. They are getting back into their maths books but really need to focus better. And work faster!
This week and last week were one day short due to the long weekend for Easter but due to the school holidays the homeschool group activity we go to on a Wednesday won't be on so I will catch up a bit then with a full day of work instead of a half day.
I met a new family last week with one boy. He gets on really well with my second boy. And we all had a great time visiting them. What else could you want if you have a kitten, a tank full of frogs, Lego everywhere, Minecraft on a network and a Wii? Boy Heaven!!
I am slowly getting used to the midnight finishes. My body clock keeps resisting the change but I am staying consistent so that my driving home time is an alert time. And the boys don't mind a little play time first thing in the morning while I sleep.
Better get to bed now though, it is almost 12.20am.
Best wishes
Jen in Qld
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Week Five Wrap-up sort of!
To put it frankly not enough school happened this week. I am a bit cranky about it. On Monday I had two children in the middle stage of a cold so feeling miserable - no school day. Then on Tuesday between getting my eldest to work and then me to a job interview in the middle of the day that was very long (no news yet) there was really very little time for school if I could even consider fitting it in. On Wednesday our pamphlet delivering job took over, 16 and 11 in two different areas and another day of no school. Thursday was ok but Friday was a dribble of a day as I am finding I really struggle with irregular meals and I have been having horrible sleep lately too, so the day just petered off.
I want this coming week to be better but it was supposed to be a break week and I am struggling mentally with the amount of work not done.
I need a proper break, a little change of scenery but with so much to do I don't know how to fit it in.
BW
Jen
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Week Three and Four Wrap-up
We had a good two weeks with us gradually building up the expectations of each day's work. I am finding that my children learn better in small chunks than one big long lesson and then move on.
I am not sure if I am happy with this as I wonder if it is showing a lack of ability to focus for longer than 5 to 10 minutes on one topic. I also feel that we are possibly dragging out lessons that could go a lot quicker. :-(
I have never been very good at lots of photos but we had some great lessons in the last few weeks. We learned about the orchestra, reviewed nouns, made funny sentences with homophones and read Aboriginal myths.
We also dug out the marrow of a whopping great big bone I got from the butcher and then boiled the bone to see what was left after the marrow dissolved. We made lots of glove balloons after we cleaned up the marrow and blood. By the way not all boys are interested in icky gooey stuff. lol Harry really didn't want to look too closely at the bone. But on a good point I found out that he is pretty confident with, and even enjoys, reading comprehension worksheets. This is great news as I know now he will be able to learn much more in depth material than what I can cover while keeping a 6 year old interested also.
The boys were very enthusiastic about telling me about the Aboriginal myths they knew. I really will have to go read the one about how the birds got their colours. Something to do with a dying bird?!
I also worked out that the younger two can work on some hands on critical thinking skill worksheets when Griffin (6) needs someone to pay him some attention and I can spend more focused time with Jackson.
School is really starting to come together. I can't wait to show you what my husband and I are making for our school table. I hope the boys will really enjoy showing off some creativity with these new items.
In the meantime, I am also studying so I can get some part time work. I will have more to juggle then. :D
Best wishes
Jen
I am not sure if I am happy with this as I wonder if it is showing a lack of ability to focus for longer than 5 to 10 minutes on one topic. I also feel that we are possibly dragging out lessons that could go a lot quicker. :-(
I have never been very good at lots of photos but we had some great lessons in the last few weeks. We learned about the orchestra, reviewed nouns, made funny sentences with homophones and read Aboriginal myths.
We also dug out the marrow of a whopping great big bone I got from the butcher and then boiled the bone to see what was left after the marrow dissolved. We made lots of glove balloons after we cleaned up the marrow and blood. By the way not all boys are interested in icky gooey stuff. lol Harry really didn't want to look too closely at the bone. But on a good point I found out that he is pretty confident with, and even enjoys, reading comprehension worksheets. This is great news as I know now he will be able to learn much more in depth material than what I can cover while keeping a 6 year old interested also.
The boys were very enthusiastic about telling me about the Aboriginal myths they knew. I really will have to go read the one about how the birds got their colours. Something to do with a dying bird?!
I also worked out that the younger two can work on some hands on critical thinking skill worksheets when Griffin (6) needs someone to pay him some attention and I can spend more focused time with Jackson.
School is really starting to come together. I can't wait to show you what my husband and I are making for our school table. I hope the boys will really enjoy showing off some creativity with these new items.
In the meantime, I am also studying so I can get some part time work. I will have more to juggle then. :D
Best wishes
Jen
Friday, January 30, 2015
Week Two Wrap-up
Well, if I learned anything this week was to be prepared, get a good night's sleep and be prepared. :-)
Oh, and keep records!
