Easy Way Curriculum Planning | Special Replay

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

easy way curriculum planning | Curriculum Planning The Easy Way? It never gets old, the feeling of excitement OR dread when you are planning your homeschool curriculum. #Homeschool #homeschooling #podcast #easycurriculumEasy Way Curriculum Planning

Special Replay | Episode 252, Easy Way Curriculum Planning

Curriculum Planning The Easy Way?

It never gets old, the feeling of excitement OR dread when you are planning your homeschool curriculum. What is curriculum? It is the books, and the methodology you will use to homeschool your children. I won’t go into all the styles of homeschooling, this has been done in other podcasts.

Thank you to our sponsor, Route 60 – The Biblical Highway. In theaters September 18th & 19th only

Easy Way Curriculum Planning:

An overview of methods and links to these podcasts on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network are as follows:

  • Charlotte Mason
  • Classical Method
  • Unit Studies
  • Principle Approach
  • Textbook and Workbook
  • Unschooling and Delayed Academics
  • Homeschooling Elementary Years
  • Homeschooling Middle School
  • Homeschooling 101

There are more, and that is an eclectic approach mixing some of these methods.

For example, I used the Unit Study method for the majority of the elementary years, but I supplemented it with textbooks when needed or unschooling, allowing the children to pursue or go off on tangents that interested them – or an idea that was sparked by our unit study.

This type of learning is the most effective because the children are excited to learn and that is when most “real” learning takes place. I notice this now in my older children. My son was interested in weaponry – making weapons after studying ancient history. This carried on in later years and my son has made throwing stars, knives out of steel, a sword, a bow and arrow, and display cases. It is a fun hobby that he does in his spare time.

My daughter, on the other hand, learned her love for oceanography after studying the topic and went on to Scuba dive, getting her advanced certificates while in college. This daughter has gone on to homeschool her children.

We are going to take a quick commercial break and when we come back we will discuss planning your year – using the 4-Square Planning Method. We’ll be right back.

 

Okay – where were we? Planning your Curriculum.

  1. Decide your method. Which will you select? It really depends on the method of homeschooling you select on how to plan your curriculum. Here I’m assuming you have the curriculum in hand or are thinking about what you want to do for the coming year. If you study the different methods of homeschooling, textbooks, unit studies or unschooling the variety of options are endless. Regardless to your method you still need to accomplish, even if you are unschooling – that is not using any set curriculum and using student-led topics, you still need to accomplish learning for the year. This needs to be planned at some point and scheduled. If you are using the Classical approach there are various cycles, so you want to look at your student’s age/grade and figure out where they are in the study or approach. Charlotte Mason uses experiential, literature and nature studies. For the Principal each subject is based on Biblical principles and students are taught to think and reason using a Christian worldview and ideas using a notebook method to research, reason, relate and record. It still requires books which takes us to the next point.
  2. Look at how many weeks you will schedule your homeschool. Typically we homeschool 180 days of school, 5 days a week, for a total of 36 weeks. Just divide the number of days a week you want to homeschool into 180 days of school and that will help you. I used a yearly calendar and circled the days we would school in pencil. Just think! There are 52 weeks in the school year. If you homeschool 36 of those weeks it gives you plenty of downtime – time to take a break.
  3. Look at your books – where will you begin? It is different if you are using different methods. Here are some example of two methods I am most familiar with and ways to set them up.
  4. Textbook/workbook – take the number of days you will homeschool, the number of pages in the book and divide the number of pages by days. So if there are 320 pages in your child’s math book and 180 days it will take 1.7 days to complete – so, doing 2 pages per day will allow you to complete the book in 160 days which gives you 20 days of cushion. Cushion time: This is a great relief to homeschool families, to have the time to get ahead of if you take a break, you’ll know how many days you can miss without getting behind.
  5. Unit study – plan your topics for the year. Then, decide how many weeks you will use to study the unit. The best unit studies take at least 6-8 weeks of study. My own Creation Study Guides used this method.  In this amount of time, you can read about the topic, do science or history projects and really delve into the topic thoroughly.
  6. Schedule in time for breaks such as field trips — Schedule time for vacations. Even staycations. Also include breaks for planning, planning time for long weekends, vacations
  7. Field trips were a big part of our homeschool and needs a number all of its own. You can schedule your field trips around the topics you are studying or just schedule your field trip as a stand-alone. We studied the ancient Greeks and Romans and then we decided to visit various restaurants to sample Greek and Roman foods.

