Category: High School

Grammar, High School, High School Grammar, Homeschool, Middle School

Navigating the Classical Literature Journey with Heritage Humanities

Little Learner and Mom

We received Heritage Humanities for our honest review!

As a homeschooling parent, I understand the importance of finding comprehensive curriculum that not only educates but also inspires and instills a love for learning. Heritage Humanities is a remarkable find for homeschoolers looking for classical unaltered literature for their homeschooling journey.

Curriculum Content

One of the standout features of Heritage Humanities is its rich and immersive curriculum content. It beautifully integrates history, literature, art, and philosophy, providing a holistic understanding of human civilization. The curriculum is structured chronologically, allowing students to grasp the interconnectedness of historical events and cultural developments. From ancient civilizations to modern times, Heritage Humanities covers a vast expanse of human history, making learning informative.

Heritage Humanities offers a plethora of resources that cater to different learning styles and preferences. From textbooks and primary source documents to multimedia presentations and hands-on activities, there’s something for every student. The inclusion of art and literature from various cultures adds depth to the curriculum and encourages critical thinking and creativity.

Flexibility and Adaptability

As a homeschooling parent, flexibility is key, and Heritage Humanities delivers in this aspect. The curriculum is adaptable to different grade levels and can be customized to suit individual learning goals and pacing. Whether you prefer a structured approach or a more relaxed learning environment, Heritage Humanities provides the flexibility to tailor the curriculum to your child’s needs.

Cultivating Critical Thinking

One of the primary goals of education is to cultivate critical thinking skills. Through in-depth analysis of historical events, literary works, and philosophical concepts, students learn to think critically, analyze information, and form their own opinions. The program encourages discussions and debates, fostering intellectual curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world.

Final Words

Heritage Humanities is valuable resource for those families looking for true classical literature that also includes religious based text. I saw some classics such as McGuffey readers for younger students. I recommend Heritage Humanities for students in High School and College. If your family is big into the original classics this would be a good fit. They have a nice collection of resources and can be paired with English literature or history course. The collection in itself offers many text but the collection as a whole isn’t as ethically as diverse as I would have to like to have seen.

Heritage Humanities resources offer flexibility, and emphasis on critical thinking make it an ideal choice for parents seeking classical resources for their children.

8th Grade, High School, Homeschool, homeschool curriculum, Middle School, Reviews, Science, self-paced

Homeschool Mom Review: Friendly Biology Curriculum

Little Learner and Mom

We received the Friendly Biology for our honest review from Timberdoodle Co.

Navigating the world of homeschool curriculum can be daunting, but finding the right fit for your child is essential. As a homeschooling mom, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the Friendly Biology curriculum with my 11-year-old son, and I’m excited to share our experience with you.

Lessons Structure and Content

The Friendly Biology curriculum is impeccably organized, with lessons broken down into digestible segments that cater to young learners. Each topic is explored in depth, covering fundamental concepts such as cell biology, genetics, ecology, and more. From the microscopic world of cells to the intricate web of ecosystems, the curriculum offers a comprehensive overview of biology.

Package Contents

When you invest in the Friendly Biology curriculum, you receive a treasure trove of resources to support your homeschooling journey. The package typically includes a student textbook, teacher’s manual, and access to online resources such as video lessons and quizzes. Additionally, supplementary materials like lab kits or hands-on activities may be available for purchase, enriching the learning experience.

Son’s Love for Science

My son has always had an insatiable curiosity for the natural world, and his love for science knows no bounds. The Friendly Biology curriculum has been a revelation for him, igniting his passion for biology even further. He eagerly dives into each lesson, soaking up knowledge like a sponge and reveling in the wonder of discovery.

Benefit of Video Lessons

One of the standout features of the Friendly Biology curriculum is its video lessons. These dynamic and engaging videos provide visual explanations of complex concepts, making abstract ideas more tangible for young learners. My son finds the videos immensely helpful in reinforcing what he’s learned from the textbook, and they serve as a valuable supplement to his studies. There are 28 lessons that also include labs. You can find a complete lit of lab materials on the Friendly Biology website.

Topics Covered:

Friendly Biology covers a wide range of topics, including:

  • Cell Structure and Function
  • Genetics and Heredity
  • Evolution and Natural Selection
  • Ecology and Ecosystems
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology

Why Friendly Biology Stands Out

What sets Friendly Biology apart from other biology curricula is its secular approach and exclusivity. As a non-religious curriculum, it respects diverse beliefs and backgrounds, making it ideal for secular homeschoolers like us. The curriculum focuses on scientific principles and evidence-based learning, providing a solid foundation in biology without bias or agenda.