The older three boys and I are competing in a times table competition. I copy off sheets for us to do a timed test. I am losing at times because we have a rule that the writing needs to be neat and legible. Oops! Source: http://www.ricgroup.com.au/product/times-table-challenge/ So far we are leap frogging each other up the charts.
In maths the boys all worked on a few exercises in Singapore Maths. Griffin doesn't quite have the attention span for a lot of bookwork so I will need to remember to play more games with him. Lots of resources available so that isn't a problem. I am getting Jackson and Harry to do the Practice exercises after each chapter as an exam. They will need to get 85% or better to pass and move on. If they get less then they need to review their mistakes, look back through their previous work and then do another practice exercise. I am also noting if the mistakes are number fact based or concept based. If I feel it is concept based I will sit down with them one on one and go through it slowly to be sure they have it. They can do the alternate questions they skipped the first time through that section.
Harry didn't pay attention to the +/- symbols so he ended up doing a second test. Jackson needs to do a bit more work before he gets to his first "test". I will use the Review Tests as tests for actual marking and grading.
We did a big chunk of work on geography, labeling land forms, using a compass work sheet and then labeling an outline map of Australia with states and major landmarks. Source: Enchanted Learning website - worth becoming a member of as the Australian content was good and I like how the work is "graded" by members. I also used some pages from Amazing Hands on Map Activities.
Griffin (6.5) did quite well with the compass directions. Surprised me!
We also did two parts of Unit One in a book called English Magic. Don't bother trying to find it. It was published in Queensland in the 80s. I have Year 5 which I am using with the middles, Harry (10) and Jackson (13), and the Year 6 book. Despite it being a Qld book it isn't in the State Library and nowhere online. :-(
Such a great book, with sections for reading comprehension, composition, poetry, word roots, punctuation and grammar, and even how to speak clearly and with correct emphasis. lol I am having to slow it down a bit, not sure if it is because the boys missed the topics while homeschooling or due to them not getting them at school. ?!
We visited the State Library late in the week and the younger two made monster crowns and arm bands. We also went across to the Gallery of Modern Art where we looked at two exhibitions, and did some participating too of course. The obliteration room was fun. Probably the only time my kids have had free reign with stickers. ;-) And I particularly liked the Journey to Fantastic Lands exhibition. There was a thought provoking short film, lovely miniature displays and an interactive video that I loved watching Jackson and Griffin participating in.
You can hear me giggling at the end as I loved the way Jackson makes faces.
I also found out that they are showing a variety of movies as part of a Myths and Legends exhibition. We will be going to see E.T. as a family and then hubby and I are going to see the Lord of the Rings trilogy over 3 weekends. Tickets are only $9 for adults. Not bad!
So I only recorded 2 days of work in my book but I know we did a lot more and it was a good week. Still need to do some prep for History and Science but this week has been a break as my allergies have flared up and I will get prepared as best as I can for next week so it goes better.
Best wishes
Jen
Oh, and keep records!
The older three boys and I are competing in a times table competition. I copy off sheets for us to do a timed test. I am losing at times because we have a rule that the writing needs to be neat and legible. Oops! Source: http://www.ricgroup.com.au/product/times-table-challenge/ So far we are leap frogging each other up the charts.
In maths the boys all worked on a few exercises in Singapore Maths. Griffin doesn't quite have the attention span for a lot of bookwork so I will need to remember to play more games with him. Lots of resources available so that isn't a problem. I am getting Jackson and Harry to do the Practice exercises after each chapter as an exam. They will need to get 85% or better to pass and move on. If they get less then they need to review their mistakes, look back through their previous work and then do another practice exercise. I am also noting if the mistakes are number fact based or concept based. If I feel it is concept based I will sit down with them one on one and go through it slowly to be sure they have it. They can do the alternate questions they skipped the first time through that section.
Harry didn't pay attention to the +/- symbols so he ended up doing a second test. Jackson needs to do a bit more work before he gets to his first "test". I will use the Review Tests as tests for actual marking and grading.
We did a big chunk of work on geography, labeling land forms, using a compass work sheet and then labeling an outline map of Australia with states and major landmarks. Source: Enchanted Learning website - worth becoming a member of as the Australian content was good and I like how the work is "graded" by members. I also used some pages from Amazing Hands on Map Activities.
Griffin (6.5) did quite well with the compass directions. Surprised me!