Route 60

Route 60: The Biblical Highway will release in theaters nationwide on September
18th & 19th, 2023, where attendees will witness the roads that Jesus walked on.
Discover the history, witness the healing, and realize the hope along Route 60, the
Biblical Highway.

Dos and Don’ts of Buying Homeschool Curriculum

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

buying homeschool curriculum How to Avoid Curriculum Pit FallsDos and Don’ts of Buying Homeschool Curriculum Episode 334

In this episode, Meredith and Felice share their secrets to buying homeschool curriculum. Both homeschooled their five children (each) from K-12 and have now graduated their children. You will be blessed by this helpful episode.

Homeschool Curriculum isn’t perfect but you can have a successful homeschool journey with some of these insider secrets from Meredith Curtis and Felice Gerwitz. Both Meredith and Felice had five children that they homeschooled K-12. (We have some experience!)

Thanks to our sponsors  —  CTC math.

Our sponsors make these shows free to our subscribers.

Don’t miss the giveaway in honor of Homeschool Do-Overs!

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

Don’ts

Do pray before you buy homeschool curriculum! Don’t buy homeschool curriculum without praying
Do evaluate your year, what went well, what didn’t – if something works, why? Don’t buy just because someone says it is great. It may not be great for your family.
Do use samples from the curriculum providers. Brand new homeschooler? Start simple, used ready-made homeschool curriculum, add fun activities or extracurricular.
Do make sure your homeschool curriculum is Christ-focused and has a Christian worldview. Character & Bible is important. Is your homeschool curriculum focused on your world view?
Do enjoy yourself when you study and use a curriculum that fits your worldview. Review before buying homeschool curriculum. Time to think — do your kids have time to explore their likes? Do they have a new hobby they enjoy? Allow your children time to develop new interests.

 

Additional Show Notes for Buying Homeschool Curriculum

 

Introduction:
– Welcome back to another episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, the podcast where we delve into the world of homeschooling and provide valuable insights and tips for homeschooling parents.
– In today’s episode, we’ll be discussing one of the most critical aspects of homeschooling: Curriculum. Join us as we explore the different types of homeschool curriculum available, how to choose the right one for your family, and valuable resources to enhance your homeschooling journey.

Understanding Homeschool Curriculum
– The hosts kick off the episode by explaining what homeschool curriculum is and why it’s crucial for homeschooling families.
– They highlight the benefits of using pre-packaged curriculum packages versus creating a custom curriculum based on individual needs and preferences.

Types of Homeschool Curriculum
– The episode explores the various types of homeschool curriculum available, such as traditional textbooks, online courses, unit studies, Charlotte Mason method, unschooling, and more.
– Each type is explained in detail, including its strengths and weaknesses, to help parents make an informed decision.

Factors to Consider When Buying Homeschool Curriculum

Factors to Consider When Choosing Curriculum
– The hosts delve into the essential factors parents should consider when selecting a homeschool curriculum for their children.
– Topics covered include learning styles, grade levels, subject interests, budget considerations, and flexibility.

Top Homeschool Curriculum Picks
– In this segment, the hosts share some of their top homeschool curriculum recommendations across different subjects and age groups.
– They discuss popular choices and their personal experiences using these curricula, helping listeners get a better idea of what might work for their families.

Supplementing and Customizing Curriculum
– Understanding that no curriculum is perfect for every child, the episode discusses the importance of supplementing and customizing curriculum to meet individual needs.
– The hosts provide creative ways to enhance learning experiences and cater to each child’s unique learning style.

Online Resources and Communities
– To wrap up the episode, the hosts share valuable online resources and communities that can aid homeschooling parents in their curriculum selection and implementation process.
– They discuss forums, websites, and social media groups where parents can seek advice, find support, and exchange ideas with other homeschoolers.

