This week in Math, Chase is learning to tell time. The first lesson went well. I bought this clock a couple of years ago, knowing at some point Chase would need it. I tried to make this subject as user friendly as possible. When teaching these topics, I try my best to go back and “unknow” (yes, I know that is not a word) what I am about to teach. It helps me to break the lesson down to basics. Then Chase and I can build it back up together, as he learns each step of the process.
Unit 1 in Social Studies, is “All About Me”, Chase’s absolute favorite topic:)! I considered skipping some of the earlier topics in Science and Social Studies. They cover topics that kids already know, whether these lessons are learned in preschool or on the playground. But, after reading the Teacher Guides that go with his curriculum, I decided to start from the beginning. There are a lot of exercises that are suggested to do outside of his workbook. They include character building skills that I want Chase to understand. We have had some great conversations, last week and today on these topics. Chase is also thinking about his answers and I like the confidence he gains when talking about a topic he understands. It is also a great chance for him to practice his reading skills. He is comprehending everything we are reading and talking about. At the end of each section he is able to answer all questions asked about the text that was read- whether I read it or he does. He is answering questions that are basic- there is one answer and it was given in the text. He is also able to give answers that require critical thinking (and I use that term loosely). But, he is thinking on his own and not looking to me for answers, and less and less for approval of his answer.
The Science unit is ridiculously easy- but we are doing it for the same reasons I stated above. We are however blowing through the entire unit- this week. The idea of the unit is to learn about observation in Science, using your eyes. So, the lesson for the most part is colors and shapes. There are a few activities that go with the Unit that are not lame- so what the hell- we can do it. It is another chance to build his learning skills with a familiar topic. Also, we are making it something Sawyer can join in on too. Sawyer did a great job today sorting blocks by colors and shapes, making patterns with blocks, and stacking bricks (mostly, we made a fort).
Chase started his second grade Language Arts program on Friday. I am much happier about this than Chase is. But, this is where he needs to be. There is quite a bit of reading involved- which I love!!! And, he is ready to learn about writing (he is actually getting pretty good, and understanding punctuation more and more- he is even pointing things out and asking questions as we read). There are 3 lists of spelling words in each unit (each subject has 10 units), starting with very basic, easy to sound out words, he was able to spell each word on the first list. The words build up with each unit and correlate as each new spelling rule is introduced.