We also did two parts of Unit One in a book called English Magic. Don't bother trying to find it. It was published in Queensland in the 80s. I have Year 5 which I am using with the middles, Harry (10) and Jackson (13), and the Year 6 book. Despite it being a Qld book it isn't in the State Library and nowhere online. :-(
Such a great book, with sections for reading comprehension, composition, poetry, word roots, punctuation and grammar, and even how to speak clearly and with correct emphasis. lol I am having to slow it down a bit, not sure if it is because the boys missed the topics while homeschooling or due to them not getting them at school. ?!
We visited the State Library late in the week and the younger two made monster crowns and arm bands. We also went across to the Gallery of Modern Art where we looked at two exhibitions, and did some participating too of course. The obliteration room was fun. Probably the only time my kids have had free reign with stickers. ;-) And I particularly liked the Journey to Fantastic Lands exhibition. There was a thought provoking short film, lovely miniature displays and an interactive video that I loved watching Jackson and Griffin participating in.
You can hear me giggling at the end as I loved the way Jackson makes faces.
I also found out that they are showing a variety of movies as part of a Myths and Legends exhibition. We will be going to see E.T. as a family and then hubby and I are going to see the Lord of the Rings trilogy over 3 weekends. Tickets are only $9 for adults. Not bad!
So I only recorded 2 days of work in my book but I know we did a lot more and it was a good week. Still need to do some prep for History and Science but this week has been a break as my allergies have flared up and I will get prepared as best as I can for next week so it goes better.
Best wishes
Jen
Monday, January 19, 2015
Week One Wrap-up
Well we started back last week. I was so over the holidays! It had been rather extended, what with moving in Term 4 and not really being able to do much with books and materials still packed. And starting now means that we have leeway later in the year, or we can get out the books 4 days a week and still get a lot done. :-)
We started out nice and slow. It has become a habit now to start with two lines of handwriting. Jack and Harry are working on their magic "c"s as that shape is the basis of so many letters. I am getting them to focus on consistent sizing and good shape. I also look for holding style so that I can correct it now at the basic stage. Yes, I know, they are much older than basic stage at almost 13 and almost 10 but it is never too late to return to basics if you find they are missing or poorly mastered.
The same two boys are also doing a timed times table focus sheet each morning. Looks like there is work to be done there too. I am not sure if I am being too hard on them now or if I was too soft on them when I homeschooled them earlier.
The middle two are also doing Sequential Spelling level 1. Harry is a good speller but this will help me to see if there are any problem areas and help to know what to work on. Jackson will probably struggle for a while but I hope to start his phonics next week. Hopefully that helps!
All boys went on to work on their maths work. Griffin worked with Stiles from Learning Ladder as I couldn't find his Singapore Maths book but Jack and Harry worked through as many exercises as they could in their books. I have dropped them back a few levels to consolidate their skills. They do only every second problem but I will get them to do the others if I can see they aren't fully understanding a concept once I reteach the topic.
Harry needs to show his working. He works well in his head but loses it when carrying and I need to see where/when this happens.
Science was not easy to do this week. I hadn't fully prepared all my materials. Boy, hadn't realised how much work is needed until I wrote it all out. :D All good, I have a template now and it should be all go for the rest of the year.
We did manage to fit in a Geography excursion to a local library for a performance called Circular Rhythm with didgeridoos and rhythm sticks. It was possibly for smaller kids than some of mine but it was fun and Harry got to have a go at the didgeridoo.
It was interesting to learn that didgeridoo is the English word for the instrument, not the Aboriginal word. And we respected that women in a lot of areas do not play it. Good little lesson for the boys on respecting other's beliefs.
The last two days of the week were so horrible for temperature and humidity that we just blobbed around.
Overall a good start to school for 2015. I wrapped it up by buying some folding chairs for our school table from Ikea. I couldn't sit on the old stools without feeling like it might disappear from under me. And I learned something very important, only shop at Ikea during the week.
Looking like it will be an even better week this week so will update you when it is over.
Best wishes
Jen
We started out nice and slow. It has become a habit now to start with two lines of handwriting. Jack and Harry are working on their magic "c"s as that shape is the basis of so many letters. I am getting them to focus on consistent sizing and good shape. I also look for holding style so that I can correct it now at the basic stage. Yes, I know, they are much older than basic stage at almost 13 and almost 10 but it is never too late to return to basics if you find they are missing or poorly mastered.
The same two boys are also doing a timed times table focus sheet each morning. Looks like there is work to be done there too. I am not sure if I am being too hard on them now or if I was too soft on them when I homeschooled them earlier.
The middle two are also doing Sequential Spelling level 1. Harry is a good speller but this will help me to see if there are any problem areas and help to know what to work on. Jackson will probably struggle for a while but I hope to start his phonics next week. Hopefully that helps!