 

How to Use the Internet to Find the Right Curriculum for Your Child

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

How to Use the Internet to Find the Right Curriculum for Your Child

220: How to Use the Internet to Find the Right Curriculum for Your Child

Whether you are new to homeschooling or need to change things up, you can use the internet to find the right curriculum for your child.

Here’s what is covered in this episode:

1. Don’t start to look for curriculum until you have asked yourself a few questions:

* what kind of a homeschooler do I want to be – see the blog post on Homeschooling Styles
* what is my child’s learning style
* what is my goal in homeschooling
* what can I afford

2. Time to ask other people questions and get suggestions

2.1 FaceBook groups

2.1. Forums for example, Welltrained Mind

3. Ask ChatGPT or other AI
AI can help summarize what is available

4. Read reviews
Look for reviews on the actually product listing, and also on blogs, Youtube, TikTok etc

5. View Samples or Demos of the curriculum
For example, FundaFunda’s demo classroom and Youtube videos demonstrating products

—————————————————————————————————————-
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology in your homeschool.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

How to Use the Internet to Find the Right Curriculum for Your Child

State Reimbursement for 7Sisters Curriculum

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: State Reimbursement for 7Sisters Curriculum.

State Reimbursement for 7Sisters Curriculum

State Reimbursement for 7Sisters Curriculum

This week Sabrina explains how 7SistersHomeschool curriculum will work for state reimbursement. Now, do not get too excited! Not all states offer any reimbursement programs for curriculum!

However, some states DO offer at least partial reimbursement for curriculum purchases. Every state’s laws are different. Often states that offer reimbursement programs have very specific rules on how to go about being reimbursed. SO, if you are not sure what your state’s rules are, check your local homeschool organization or Homeschool Legal Defense Association.

If you DO live in a state that gives your a tax credit or reimbursement, then this episode is for you!

Is the curriculum from 7SistersHomeschool acceptable for reimbursement programs?

Until recently, we would have said, “maybe not”. That is because, each of us 7Sisters are of the Christian faith. We are each from different denominations but our overall worldview is shaped by our faith. Thus, it is often explicitly mentioned in our textbooks. (However, we are never pushy, judgmental or preachy with our messaging…just to be clear.)

In recent years, we have had consistent and increasing numbers of homeschooling parents who live in states that reimburse. They want to be good stewards of the family finances, which means it makes sense to avail themselves of the reimbursement programs. However, most states that give tax credits or have reimbursement programs require that curriculum NOT be used for “religious instruction”.

Often the term, “religious instruction” means that in the textbook there is mention of religion or is intended as religious instruction (or could be construed as such).

So HOW did 7Sisters handle this dilemma?

We want to help our 7th Sisters and their families. (BTW- there are six of us 7Sisters: Sabrina, Marilyn, Kym, Vicki, Allison and Sara. SO, who is the 7th Sister? YOU are!)

How could we help our homeschooling friends in states that reimburse use 7Sisters texts and still qualify for reimbursement? First, we thought and prayed and came up with a unique solution. Then we evaluated each:

  • Textbook
  • Literature Study Guide
  • Cinema Study Guide
  • Writing Guide

First, we searched through each text and guide and found the curricula that we could create a state-approvable version that does not damage the integrity of the material. Then we removed material in these curricula that was gave the appearance that we were giving (or attempting to give) religious instruction, teach the Bible or Christian ways of living or model preachiness of any kind.

However, if you download a piece of curriculum that you do not feel will not meet your state’s guidelines, pay attention to your gut! It was our intention to present curriculum that did not include any semblance of religious instruction. When we evaluated the adapted texts and guides, we feel we did well with this. But if your gut says you do not think it will work in your state, contact us and ask for a refund. As you probably know, 7SistersHomeschool is proud of our:

10-Day No-Questions-Asked Money-Back Guarantee on all 7Sisters EBook curriculum!

SO you do not have any risk when you purchase our curriculum! Just scroll down in the 7Sisters bookstore to the category: Curriculum Acceptable for State Reimbursement. There you will find the titles that have been adjusted to be free from religious instruction.

Please note: Some 7Sisters curriculum could not be adapted to be free from religious instruction!

