Monday, October 10, 2011

A new HSing year

We are entering week 5 of our 2011-2012 HS year, and I couldn't be happier.  Things have gone smoothly and the kids are generally enthusiastic about our new curriculum.  Here is what we are using this year;

Paths Of Exploration
Math U See

Simple.

History has never ever been my strong subject.  The thought of trying to put something together on my own was intimidating to say the least, but the reality is closer to impossible.  There is simply too much out there to sift through.  When I saw "Paths Of Exploration" last year at the UHEA Convention, I knew it was the answer to our History dilemma and so it came home with me.  Yes, it took a while for me to actually start using it, but now that we have started, I am SO HAPPY!  Everything is planned out and presented so clearly.  I really don't have to plan much at all.  I simply open the book, make sure we have the necessary supplies, and begin.  It has been a Godsend.  All subjects except math are covered and all relate to the topic of the day.  We are nearing the end of the Christopher Columbus unit, and next will be Jamestown.  All of it a great refresher for me.

Next is our old friend Math U See.  We have been using it from the beginning.  The kids' progress through Math has been impressive.  They are both understanding and progressing rapidly, with each of them working at Grade 5 level.  And the beauty of it is that it too is completely planned out for you.  We are finishing up the last of "Delta" (multi digit division) and will continue with "Epsilon" (fractions).

I must say that the biggest and best part of this year is that we have finally found peace in our household.  A lot of changes have taken place this past summer, and although difficult, they have been for the better.  We are all breathing easier, and are at long last finding joy and comfort in our home and in each other's company.

School is good... Life is good.