All boys went on to work on their maths work. Griffin worked with Stiles from Learning Ladder as I couldn't find his Singapore Maths book but Jack and Harry worked through as many exercises as they could in their books. I have dropped them back a few levels to consolidate their skills. They do only every second problem but I will get them to do the others if I can see they aren't fully understanding a concept once I reteach the topic.
Harry needs to show his working. He works well in his head but loses it when carrying and I need to see where/when this happens.
Science was not easy to do this week. I hadn't fully prepared all my materials. Boy, hadn't realised how much work is needed until I wrote it all out. :D All good, I have a template now and it should be all go for the rest of the year.
We did manage to fit in a Geography excursion to a local library for a performance called Circular Rhythm with didgeridoos and rhythm sticks. It was possibly for smaller kids than some of mine but it was fun and Harry got to have a go at the didgeridoo.
It was interesting to learn that didgeridoo is the English word for the instrument, not the Aboriginal word. And we respected that women in a lot of areas do not play it. Good little lesson for the boys on respecting other's beliefs.
The last two days of the week were so horrible for temperature and humidity that we just blobbed around.
Overall a good start to school for 2015. I wrapped it up by buying some folding chairs for our school table from Ikea. I couldn't sit on the old stools without feeling like it might disappear from under me. And I learned something very important, only shop at Ikea during the week.
Looking like it will be an even better week this week so will update you when it is over.
Best wishes
Jen
Monday, October 6, 2014
Short Term Plans for Our Return to HS
Well, the boys' education is entirely my responsibility again. I wish Blogger had that emoticon where the little person is running away waving their arms and screaming. It is a bit how I feel right now, but as always with me, I don't wallow in panic before too long before I start making plans. Now as my family would know it doesn't always mean the plans happen exactly as planned but I do stop waving my arms around and screaming.
For our short term plans that could be interrupted at any moment by packing a house, cleaning a house, a removalist truck arriving and then the icky job of unpacking boxes... well you get what I mean, my plan is to go through the maths books the boys have brought home from school and fill in the gaps.
I intend to mark their work each day and make notes of concepts that they may not be getting for a few weeks. Then I will focus for the rest of the year on making sure that any concepts that have been covered in this year's maths are solid. For my youngest I will pull out his old Singapore Maths and just work him through it. It won't go too fast for him and will be good review if he has already covered the concepts.
For language arts I will be focusing on handwriting (alphabet), finding out what they know about grammar using the ACE books for my eldest as a guideline, more handwriting (copywork), using some DK books for cloze exercises and getting them to do a journal for more handwriting (maybe?).
I would love to do some little mini unit studies but I think I need to be realistic. I don't want library books here when I start packing, and I don't want them on the computer all day long "researching". Maybe do 2 short sessions of school a day, an hour or so before lunch and another hour or so after lunch. Same things as above but just twice a day. And if I don't get to the afternoon one because I am busy at least we covered the two main subjects in the morning.
Well, that is the plan. See I feel better already. :-)
Best wishes
Jen
For our short term plans that could be interrupted at any moment by packing a house, cleaning a house, a removalist truck arriving and then the icky job of unpacking boxes... well you get what I mean, my plan is to go through the maths books the boys have brought home from school and fill in the gaps.
I intend to mark their work each day and make notes of concepts that they may not be getting for a few weeks. Then I will focus for the rest of the year on making sure that any concepts that have been covered in this year's maths are solid. For my youngest I will pull out his old Singapore Maths and just work him through it. It won't go too fast for him and will be good review if he has already covered the concepts.
For language arts I will be focusing on handwriting (alphabet), finding out what they know about grammar using the ACE books for my eldest as a guideline, more handwriting (copywork), using some DK books for cloze exercises and getting them to do a journal for more handwriting (maybe?).
I would love to do some little mini unit studies but I think I need to be realistic. I don't want library books here when I start packing, and I don't want them on the computer all day long "researching". Maybe do 2 short sessions of school a day, an hour or so before lunch and another hour or so after lunch. Same things as above but just twice a day. And if I don't get to the afternoon one because I am busy at least we covered the two main subjects in the morning.
Well, that is the plan. See I feel better already. :-)
Best wishes
Jen
Saturday, September 20, 2014
End of an Era and Back to Homeschool
The 3 younger boys finished school on Friday. With us moving soon on a date yet to be decided I felt it best to have a nice neat and tidy finish date. I cried. This school time has been a great experience. They have had some great experiences and made some good friends. I think we are all sad to be going.
