Projects Instead of Tests

September 16, 2024 by Laura Leave a Comment

Projects Instead of Tests

In “Projects Instead of Tests,” Episode, #217, join Meredith Curtis to consider projects instead of tests for K-12 learning. Meredith shares the problems with test-taking and the benefits of hands-on projects. She gives practical examples of immersive learning that works from the beginning to high school graduation. Lots of practical ideas!

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

Chemistry background for Human Anatomy – the big surprise! A-plus Chemistry students remembered nothing the next year in Human Anatomy where I needed them to know it!

The Problem with Test Taking

Test takers – good and bad

Tests – short term memory

Purpose of learning

Should My Kids Never Take Tests?

I recommend a little bit of test taking until high school when you can add a little more.

Example: Spelling & Math

What is a Project?

Projects are hands-on learning experiences

Display for a Geography, Science, or History Fair
Cooking & Baking & Party Planning (Recipes from other countries, Recipes from other places, Luau, Medieval Banquet, Ancient Greek Olympics, Victorian Tea, Sock Hop, Archaeology Dig, Monestary Day, State Dinner, Vaudeville Show)
Skits, Radio Shows, Commercials, Talk Show, Interviews, NEWS shows, Sitcom, Act Out Battles, Act Out Courtroom Trial
Stories, Poems, Novels, Letters, Journal Entries
Experiments, Models, Observation of Nature
Crafts, Paintings, Building Projects, Cardmaking, Posters
Design an Airport, Airplane Company, Amusement Park, Miniature Golf Course
Diaromas, Charts, Timelines, Maps
Garden, Landscape, Graft Vines & Plants, Seedlings
Pet & Animal Care – Home, Vet, Zoo, Stable, Breeding

How Do Projects Help Children & Teens Learn?

Projects Immerse students in a topic of study.

Projects Require Research into the topic of study.

Projects are Fun!

How to Grade Projects

Grade projects based on Content, Accuracy, Creativity, and Legibility. Require excellence. I love using rubrics to grade.

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Resources

Let's Have Our Own Luau by Meredith Curtis

Let's Have Our Own Victorian Tea by Meredith Curtis

20 Century History Project-Based Learning

HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith Curtis

HIS Story of the 20th Century Cookbook by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette

HIS Story of the 20th Century: High School Workbook by Meredith Curtis

HIS Story of the 20th Century Middle School Workbook

Geography Project-Based Learning

Travel God's World Geography by Meredith Curtis

Travel God's World Cookbook by Meredith Curtis

Travel to London Unit Study by Meredith Curtis

Travel to the Netherlands Unit Study by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc.

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: book, books, Christian, Christianity, family, Finish Well, history, homeschool, homeschooling, Jesus, Laura Nolette, literature, Meredith Curtis, Parent, Prayer, read, reading

Make America Literate Again: Raising Kids Who Love Reading

September 2, 2024 by Laura Leave a Comment

Make America Literate Again

In “Make America Literate Again,” Episode, #216, Meredith Curtis will inspire and equip you to take part in a movement to get children and teens reading quality literature again so that as teens and adults they can read great works. I know there are some out there already on board (parents and teens) – please spread the news and get more folks reading! For those who aren’t on board yet – please listen to my compelling reasons for reading quality literature, timeless classics, and great works that have changed history.

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

My favorite President Ronald Reagan coined the phrase “Make America Great Again.” We needed it. We were demoralized with Watergate, POWs still held by Vietnam, hostages held by Iran, and a failing economy. President Reagan injected hope and passed laws to improve the life of everyday Americas. It was morning in America again in the early 1980s.

President Trump loved the phrase “Make America Great Again” and uses it in his campaign. Robert F Kennedy, Jr. who just endorsed Trump and will work with him if elected, has adapted the slogan “Make America Healthy Again.”

Inspired by these three men, I want to make a slogan, too: Make America Literate Again.

Reasons to Make America Literate Again

Leaders are Readers. The quality of what they read

Founding Fathers – Cicero, Adam Smith, John Locke, Samuel Rutherford,

Freedom is maintained by Readers & Hedonism leads to Totalitarianism

We can read ABOUT great works or read those great works THEMSELVES.

