Showing posts with label homeschool High School Hop. Show all posts
Showing posts with label homeschool High School Hop. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Time? Who Has Time?

Welcome back to another month of the Homeschooling High School Blog Hop.  We will be winding down this series in December but we have two more topics for you before we call it a wrap.  After last months's chat of How Am I Going To Teach High School? , we are off to a new one this month-


 How do you fit it all in?

Hmmm, I had to really think about this one.  ALL is relative!  But here goes-

First decide what ALL means to you.  Because it is going to be different for everyone.
   -Do I want my child to graduate in four years or earlier?
   -Do I want my child to have AP classes?
   -Do I want my child to participate in sports or extracurricular activities?
   -Do I want my child to work part time?
   -Do I want my child to take online dual credit classes?

There are no universal right or wrong questions.  But there are most certainly rights and wrongs for your child.  Sit down with your highschooler early on and write down goals - yours and theirs.  Even 8th grade is not too early to begin planning.

Next, form a game plan.  Nothing happens by sheer luck, and your goals will not be accomplished if you have no plan.  Divide a piece of paper into four columns and make a tentative course schedule. Decide how and where those courses are going to be taken.

Now see where there is space and add in the extras.  Because let's face it, anything other than school is extra.  Do those things have value?  Absolutely!  But sometimes our children have to prioritize and make choices  Some kids will do great with full days and months, while others will not.  Know your child and help them to make informed decisions.

Invest in a calendar or student planner.  Now is a good time to teach your child how to use these basic tools.  Write in due dates and work backwards.  If a paper is due the third week in March, write it down.  Then pencil in the rough draft due the week prior, the note taking the week prior to that, and the outline the week prior to that.  Teach your children to think ahead and plan accordingly, always allowing for a few extra days of wiggle room.

Teach your child to become independent.  This is big, my friends!  If you want a organized, confident college student, now is the time to teach them how to be one.  It does not come naturally for most high schoolers.  Little by little, subject by subject, you need to teach your kids to be independent thinkers and doers! Teach them how to learn and then let them do it - by themselves.  Yes, they will still need some oversight, but it is time to let go of their hands and let them succeed, or fail, on their own.  You cannot follow them to college and remind them of when their assignments are due.  Let them learn now, under the safety of your roof, rather than by trial and error in the much less forgiving world of college professors.

Everyone has 24 hours in a day.  No more and no less.  Finding the time to fit it all in during the high school years can be challenging, but with a plan, a little practice, and a lot of guidance, we can find the time to "fit it all in!"

Let's talk about Homeschool Schedules, Routines and Extra Curricular



Read more on How to Fit it ALL in while educating in the high school years:

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Blessings,
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Wednesday, October 28, 2015

How Then Should I Teach?


Welcome back to another month of our Homeschooling High School Blog Hop!  Last month we talked about teaching Language Arts, so up this week is How Am I Going to Teach High School?

 In thinking about my years of answering questions about our homeschooling experiences, this is the one question I seem to answer the most often.  Well, maybe after that whole socialization silliness.  It strikes me as funny as well, because quite frankly it is something I really never even thought about.  I guess in a way I figured that if God had brought us this far, He had a plan.  Good thing, since at the time, I did not.

Now, having one college graduate and one senior in high school who already has 23 college credits to her name, I can firmly and with with great confidence tell you that you CAN do this!  You can teach high school.

Here's how!

You are learning too!  For the most part, most of us do not start homeschooling in high school.  Because you start at a younger age by far, you are learning right along side your child as you teach them the basics.  You learn as they learn and therefore you will have the background you need to teach most subjects.

Most subjects are not as hard as you think they are.  Yes, Biology and advanced math seemed hard when we were in high school, but that is because we were in high school.  Most of us have a few more years on us now and are more than capable of handling more difficult subjects.

You do not have to be an expert.  Why?  Because there are experts out there and most are very willing to help out if asked.  Really!  Did you know some people really love dissecting frogs? I am not one of them, but I know people who think it is cool and love being asked to do so with a group of young people.