It was a great school. The boys got to make great friends and learned what school/education is about. No issues with the school, wonderful place with teachers who cared and enjoyed their work. I do think my 9 year old could have been pushed a bit and the 12 year old could have been supported more but I understand the limitations of the system. :-) And they taught the 6 year old to read. Yay, my least favourite part of homeschooling. I would rather teach maths any day.
So, now as we are about to move I have pulled them out of school and in this last term I am going to find out where they are at. Handwriting needs work (always did) and I want to check on their basic maths skills. But somehow I also need to fit in a move too. :-(
Anyway I guess I am a little scared. I didn't do so well last time I had them all home. I know I had a strong willed 4 year old at the same time as a hormonal 14 year old and I had my grass allergies. This time the kids are all older. The teen is a reasonable person (apart from doing his school work), the 4 year old is now a more reasonable 6 year old and I have been having immunology shots that so far are working well. Usually as the weather warms I would be flat out with sinus headaches. Not a single one..yet.. touch wood.
So things are looking good, but I am still quite nervous. I missed so many things that then caused the middle two issues at school. I don't want to do that again.
Ahh, big breath, keep packing boxes and keep hugging the boys. That should cover all the necessities. :-)
Best wishes
Jen
It was a great school. The boys got to make great friends and learned what school/education is about. No issues with the school, wonderful place with teachers who cared and enjoyed their work. I do think my 9 year old could have been pushed a bit and the 12 year old could have been supported more but I understand the limitations of the system. :-) And they taught the 6 year old to read. Yay, my least favourite part of homeschooling. I would rather teach maths any day.
So, now as we are about to move I have pulled them out of school and in this last term I am going to find out where they are at. Handwriting needs work (always did) and I want to check on their basic maths skills. But somehow I also need to fit in a move too. :-(
Anyway I guess I am a little scared. I didn't do so well last time I had them all home. I know I had a strong willed 4 year old at the same time as a hormonal 14 year old and I had my grass allergies. This time the kids are all older. The teen is a reasonable person (apart from doing his school work), the 4 year old is now a more reasonable 6 year old and I have been having immunology shots that so far are working well. Usually as the weather warms I would be flat out with sinus headaches. Not a single one..yet.. touch wood.
So things are looking good, but I am still quite nervous. I missed so many things that then caused the middle two issues at school. I don't want to do that again.
Ahh, big breath, keep packing boxes and keep hugging the boys. That should cover all the necessities. :-)
Best wishes
Jen
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Teaching more than just school stuff!
http://www.raisingrealmen.com/2014/09/teaching-diligence-to-boys/
Good post to come back to!
Best wishes
Jen
Good post to come back to!
Best wishes
Jen
Monday, September 8, 2014
Parenting fails for today! :-)
Hmm, okay I was a bit groggy from an afternoon sleep so that is my excuse.
I usually mix up my kids but usually only their names! Today my teen is in the kitchen moaning "I am dying!" while doing the dishes (does that happen in other people's houses too?) and I am talking to my 6 year old. I glance over at the teenager but don't talk to him, instead I bend down and ask the six year old why he thinks he is dying? Umm, wrong kid!
And then I go to get the washing in that I asked the 12 year old to hang out yesterday because I was rushing a uni assignment in. This is what I see!
The same 12 yr old asked me what is for dinner, than changed his question to what are we eating the next time we eat. Hmm, might have been a bit slack lately on regular meal times between being sick and having the pressure of a Uni assignment due that I ended up submitting 2 weeks late.
So... I hope I am not the only one who needs a restart button some days. lol
Best wishes
Jen
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Family Update July 2014
So, you remember me mentioning that I had a few busy (bad) days just before an assignment was due?
Well, here's an update on us. About a month ago DH realised that leaving his employer at the end of his contract in June would give him a larger payout than if he stayed on for another 6 months so he took it and has moved to Qld to look for work. We will be staying on so that DS2 can perform at the Sydney Opera House in a school choir and go on the Year 6 school trip to Canberra in late September.
We spent the 2 weeks of the school holiday collecting firewood for winter (our only source of heating) 2 days out of 3. Things fell apart at home a bit like you would expect with 6 people creating messes but no-one home long enough to clean up. Still catching up now after kids have been back at school 2 weeks.
DS1 spent last week of school holidays on an AAFC activity at our local RAAF base. Then he got home for 3 days, helped dad pack the trailer with all his worldly possessions and then travelled north with dad. He came back on aeroplane (his first time solo) on the Saturday, spent time at a friends and then got picked up by me (a two hour round trip). Then on Sunday went on another AAFC activity all day.
