The Search for Language- VCF:Week 2

Welcome back to the 2017 Virtual Curriculum Fair hosted by Susan at Homeschooling Hearts and Minds. 

Last week we introduced ourselves and shared a bit about our daily school life, so today we are going to get down to the nitty gritty with Language Arts! 

Diagramming sentences and taking vocabulary tests.  Oh, and reading obscure books that I did not understand only to have a teacher tell me she knew exactly what the author meant when he wrote it.  Yep, that is what I remember most about "Language Arts" classes, especially in high school.  Not very fun and not very inspiring.

But my memories none the less.  I am not all together sure my kids will remember their language arts classes much differently, but I promise it will NOT be from a lack of me trying.

Language Arts is a pretty big spectrum of subjects really. Vocabulary, grammar, reading, reading comprehension, spelling, writing, hand writing... it just seems to go on forever.  And quite frankly, it takes up a big part of our homeschooling day.  But in my opinion, it is SO hard to find suitable material for those subjects and forget trying to find one I like that encompasses them all!  Seriously!  I have changed curriculum so many times with my four kids through the years that it would make your head spin.

I am going to share what I would use RIGHT now for the different age groups, but know that this is my opinion today.  I promise it might change next week.  But so far, after 18 years of homeschooling, these are my favorites!

Elementary-

• Phonics Museum by Veritas Press- I used a lot of different things for my girls, including Teach Your Child in 100 Easy Lessons which I loved, but Phonics Museum, although pricey, was what saved me when teaching my first son to read.  He loved it, he learned to read, and all was well with the world.  'nuff said!

• All About Spelling- Just use it!  It is worth it, great for all kinds of learners, and works.

• Grammar- ABeka- Just back to basics workbooks, learn like you did in public school, but your kids WILL learn.

• Literature- Honestly, just read.  Everything you can get your hands on.  Ask questions, draw pictures, write summaries, whatever.  If you need a bit more, then the Memoria Press Literature Guides work well for us.

• Handwriting- Memoria Press Handwriting worked great for us!

• Write Shop- If you are looking for a simple and non threatening way to teach young kids to enjoy writing, try this!

Middle School-

• Spelling Power- Call words, master their spelling, and move on!  Who has time for word searches and puzzles?

• Wordly Wise- I love these books and start them about 5th grade.  My kids don't love them but they have great vocabularies!  They will thank me later, I am sure.

• Grammar Ace- A short and easy program, but I have used it for all my kids for 4th grade!  One day a week and done!  It uses the DVD of the old Schoolhouse Rock videos we watched on Saturday mornings and they love it.  "Conjuction, juction, what's your function?"  Go ahead, I will wait while you sing! ;)  We also continue with Abeka.

• Here to Help Learning- This video writing curriculum has been so much fun for us.  My youngest son went from complaining about writing a few sentences to writing 5 plus page stories!  It's cute, easy to use and works! 

• Literature-  Memoria Press Literature Guides, and  Lightning Literature

High School-

• Wordly Wise- Just keep swimming, just keep swimming- I promise, it is worth it.  Another great vocabulary program is Vocabulary From the Classical Roots, so yes, I make them use both at the same time.  I am nice like that!

• Grammar- Easy Grammar Ultimate Series- OK, I have used A LOT of grammar programs for this level and honestly, some are completely overboard in my opinion.  I loved diagramming as a kid, really, I did, but I have come to strongly believe that enough is enough.  Teach the basics, let them read good literature, teach them to write well, and they they will be just fine.

• Literature- We have used several but here are my favorites-

          Sonlight- Choose the books your child reads with discernment.  There are some books we do   not read due to personal convictions about language and graphic content. 
          Lightning Literature

• Writing- We are IEW fans.  Two of my girls have done well with writing at a college level after having used this program.  We also recommend anything from Sharon Watson! 

 Is there more?  Oh yes, a plethora of stuff, I promise.  Once again, find what works best for your child and forge ahead.  One of the glories of homeschooling is that if you find something that doesn't work for you, just put it aside and find something else.  

What about you?  What do you use?

We would love for you to join us!  Link up your favorite posts about Language Arts to share with us!

