Here are a few resources that we have used, ~ in each subject. Please note that these are mainly for reference, and we feel more inclined to work with CM-style 'living' books this year. We're all looking forward to discovering the wealth of good books, hoping to combine subjects, meld them together in a Charlotte Mason 'thematics' type of way, along with other resources. There is so much to learn!
Science & Biology
Osborne Science For Beginners (brain, senses, muscles)
Abeka Science and Biology books
Lifepacs - Health and Nutrition
The DK Inside Guides
Puzzle Body by Stephen Stanley
Mosby's Medical Encyclopedia CD
History & Geography
Konos - Kings & Queens, horses and obedience
Greenleaf OT History Guides
Abeka Old World History & Mapwork
Fossils by Norman Fox
Creation Magazine
Maths
Horizons
Saxon Maths
HSC Maths Genie
I Love Maths CD by DK
English
English For A Thoughtful Child by Mary Hyde
Alphaphonics by Samuel Blumenfeld
The Sound Blender - Phonics Alive CD by Advanced Software
Word Blaster, Reading Blaster 2000 and Spell It Deluxe CD�s by Davidson
Primary and Intermediate Language Lessons by Emma Serl
OUR STUDIES COMPARED TO CM-TYPE EDUCATION
Although, as previously inferred, we have not, as yet, fully adopted the Charlotte Mason style of education, we have made a start and are anxious to continue this year. We are all filled with anticipation, as to what course our learning adventures will take on. Here is where we are at present:
LITERATURE;
There are many wonderful books we have been collecting, waiting to be read! We know that there are many more out there too, awaiting discovery!
SILENT READING:
Silent reading is a favourite pastime for the girls. Sam, on the other hand, will read for a while, but then prefer to act out or try and make something from what he has read. All of the children love to be read to. A treat from mamma!
READING OUT LOUD:
Sarah reads slower as she reads out loud to me, compared to her silent reading. She is starting to add accents to her characters. Sam has never liked to read out loud. I have not pushed this issue, and have, in fact, left it alone for over six months. He is now at the stage that he will read out loud wherever we go. If, however, it is a planned read out loud, he shies away. We are pleasantly surprised to hear how much his reading has improved without parental interference! Truly amazing! The only thing we like to stress to both of them is to read with expression, taking note of the punctuation. They are both conscious of this and we often laugh when either of them drone away, then realise what they are doing and over-do the tone to correct it!
NARRATION:
Narration is what all of my children love to do. They are eager to tell a story. Any story. They are eager to convey what they have learned. Emma and Sarah have no problem telling the tale in order. Sam, however - jumps from one point to the other, with no thought for the course of events. His excitement is evident! He is learning, however, that when he does this, it is often tiresome for the listener.
POETRY:
We have not, as yet used much poetry. Sarah and Emma will sometimes, without notice, write their own poems. Sam, on the other hand, will hear a song, and change the words to suit a current situation. He often has us all in laughter doing this. We hope to study more poetry this year.