Substitutes for Reading in Our Culture

Scrolling on Phone
Social Media
Video Games
Movies, Streaming, TV
Pornography
Gamification

Step-by-Step to Literacy America Once Enjoyed

The Process with Explanations on Podcast

Read Aloud & Read in Front of Children
Teach to Read
Beginning Readers
Introduce Age-Appropriate Classics
Read, Read, Read – Bible, Fables, Stories, Biographies, etc.
Read & Talk about Classic Literature (book clubs)
Middle School to Adult – Read & Talk about Literature & Classic Works (book clubs)
Bounce Back & Forth
Read Great Works – City of God, Wealth of the Nations, The Prince, Ecclesiastical History of the English People

What Happens to Literate People

Brainwashing doesn’t work.

They know who the “experts” really are

They Value FREEDOM.

They discuss ideas not just people and events

Resources for Literature Based Learning

At Powerline Productions, we love books! We included book lists everywhere – in cookbooks, timelines, history curriculum, geography curriculum, unit studies, and, of course, English courses.

Grab our FREE Reading Lists.

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Resources for Literature Based Learning + our whole store!

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Reading Adds Joy to Life

June 17, 2024 by Laura Leave a Comment

Reading Adds Joy to Life

In “Reading Adds Joy to Life,” Episode, #212, join Meredith Curtis for inspiration for parents and teens to read books for pure enjoyment! Reading excellent literature for fun works out your brain, stretches your vocabulary, increases your attention span, cultivates compassion, and builds character. Plus when you read for fun, you release endorphins and add joy to life!

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

Reading for fun is enriching and education.

Reading is a Brain Workout!

Flex your brain muscles – improve comphrehension, build thinking & logic skills

Improves Vocabulary

Classical literature and well-written works will expose you to a richer vicoabulary. Older books have more description, conversation, and character development.

Increase Attention Span

Opening a book takes us away from short blogs, short movie scenes, and shorter commercials. Trains our brain to focus.

Cultivate Compassion & Character

Times change but human problems remain the same. Choosing books with good role models can impact you. He who walks with the wise grows wise.

Add the Joy!

Everyone loves a good story! Everyone loves an intellectual challenge like a mystery. Or a lovely romance. Or a grand adventure.

What Shall I Read?

Check our reading lists for every age imaginable: https://www.powerlineprod.com/homeschooling/reading-lists/

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Book Lists for All Ages

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: book, Christian, Christianity, Enjoyment, family, Finish Well, Happy, homeschool, homeschooling, Jesus, joy, Laura Nolette, literature, Meredith Curtis, Parent, Pleasure, read, reading, youth

A New Christian Adventure Book Series Your Kids Will Love

November 21, 2022 by Laura Leave a Comment

A Brand New Adventure Series for Kids

with Special Guest Mike Curtis

In “A Brand New Adventure Series for Kids,” Episode, #174, Meredith Curtis interviews Mike Curtis, pastor and author of a brand-new series (and her husband!). He has written an amazing new series for children and teens: The Noland Kids Adventures. Mike shares his journey that led him to share his story. Learn all about the series and why your kids will love to read it!

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

Introduce Mike & Ministry https://www.powerlinecc.com/

Noland Kids Adventures https://www.powerlineprod.com/books/the-noland-kids-adventure-series/

How It All Began

Rockford Park, Bedtime Stories to Children, Stories to Grandchildren

Covid-Strikes!

Needed to entertain kids at home listening to sermon

First Novel

The Key House

Newly Inherited House 150-Year Old Secret, Clues to Hidden Treasure

Mystery/ Adventure, Hardy Boys meets The Goonies

Who is This Series Written For?

Christian Kids 10-14

Second Novel

Lost City of Light

Coming November 25th, 2022

How Can Listeners Get Book?

Amazon print or Kindle

Our website PowerlineProd.com

Reviews

Leave Reviews

Spread the Word

What Books are on the Horizon & When?

Legend of the Craftsman King & Secret of Paradise Cove

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The Key House

HUGE Black Friday/ Cyber Monday Sale!