An InLinkz Link-up

See 'ya back next week as we Discover Patterns with Math and more!

Blessings,

Please visit my fellow homeschool bloggers who are writing about Playing with Words this week:

All posts will be live by Monday, January 9th at noon EST.

Delight Directed High School English by Susan @ Homeschooling Hearts & Minds
Act Your Part Well- 2017 VCF by Lisa @ Golden Grasses
The Search For Language by Michele@Family, Faith and Fridays
Our Top Picks for Language Arts by Amanda H @ Hopkins Homeschool
Multiple Approaches to Language Arts in 2017 by Laura @ Day by Day in Our World
How We Cover the Language Arts in Our Homeschool by Joelle @ Homeschooling for His Glory

Use Your Words by Laura @ Four Little Penguins
The Art of Perfecting Macarons by Jennifer @ A Glimpse of Our Life
Loving Languages Every Day by Jen K @ A Peace of Mind
Speech Therapy & Elementary Latin by Yvie @ Gypsy Road
The Readin' and Writin' Part of Homeschool by Shecki @ Greatly Blessed
Children Who Love Books by Lizzy @ Peaches At Home
Customizing High School Language Credits by Christy @ Unexpected Homeschool
A Poetry Feast by Sarah @ Delivering Grace
Teaching Language Arts without Curriculum by Brittney @ Mom's Heart
I know your pain and it is worth it! by Kim @ Good Sweet Love
Language Arts: Our Style by Annette @ A Net in Time
Words! Words! Words! by Lisa M @McClanahan 7
10 Wonderful Word Games (+1) by Lori @ At Home: where life happens

Finding the Right Words by Kym @ Homeschool Coffee Break
What About Reading Comprehension? by Kristen @ Sunrise to Sunset
Teaching Grammar and Writing Through Discussion by Chelli @ The Planted Trees

The Critical Thinking Co.- Homeschool Reiew Crew Review

We homeschool in many different ways and styles.  After all, I have four kids, two of which are still learning at home, and each of them has a very different learning style.  But one thing I have found to be consistent in our home is the occasional need for worksheets.  Let me make it clear, I DO NOT like busy work, but there are some times that completing workbook pages is just what you need to learn.

One of our favorite companies for such workbooks is The Critical Thinking Co.  In the past we have had the privilege of using their math and history workbooks, but for the past month or so, we have been using their Language Smarts Level E workbook, intended for 4th graders.  If you don't have a 4th grader in your house, no worries! The Critical Thinking Co. has products for just about every subject you could want to teach for grades pre-K through 12th!  There is a little bit of everything, including some pretty incredible software!

WE LOVE THIS WORKBOOK!

We are using Language Smarts as a supplement to Colby's grammar because we had already begun a program, but this workbook is clearly intended to be a full Language Arts program and does not need any additional activities added to teach a fourth grader.  Its 400 pages (yes you read that right, 400) are comprehensive, covering language arts basics that every 4th grader need to know.  So far we have studied things like syllables, prefixes, suffixes, roots, and synonyms.

Other concepts covered are-

 Level E (Grade 4) Content

• Capitalization	• Prefixes, Suffixes, Roots
• Critical Thinking	• Silent E
• Compare/Contrast	• Singular/Plural
• Imply/Infer	• Syllables
• Inference	• Usage
• Opinion	• Homographs
• Prediction	• Homophones
• Adjectives	• Metaphors
• Adverbs	• Sequencing
• Antonyms	• Similes
• Conjunctions	• Writing
• Interjections	• Characters
• Nouns	• Comparing
• Prepositions	• Conflict
• Pronouns	• Context Clues
• Sentences	• Drama
• Subject and Predicate	• Editing
• Subject-Verb Agreement	• Fiction and Nonfiction
• Synonyms	• Idioms
• Verbs	• Parts of a Book
• Grammar	• Plot
• Punctuation	• Poems
• Colons	• Proverbs
• Commas	• Reference Materials
• Exclamation Marks	• Setting
• Periods	• Story Maps
• Question Marks	• Table of Contents
• Quotation Marks	• Titles
• Semicolons	• Topic and Main Idea
• Spelling	• Using a Dictionary
• Compound Words

Each new concept is introduced with short and easy to understand instructions that Colby is able to read himself.  Then the concept is reviewed with a short activity.  Activities have included fill in the blanks, multiple choice, sentence writing, and even crossword puzzles. More than several pages are included for each new subject so your child will have plenty of practice with the concept before moving on.  Because each day is a little different, the pages have captured Colby' attention and because they are fairly short they do not wear him out.

