Archive for the Category »curriculum «

Sep

Review & Summary: 4 This company specializes in Math Curriculum, packaged in DVD and online formats for all ages, from beginning Math to Physics. We received two specific DVDs, Pre-Algebra Tutor Volume 1 and a TI83 / TI84 Calculator Tutor.

Overall, I felt the curriculum was solid…the presentation for the older ages is very much like taking Math in a class.

Now, while Math Tutor does have a range of math products that includes colorful and fun videos for younger children,when you look at the material for the older students, you are getting serious, lecture style instruction. The instructor is Jason Gibson who has several math related degrees. As he lectures, he uses the whiteboard and is quite clear and very specific. You can see a sample from the Pre-Algebra video here:

I am not a math lover, myself. I will basically do anything to avoid Algebra. But, I do understand Jason…so that is a start. I have one child whose eyes just glazed over when I put it in…and another who excels in Math said he could use this easily and move forward quickly. So, for the cost, I think this could be very useful. I intend to use the DVD as a help–to do review or get extra help when my Algebra student is stuck.

Now, the graphing calculator DVD is supposed to “unlock the power” of your graphing calculator. And, it does! With 3 DVDs you can see all kinds of functions. I am ashamed to admit this, but it helps you to put it in perspective. The main thing I have done with a graphing calculator lately is to type in numbers and turn it upside down to see if I found a new word. With this tutorial, I can show off some new skills. I did not watch all 8 hours, but I think it is cool that I could.

My three teenagers felt that this DVD was really worthwhile–all of them are using/or will be using the TI calculators through High School. As in most of the Math Tutor materials, you learn by watching your teacher DO. For this one, it is neat to see a close up of the calculator itself as the teacher works example problems on the calculator. You can see a clip of this in action on the math tutor page. (Drag down a bit).

I think this curriculum is worth taking some time to look at. While I feel less sure about my opinions when it comes to upper level math, I think this curriculum does have some excellent courses and is very reasonably fantastically priced. If you are looking for a long term plan or just some help for Math, definitely stop in at the Math Tutor DVD site. They have plenty of samples and videos and worksheets to peruse to see if the style works for your family. They also offer an online plan for $19.99 per month.

The Math Tutor DVDs reviewed today are currently on sale for $26.99 each.

Find tons of FREE sample lessons, online calculators and math references and articles–even a podcast at Math Tutor.

To see what my TOS crewmates have to say, click here

The 2 Math Tutor DVDs were provided to me for the purpose of my review. I have expressed my unbiased opinion on this product.

Category: TOS Crew Review, curriculum Tags: curriculum, DVD, education, High school, Math, Math Tutor DVD, Pre-algebra, Teacher, Texas Instruments 2 Comments

Sep

Settlers of America Meets the Kids

quinnschilling

Some days, I am an amazing, inspired mom. And the kids all get along and play intense strategy games with educational value while working together around the beautiful coffee table I gave them for games and eating brownies…

Ok, So there were no brownies, only pretzels. And, ever since I put an adorable coffee table downstairs for them, they want to play on the floor.

But, still, the kids all got together to play the Settlers of America Trails to Rails, from the Catan history series.

I asked them to help me review the game…but I did have a secret plan…a plan to find a game that was difficult enough to hold their attention, yet fun…and one where they would not fight…you know, the trifecta.

I definitely hit the mark on finding a game that would challenge the kids. And the X Box stayed silent. I think kids really like board games deep down, sometimes where they don’t even know it.

This game has…game. Seriously. To begin, just take a look at the pieces:

120 railroad tracks (in 4 colors)
48 cities (in 4 colors)
8 train engines (in 4 colors)
8 settlers wagon (in 4 colors)
1 outlaw
40 goods cubes (in 4 colors)
40+ die-cut gold coins (in 1 and 5 denominations)
4 building cost overview charts
1 map board
2 dice
12 die-cut number tokens
95 resource cards
24 development cards
1 rulebook

And you will need the rulebook for the first games. I liked the quality and artwork of the board and cards and the wooden pieces. Our little one liked them, too. I liked that she was able to get some ideas about the settling of America while just hanging out with her brothers.

So, we began by getting all the pieces together and checking out all the resource cards. The game action is set in the 19^th century and the players are in on the quest for westward expansion. This educational game is the latest in the Catan History Series, and just one of the many educational games Timberdoodle carries.

As play progresses, players collect and trade resources in order to build settlements, acquire locomotives and railroad routes, then race with other players to deliver the most goods.

I did especially like that the players have to work together during each turn. While ultimately there is one winner, the game had a feel that everyone was working towards a common goal. (I love that!) There was a lot of trading and building going on.

You know, I did not get this game specifically to “go” with a homeschool curriculum. I was looking for a game that had a good storyline…a theme…and wasn’t too easy.

The fact that the game could also be used to reinforce or to introduce American History and the concept of westward expansion, well that is just icing on the cake.

Overall, I think this is a good game. It is difficult, I believe. The game lasts about 2 hours and requires 3-4 players. It is marked for ages 12+ and I agree with that…although we did have one 5 year old playing.