Some of our textbooks and guides simply could not be adapted to be reimbursable. Take for instance:

However, some textbooks and guides could be adapted to be free from religious instruction while maintaining the integrity of the material

If there is a character in a study guide who is a person of faith (such as the priest in Les Miserables), we ask questions that work on literature analysis. Thus, we do not ask religiously-oriented questions.

Some titles that have been adapted to be acceptable for state reimbursement for 7Sisters curriculum include:

PLUS, many:

  • Cinema Studies for Literature Learning Guides
  • Literature Study Guides
  • Shakespeare Study Guides
  • Writing Guides (Short Stories, Essays, Poetry, Creative Chronicling, College Essays)

Not only that but ALL four Complete Bundles (Literature, Writing, Vocabulary, etc) have been adapted to be acceptable for state reimbursement, such as:

One Year of High School English/Language Arts (a good fit for 9th grade)

Look for the RED STICKER on the cover of textbooks and guides OR simply scroll through the bookstore to the category: Curriculum Acceptable for State Reimbursement.

Join Sabrina for encouragement for choosing reimbursable curriculum AND if you need more information on choosing curriculum, check out this Homeschool Highschool Podcast episode.

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO HSHSP VIA COMPUTER

  1. Follow this link to our Apple Podcasts page.
  2. OR take this IMPORTANT STEP: Under our Homeschool Highschool Podcast logo, click on View in “…your favorite podcast source”
  3. This will take you to Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast source and our own podcast page.
  4. Click SUBSCRIBE.
  5. Click RATINGS AND REVIEW. (Please take a minute and do this. It helps others find us. Thanks!)
  6. Thanks!

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE VIA iPHONE

  1. Tap the purple Podcast icon on your phone
  2. Tap the search icon on the bottom-right of your screen
  3. In the search bar type: Homeschool Highschool Podcast
  4. Tap the Homeschool Highschool Podcast icon
  5. Tap *Subscribe*
  6. Please tap *Ratings and Review*

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Hope for the Mom of a Wayward Child

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #135, Hope for the Mom of a Wayward Child, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Hope for the Mom of a Wayward Child

In “Hope for the Mom of a Wayward Child,” Episode, #135, Meredith Curtis brings encouragement for moms who are desperately praying for their child to come back to Christ. She shares stories from church history and Scripture of mothers who have been in that situation and how they played a role in their child’s return to God. Pointing us to the One who loves our children more than we do, Meredith shows how God’s grace leaves the 99 to seek and save those who wander away, as well as the role that strategic prayer plays.

 

 

 


Books available at PowerlineProd.com

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!


Show Notes

The shocking conversation after my talk at a homeschool support group meeting.

A Mother’s Heart & Plans

Train a child in the way they should go….These words have I hidden in my heart….the fear and instruction of the Lord….Good News!

Organic baby food…family devotions….ministry at church….prayer & fasting….loving God together….Bible stories….Sunday school

Hijacked!

Questions or Sin or Heartache or Rebellion or Addition or Depression leading to turning their back on Jesus and His Word.

A generation gone astray.

Is faith gone? Will they get out of the pit they have fallen into? Will they stop believing lies?

Monica

Algeria 300s. Unfaithful husband with violent temper.

Her daughter was a devoted Christian, but Augustine. Wayward, drunken, false religion (Persian & later Plato philosophy), sexual immorality, living with a woman for 15 years.

“The child of these tears shall never perish.”

Ambrose in Milan

17 years of prayer & fasting while wholeheartedly serving God

Jochobed

Tribe of Levi. “Glory of God”

3 Children: Moses leader of Israel, Aaron first high priest, Mariam worship leader/songwriter

Multiply. Slavery. Midwives. Throw baby boys into the Nile.

Exodus 2:2-4: “And the woman conceived and gave birth to a son; and when she saw that he was beautiful, she hid him for three months. But when she could no longer hide him, she got him a papyrus basket and covered it with tar and pitch. Then she put the child in it and set it among the reeds by the bank of the Nile. And his sister stood at a distance to find out what would happen to him.”

Hebrews 11:23 “By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.”

Wisdom. Courage. Trust.

Instead of throwing him into the Nile to his death, she placed him in the Nile within a protective basket.

Think of all the ways her plan can go wrong.