In between that DS2 had an accident at school on Friday that required an ambulance. He and another boy ran into each other at high speed. Both got concussions and we think mine has a broken nose, although I am not sure now the swelling is going down.
So... hubby has got work already, a contract position, but good pay and work so Yay!! Now I just have to survive, keep the kids safe, pack the house and clean the house before our family can be back together as it should be.
Best wishes
Jen
Well, here's an update on us. About a month ago DH realised that leaving his employer at the end of his contract in June would give him a larger payout than if he stayed on for another 6 months so he took it and has moved to Qld to look for work. We will be staying on so that DS2 can perform at the Sydney Opera House in a school choir and go on the Year 6 school trip to Canberra in late September.
We spent the 2 weeks of the school holiday collecting firewood for winter (our only source of heating) 2 days out of 3. Things fell apart at home a bit like you would expect with 6 people creating messes but no-one home long enough to clean up. Still catching up now after kids have been back at school 2 weeks.
DS1 spent last week of school holidays on an AAFC activity at our local RAAF base. Then he got home for 3 days, helped dad pack the trailer with all his worldly possessions and then travelled north with dad. He came back on aeroplane (his first time solo) on the Saturday, spent time at a friends and then got picked up by me (a two hour round trip). Then on Sunday went on another AAFC activity all day.
In between that DS2 had an accident at school on Friday that required an ambulance. He and another boy ran into each other at high speed. Both got concussions and we think mine has a broken nose, although I am not sure now the swelling is going down.
He has had bruising come up and go down with both eyes going green yesterday but fading to yellow with purple patches today. He still has a bump on his brow but his eye is open again.
The other little one was in hospital for longer but as is the way with 12 year old boys they are both up and going full speed already.
Of course that all happened the Friday, Saturday and Sunday before my assignment was due and I had no other adult to share the load. :-(
Well, I am still here, needing a good coffee (don't like it but can't rest, stuff to do), and Rescue Remedy or a good cry. Can't decide just yet.
Best wishes
Jen
Architecture for Homeschoolers
Hi all,
I am studying my first Architecture subject this study period. It has been interesting.
For our first assessment we had to work collaboratively with people to create a poster about a structure by an award winning architect. That wasn't simple when 2 of our group were in Western Australia with busy lives and 2 of us are mums on the east coast. But we did it, and the poster submission went well. We got 8/10.
I have just completed my second assessment and this is where architecture for homeschoolers comes in. We had to build a structure that could hold 1kg for 2 minutes using either paper (no staples, glue or sticky tape,etc), spaghetti/fettucine with plasticine/blutac joints or sugar cubes with no joining material.
Here are a few of our attempts.
Hubby's pyramid held 1kg easily. Failed at one of the side joints at about 1.5kg.
DS2's held over 2kg. :-)
Three arches did well and held weight until one twisted to the side.
A very wobbly paper attempt that failed after a little while where the holes "overlap".
And this one is my last attempt. I can tell you there were some much prettier ones but after the few days I had had just before this was due this was as good as it was going to get.
So there you go! Test out your kids and see what budding little engineers and architects you can uncover.
Best wishes
Jen
I am studying my first Architecture subject this study period. It has been interesting.
For our first assessment we had to work collaboratively with people to create a poster about a structure by an award winning architect. That wasn't simple when 2 of our group were in Western Australia with busy lives and 2 of us are mums on the east coast. But we did it, and the poster submission went well. We got 8/10.
I have just completed my second assessment and this is where architecture for homeschoolers comes in. We had to build a structure that could hold 1kg for 2 minutes using either paper (no staples, glue or sticky tape,etc), spaghetti/fettucine with plasticine/blutac joints or sugar cubes with no joining material.
Here are a few of our attempts.
And this one is my last attempt. I can tell you there were some much prettier ones but after the few days I had had just before this was due this was as good as it was going to get.
So there you go! Test out your kids and see what budding little engineers and architects you can uncover.
Best wishes
Jen
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Study progress and other thoughts
So far my studies are going well. I do notice I have a tendency to immerse myself in something that is important to me. This has meant that not all the housework necessary for a smooth running household has been happening. I tend to cram all my washing into the weekend and that is being too reliant on a nice weather weekend. I need to change that. After all I am not a teenager living at home where I can study as much as I want or think I need without thought to clean dishes and clothes and meals being provided.
My critical thinking course is very interesting and thought provoking. I am learning about all sorts of fallacies with regards to arguing and how to determine if an argument is being strongly presented. Thankfully so far I am tracking for a High Distinction. I would really like that as I do have Big Plans for my future studies and good marks now will help with applying for scholarships later.
