Spiral Learning, a superior approach?

In my homeschool curriculum glossary today, I mentioned Sunrise Math, which talks about spiral approach to learning. I wanted to learn and talk more about that now. Spiral Learning aims to strengthen students’ understanding of the basic concepts by revisiting the concepts periodically with different contexts and with increasing sophistication throughout the curriculum. According to a Virginia Tech document entitled Department Level Reform (An Implementation Grant Sept 04-Aug 07). In other words, the study shows that through repetition and gradually increasing difficulty, a student can learn effectively. I recently came across a blog that supplied an awesome illustration of spiral … Continue reading

The Factor Tree

Kids love to do work on the computer. Somehow even the hardest subject digests easier if a keyboard and a mouse are involved. Parents also seem to love the convenience of having their student work online. No paper work, progress reports are automatic and normally there are no tears involved. One such online program is The Factor Tree. The Factor Tree is an online math supplemental program for children in grades Kindergarten through sixth grade. This online program is not intended to replace a math curriculum but enhance your current curriculum. Let’s be honest, if we need to supplement the … Continue reading

Homeschooling Week in Review April 28, 2007- May 4, 2007

This past week at the families.com homeschooling blog, we provided more homeschooling resources and discussed important topics like grade levels. We also discussed a very timely topic; ending the school year. Here is the week in review for April 28- May 4. 28 Apr 2007 Homeschool Curriculum Glossary (Right Start-Runkle) by Andrea Hermitt This blog gives a list of homeschooling resources such as Right start Mathematics by Activities for Learning, Inc., which teaches math basics using tool called the Al Abacus. 29 Apr 2007 Homeschooling Week in Review April 21- April 27, 2008 by Andrea Hermitt This post discusses the … Continue reading

Homeschool Curriculum Glossary (The Phonetic-The Write)

The Phonetic Zoo is a “self-teaching spelling program”. The phonetic Zoo uses a combination of visual and auditory teaching methods and is available in elementary, intermediate and advanced levels. A web placement test will help you determine which level you need. The set comes with audio CDs, flashcards, and a booklet to explain the program. The Readers Quest is an online reading program that teaches children to read independently. A statement on the site says, “The Reader’s Quest is a homeschool-friendly site, but it is not just for homeschoolers. It is for any parent or grandparent interested in encouraging their … Continue reading