Our new homeschool co-op is giving the kids a true taste of “real school”. The trips middle school American History class is WONDERFUL – and I’m fortunate enough to be an assistant in it. The teacher, my friend Holly, absolutely makes history fun and interesting. So much more than just facts and dates.
She challenged the kids to come up with topics for their presentations that went deeper than just what they’re studying (post civil war, westward migration, by the way) and find topics that enhance / tell more about the time period.
Payton chose the World’s Columbian Exposition…better known as the Chicago’s World’s Fair. He decided to incorporate his love of cartooning (along with his signature character “Harry the Stick Dude”) into the presentation. Payton likes being in front of crowds (like his dad), and loved the attention.
Ethan, being the tech-lover guy, immediately wanted to try his first power pt on the computer…he did all the research and notes, and Randy helped him put it all together. He was a little nervous, but did just fine.
Next week, it’s Marley’s turn. She’s like me…would rather have a stick in her eye than stand up and talk in front of others.
Oh, and did I mention? It’s also our turn to lead the morning devotion for the whole group. Praying on that one already.
It’s all good, for all of us. Getting out of our comfort zones can only bring benefit…nothing is wasted with God.
I’m proud of the effort that my kids are putting into co-op…it’s definitely been a challenge to find our rhythm with the schedule and homework, but I think we’re (almost) there. Being up with the birds and in “school” for 5 1/2 hours for ONE day a week further confirms that I’m happy with homeschooling :)
September 16th, 2011 at 7:50 pm
So glad that the trips have a great history class. I remember I had 2 different history teachers in high school. My Junior year teacher was Mr. Zubrach. He was boring and mentioned his favorite person (Thomas Jefferson) at least 8 or 9 times a day…zzzzzz! Then in my Senior year, I had Ms. Henry, who everyone loved! She also made history fun like Holly. Teaching techniques really make a difference for students.
Now, that comment about rather having a stick in her eye than to stand up in front of others…we got a good laugh out of that!! You remember how nervous I was at Grandmom’s party…talking in front of a crowd is “not my thang”, either!!!
We’re proud of you and our grandkids for what will be accomplished each week at Co-op. Keep up the good work!!!! We’ll keep this in our prayers.