We are currently doing one page a day, which seems a little slow to me, but was a good starting pace for Colby.  By completing about two pages a day, your child will be able to complete this curriculum in a school year.  Not a grammar ace yourself?  No problem!  All of the answers are in the back of the book for quick reference and easy checking.

Another reason I like The Critical Thinking Co. workbooks is because they are full color.  No, there are not fancy pictures all over the pages, but just enough color to break up the monotony and draw attention to the instructions.  Think of it as having the important parts already highlighted for you.  I think that is especially critical to visual learners, plus let's face it, just makes a workbook more visually pleasing.

One of the things that stands out to me about Language Smarts and other Critical Thinking Co. products is that they continue to be up to date and on the cutting edge of technology.  Examples of this are the Using an Online Encyclopedia and How to Use the Internet to Search for a Topic workbook pages.  Let's face it, kids need those kind of skills in the world we now live in!

We also had the privilege of previewing the Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic Before Kindergarten! software bundle.  From toddlers to preschoolers, this 5 app software bundle will help teach your children in a fun and engaging ways things like letter sounds,  pre-writing skills, and basic math concepts.  Very cute and easy to use, your little ones will love making this part of their day.  Colby would have loved this when he was younger!

If you are looking for a full Language Arts program, I would highly recommend Language Smarts Level E for your 4th graders, as well as a help for older students who need more review!  For additional thoughts on this program and more from The Critical Thinking Co., just click on the banner below!

IXL- TOS Review

Days are busy.  Life is full.  And sometimes getting all of the school subjects in for the day is a challenge.  For us, that is when computer-based learning is valued more than ever.  That is also why we love IXL!

We had the opportunity to review IXL a year ago and had a good experience with it, but since then they have added a new subject and expanded and I was eager to try it again.  We were given a years access to IXL Math and IXL Language Arts to try with our three youngest.

IXL is a review based program.  While concepts are not taught per say, they are explained in pretty good detail if you get a problem incorrect.  No matter what grade level your child is at, once you sign up for IXL you have access to all grades.  For Math that covers grades Pre K through Pre-Calculus (12th grade).  For Language Arts that covers grades 2nd-8th.  I have found that the advantage of this is that you can easily identify strengths and weaknesses in your child's learning.  Let's face it, no math or grammar program is perfect and your child WILL be less proficient in some areas.  This is where I find IXL invaluable.  Once we identify an area of weakness, we are able to go directly to that area and have additional practice.  Once you choose a grade you want to work in, you simply access that menu and the skills are broken into categories that are well labeled for ease.  Because you can access any grade, we have also gone back a grade to work even more on a specific skill.

IXL is quite easy to navigate and therefore takes little if any supervision.  Because of that, there is a pretty extensive parental page.  From there you can access grades and progress, often in chart form, as well as see what areas your child is having a hard time with.  In addition, weekly updates are sent to your email so you can see how much time a child has spent on the program and in what areas.

How we used IXL-

Again, this is a review program, so we have used it as such several days a week.  Our 2nd grader has used it the most and prefers the math section over the Language Arts.  Some days we use it as simply a review and I require him to do at least 10-15 minutes of work.  Other days when life gets the best of us, it becomes our math and grammar for the day and he works at least 30 minutes.  When we first began he worked in the order of the menu, but he soon found areas he enjoyed more than others and would choose those first.  Measurement is one of his favorites!  One the right side of his screen a timer is displayed that shows how long he has been working.  That option can be turned off, but once he realized it was not a race, but simply an indicator of time spent and part of the things that earned him "prizes" he relaxed.  Also shown are the number of problems attempted, your score and ribbons earned. 

