We are having a great first grade year for G. Sure, we have our days that make us both want to bang our heads in together in mutual frustration but overall we love it. Here is the curriculum we have been using (for the most part):
- Explode the Code – G has worked through book 4 and is almost finished with book 5. This is phonics, spelling, and vocabulary all in one.
- Writing with Ease, Level 1 – G is halfway through this book. In this level, we are working on reading comprehension and copywork and it is a fantastic introduction to great works of literature as well as a back door introduction to good writing skills through copywork. Did I mention the great handwriting practice? This book sometimes induces many grumbles from G.
- First Language Lessons, Level 1 – This book works hand-in-hand with Writing with Ease. It introduces grammar through verbal conversations, scripted lessons, and includes memory work.
- Math-U-See – We finished up the Alpha Level a month or so ago and started the Beta level. (I think this would be equivalent to 2nd grade?) G is halfway through the Beta level already. He loves his math.
- Horizons Math – I know, I know. It seems strange to use two math curriculums but I use this book to reinforce math concepts, extra practice and to slow him down (although that clearly hasn’t happened). The combination works well for him.
- Homeschool Art (Artelier) - G is taking blocks of this art program as a class with a dear friend and homeschool mom who is an amazing artist. There are 8-10 kids per class and he thoroughly enjoys it. They end each 6-8 week session with a trip to a local art museum. It is very hands on. I’ll do a separate post later with pictures of the work he has done.
- Piano – Yes, yes, G is doing piano lessons. But with me? No. Why? (I know you’re asking yourself.) There are several reasons I can get into later, but in short, it just works better this and is very common in the music field. I take G to another teacher and he is doing really great.
- Reading/Literature – G loves to read! His favorite books are currently the Magic Tree House series. We read lots of different books together as well – history, geography fiction, missionary stories, etc. We just finished reading Wizard of Oz together as well.
- Classical Conversations – This is a homeschool “group” that we are a part of this year. They follow the classical model of education, their purpose being “to know God and make Him known.” Both G and S are thoroughly enjoying this group. They each have their own small class (approx. 8 kids) and a tutor. Each week they learn material in geography, history, American history, Latin, math, Science, and art/music. G has soaked it up. Ask him states and capitals – go ahead! It’s remarkable what he has learned through this system. More later on this as well.
Tara, sounds wonderful! We are using some of the same stuff as you. I have a question. I’m now using Writing With Ease but I’ve not started First Language Lessons. Do you have to use them together? Like if I started book one with First Language Lessons is it okay that we are in Book 2 of Writing with Ease. I really like Writing with Ease, but I have a different grammar book and don’t really like it.
Hope, I don’t think you to use them together at all. (I’m no expert though!) I think they stand alone just fine. In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever been at the “same place” in the books at the same time. They only thing they tell you is not to do duplicate assignments. For example, if there is a reading passage with comprehension questions in FLL, then just skip it because WWE covers it so well. I’m very happy with FLL, because it is so interactive, I think? G has a lot of workbooks already and I didn’t want yet another workbook for him to do (even though he loves them). Grammar can be so dry and this helps us learn it through conversation and verbal memorization. I then reinforce as it comes up in WWE or any other copywork we are doing.
Great minds think a like! So glad we are using some of the same stuff! I will probably pick your brain later, too. I’m already thinking ahead to S…and what to do for her and how to do it together! Oh my!
Thanks Tara! Cole is technically 2nd grade, but we just started grammar this year and he hates what we are using. It’s a bit much. I’m going to check out FFL because it sounds like something we would like much more. I wish we had a Classical Conversations group nearby. I love everything I hear about it.
No problem! Which grammar are you using (so I know to avoid it)? We do like CC. It’s a bit intense and sometimes I can’t keep up but the kids LOVE it. You could do it on your own at home? Some moms in our group drive a long ways to come.