You do not have to like everything.  Nor does your child.  But somethings do have to be taught and learned.  Once you make a tentative four year plan for your highschooler, determine those classes that you just do not think you can stomach and figure out a plan B.  It may be that you just have to tough it out for a season, but it also may be that an alternative route will present itself.  Be willing to think outside the box and even get your teen's opinion on the subject.  Their creativity can often help you out here.  Keep in mind, that in some cases, life experience can be used for credits if meticulous records have been kept.

There are other ways to take a class.  Yes, it is your job to see that your child learns, but that does not mean you have to teach them every subject.  In fact, sometimes it is a good thing for them to get outside instruction.  Both of my girls have taken numerous classes online from a Christian college.  Not only have we saved time and money by doing so, but they have been exposed to college level classes taught by some pretty amazing teachers and experts in their particular fields.

Peers are sometimes a good thing.  Gasp, I know, right?  But this is where sometimes a local co-op experience can be a great thing if it is a good co-op.  Kids learn from each other, They can challenge each other.  And sometimes their discussions can help each other grow.  Team that up with a good teacher or moderator, and peers can often be the thing that helps something click in your child's head.  I have seen it happen and it is an amazing thing.  It is no wonder college professor rely so heavily on class discussions.  They know the power of peer learning.


The bottom line is that you are capable of teaching your teen!  Just as your teen is capable of learning from you.  As the saying goes, if God called you to it, He will lead you through it!  I have confidence in you!

See how others are walking this road-

Linking with friends!

I Choose Joy!
Blessings,
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Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Language Arts- Homeschool High School Blog Hop


You might as well know right up front that Language Arts tends to be one of my least favorite subjects to teach in high school. (Aside from Biology, of course.  Oh, and maybe Chemistry!)  Which is a little weird, since I LOVE Language Arts.  All parts of it, really. The writing, the reading, and even the diagramming sentences.

BUT, and yes, that is a big BUT, it has been my experience that finding good, solid language arts programs for any age, but teens in particular, is just plain hard.

We have done many.  Just take my word for it.  Many!  But after 17 years of homeschooling (oh my word, that is a long time!) I think we have pretty much got it figured out.  For our current teens at least!

Let me start with a quick look at what I recommend, but then I want to talk to you about a few duel credit ideas.

Writing- IEW- If you are not familiar with the Institute for Excellence of Writing, now is the time to be.  Yes, I do use several other writing programs for younger ages, but by high school I believe every child should do an IEW writing course. At least one.  It is a great foundation for college writing.  I am going to admit to you that I am not a teacher who requires tons of papers and reports in my coursework, so I am thankful Mr. Pudewa is a great teacher that the kids actually enjoy learning from.  He is funny and funny just speaks to teens!



Sharon Watson's courses are also amazing and are great to add in after you have completed IEW coursework.  Look into Writing Fiction (In High School)


Literature- Lightning Literature- We have just begun this program in the past few years after having transitioned out of Sonlight.  I like that it spends more time on fewer books, I like the book selections better, and I like that you have more options in the areas of study you can choose.  It has been a huge blessing to us for 7th and 8th grade, and I look forward to the upper levels.
Most colleges want you to have American Literature, World Literature, and British Literature.  We also add in a year of Christian Literature.

Grammar- This is where it gets a little messy.  It is my belief that if your child does not have a strong foundation in Ggammar by now, you may have a bigger problem on your hands.  I also think that at some point it is time to stop diagramming sentences and put that knowledge to the test, which is where writing comes in.  So, no, we do not do formal grammar at this level anymore.

Vocabulary- This is where I DO think we should concentrate instead.  Because of that we use two different things.  We continue Wordly Wise because it is quick and to the point but very thorough.  We also spend two years using Vocabulary From Classical Roots.  Again, a simple format, but a great program!

And about those foreign languages!
There are lots of good ones out there, so the best advice I can give you is know the learning style of your child and find what fits them best!  Most colleges ask for two years of one language, but some prefer three so make sure you are aware of the requirements of colleges your child might be interested in.  Also note that sign language is a new one that some colleges are accepting, but that is still a new trend so be knowledgeable!