Travel God's World God Bless the USA Exploring States & Territories by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions

Travel God's World God Bless the USA Cookbook by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions

God Bless the USA State Capitals & Abbreviations by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc.

Travel God's World God Bless the USA State Flags & Seals by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: adventure, adventure series, book, books, Christian, Christianity, Education, family, fiction, Finish Well, homeschool, homeschooling, Laura Nolette, literature, Meredith Curtis, Parent, read, reading, series, youth

7 Classic Books Every Homeschool Mom Should Read

September 5, 2022 by Laura Leave a Comment

7 Classic Books Every Homeschool Mom Should Read

In “7 Classic Books Every Homeschool Mom Should Read,” Episode, #169, Meredith Curtis shares her favorites with you – books that have inspired, equipped, and encouraged her. These books will change your life and your perspective. Grab a cup of tea or mug of coffee and learn about some classic books that you will want to read and reread again.

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

The bookcase outside my door.

Books impact our lives. Some of my books are like special friends who have spoken into my life and brought forth something new.

L’Abri by Edith Schaeffer

Frances & Edith Schaeffer’s ministry in Switzerland.

Focus on creating a nurturing environment and ministering in and from the home.

For Better or Best by Gary Smalley

As a young couple, we attended this author’s conference and had our first introduction to the vast difference in the way men and women think. Also how different their needs are.

He also wrote If Only He Knew.

Shepherding a Child’s Heart by Tedd Tripp

My favorite book on parenting. It really shows how to parent by imitating Jesus as a shepherd of our children’s hearts.

Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith Schaeffer

I love art and beauty and classic books. Edith opened my eyes to the true art involved in creating a home from interior decorating to fostering integration of ages, I love this book!

Creative Counterpart by Linda Dillow

A great book on how to be a wife from the relational to the practical including organization.

The Christian Family by Larry Christenson

Every Christian should read this book on the the how, what, and why of God’s design of the Christian family. Covers roles and responsibilities, including the family’s Saviour – Jesus and parent’s role in the spiritual nurture of their children.

Spirit of Loveliness by Emilie Barnes

Lovely inside and out, Emilie reminds us to add beauty in our world to fee our soul. I love all her books but this is my favorite!

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Resources

All our curriculum is built around living books 😊

British Literature & Writing High School Class

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: book, books, Christian, Christianity, classic, Education, family, Finish Well, homeschool, homeschooling, Laura Nolette, literature, Meredith Curtis, mom, Parent, read, reading, woman, women

Books Boys Actually Love to Read

April 18, 2022 by Laura Leave a Comment

Books Guys Love

In “Books Guys Love,” Episode, #158, Meredith Curtis, mother of a son who loves to read now, but didn’t always in those early years, had to search out books for her son to read. She found a treasure trove in authors like Howard Pyle, Paul Hutchens, RM Ballantyne, GA Henty, Sir Walter Scott, and Scott O’Dell. Meredith will share 21 authors that boys will enjoy reading throughout the homeschool years.

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

As much as times change, the things that beat in the hearts of little boys and young men stays the same. Let me introduce you to some timeless classics that still captivate the hearts of guys of all ages who still love thrilling adventures and fearless heroes.

What Kind of Books Should You Give Your Children?

Living Books

Classic Books (doesn’t matter age—classics are timeless)

Wholesome Books

Books with Good Role Models

Meet the Authors and Find Out Why Guys Love Their Books

George Sheldon

Felix Sutton

Scott O’Dell

Hugh Lofting

Albert Payson Terhune

William O. Steele

Jim Kjelgaard

Howard Pyle

Paul Hutchens (Sugar Creek Gang series)

Walt Morey

Quentin Reynolds

RM Ballantyne

GA Henty

H Rider Haggard

Robert Louis Stevenson

Sir Walter Scott

Rudyard Kipling

Mark Twain

James Fenimore Cooper

Jules Verne

HG Wells

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Resources

These resources help your teen grow in virtue and life skills/soft skills

National Parks Fact Cards by Meredith Curtis

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: book, books, boy, boys, Christian, Christianity, Education, family, Finish Well, guy, guys, homeschool, homeschooling, Jesus, Laura Nolette, Meredith Curtis, Parent, read, reading

Small Churches Are A Blessing for Homeschooling Families

March 7, 2022 by Laura Leave a Comment

Small Churches Are A Blessing for Homeschooling Families

In “Small Churches are A Blessing for Homeschooling Families,” Episode, #155, Meredith Curtis explains the benefits of small churches to Christian homeschooling families since most Americans go to a small church. These benefits include relationships, age integration, opportunities to serve, and internships/electives.

