Daniel practicing his typing
The beginning of the year doesnt necessarily mean a change in subjects or study timetable for my children, but it is a time for review. This week we have been easing into our study routine by adding the independent work to our days. Each child has different subjects on their list which is based on their ability to work independently, their skill set and their interests.
Jessica:
Most of Jessicas work is independent. This week we have discussed how she is going to approach her history and science; next week well look at her Bible study plans. She has a few courses shed like to complete but doesnt know when shell fit that it were working on that! She works on Math, Science, History, Reading list (which covers a range of topics), piano.
Nomi:
Math, Piano, Art, Notebooking, Reading
Daniel:
Typing, Math, Art, Notebooking, Guitar, Reading
There are two aspects of Independent work:
- Usually independent work starts off as those repetitious subjects that need daily drill – math, phonics, handwriting, typing. Once the skill is mastered (which usually includes me) they can practice and fine tune their skills by themselves. This is gradually working towards them being able to study independently.
- Within family life there are often days where I am needed somewhere else. On such days they maintain a portion of their routine by being able to sit at their desks and work on their independent work.
When Nomi and Daniel do any other general knowledge subject such as history, science, geography, or even Bible study we tend to start off doing the lesson together, often with me reading. Then we talk and dig deeper, looking for answers to our questions by looking at the internet or other books. After we talk about the things weve read I often leave them by themselves to write about what theyve learnt. This gives them another time slot in their day where they are working independently and yet I am still on call.
