Final Writing Tests Determined

As we finish up the year, some subjects I do my own test format.  Both kids will be doing the California standardized test this year.  I just haven't picked when, but it will be sometime in July.  For the end of year writing test, I have picked the topic for both kids.  DJ, end of 9th grade, is finishing up Marine Biology.  It is his life goal to be a Marine Biologist someday.  So, his final writing exam will be to explain what Marine Biology is, and why he has chosen that as a career path.

Caitlin, end of 5th grade, has accomplished a lot in her writing this year.  She, and I will continue to work on her writing over the Summer.  Her final writing exam will be to write a tutorial on proper care of a rabbit.  She has had a pet rabbit for many years now.  She will do a rough draft, then fixes, then write her final paper. 

Both kids will post to their blogs.  I still have to determine a test for Japanese 1, and Music. 

Teaching Homeschool Math When You Don't Remember Learning It Yourself

We are moving our way through Algebra 1, with Math U See.  Up until yesterday, I was able to teach the lessons, and assist, without too much difficulty.  Then came Slope and Intercept.  Ugh, not only do I not remember ever learning this, I don't remember ever having to use it either.  But, now I do.  The Math U See videos are not always helpful.  I like the instructor, but it doesn't always click.  We started using Core Algebra 1, as a supplement for videos.  DJ, and I, both find the instructor helpful, though a little dorky, but we can understand him.  I watched his lesson on Slope and I think I got it.  I have to memorize the formula, but I think I will just write it down, lol.  Unit 6, Linear Functions, is the lesson.  Of course, you could do them all.

Every now and then, I go through my Pinterest homeschool board, to look for things I forgot about.  I found a great website to help improve writing skills.  I wanted to share it, so I could find it easier, and so you could find it too.  It is free, and I like it.  There is another one for Grammar too, that I will share another day.  I don't think I will have my daughter, write every day, usually Friday is writing, so that will give her plenty of time to think about the topic. 

Don't forget to check out my new Jewelry in Candles Store.  I have to sell six candles in three months, or get booted.  The widget is in the top left hand corner.  Just click it.  You get to pick the type of jewelry, with your candle choice. 

Finally Decided For Fifth Grade Homeschool

Because my daughter learns differently than my son, I had a bit of a time deciding what to do for her for 5th grade.  But, I finally decided.  Here is what she will be doing.

Time4Learning:  Language Arts and Science
Evan Moor:  History books shown below.  She really likes these and retains the info well.
Writing:  Creative writing once a week, to be posted to her blog.  Topic TBD by myself
Spelling:  AAAspell.com   This website worked wonders for her last year
Reading:  Even though reading comprehension is done on T4L I will probably have her read other books as well.
Math:  We will be focusing on Math a lot.  I have decided to do Saxon 54, Life of Fred, and the Math card game we are currently playing.  I will share that on Friday.

It seems like a lot of Math, but she needs a lot of Math right now.  That is my main priority and focus.  On Friday, I will also share the standards I want each of them to accomplish.  I still have to finish them, and update or change things.  I am not making a calendar this year.  The last few years we did not stick to it anyways.  We are doing Run Club every Wed, and that is all I am certain of right now.  Time 4 Learning does Ancient Civilizations for 5th grade.  Caitlin did this in the 4th grade.  That is why I opted for the Evan Moor books. There are a couple of extra books shared, that I am still considering, but have not decided.  Right now I am holding off on the 4H project books, until I know which book our group decides the group is going to be doing.  I also like this Florida Unit Study, and she will most likely be doing that a well for History.   We will also be doing an Art curriculum this year, on Tuesdays in the evening.  She will be doing a basic cooking class in the evenings as well.  Here is the link to the cooking lessons.