Some to look into are-
OK, so about Dual Credit.  It is my belief that you should not teach a subject that your child is just going to repeat at a college level.  Mostly.

Here is what I mean.

I have my kids dual-credit classes their junior and senior years to get a jump start on college and as a way to save some money.  If your child has the opportunity to take that American Literature class at a college level and can dual-credit it, then there is no reason for you to teach it and then them take it again.  Ask me how I know this!!  Lesson learned!  It looks ridiculous to have American Literature on your high school transcript twice.

Now consider the "mostly"- If your child is going to be an English major, there may be a need for them to take the course through you and then again at their college.  I certainly feel that way about Biology.  It can never hurt to be covered, just be careful not to create more work for yourself.  Plus, in many cases those college courses can be completed in less time and therefore allow your child to take even more classes.

That is how I have a high school senior that has no classes left to take with me, but is taking multiple classes online currently.  Yes, she is still a senior, but the classes she is taking online count for high school credits AND college credits.  Yes, she will graduate with more credit hours than she needs for highschool, but she will also have her first two years of college close to completed.

Please remember, there is more than one way to slay this dragon and every child is different. Hence the reason that all of my children's transcripts and course loads look different.  Above all, I suggest you know your child, ask for their input, and then help them to be successful!

Visit our Homeschool High School Bloggers this month-

Carol from Home Sweet life shares Homeschooling High School- Language Arts (&History!)
Tess from Circling Through This Life shares Teaching High School Language Arts: Resources
Wendy from Life at Rossmont shares Highschool Language Arts
Erica from Be the One shares Language Arts Resources
Kym from Homeschool Coffee Break shares History in the Form of Stories
Debbie from Debbie’s Homeschool Corner shares Teaching High School English
Laura from Day by Day in Our World shares How to Teach High School Language Arts Without Tears


Join us next month for "How Am I Going To Teach High School?"


Linking up with friends!
I Choose Joy!

Hearts for Home Blog Hop

Blessings,
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Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Numbers and Atoms- Homeschooling High School


Welcome back to another month of our Homeschool High School Blog Hop!  I hope by now you have found some inspiration in the months previous as well as lots of ideas.  This month's theme is
Math and Science, so hang on to your hats!

I wish I could tell you these are easy subjects for us, but that would not be true.  As a matter of fact, it seems they are difficult ones for many people.  The good news is there are plenty of good resources and curriculum out there to use.  Before I share with you the ones we use and recommend, let me start with some basic information for you.

The first place you want to start is with planning what your child will take throughout their high school career.  This is a time that planning ahead will help you greatly!  Even if you are not sure what specific curriculum you will use, go on and know what you will have your child take.

Homeschooling High School Blog Hop 2015Most states require at least three maths and three sciences to graduate.  In addition, that is also what many colleges require for admittance as well.  If your child already knows where they would like to go to school, do some research and make sure you are on the right path.  I would also recommend that you think about what your child's strengths are.  If they are interested in a science or math field, things like nursing or engineering, then it would be a good idea to go on and plan for 4 years of each subject!

So here is what we use-

Math- Teaching Textbooks
We plan on Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2.  We have used Saxon in the past, but found our kids do better with the Teaching Textbooks for several reasons, including the video instruction.  If you have an auditory learner I would highly recommend this program.
We also add Math You See's Consumer Math in our schedule.  I love that it comes with a devotional and teaches some basic practical skills like check writing and car insurance. Simple to use but good information in it!

Science- Apologia
We always have the kids cover Physical Science, Biology (with lab) and Chemistry (with lab).  Again, if your child is science minded, you will also probably want to add in Physics.  Let me know and I will pray for you! ;)  I do allow our children to choose one other science of their choice.  So far one had chosen Human Anatomy and the other Marine Biology, both from Apologia. It will be interesting to see what my boys choose when the time comes.

Well, that pretty much covers science and math for us.  Pretty simple and I am sure there are many other amazing options out there, but this is what has worked for us.  Be sure to hop on over to the other blogs listed to see what others use!

Home School High School Hosts Share this Month:

See ya back next month as we discuss Language Arts!