Looking Forward to 8th Grade

As we look ahead to 8th grade, we’re excited to continue our journey with Friendly Biology. Not only has it enriched my son’s understanding of the natural world, but it also aligns seamlessly with our state’s homeschooling laws. By completing the curriculum in 8th grade, I’ll be able to award my son high school credit in biology, ensuring that he receives a rigorous and comprehensive education. We had to pause our journey through the Friendly Biology curriculum once I found out couldn’t complete it during our current school year due to the crediting issue. Make sure you check your local states homeschool laws if you have a middle student and you would like to award this curriculum as a high school credit.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Friendly Biology curriculum to fellow homeschoolers seeking a secular and comprehensive approach to biology education. It’s been a joy to witness my son’s growth and enthusiasm for science as we explore the wonders of the natural world together. With Friendly Biology, the possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to see where our homeschooling journey takes us next.

7th Grade, 8th Grade, algebra, Curriculum, Curriculum Resource, High School, Homeschool, Math, Middle School, Middle School Math

Unlocking Algebraic Understanding with Math-U-See Algebra 1: A Timberdoodle Review!

Little Learner and Mom

We received for Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set for our honest review. This review may contain affiliate links at no additional charge to you.

As a homeschooling parent, navigating the transition to higher-level mathematics can be a daunting task. Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set is on our curriculum list for the upcoming school year. Math-U-See has been a cornerstone in our homeschooling journey since kindergarten, providing a solid foundation in general math principles. Now that we are entering the algebraic stage of our homeschool we were excited to check out the new Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set .

Math U See Approach

Math-U-See’s General Math Curriculum offers a structured and systematic approach to learning math concepts. The curriculum breaks down complex mathematical ideas into manageable chunks, allowing my child to build upon previous knowledge gradually. This sequential progression has been instrumental in fostering a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.

One of the standout features of Math-U-See is its emphasis on concrete to abstract learning. The curriculum utilizes manipulatives such as base-ten blocks and fraction overlays to provide hands-on experiences that solidify mathematical concepts before transitioning to abstract representations.

This multi-sensory approach has been incredibly effective in bridging the gap between concrete understanding and abstract reasoning. Math-U-See prioritizes conceptual understanding over rote memorization, which aligns perfectly with our homeschooling philosophy. Rather than simply memorizing formulas and procedures, my child is encouraged to comprehend the “why” behind mathematical concepts. This deeper understanding not only enhances problem-solving skills but also instills a genuine appreciation for the beauty of mathematics.

Transitioning to Secondary Math

It is very important to point out that Math-U-See provides a readiness check that serves as a valuable tool for assessing your child’s readiness for algebraic concepts. By identifying areas of strength and areas that may require additional review, the readiness check helps tailor our approach to bridge any gaps effectively. This targeted assessment ensures that your child enters the realm of algebra with confidence and preparedness.

Welcome to Secondary Math

Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set includes student work-text, test book, and digital pack access for the instructional videos, instructors guide and solutions. Math-U-See’s Algebra 1 program is a mastery-based approach. Rather than rushing through concepts, the program allows the child to solidify their understanding before moving on. The use of manipulatives, such as the Integer Block Kit, has been instrumental in making abstract algebraic concepts tangible and accessible. You can purchase the digital version of the manupulatives or the physical. In our case we have all the manupulatives because we have been long time users of the companies curriculum.

The sequential and systematic structure of the curriculum is a notable strength. Each lesson builds upon the previous one, creating a logical progression that aids in the understanding of complex algebraic topics. The clear explanations provided by the instructional videos, coupled with the hands-on approach, will significantly enhanced my child’s comprehension of algebra.

The incorporation of real-world applications is another commendable aspect. Math-U-See doesn’t just teach abstract mathematical concepts but emphasizes their practical use. This approach not only will engage my child’s interest but also demonstrates the relevance of algebra in everyday life.

The flexibility of the program allows for personalized learning. We can move at our own pace, spending more time on challenging topics or accelerating through familiar ones. The comprehensive instructor’s manual and answer key provide valuable support, making it easier for me as a parent to guide my child through the curriculum.

Assessment tools, such as the systematic review process and cumulative tests, ensure that my child retains and applies the learned material. The emphasis on mastery before progressing to the next level instills confidence and a deep understanding of algebraic principles.

From a parent’s perspective, Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set is user-friendly and minimizes the anxiety often associated with teaching higher-level math. The well-organized materials, instructional videos, and additional resources make the program accessible, even for parents who may not have a strong background in mathematics.

Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics I foresee to be an invaluable resource in our secondary math homeschooling journey. Its mastery-based approach, hands-on learning, real-world applications, and flexibility make it an excellent choice for families looking to build a solid foundation in algebra. I highly recommend Math-U-See to homeschooling parents seeking an effective and user-friendly algebra curriculum. Algebra 1: Principles of Secondary Mathematics Universal Set is now included in the Timberdoodle eight grade religious and nonreligious kit.

Debate Team, High School, Homeschool, Homeschool Debate, Middle School, Public Speaking

Introduction to Public Speaking from IEW

Little Learner and Mom

Introduction to Public Speaking for Middle and High School was sent from IEW for our honest review.