Combinations of time, sections completed, and number of problems completed earn the child "awards."  Once they earn awards they are able to access a screen that looks like a grid with question marks on it.  Certain stars are then revealed with "prizes."  Don't ask me why, but that is a HUGE incentive for my youngest son.  HUGE!  As a matter of fact, because the Language Arts is a newer program it does not have this feature yet and I realized that is why CJ does not like doing those activities as much.  You still earn ribbons, but for him- it is all about those picture prizes!  Whatever it takes, huh?

That, on the other hand, is exactly why my 7th grader did not enjoy the program as much.  While he does not mind the review, the prizes seem babyish to him and he would rather just avoid it all together.  His math skills are pretty strong so we found him to be spot on with his grade level and even beyond, but have seen a few more challenges with his Language Arts.  I intend to use IXL Language Arts this summer as part of his summer review- not only to bring him up to speed but also help fill in a few gaps that I have seen we have.

The whole point of me adding my 17 year old to the review was for ACT test review.  Because she is currently quite busy with online college classes she has not been able to spend much time on the site, but we have explored the areas extensively and are convinced it is a perfect way to review for tests required for college admittance.  Because of that, she will be spending the next few months doing 15-30 minutes a day.  Since so many of those tests cover several years worth of subject matter, gaining access to Algebra, Geometry, and Pre-Calculus is a huge advantage.  Instead of having to dig out all of her old books, the skills she needs to review are all in one place.

I am not always sold on online programs and especially do not gravitate towards game like ones with a million bells and whistles, but I really like IXL.  The review is strong, the detailed explanations when needed are good and the subject matter is extensive- over 4,000 skills are taught.  Whether your child needs some extra help and review or you are just looking for a supplemental program for those days when it is just hard for mom to sit down and teach, I think you will find IXL will meet your needs!

You can find IXL the following places-
https://www.facebook.com/IXL
https://twitter.com/IXLLearning
https://plus.google.com/+IXL

Pricing starts at $9.95 a month or $75 per year for one student.  Each additional child is $2 a month or $20 per year.  So two subjects for one child would cost $129.00.


   

VCF- The Power in a Word

You know how some people are a little obsessed with office supplies?  You know- the type that shop all of the back to school sales even though they KNOW they have enough pens for the free world and just as many notebooks.  OK, yes, I am one of those people.  I admit it.  As long as we are confessing, I also admit I am a curriculum junkie as well.  You know- buy it in case you may need it and then make your children use it in the summer even if they are out of the age range.  Yep, I am that person too.  But when is the last time I went to a curriculum fair?  YEARS!  Really, my kids were all probably still in elementary school at the time, meaning there were only two of them then, not four.  It was actually a local homeschool convention, but let's just be honest, I went for the curriculum.  I may have listened to one or two speakers, but I stalked the vendors.

Curriculum speaks to me.  It is one of the reasons I do reviews.  So much curriculum, so little time!

And that my friends, is why I love Susan's idea of a Virtual Curriculum Fair.  I do not have to leave the house and I can stalk everyone else's curriculum choices.  Win-win for me!  So let's get started!

I do find it amusing that Susan decided to start with what I consider the hardest category- Language Arts.  It really has been the hardest for me to choose and folks, I have been on this ride over 15 years.  I have been there, done that with more stuff than I even care to admit.  Let me say, I do not think I am fickle, but I am choosy.  And, I have learned that each of my children learn a different way and so with each one I have to think outside the box a little to find the "perfect" match.  There is NO such thing, by the way.  Sometimes you just find the best choice for the moment and move forward.

That being said, let me share some of what I consider the best out there!  For now.

Let's start with spelling.

I am NOT a five days a week, pretest, post test spelling curriculum fan.  I have used several and had no luck.  I do not like for my children to spend a week studying words they know how to spell, while doing mindless word searches and other time wasters. (not opinionated at all, huh?!)  So here is what I suggest-

All About Spelling- This is new to me with my last child.  Figures!  It is hands on, easy to follow and genius!  My 1st grader has just started level 2 and we will plan on doing level three for his second grade level.

Spelling Power- This one we have been using since my oldest was in elementary school.  I am sure the format has changed a bit, but the bottom line is that you call words until your child misses a few and then they study those words.  There is a little more to it, but you get the idea.  One book, all grades, period.  I would start it in third grade and finish when your child has completed all the levels.