I will be studying my first Architecture subject next month. I am a little excited and a bit nervous too but I have studied the basics of building when doing my drafting many years ago so it won't be too be a leap in understanding of concepts.
The main issue I have now is balancing home, husband, health and homeschooling as well as my studies (couldn't figure out how to make that a H word :-) ).
I think if I want to continue studying I need to work out a plan. Sadly that could mean an earlier bed time and an earlier wake up time. I am better in the mornings for learning new things but I need to take into account the daily school wrangling (required with PS now and HS later) so I will need to start early enough to get a good amount of studying done but not so early that I am wiped out by mid morning. lol
Funnily enough I have been tracking my sleep on my tablet and have noticed that 9 hours of sleep is a bit too much for me. I feel more drowsy when I wake than when I have had only 7-8 hours. The biggest deal for me seems to be the irregularity of my sleep and wake times.
Of course, a dementia suffering, arthritically pained dog is not helping with 2am wake ups for the loo. It seems like I go from broken nights with babies to broken nights with an old dog. I am even co-sleeping him (usually not allowed on beds) so he settles. Ack!! Well, I guess I could always switch the washing load and take advantage of the cheaper electricity overnight. :-)
Well, there you have it. I have been a busy little bee lately and will have for the next week with my final assessment of 1200-1500 words. Check out the article I chose to analyse. Very interesting!
Well, on the health front, I better go buy groceries.
Best wishes
Jen
My critical thinking course is very interesting and thought provoking. I am learning about all sorts of fallacies with regards to arguing and how to determine if an argument is being strongly presented. Thankfully so far I am tracking for a High Distinction. I would really like that as I do have Big Plans for my future studies and good marks now will help with applying for scholarships later.
I will be studying my first Architecture subject next month. I am a little excited and a bit nervous too but I have studied the basics of building when doing my drafting many years ago so it won't be too be a leap in understanding of concepts.
The main issue I have now is balancing home, husband, health and homeschooling as well as my studies (couldn't figure out how to make that a H word :-) ).
I think if I want to continue studying I need to work out a plan. Sadly that could mean an earlier bed time and an earlier wake up time. I am better in the mornings for learning new things but I need to take into account the daily school wrangling (required with PS now and HS later) so I will need to start early enough to get a good amount of studying done but not so early that I am wiped out by mid morning. lol
Funnily enough I have been tracking my sleep on my tablet and have noticed that 9 hours of sleep is a bit too much for me. I feel more drowsy when I wake than when I have had only 7-8 hours. The biggest deal for me seems to be the irregularity of my sleep and wake times.
Of course, a dementia suffering, arthritically pained dog is not helping with 2am wake ups for the loo. It seems like I go from broken nights with babies to broken nights with an old dog. I am even co-sleeping him (usually not allowed on beds) so he settles. Ack!! Well, I guess I could always switch the washing load and take advantage of the cheaper electricity overnight. :-)
Well, there you have it. I have been a busy little bee lately and will have for the next week with my final assessment of 1200-1500 words. Check out the article I chose to analyse. Very interesting!
Well, on the health front, I better go buy groceries.
Best wishes
Jen
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Engage in life!
I know I need to work harder on teaching my children to live in the real world. Very true and poignant YouTube!
Best wishes
Jen
Best wishes
Jen
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Studying and keeping busy
Hi all,
Sorry it has been a while. I decided to do something for myself this year while I have only 1 child at home. That meant looking in to Uni and I found out that I can get FEE-Help even if only studying part time or online. Yay! I don't really want to study full time at this stage in my life. :-)
So... what am I studying? Well, so far I have done an Academic Writing prep course (got 90% on each of the 4 assignments in this 6 week prep course) and am still to complete a Critical Thinking course through Macquarie University. I am getting good marks so far, averaging about 80%. I will finish it at the end of May.
My ultimate goal is to work on a Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Design) through Curtin University but to switch to Bachelor of Architecture through University of Qld when I can go full-time in probably about 3 or 4 years time. I did some studying of Architectural Drafting way back in early days of our marriage but found studying and being newly married on a limited budget to be very difficult. Still on a limited budget but I know how to manage myself better now.
As for the guy still at home, he is doing ACE, slowly at first, but he is really starting to get used to the work load now and we should be up to full speed this term some time. Me studying has actually been a help I think as ACE is supposed to be independent but he does need me there to keep him working and not getting distracted. I am able to sit opposite him quietly not distracting him by moving around the house and also close enough to prompt him to work when needed. I also think me studying hard is a good example to him of how much work is required for a university level course. We both sit at the table with our headphones on and work through from 9.30 to 12. Pretty good!
