The Grammar/History/Literature Component

I am a big believer in reading. It helps that I love to read, and frankly, the best part of homeschooling is the opportunity to read some really good Children's Literature. Reading is the anchor of our program.

I am still using Story of the World which is a succinct world history in four volumes. This year, 3rd grade, we are in Volume 3. And the beauty of this program is still in the reading and literature recommendations and activities that accompany each chapter. About two weeks before we do a lesson (we do a chapter a week), I get on the library website and put on hold 10-20 books (some short picture books and some longer chapter books, both history and literature). Throughout the week we read these books after lunch and before bed. Everyone participates, and even though they are typically WAY above the girls' level, they love to have a coloring book and crayons or puzzles and sit and listen.

Each chapter has at least one coloring page (which the text writers authorize me to photocopy for use in the family) and a mapwork page. There is a variety of other activities related to the culture being studied, from cooking projects, science experiments, or an art, sewing or craft project. I love this curriculum. We've already studied Japan, Turkey, Holland, the Pilgrims and early American colonies.

Ben is also studying Grammar using First Language Lessons. Sentence diagramming was introduced in 3rd grade which he loves. The lessons are short and we only have to do this for 20-30 minutes three times a week. We also do Spelling, two to three times a week.

Last we are using the Writing with Ease workbook. It is designed to go with a parent text that begins with grade 1. I didn't feel Ben needed to start writing so early, so I waited to introduce it until this year. I previewed the lessons online, fully expecting to have him start with grade 2. However, when you read to your kids, they begin to get a feel for writing and he was clearly ready for the 3rd book. I also found I'm familiar enough with writing that the parent book isn't necessary at this point. His text had instructions and as long as I'm familiar with parts of speech, it works well as a stand-alone.

Other than a variety of devotional things and field trips we incorporate into our program, that makes up our 2012-13 school program. I'm fortunate to have a child with a strong academic aptitude which has made this possible.

Education is something we take very seriously and we are completely willing to send our children to school if and when that is best for them. It hasn't happened yet, even though I approach each year with trepidation and fear that this year will be the straw that broke the camel's back. So far the camel is strong and we are having fun.