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

The average church building holds about 200 people with only about 65 people in attendance.

Since 2000, the average congregation size has gone from 140 to 65 people on a Sunday.

A small church is typically between 25 to 200 people. But, 60% of church goers attend a church with less than 75 members.

Here are five reasons small churches benefit homeschooling families.

Relationships

Lives are Changed in the Context of Relationships

Knowing Your Pastor

True Fellowship

Age Integration

Age Segregation is NOT Biblical

Age Segreation Leads to Self-Centeredness

Age Integration Enriches Us with Relational Skills, Fun, Wisdom, and Empathy

Opportunities to Serve

Room for Everyone

Greeting, Sunday School, Nursery, Sound Team, Powerpoint, Worship Team, Ushering, Hospitality, Hosting Church Events, Planning Church Events, Administration

These Opportunities Cultivate/Develop Life Skills/Soft Skills

These Opportunities Cultivate a Servant’s Heart

Internships

Possibilities: Pastoral Assistant, Administration, Worship Leader Assistant, Leadership

Electives

Sound Technology

Child Development

The Great Commission

Bible Classes

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Resources

These resources help your teen grow in virtue and life skills/soft skills

God's Girls 105: Homemaking by Meredith Curtis

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: book, books, Christian, Christianity, Education, family, Finish Well, homeschool, Jesus, Laura Nolette, Meredith Curtis, Parent, small churches, teen

Books Girls Love

February 23, 2022 by Laura Leave a Comment

Books Girls Love

In “Books Girls Love,” Episode, #154, Meredith Curtis, mother of four girls, shares their family’s favorite authors, including beloved authors enjoyed for four generations. She talks about the books they wrote and why girls love them. We’ve all heard of Jane Austen, Louisa May Alcott, and Lucy Maud Montgomery. However, have you heard of Milly Howard, Lois Lenski, Elizabeth Yates, Patricia St. John, Kate Seredy, and Martha Finley? Find out why these books have delighted girls of all ages for decades.

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

As much as times change, the things that beat in the hearts of little girls and young women stays the same. Let me introduce you to some timeless classics that still captivate the hearts of girls of all ages.

What Kind of Books Should You Give Your Children?

Living Books

Classic Books (doesn’t matter age—classics are timeless)

Wholesome Books

Books with Good Role Models

Meet the Authors and Find Out Why They Captivate Girls’ Hearts

Milly Howard

Lois Lenski

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Pamela L. Traveres

Maud Hart Lovelace

Eleanor Porter

Kate Seredy

Kate Douglas Wiggins

Noel Streatfeild

Arleta Richardson

Edith Nesbit

Hilda Van Stockum

Elizabeth Yates

Margaret Sidney

Martha Finley

Louisa May Alcott

Patricia St. John

Frances Hodgson Burnett

Gene Stratton Porter

Lucy Maud Montgomery

Jane Austen

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Resources

All our curriculum is built around living books 😊

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: author, authors, book, books, Christian, Christianity, Education, family, Finish Well, girl, Girls, homeschool, Jesus, Laura Nolette, Meredith Curtis, Parent, read, reading, teen

Home is the Best Place to Raise Leaders

February 15, 2021 by Laura Leave a Comment

Home is the Best Place to Raise Leaders

In “Home is the Best Place to Raise Leaders,” Episode, #130, Meredith Curtis reveals the reasons your home is the perfect place to raise up the next generation of leaders. In fact, a loving family atmosphere instills virtue, confidence, and communication skills that government-schooled children lack. Once you’re convinced home is best, how do you instill the character traits and life skills necessary for your children to stand tall in their generation? Meredith gives you practical wisdom to raise leaders at home!

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Show Notes

The world needs confident men and women of integrity who will lead in their homes, churches, communities, and nations.