She enjoyed all the playing pieces and really got into the resource cards. I think she learned a bit. I have no idea why her hair looked like she was from the Netherlands somewhere back in time.

I think the kids will be playing again soon…we even added a player towards the end…

The list price is $54.95, but it is on sale right now at $44.95. Also, I have not played any Catan games before and this one has me curious to go look at the others. For families, this would be one to play with your kids. Like I mentioned, it is not easy the first time, but is fun and worth learning how to play.

Check out Timberdoodle’s homeschool vodcast for all kinds of educational ideas for your kids. I really like their games and other homeschool curriculum and homeschool supplies.

As a member of Timberdoodle’s Blogger Review Team I received a free copy of Settlers of America in exchange for a frank and unbiased review.

Category: Timberdoodle, curriculum, family time, homeschooling Tags: Board game, Catan, Game, Settlers of America Trails to Rails, Strategy game, Timberdoodle, Trade, United States 3 Comments

Sep

Add Some Fun to Your School Schedule, from Bright Ideas Press

quinnschilling

You can't go on field trips everyday...what do you do for fun in lessons?

Are you good at making learning fun? I am not, really. I just do not have that “creative gene”. I know this because my mom used to be the most fun science teacher…ever.

I, on the other hand, I tend to get focused on our work and straight reading and such. I could just use textbooks all day long and be happy. Not so my kids! I know my kids learn much better through games and hands on activities.

In reviewing my curriculum last year, I found that Mystery of History and Illuminations from Bright Ideas Press really helped me spice up my lessons….and, once I had a clue what I was doing got going, I had a great time with these lessons. And, I got to be the fun teacher:)

This year, I see that BIP is offering many items that complement The Mystery of History and Illuminations and some that even stand alone, like Literature Guides. They have some great titles, like Phantom Tollboth, The Canterbury Tales and many others. Another thing–BIP has curriculum for multi/all ages.

While you may be all set for much of your curriculum for the year, adding in a couple Literature Guides and Folderbooks might be fun and simple…even for the teacher! Another good thing about these is that they are all immediate downloads–so you can quickly add these into your day and not pay for shipping, etc.

I have signed up for BIP’s monthly newsletter and I get an email with teaching tips and updates…and special coupon codes each month. (I recommend signing up!) Anyway, here are some of their new releases, from my BIP email:

Challenge Cards–these go with Mystery of History (MOH). They offer 3 questions and answers for every lesson in the MOH text. They currently have cards for MOH 1 and MOH 2. MOH 3 to come. Get these in a digital download deal at $14.95 for each volume.
Folderbooks—Kind of like lapbooks for MOH. But even cooler. They are on sale now.
Literature Guides—I used these from the Illuminations curriculum last year. They take great literature titles and create a unit study. I adored these. They are fun for the kids, but also in-depth studies. Last year, you had to purchase Illuminations to get them, but now you can buy them individually!

I am an affiliate for BIP. I think they produce worthwhile curriculum and I like sharing information about them.

Category: curriculum, homeschooling Tags: Canterbury Tales, curriculum, education, Homeschool, K through 12, learning, Teacher, Textbook One Comment

Aug

Curriculum CleanOut Giveaway

quinnschilling

I have a couple of items for the CleanOut. These are mainly for the older set:) My five year old is hiding everything else! Thanks, Jolanthe, for doing this!

The 2010 Curriculum Cleanout is going on now–If you haven’t stopped by, go check it out! I was looking through our stuff to see what I was willing to part with–because I have only been homeschooling a couple of years, I don’t have too much. BUT, I do have a couple of things!

Web Design for Kids. My Kids loved this DVD. See my review of Web Design for Kids. This made for a fun extracurricular activity. Value: 19.99

Light Speed Math, Geometry Intro. I really like all our Light Speed DVDs. I’d keep this, but my son says he’s done…This one has video and a digital workbook. You can see the item, here. Value: 14.98

Another Math! (Apparently I’m not covetous of my Math Curriculum)

An 8 hr. Video (DVD) Course from Math Tutor DVD.com The Basic Math Word Problem Tutor. You can see more about this, here. Value: 34.99

I liked all of these, but my kids are done with them. If you want to enter, just leave me a comment saying which item or items you are interested in!

For additional entries:

Sign into my reader
sign into my Google Friend Connect
Follow me on Twitter (quinnschilling)
“Like” Faith, Family and Fun on Facebook
Give me an entry into one of your giveaways! (I’m serious! I see so many good giveaways, but I always run out of blogging time. And, I could use a bit of luck. Add an extra entry comment if you add me:)

Category: TOS Crew, book review, curriculum, family time, giveaways, health, homeschooling Tags: curriculum, Curriculum Clean-out, Homeschool, Math, teaching resources 29 Comments

Aug

2nd Blog Anniversary for Homeschooling Hearts and Minds

quinnschilling

School is starting… are your bookshelves full? This Monday, August 23^rd come say Happy Blogging Birthday over at Homeschooling Hearts & Minds. Midwest Mama is celebrating with a week of curriculum giveaways!