Blessings,
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Wednesday, July 29, 2015

How About Some Fun?


Welcome back to another month of the Homeschooling Highschool Blog hop!  I pray that last month's post was a blessing to you and you were able to HOP around to many other amazing blogs and find even more to help you get started.  One of the glories of homeschooling is that you are NEVER alone in your adventure and there are many talented and dedicated mommas out there that want to help you.  Take my advice- use what you can! It takes a village, especially when homeschooling the high school level.

So today's subject is all about electives!  Yep, it's a big one!  And quite frankly, one that one person cannot possibly cover completely so I am going to share a little of what we do and a few things I wish we did.  Again, take time to explore other's posts for even more ideas!  The sky is the limit here, and you want to suit electives to not only what a perspective college would like to see, but also to your child's interests and strengths.

Foreign Languages- Let's face it, this is one that is big simply because most colleges require some sort of foreign language knowledge for entry.  In addition, most states require two years of one language to graduate.  Rosetta Stone of course is the biggest name out there and offers quite a lot of choices if your child is looking for a not so common language to pursue.  My second daughter completed three years of Rosetta Stone, but let's just say it is not for the weak of heart.  Because we teach Spanish in our home, our favorite High School level course is Homeschool Spanish Academy.  By skyping with instructors that are native speakers, you can really immerse yourself in the language as well as culture.  We have nothing but good things to say about this program and its teachers, and we highly recommend it!

Arts- Don't just think art here.  Remember things like choir, band, art, and music appreciation, and any media graphics and design programs.  What about dance or fiber arts or drama or speech?  Often times, co-ops and outside locations in your community are good places to start when looking for these opportunities. My daughters were both able to count piano lessons and voice in their arts elective credits.  Keep a log of all of their practice time as well as lessons and performances and you might be surprised at how many hours they are building. Online classes are also good choices and allow your child to experience college at a less threatening level at first.



Passions- Does your child have one?  Participate in something regularly?  We often forget that those passion can be easily turned into homeschool credit.  Again, keep careful records of your hours involved as well as a good description of the activity.  Then, assign it a name and out it on that transcript!  Woodworking = Shop.  Baking = home economics. Being a nanny = Family and Life skills.
 

Jobs- Not all of our child's jobs can count as transcript credits, I admit, but do not forget to put them somewhere in your child's transcript.  They do show commitment and interests your child has.

Are there more electives out there?  YOU BET!  I highly suggest you sit down with your highschooler and brain storm together.  Ask a lot of questions, work together and find at least one elective per semester that makes their hearts sing.  Maybe, just maybe, they will whine less about Chemistry! ;)  Here's hoping!

Read More on Homeschooling in the High School Years

Read More on Electives in the High School Years

  • Laura from Day by Day in Our World shares about Selecting the Best Electives in High School


  • Debra over at Footprints in the Butter asks Is your high schooler taking the "right" electives?


    •  Blessings,

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    Wednesday, June 24, 2015

    Here's the Plan- Homeschool High School Blog Hop


    It is often funny to me that people are not amazed that we homeschool, but that we homeschooled for high school.  Teaching reading and math seems insignificant to people, but move it to a high school level and well, that blows them away for some reason.

    I have mentioned before that we did not start this journey with the intention of homeschooling our kids forever.  Really, I had all intentions of sending the kids to the private school sector when they got older.  But things changed.  A lot of things. God has a way of doing that, doesn't He?

    Homeschooling High School Blog Hop 2015

    I loved learning with my kids.
    I enjoyed spending time with them.
    I loved seeing them grow and mature.
    I delighted in seeing their test scores continue to rise
    I loved the relationships schooling at home was building between our kids.
    And eventually I could not imagine doing things any other way.  Even for high school.

    I know, I know, some people think high schoolers are scary.  I love them.  Yes, they can be emotional and wishy washy sometimes, but, hey, so can I!  On a whole though, they are fascinating creatures who have brought me a lot of joy.  And so far we have rather successfully gotten two through the high school years, with two to go.

    I can do this!