Natural-Born Leaders

Natural gifting but may not truly care for those who follow him/her.

If you are raising a natural-born leader, make sure to train them to be a godly leader.

Godly Leaders

Godly leadership is a combination of character, love, and skill.
Godly leaders who make wise decisions and lead people in a way that is good and right. These men and women are rare.

Home Sweet Home

In the home where Jesus is Lord and His ways are put into practice, children flourish. Family members learn to love one another, treat one another with respect, work through conflict honorably, and serve those around us.

Lovers of God

In a home where Jesus is loved, the Bible is obeyed, and problems are attacked with prayer, children grow up to trust the Lord.

A relationship with Jesus is the foundation for good leadership. As we humbly walk with God, He gives us all that we need to leader the people He loves.

Confidence

A home filled with lovingkindness produces children that are confident. They are willing to try new things and even fail because they know that failures don’t define them.

You see, leaders take risks and sometimes they make mistakes.

Leaders have to deal with criticism and rejection. This requires confidence!

Teachers/Mentors

Parents that value education and use all of life to teach their children produce kids who love to learn.

A lifestyle of learning creates a sense of wonder in a child and often a strong desire to pass on what they learn to others.

Integrity

Children who are raised to do the right thing no matter who is watching and keep their word even if it’s inconvenient grow up to be men and women of integrity. They tell the truth, keep their promises, and expect others to do the same.

I cannot emphasize how important this is. Integrity is a virtue that is being lost in our day.

Effective Communicators

Communication is at the heart of leadership. In the age of technology, leaders often have to be able to speak, text, email, blog, and give sound bites, along with being an example of what they are teaching.

Children who are treated with respect and engage in meaningful conversations with adults grow up to be good communicators with good manners. Yes, manners matter. Simple courtesies that demonstrate respect to others make a huge difference.

Leaders must also handle conflict and be able to disagree with others in a respectful way.

Servant Hearts

In a home where family members help each other out and genuinely care about others’ needs, a servant’s heart is cultivated. Jesus is the perfect model of servant leadership.

Wouldn’t the world be a better place with more Christlike leaders?

Self-Discipline

A good leader thrives with a manageable schedule and realistic expectations of himself and others. He must manage his time well.

A good leader does not yell, curse, or belittle others in the middle of conflict. This requires self-control.

A good leader must make hard choices and accept responsibility if he made the wrong call, not blame others.

When parents teach their little ones to obey cheerfully, control their anger, stick to a routine, and take responsibility for their actions, children grow up to be self-controlled and disciplined.

As you can see, home is the perfect place to raise the kind of the leaders the world needs today!

Will you step out and raise tomorrow’s leaders?

Do you need help?

Resources: Life Skills Leadership Conference

Get your FREE pass to glean wisdom from other homeschooling parents, speakers, and bloggers on how to raise leaders in your home school!

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Resources: 1-Credit High School Courses

Our one-credit high school courses use conversational text, living books, hands-on learning, and projects that prepare teens for real life! Enjoy!

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Finish Well Podcast #015 with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Finish Well Radio, Podcast #021, Tell Me About Heaven! with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Finish Well Radio Podcast #029 with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Finish Well Radio Podcast #030 with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Filed Under: Finish Well Tagged With: Bible, book, Christian, Christianity, Class, classes, course, Education, Families, family, Finish Well, homeschooling, Laura Nolette, Lead, leadership, Meredith Curtis, Parent, teen

How to Use Who-Dun-It Curriculum in a Homeschool Co-op

February 1, 2021 by Laura Leave a Comment

How to Use Who-Dun-It Curriculum in a Homeschool Co-op

In “How to Use Who-Dun-It Curriculum in a Homeschool Co-op,” Episode, #129, Meredith Curtis explains how to use her most popular English course, Who Dun It Murder Mystery Literature & Writing, in a homeschool co-op setting. It’s easier than you think to teach, homeschool Mom or Dad! Teens love sharing their stories together and discussing classic cozy mysteries in book club. Plus what other course requires you to watch a detective show once a month? The student benefits—logic, creativity, literature understanding deepens, and FUN—enrich high schoolers educational experience and create happy lifetime memories!