Jochebed is paid by the princess to nurse her baby. When he is weaned, she brings him to the princess.

Murderer. Fugitive. Pharoah wants to kill him. Escapes to Midian.

80 years/probably after her death

Annie

6 children. Slowly over decades 4 come to Christ.

Unwavering faith/prayer while wholeheartedly serving God until death.

Prayer & Fasting in Faith

Always pray and never give up! Stand in faith that the God who called you to the task of raising children for Him will pour out grace and mercy to rescue your child even if you do not live to see Him do it.

Fasting.

How to pray.

Continue to serve Jesus wholeheartedly.

Luke 18:1

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

Jesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith Curtis Lovely to Behold A Wise Woman Builds by Meredith Curtis God's Girls 104: Motherhood by Meredith Curtis

 

How-to-Homeschool Books if you want to learn more about homeschooling or plan to homeschool 😊

Joyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis Unlocking the Mystery of Homeschooling High School by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette Quick & EZ Unit Study Fun by Meredith Curtis Seven R's of Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis

 

These are just a few of our many resources that work well for all ages together!

Newspaper Reporting by Meredith Curtis Travel God's World Geography by Meredith Curtis Travel God's World Cookbook by Meredith Curtis HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Don't Be a Nimrod Podcast #049 The Legend of Atlantis and Bull Leaping

6 Ingredients of Great Curriculum

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #134, 6 Ingredients of Great Curriculum, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

6 Ingredients of Great Curriculum

In “6 Ingredients of a Great Curriculum,” Episode, #134, Meredith Curtis can help you if you feel overwhelmed by curriculum choices. There is so much out there! Meredith shares how she chooses curriculum for her family by using a simple checklist of 6 things. She gives practical wisdom on what to look for in homeschool resources including worldview, flexibility, content, usability, cost value, and the fun factor.

 

 

 


Books available at PowerlineProd.com

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!


Show Notes

The thrill of a used book sale each May.

Worldview

Curriculum should match worldviews.

As a Christian, I have a biblically based worldview. I believe the Bible is true and applies to all areas of life. I want to show my children how God’s Word relates to every subject we study.

For more information on worldview, listen to my podcast: What is Your Worldview? that explains 6 different worldviews popular in our world today.

When Worldviews Collide is another podcast that helps parents and teens recognize worldviews that contrast with Christianity.

Content

Learn with depth. (Table of Contents for breadth; Read a chapter for depth)

I get excited when a history textbook goes deeper.

Examples:

  • History
  • Math
  • Science
  • Foreign Language

Make lists of what looking for.

If I can’t find everything in one curriculum, I will often combine two separate ones.

Wholesomeness. Purity. Accuracy.

Usability

Different for every person. Some like detailed lesson plans.

Is it clear enough for you how to use it for maximum potential?

Does it seem workable or does the preparation overwhelm you?

Flexibility

Can it be used for the whole family or just one person?

Can it be used at home or in a homeschool co-op?

Can you rearrange the schedule? Stretch it out? Shorten it?

Is it adaptable?

Cost Value

Doesn’t mean that I get the cheapest thing out there. That can end up costing me more in the long run.

Cost value to me means that it is worth the price I will pay for it. That is personal and different for each person.

  • Am I getting what I pay for?
  • If this is core curricula, is it worth the price?
  • If this is supplemental (like timeline, cookbook, literature, map), do I really need it? And is it worth the price?

I love to go to homeschool conventions where I can actually hold and look through curriculum and living books.

The Fun Factor

The fun factor matters to our family.

If our chosen curriculum doesn’t have it, we add those things in ourselves—I usually add ideas next to the Table of Contents or lesson plans.

In our home, things that we consider “Fun Factor” are:

  • Cooking/Baking
  • Timelines
  • Movies/TV Shows
  • Games
  • Hands-On Activities
  • Creating Skits, Radio Dramas, Commercials
  • Mapping
  • Living Books
  • Historical Fiction
  • Geographical Fiction
  • Writing Poems
  • Music
  • Art
  • Crafts
  • Dioramas
  • Posters/Brochures/Booklets
  • Lapbooking
  • Blogging about It
  • Dressing Up
  • Travel
  • Field Trips
  • Writing a Story
  • Games
  • Sports
  • History Parties

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

How-to-Homeschool Books if you want to learn more about homeschooling or plan to homeschool 😊

Joyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis Unlocking the Mystery of Homeschooling High School by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette Quick & EZ Unit Study Fun by Meredith Curtis Seven R's of Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis

 

The following books give detailed instructions so you can have your own History Parties.