    Good news- you can too!  It all starts with a little planning, so let's talk about that today as we continue in our Homeschool High School Blog Hop.  It is not really that hard, but there are a few things you should know in the beginning of this journey.
    • The first step is to know what your state's requirements are for graduation.  Some states require three sciences, some four.  Other want physical education every year, while others couldn't care less.  A quick peek online will tell you what your state requires.
    • Your next step is to plan ahead.  While you may not yet know what specific curriculum you will be using, you should at least know what year you will be fitting in each subject.
    For example-

    8th Grade

    Pre-Algebra
    Physical Science
    U.S. History


    9th Grade
    English Comp. 1
    Algebra  1
    Biology
    Church History
    Elective
    Foreign Language
    10th Grade
    English Comp. 2
    Geometry
    Chemistry
    World History
    Elective
    Foreign Language
    11th Grade
    English Comp. 3
    Algebra  2
    Physics
    Government
    Elective

    12th Grade
    English Comp. 4

    Science Elective
    Geography
    Elective



    And yes, you read that correctly.  We start some high school subjects in our 8th grade year.  As long as it is highschool level work, it is fine.  Just make sure you document EVERYTHING is case anyone questions you.

    I recommend you also begin to look at colleges or any program your child might be interested in by 9th grade.  No one is asking you to make a commitment yet, but you do not want to find out in your child's junior or senior year that there is a requirement for a specific program that you have no time to fit in. Know your options and you will not get yourself into a bind.

    If your child is not college bound, begin to look at the options that better suit him or her and help them work in those specific directions.  A student bound for nursing school needs more science and math classes than someone considering a history or art major.  Someone headed to a military academy needs to make sure they have specific boxes checked off to compete for those coveted slots. Technical training, such as needed for an EMT, can begin at age 18.  Don't limit your child - think outside the box.


    • Dual Credit what you can! I have mentioned this in the past, but it bears repeating.  If your child can take a college level class during high school and get credit for a high school class AND a college class, why wouldn't you do that?  Many colleges offer a discount for high school juniors and seniors and it is a great way to get ahead of the game.  My high school senior will only be taking dual credit classes her senior year and will be able to enter college as a junior.  It is a win win situation!
    Keep in mind that what your state requires for graduation may not be the same as what a specific college require for admittance.  A perfect example of this would be in the foreign language department.  While many states just want two years of a foreign language, some schools request three years and some none at all.

    The bottom line is that you need to know the requirements for both and decide what is best for your student.  Homeschooling high school is doable and with a little foresight and planning it can be done well!  And even easily!

    Join us back here July 29th as we discuss the world of electives for highschoolers!  Until then you can see what some friends are planning and how they are making those decisions-


    Meg from Adventures with Jude on Planning Your Homeschool High School
    Chareen at Every Bed of Roses with thoughts on Planning to Homeschool through the High School Years
    April from ElCloud Homeschool shares Homeschooling High School: Planning For High School
    Debra over at Footprints in the Butter asks: You mean I have to PLAN our Homeschool High School?!?
    Lisa at Golden Grasses says Don't Panic! Homeshcooling High School Blog Hop
    Debbie at Debbie's Homeschool Corner Planning Out a High School Program
    Gena over at I Choose Joy! shares her The Top Tip for Planning Homeschool High School
    Kym at Homeschool Coffee Break shares on Planning and Preparing for Success
    Tess from Circling Through This Life shares on Planning the High School Years
    Erica over at Be The One shares Planning and Record Keeping for High School
    Jennifer from A Glimpse of Our Life on Planning For Homeschooling Highschool
    Carol over at Home Sweet Life on Making A Plan
    Wendy at Life at Rossmont shares thoughts on Planning for High School
    Cristi from Through the Calm and Through the Storm shares on Making High School Plans
    Dawn Oaks at Double O Farms shares Planning for the High School Years
    Leah from As We Walk Along the Road shares her thoughts on Making Plans for Homeschooling Through High School
    Leah from As We Walk Along the Road shares her thoughts on Making Plans for Homeschooling Through High School


    Linking up with friends!
    I Choose Joy!
    Blessings,
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