This week we began our academic cycle. How that works for us is predominately based on our
Tapestry of Grace cycle. It is broken down into four, nine-week units, totaling 36 weeks of academics. Within that we cover Bible, history, geography, literature and writing.
The kids seemed quite ready to go back to a regular routine, so we did our best to fit in as much of the content that we have to cover. I am a big believer in pacing. In fact, I am beginning to think I may be an unschooler at heart, but cannot make the leap out of that ol' box. I don't think that school should be done for school's sake. I don't believe in checking boxes to just have them checked, I don't put any stock in "busy-work." That said, we do have one area that I have not figured out how to cover without a bit of busy-work, and that is in science. I think that next week I will need to make some adjustments.
In the meantime, we introduced Year 1 of Tapestry of Grace, the first module of Apologia General Science, continued writing, math, grammar, and spelling, and worked on some Geography review. Not bad for a first week!
 |
| Learning the sections of the OT books |
 |
| Getting started in Science |
 |
| Lego Star-Wars Pilot training...break time! |
|
Oh, and P.S, we I have to add this, as it will be a major part of our school year...CrossFit!
I've been following your blog for a while and really liking it. We're currently in a CC community, but I'm beginning to think we may not continue it next year. I have a question about TOG. Does it include math or is that something you have to add in, as with CC? We're currently using Saxon math if that matters at all. Love your blog - thanks! :)
ReplyDeleteHi Laurel! Thanks for commenting, and to answer your question, no, TOG does not include math. You can use whatever works best for you.
DeleteHi Kelly, I found your blog on TWTM forums. How do your kids like Crossfit? How long have they been doing it? I just found out that our homeschool charter will pay for it, so I'm curious. I've always wanted to join myself, but been too afraid.
ReplyDeleteLooks like you had a great week.
Hi Mrs. G! Thanks for visiting! I can say with all sincerity that my kids LOVE CF! They have been doing it for nearly a year, and have developed a real appreciation for health and fitness and have taken ownership of it in a way I never anticipated. I'm blown away by what they can do. I didn't know to be afraid of it when I started because I didn't know what it was, but I was completely out of shape and overweight. I jumped in and started and it has changed my life. Have a look at my other blog, The Accidental CrossFitter (link at the top of this page) and you can see my journey, as well as how the kids have been involved. I can't believe your charter will PAY! Wow! Don't hesitate--do it!
DeleteKelly, thanks for the reply! I should correct myself: our charter will pay for a certain amount a year, and crossfit is now on the vendor list! So not pay completely! but still nice...
DeleteI'm going to look into it more and check out your other blog - can't believe I didn't see that. Thanks!
I bet that exercise really helps them focus on their academics. And, I love your big whiteboard and sunny yellow walls!
ReplyDeleteWe started CF in the mornings this week, before lessons. It will be interesting to see if it is better done before or after academics. It has always come afterwards until now. Even so, I think the exercise helps all of us cope with life and focus where we need to. It benefits us all the way around! :) Thanks for stopping by, Mandy!
Delete