Let's Have Our Own Archaeological Dig by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Luau by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Medieval Banquet by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Olympic Games

 

These are just a few of our many resources that work well for all ages together!

Newspaper Reporting by Meredith Curtis Travel God's World Geography by Meredith Curtis Travel God's World Cookbook by Meredith Curtis HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Finish Well Radio, Podcast #070, What Is Your Worldview? Finish Well Radio, Podcast #071, When Worldviews Collide Finish Well Radio, Podcast #069, The Kitchen Explosion 1001 Homeschool Days at the Beach | Yes you can actually spend 1001 Homeschool Days at the Beach and learn so much more than in a book! Join us to find out more. | #podcast #homeschoolpodcast #beach

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

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #129, How to Use Who-Dun-It Curriculum in a Homeschool Co-op, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

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!

 

 


Powerline Productions Ad - Love Reading - Teach Literature

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 


Show Notes

Welcome to our cozy mystery peer review time. We are mesmorized by the story, trying to figure out the clues.

This is much too fun for a high school English class! Or is it?

When It’s Your Turn to Teach at Co-op

It’s your turn to teach the high school English course and you are stumped.

I have a fun solution!

Mystery lovers unite!

Spend a year reading and writing a cozy mystery

Benefits of Writing a Who-Dun-It

Opportunity (or challenge) of creating a story that others will enjoy

Writing your own literature teaches you so much about literature

The role of logic

Craftsmanship

Reading aloud to edit/craft

Who Dun It? Murder Mystery Literature and Writing High School Class

An Overview of The Year

First half:

  • Reading/watching/analyzing
  • Creating characters/settings/scenes
  • Write short story

Second half:

  • Novels/short stories
  • Work on novel
  • Peer review & crafting as you go

The Planning Is Already Done

How the course is laid out

Work at home

Work in co-op

Creating Characters & Using Dialogue & Description

How do golden age authors do it?

Well-rounded characters

Quotation marks

Close your eyes and listen—can you see it?

Classic Literature & Substitutes

Christie, Sayers, Chesterton, Doyle

Children’s classics: Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, Mandie, Sugar Creek Gang

Golden Age Classic Mysteries—excellent literature!

Why Book Clubs Help So Much

Talking helps brain connect information

Differing opinions lead to lively discussions

Start with “Did you like this book—why or why not?”

Each book club focus: characterization, setting, dialogue, tone/mood, plot

Why TV Shows Help So Much

Scenes

Storyboard

Perry Mason, Murder She Wrote, Monk, Garage Sale Murders, Matlock

Writing for Peers vs. Writing for No One

When you are reading stories aloud, you have a purpose, an incentive

How writers have grown with this

Responding with affirmation and helpful advice, not critical

Unleashing Creativity

Creating characters, settings, plots, scenes, dialogue, surprise endings—hard work but fun!

Who Dun It Murder Mystery Literature & Writing changes students

The Logic of a Who-Dun-It

Have to make sure everything lines up, is logical, makes sense

Did the reader get enough clues to solve mystery? “How did I miss that!”

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

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

 

Who Dun It? Murder Mystery Literature and Writing High School Class Economics, Finances, and Business Economics, Finances, and Business Answer Key HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith Curtis
American Literature & Research British Literature & Writing High School Class Communications 101:Essays and Speeches High School Class Foundations of Western Literature by Meredith Curtis
Newspaper Reporting by Meredith Curtis Government: God's Blueprint/Man's Agenda by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions Worldview Understanding the Times by Meredith Curtis HIS Story of the 20th Century: High School Workbook by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #120, Why I Wrote My Own Government Course, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #114, Easy DIY 5-Year Homeschool High School Flexible Plan, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Homeschooling Podcast, Podcast #108, 7 Ways to Make Jesus Lord of Your Homeschooling with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #106, 7 Reasons I Teach Newspaper Reporting In Middle School with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Raise Teens Who Love America