Reading

Two of my kids learned to read magically.  OK, I know not possible, but it sure seemed like it!  One I am proud to say is NOW a great reader but was at one point in time, hopeless.  Our last blows me away daily with his reading.  We have tried everything but if I was starting over here's what I would do.

PAL from IEW.  This was a review item and by far, hands down the BEST thing we have ever used.  Again, only with my youngest.  Again, figures!  I have no doubt this kid would have learned to read regardless, but we would have never had this much fun!  Hands on, active and, did I mention, fun?!    If you have a child that likes to be busy, they will enjoy this.  There is some writing involved, but also lots of games and activities.  The initial prep time is hefty, but worth it.  Start here and you will not be sorry!

Two "extras"- Reading Eggs and Reading Kingdom.  Both are computer based, both make reading fun.  If you have a visual or auditory learner, these may be worth checking out.  We use them daily.

Literature

OK, I am going out on a limb here- but after your child learns to read, can I suggest that is just what you do?  Read. And read some more.  Talk about what you read, notebook if you want, but I am here to tell you that all the extra fluff does not help your child to read.  It just takes up precious time that could be spent reading!  If you are worried about comprehension, after they are finished reading - TALK about the book!  Ask questions, discuss.  Not only will you know if they are comprehending what they read, you are spending quality time with your kiddos.  Here's what I figured out about Literature- every program out there recommends your child read something different.  Every public school out there is the same.  And some of those choices are HORRIBLE!  So my recommendation is find what YOU want them to read and have them read!  Make a list at the beginning of each school year and dive in.  It's more fun anyway.

Writing

For beginner readers, I love Write Shop!  Again, this was a review item that we were blessed to use with my then 5th grader.  As soon as we were done I bought the first book for my youngest.  It is simple to use, inexpensive and just well done in my opinion.  We will continue with it probably until about 5th grade.  The first level has simple writing pages you use with each lesson and some cute activities.  The older level we used incorporated more games and grammar components as well.



At that point (6th grade) I switch to IEW.  If you do not know about this company, you need to do some research about them!  My kids love Mr. Pudewa and his humor.  The videos are invaluable, and the skills taught are wonderful.  My college student has been complemented for her writing by numerous professors, and trust me, she did NOT learn any of it from me.

Two "extras"-  You know, for those summer school times...heehee

1. One Year Adventure Novel

2. Sharon Watson

We have used both and I highly recommend them!

And that brings us to Grammar!

Ugh!  This one is just tough.  We tend to hit Grammar hard in the middle school years and then move on.  I am just gonna lay a few out for you and when you find the "great"one, please come back and share.

Logic of English- A newer one that I recently reviewed.  A little over my youngest's head but I think it may be what we try for next year. (2nd grade)  They also have a lower level called Foundations that I hear good things about.

Analytical Grammar- If you like some diagramming this might be a good program for you.

All in One Grammar- This is just a little workbook that does a solid overview of basic Grammar.  I really like its simplicity and use it in 4th grade.

Bridgeway English.- very workbooky (my made up word) but we have had good success with it.

Wow, is that all?  You forget all that is covered in language arts, don't ya?  No wonder it is such a hard subject to find.  I know there are several all in one programs out there, several which we have used, but I have found that because I am so particular, mixing and matching in this category works best for us.

Confused or still not sure what to do?  Head on over to these other VCF participants and see what they recommend! Remember, in the end, no one knows your child like you do!  Don't be afraid to try something new and move on to something else if you need to.