Just when you thought IEW couldn’t get any better they have released a new curriculum Introduction to Public Speaking for Middle and High School. We received a copy to check out and it couldn’t have come at a better time. My son joined a debate team this spring and he felt overwhelmed. I was super excited that IEW asked us to look over the Introduction to Public Speaking for Middle and High School we desperately needed proper public speaking structure and guidance. My son is type A and he likes to be prepared and organized when he starts a program. Andrew Pudewa and the team over at IEW have once again come to the rescue.

When I first received the curriculum I immediately was transported back to my sophomore year speech class. Not only was this similar to my speech class it was better. Let me just tell you IEW team has done an exceptional job with Introduction to Public Speaking. There are 12 lessons which are accumulated to 12 weeks, but who am I kidding there is no way we are going to finish this in 12 weeks nor do I even want to. My son is a rising 6th grader and we need to take our time moving through this curriculum. What I will say is that we will be more than ready in September when the debate team starts back up.

Introduction to Public Speaking

You will receive the teacher’s manual, student binder, and code for IPS stream videos. If you are familiar with IEW Style and Structure you will notice the binder is similarly set up as a working binder to help keep kids organized. There are four tabs that are divided into speech templates, memorization, critiques, and class notes. Both teacher’s manual and student binder tell you how to set up your student’s workflow, scope, and sequence. In the bundle, you also receive Portable Walls for Public Speakers which is a quick reference for students to help them with their speeches. There is also a weekly overview and objectives for the week. Each week’s lessons are spread out over a 4-day schedule. We decided to stretch lessons over 1-2 weeks, I didn’t want to overwhelm him. Students who have never had experience with the keyword outline will learn this technique in week one. IEW’s infamous keyword outline is used in the weekly lessons, my son loves keyword outlines he said it helps him with memorization. Students are learning to speak publically from their notes.

The 12 weeks cover:

  • Delivery and Speaker Evaluation
  • Body, Introduction, and Conclusion of a Speech
  • Preparation for Narrative, Expository, and Persuasive Speech
  • Primary Speech Goals
  • Extensive Memory Techniques
  • Three modes of persuasion
  • Impromptu Speech
  • Various Speech Opportunities

Students will learn vocabulary, proper public speaking etiquette, structure of speeches, and memorization techniques. The videos average about an hour and are interactive. Students will need to practice what they are learning with you, their siblings, and themselves. They will learn the Five Canons of Rhetoric: invention, arrangement, elocution, memory, and delivery. In the front of the teacher’s book, you will find a link to the downloadables for your course. The videos are about one hour, but feel free to break them down in the way it works for your student. I broke the videos down over the course of 2 days. Andrew Pudewa is a great instructor he has a natural rapport with students. I appreciate that the videos include a diverse student class. The videos include on-screen directions for the student, so they are learning right along with the students in class.

What is essential while doing Introduction to Public Speaking is treating this program as a learning experience for your student. What worked for us was making sure my son was having fun while getting the full benefit of the program. You can also see samples of Introduction to Public Speaking by clicking any of my hyperlinks in this review. The first two IPS lessons (videos and handouts) are available at IEW.com/free-speech

This self-explanatory program empowers teachers to help students become competent and confident public speakers.

IEW

I really like the critique part of this program because it gives my son positive and constructive feedback. I also appreciate that my son is learning to slow his speaking down and speak from memory and not relying on just reading from his paper. The one thing I know my son was struggling with was his confidence and anxiety in delivering speeches. I have noticed that both his anxiety and confidence have improved. My son is a huge researcher, but through using Introduction to Public Speaking he is now able to learn how to organize his research and articulate his note in proper structure and etiquette for speeches. Introduction to Public Speaking is preparing him for the upcoming debate team in the fall, so he is ready for anything that is thrown at him because now has the proper tools to be successful.

We highly recommend Introduction to Public Speaking for Middle and High School students who are exploring public speaking and debate. My son has goals to attend a 4-year university and medical school and I know he will need all these skills that he is learning for his future. This program is excellent for the homeschooled family because this is an area some of us tend to overlook. If you are looking for homeschool high credit this is also a great option for your student. Please check out my middle schooler’s review below of Introduction to Public Speaking for Middle and High School.

Middle Schooler Review

When I started debate this year I was unsure what to do. I felt uneasy because I was the new kid and some of the kids had more experience. After completing 3 weeks of Introduction to Public Speaking for Middle and High School I feel more educated and organized for what’s to come in the fall debate team. Mr. Pudewa is funny and encourages us in the video. I like that I am not just watching a video and there are things for me to do and set goals that I can work at. I don’t look at my paper as much and I have learned techniques that have taught me not to rush. I am glad we are doing this curriculum and can’t wait to keep using it.

If you would like to learn more about our favorite IEW products be sure to click our IEW landing page at the top of our blog.

Until the Next Time,

Mom and J