I am not sure how I will arrange my time when the others come home but I am sure I will find a way. It is nice to be studying something that isn't just about homeschooling. It is like doing a job 24/7 and it wasn't always fun. This is a nice distraction!
Well, off to do housework. It never stops.
Best wishes,
Jen
Sorry it has been a while. I decided to do something for myself this year while I have only 1 child at home. That meant looking in to Uni and I found out that I can get FEE-Help even if only studying part time or online. Yay! I don't really want to study full time at this stage in my life. :-)
So... what am I studying? Well, so far I have done an Academic Writing prep course (got 90% on each of the 4 assignments in this 6 week prep course) and am still to complete a Critical Thinking course through Macquarie University. I am getting good marks so far, averaging about 80%. I will finish it at the end of May.
My ultimate goal is to work on a Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Design) through Curtin University but to switch to Bachelor of Architecture through University of Qld when I can go full-time in probably about 3 or 4 years time. I did some studying of Architectural Drafting way back in early days of our marriage but found studying and being newly married on a limited budget to be very difficult. Still on a limited budget but I know how to manage myself better now.
As for the guy still at home, he is doing ACE, slowly at first, but he is really starting to get used to the work load now and we should be up to full speed this term some time. Me studying has actually been a help I think as ACE is supposed to be independent but he does need me there to keep him working and not getting distracted. I am able to sit opposite him quietly not distracting him by moving around the house and also close enough to prompt him to work when needed. I also think me studying hard is a good example to him of how much work is required for a university level course. We both sit at the table with our headphones on and work through from 9.30 to 12. Pretty good!
I am not sure how I will arrange my time when the others come home but I am sure I will find a way. It is nice to be studying something that isn't just about homeschooling. It is like doing a job 24/7 and it wasn't always fun. This is a nice distraction!
Well, off to do housework. It never stops.
Best wishes,
Jen
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Confused and not confused, still angry!
I hang out with a lot of PS people now and I find that the most forceful ones can start to do my head in, making it so I question my resolve to homeschool again. They seem to focus on how great the social aspect is of school.
And yes, I can see there are great opportunities at school. I don't think we would have known that one of my sons enjoys choir without that free chance to try out. And there are some friendships forming through regular contact, but if we had been able to access more homeschooling activities in our early days here and there had been social invitations from other families then friendships could have been formed while homeschooling too.
It might be working out here for the boys but I know from attending 13 primary schools and 2 high schools that there are no guarantees of the type of "society" in each one. Some may be good like here, others will not.
I understand why people feel the need to pressure me. Me being different makes them feel unsafe. When I remember that this is how society works to encourage conformity then I get less confused about my choices and goals. And then I get a little angry that our society can't appreciate that what they are standing up for has flaws. They don't want to acknowledge that their "PS god" has flaws. It may work for lots but there are also lots for whom it doesn't work, and it can even go as far as harming.
Sorry, but I am not agreeing with your propaganda! I will not rely on the odds of getting another "good" school. By the time we move I will hopefully have had at least one month of desensitisation to my allergens. With some steely resolve and some improved health I will be homeschooling my boys again.
I know my shortcomings and I also know the PS has them too. There are no schooling gods, just different methods and I get to choose for my children, not others who can not see their schooling "god" has clay feet (and that applies to both camps).
Best wishes
Jen
And yes, I can see there are great opportunities at school. I don't think we would have known that one of my sons enjoys choir without that free chance to try out. And there are some friendships forming through regular contact, but if we had been able to access more homeschooling activities in our early days here and there had been social invitations from other families then friendships could have been formed while homeschooling too.
It might be working out here for the boys but I know from attending 13 primary schools and 2 high schools that there are no guarantees of the type of "society" in each one. Some may be good like here, others will not.
I understand why people feel the need to pressure me. Me being different makes them feel unsafe. When I remember that this is how society works to encourage conformity then I get less confused about my choices and goals. And then I get a little angry that our society can't appreciate that what they are standing up for has flaws. They don't want to acknowledge that their "PS god" has flaws. It may work for lots but there are also lots for whom it doesn't work, and it can even go as far as harming.
Sorry, but I am not agreeing with your propaganda! I will not rely on the odds of getting another "good" school. By the time we move I will hopefully have had at least one month of desensitisation to my allergens. With some steely resolve and some improved health I will be homeschooling my boys again.
I know my shortcomings and I also know the PS has them too. There are no schooling gods, just different methods and I get to choose for my children, not others who can not see their schooling "god" has clay feet (and that applies to both camps).
Best wishes
Jen
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