3 Reasons to Read to Your Teens by Susan @ Homeschooling Hearts & Minds
Language Arts {Virtual Curriculum Fair} by Chareen @ Every Bed of Roses
A Classical Take on 6th Grade Language Arts by Christy @ Unexpected Homeschool
The Power in a Word by Michele@ Family, Faith and Fridays
The Latin Road to English Grammar Volume 1 by Kristi K. @ The Potter's Hand Academy
Starting a Foreign Language in Elementary School by Amy @ Eclectic Homeschooling
These are the words we say by Christa @ Fairfield Corner Academy
A Peek into our Homeschool: Language Arts by Brittney @ Mom's Heart
Our Curriculum Choices 2014 ~ English by Renata~Sunnyside Farm Fun
Virtual Curriculum Fair: A World of Words by Joelle @ Homeschooling for His Glory
It Starts with the Alphabet by Kristen @ Sunrise to Sunset
Playing w/ Words-Charlotte Mason Style by Lynn P @ Ladybug Chronicles
2014 Virtual Curriculum Fair ~ Playing with Words: the Language Arts by Jennifer @ a glimpse of our life
Our PreK-1st Grade Language Arts Mix by Tauna @ Proverbial Homemaker
Fun (or Not) With Spelling by Nicole @ Schooling in the Sun
Word Nerd Love by Lisa N@Golden Grasses
Our Favourite Resources For Teaching Elementary Language Arts by Kim @ Homestead Acres
Unconventional Reading Lessons While Homeschooling by Lori@My Journeys Through Life
My Favorite Writing Curriculum for our Boys by Monique @Living Life and Learning
Virtual Curriculum Fair: Playing With Words - Language Arts  by Stacie @Super Mommy To The Rescue
Fun With the Language Arts by Mary @ Winecup Christian Homeschool
Our Grammar Path by Laura @ Four Little Penguins
Virtual Curriculum Fair !!! by Jessica @ Modest Mama
Creating a High School English Course (or two) by Debra @Footprints in the Butter
Language Arts in Our Homeschool This Year by Laura @ Day by Day in Our World

If you would like to link up a curriculum post we would love to have you join us!

Join us next Monday when we talk about the next VCF subject- Math and Science

Blessings,

*** Just a quick note.  I am not receiving any compensation for recommending these products.  All mentioned are my personal opinions only.  I added some links just to make it easy for you and linked reviews I have done in the past if you want more information.***

Review- Mobile Apps-Rainbow Sentences

Have you noticed my new sidebar button?  We have a new name- Schoolhouse Review Crew along with an updated website.  Check it out to see what we are so excited about here!

And here's my first review under our new name: Rainbow Sentences by Mobile Education Tools.
Mobile Education Tools has created some neat products!  The one our family got to review last month is a grammar related product made for your iPad.  Here's what the web site has to say:


Rainbow Sentences is designed to help students improve their ability to construct grammatically correct sentences by using color coded visual cues. The who, what, where, and why parts of sentences are color coded to help students recognize and understand how combinations of these parts create basic sentence structure.




Here' a screen shot of a level three sentence.  Your child is encouraged to drag the separate sentence parts to their correct location.  As you touch the word group to drag it, it is read to you, a huge benefit for my non-reader. Once you think they have the sentence correct you check your work, and then either move on to the next sentence or get a second and third try with a little more guidance.  Every few sentences done correctly earn a puzzle piece that is then animated when complete.  A fun little  built-in reward system.   A level one sentence would consist only of the who and the what.

One of the best things about this program, in my opinion, is the settings button.  You can gear it specifically to your child in numerous ways: turning on or off the color coding, line color coding, word color coding, word grouping, and the audio instructions, as well as changing the complexity level.  CJ's favorite part- the record correct Answer button, which allows him to record the sentence he has fixed and then hear himself.  He thinks it is great, though I did have to remind him occasionally to record the correct sentence, not his own funny one!

Though I am pretty sure my almost 5 year old did not get quite yet the mechanics of how you build the sentences, he was able to do so with the color coding off eventually.  By listening to the sentence parts he could figure out where to put the word groups.  The program held his interest, I think, for several reasons: 
-It's very colorful and engaging
-The voice used is clear and easy to listen to
-The menu at the bottom of the page was simple enough for him to navigate alone
-The puzzles were a fun incentive to play

Happy Boy, Happy Mom!

Rainbow Sentences can be purchased here for $7.99 to be downloaded though iTunes onto your iPad. 

In the past I have not been a fan of games on my iPad for my children.  I have since changed my mind because of excellent products such as these.  While in iTunes, check out the other apps this wonderful company has to offer.  Several of the reviews online mentioned using them successfully with special needs children, a bonus in my book!

  Disclaimer:  As a member of the Schoolhouse Review Crew, I received this product, at no cost to me, in exchange for my honest review.  All opinions are mine.