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #128, How to Raise Teens Who Love America, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Raise Teens Who Love America

In “Raise Teens Who Love America,” Episode, #128, Meredith Curtis urges you to be proactive in raising freedom-loving young people. It’s so easy to take freedom for granted until you lose it. America has been a beacon of freedom and hope to the entire world for centuries, but do our children and teenagers appreciate their heritage? You can raise children and teens who are enthusiastic, yet realistic about the United States of America

 

 


Powerline Productions New Semester Sale 2021 - 50% off with coupon code

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 


Show Notes

Diego “I Love America”

Venezuela

Cubans risking their lives to get here

Time in Germany (“We are all watching”)

Our Christian Heritage

Puritans, Pilgrims, and the Great Awakening

The influence of Jesus and the Word of God

Learn to look at history in light of national and world culture (e.g. cursing, sexual immorality, slavery, taxes, role of women)

Constitution

Based on Bible

God as Law-Giver, Judge, and King

Federalists & Anti-Federalists

Read/Discuss Constitution

Read/Discuss Bill of Rights

Meet the Founding Fathers

Freedom from Slavery

Christians Against Slavery

Both sides of the ocean—Wilberforce, Beechers

Underground Railroad

Immigration

Melting Pot

Ellis Island to Interwoven in the fabric of life

Horatio Algiers and the Rags to Riches Tales

Freedom in Education

Freedom vs. Government Nannies

Giving opportunities to experience freedom, taxation, entrepreneurships

Read biographies of brave freedom-lovers

Raising Patriots

Biographies (Cotton Mather, William Bradford, John Winthrop, Jonathan Edwards, George Washington, John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Quincy Adams, Patrick Henry, Paul Revere, Daniel Webster, Charles Finney, Jedidiah Smith, Davy Crockett, Marcus & Narcissa Whitman, Abraham Lincoln, Robert E. Lee, Lew Wallace, Booker T. Washington, Washington Carver, Calvin Coolidge, John D. Rockefeller, D.L. Moody, Billy Sunday, John Wannamker, Ben Carson, Ronald Reagan)

Listen to people who love America (Prager U, Dan Bongino, Tucker Carlson, Laura Ingrahm, Bill O’Reilly,

Patriotic Resources (A’Beka, Bob Jones, FACE, Powerline Productions, Notgrass, Liberty Press,

Patriotic Songs (God Bless America, Star Spangled Banner, My Country “tis of Thee, God Bless the USA)

Movies (Patriot, Harriet, Midway, Cheaper by the Dozen, The Blind Side, Remember the Titans, Dave’s Barton’s American Heritage series, Dave’s Stott’s Drive Thru American History)

Cartoons (Learn Our History, This is America, Charlie Brown, Adventures in Odyssey)

Conservative Authors (Cal Thomas, Rush Limbaugh, Thomas Sowell, William F. Buckley, Rand Paul, Pat Buchanan, Robert Bork, Edmund Burke, Adam Smith, C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton, George Will)

Historical Fiction/Living Books/Biographies (The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane, The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie, Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand, Gifted Hands by Ben Carson)

Conservative News Sources (Newsmax, One America News Network, CBN News, Town Hall, The American Conservative, Epic Times, Daily Caller)

Pointing out Inconsistencies

Compare/Contrast

Listen to viewpoints of those who oppose the USA and discuss (Iran, Socialists, Mainstream Media, Academia, Critical Race Theory)

Where are they right?

Do they take it too far?

Where are they wrong?

Read Communist Manifesto—see how many times you can hear the book being quoted or ideas from the book being encouraged or esteemed

Go through Understanding the Times together or in a group

Make sure your teens understand the idea of living in a fallen world and the sin nature of man. There are no perfect people, ideas, or nations. All is flawed,  under the curse of sin.

Make sure your teens understand the redemption of Jesus. He saves, redeems, restores. The Word of God applies to all of life!