She’ll have some great things to giveaway. Some are gently used. But there’s a brand new set of…well, it’s a surprise. Go see her on Monday!

You can also find homeschool support and creative teaching ideas at Homeschooling Hearts and Minds.

Category: curriculum, giveaways, homeschooling Tags: curriculum, education, Homeschool Leave a Comment

Aug

My Advice for Those Considering Homeschooling

quinnschilling

Sweet Honey doing history project

This weeks Blog Cruise asks the question,

“What advice do you have for those considering homeschooling or just starting out?”

My main advice would be

Just Do It.

Trust yourself. Trust your instincts as a parent. Pray and ask your spouse for their opinions and support.

Enjoy being with your children. Trust that you know what is best for your child. Research what the best is for your particular child. You have already been teaching your child since they were born.

Remember that you are specially equipped to want to provide what is best for your children.

Learn as you go–this is pretty much how you parent, right? Love your children and listen to who they are.

Research, research, research what is best for your family.

Go online and find out what the law is for homeschooling in your state. Find and join your state’s homeschool association and Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA). If you cannot afford to join these you can still gather much information through the sites.
Go to some of the big websites and read what others are doing. Find a simple curriculum to use for your first year while you figure out all the details. Choices for this really depend on the ages of your children.

The OldSchoolhouse–go here for tons of help. From beginning to thinking about homeschooling to making curriculum choices. You can also get their current magazine in local bookstores. Sign up for all their wonderful freebies and articles

Simply Charlotte Mason– Download their ebook, Getting Started in Homeschooling

Whole Heart Online–Their book, Educating the Wholehearted Child is a particular favorite of mine. This book really helped me push aside all my organizational plans and goals and sit and consider what emotional and spiritual needs my kids have…

Go to your local library and ask about support groups in your area. Find and check out their books on homeschooling. Skim them.
Find a local homeschool and/or teacher supply store. Browse the aisles.
Don’t be intimidated by all the varied curricula and ideas out there–just soak up all the ideas you can. Start jotting down the things that appeal to you.
Think about your learning styles and your kids learning styles. This will help you narrow down your choices when choosing a curriculum. I have one kid who learns by listening–audiobooks delight him. I hate audiobooks…but I have learned to value them because they work for him. On the other hand, this kid might love unschooling by nature, but I am not comfortable being that laid back. We had to find a happy medium.

Realize some days will be difficult–but difficult compared to what, I suppose. I mean, you will be home with your kids. You cannot just put them on the schoolbus and wave…some days that will look attractive.

But, on the other hand, you can all roll out of bed at 8 and get to school by 8:30. You can read to your children while you drink your morning coffee–not be stuck in the car pool lane. You can have a good time with your children.

I am teaching my son Geometry (ha, not me, actually, ALEKS for that one) and we are reading the Iliad, Ivanhoe….Beowulf. We are learning History with Mystery of History–what a fun textbook–and not hard to teach. (most of our history and literature, geography… is all through Illuminations curriculum).

When I began homeschooling I was scared it would be too hard–that I might fail my children…but, in some of the areas I was lacking knowledge, like geocaching to cave exploration to music…God really provided opportunities and curriculum for my children.

Today, when I look through some of our photos from this year of homeschooling, I do not feel overwhelmed or sorry about ANY of my choices.

NOTE: I did not ever consider homeschooling until I had watched one of my children go through years of difficulty in public schools. And, when I began to homeschool, I did it because I felt that it was the right thing for my child, and that to be a good parent, homeschooling was something I needed to try.

So, I share that bit of background so you know kind of “where I am coming from” I am not an expert, but I do have 5 kids and have experienced the public school system and homeschooling. Now that I have been homeschooling for a few years, I can look back and carefully consider what I think of homeschooling.

Overall, I think it is a fantastic option.

You can visit my homeschooling page for some more homeschooling thoughts, reviews and links.

Want some more advice and support? Just curious? Head over to this week’s blog cruise and read more!

Category: curriculum, family time, homeschooling Tags: Child, curriculum, education, Homeschool, Homeschool resources, K through 12, learning, Support group 14 Comments

Aug

Tightwad Tuesday

quinnschilling

Good Morning! I follow at lot of money savings sites and I love to get great deals.

I really wasn’t ready for Tightwad Tuesday to be here already…but I do have some random thoughts related to savings:)

First, going organic has affected my couponing and I am still trying to regroup…but I see that Little People Wealth has a GREAT list of printable organic coupons up today.

Also, because I am thinking Homeschooling with Fall coming, I want to remind people to get the FREE Homeschool 101 Digital Magazine–it is a pdf download, and you do not need to print it if you do not want to, just download it. It has a crazy amount of information and I especially liked the articles by one of my friends, Kristen, who blogs over at A Day In The Life…she did some articles on types of homeschooling that helped me understand some of the nuances in edu-speak. You can download Homeschool 101, here.

I also searched my archives and realized I only have one post officially tagged as frugal savings! Really? And I am always saving! Anyway the post is on how to make homemade laundry detergent if you are really lazy…which I often am. Or busy. I am that, too. You can find Homemade Cheap and Easy Laundry Detergent, here.