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

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

Economics, Finances, and Business Economics, Finances, and Business Answer Key HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith Curtis Government: God's Blueprint/Man's Agenda by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions
American Literature & Research British Literature & Writing High School Class Communications 101:Essays and Speeches High School Class Foundations of Western Literature by Meredith Curtis
Newspaper Reporting by Meredith Curtis Who Dun It? Murder Mystery Literature and Writing High School Class Worldview Understanding the Times by Meredith Curtis HIS Story of the 20th Century: High School Workbook by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

I'd Rather Be Texting with Meredith Curtis, Podcast #044, on Finish Well Podcast on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

New Semester New Hope

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #127, New Semester New Hope, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

New Semester New Hope

In “New Semester New Hope,” Episode, #127, Meredith Curtis welcomes you to a new year and a new semester. You can change direction, do something fun, try out new curriculum! It’s time to hope for a brighter tomorrow! Things don’t have to stay the same or get worse—with Christ there is always a chance for a new beginning. Forget what is behind and press on toward the goal!

 

 


Powerline Productions New Semester Sale 2021 - 50% off with coupon code

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 


Show Notes

Last year started out with high hopes! The economy was booming! Our family was healthy and happy. Who knew that 4 months later one of my daughters would be fighting for her life, Covid-19 would keep us from attending our son’s wedding, and a dear friend would die. 2020 was not a great year for me.

So, am I full of doom and gloom about 2021? Well, honestly, I am a little nervous about some things, but I am still full of hope. No matter what happens, Jesus is still on the throne! I trust Him.

Why does hope matter?

Hope

Faith, hope, love last forever.

Hope does not disappoint

Hope motivates us to action

Hope brightens our mood

Hope brings joy to those around us

Hope is contagious.

Our teens need hope.

Where is Our Hope Fixed

Our hope is in a person, not fate, not luck, not our abilities, not karma,

Where is do we place our hope?

Our hope is in the One that will never change.

God is faithful. He will complete what He has begun.

The Lord cares about your homeschooling.

New Year

Cultures all around the world celebrate a New Year. There is promise and an opportunity to make changes.

New Blessings

New Problems

New Solutions

New Opportunities

New Semester

New Semester

Can you stop and evaluate and make changes? Yes!

Changing schedules

Changing furniture around

Organizing the homeschool room

Changing Curriculum

 

Couldn’t buy my textbook at a homeschool convention because of months in book.

Most important thing is the teacher and student, not curriculum. Here’s why.

Having said that, sometimes you do need a new curriculum.

Algebra II

Consider Living Books

 

Christmas conversation about Economics

Enjoying literature with book club.

Life skill courses are a blast.

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

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

Economics, Finances, and Business Economics, Finances, and Business Answer Key HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith Curtis Newspaper Reporting by Meredith Curtis

These Courses all include Book Club Discussion Questions

American Literature & Research British Literature & Writing High School Class Communications 101:Essays and Speeches High School Class Foundations of Western Literature by Meredith Curtis
Newspaper Reporting by Meredith Curtis Who Dun It? Murder Mystery Literature and Writing High School Class Worldview Understanding the Times by Meredith Curtis HIS Story of the 20th Century: High School Workbook by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #114, Easy DIY 5-Year Homeschool High School Flexible Plan, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #113, 7 Ways to Save Big on Homeschool Curriculum, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Radio, Podcast #080, 12 Happy Habits with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network Finish Well Radio, Podcast #041, Get In Shape Spiritually for the New Year with Meredith Curtis on The Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show

Fall Unit Studies

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Fall Unit Studies

Fall Unit Studies – Episode 87

 

In this episode, we discuss Fall Unit Studies. Fall is the perfect time to take a look at Unit Studies.  Fall provides so many opportunities to take advantage of Unit Studies.

Mentioned on the Show

  • How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World
  • Amelia Bedelia’s First Apple Pie
  • Johnny Appleseed

Things to Do:

Pumpkins

  • Pumpkin Patches
  • Baking and Cooking with Pumpkins and Pumpkin Seeds

Leaves

  • Nature studies
  • Drawing leaves
  • Cutting Leaves
  • Crafts with leaves
  • Science projects with Leaves

Hurricanes

  • Tracking
  • Study the Science behind
  • Home preparedness projects

 

Find us on FacebookInstagramPinterest and Twitter

Please visit www.fpea.com to learn more about who we are!