Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Classical Homeschooling: Math

These books are wonderful resources for young mathematicians. For me, they herald a new way of thinking about mathematics. If you are counting when you can add, adding when you can multiply, and memorizing when you can understand, mathematics will be an exercise in drudgery and pain. These books start you thinking in another direction.



They are all written by Greg Tang. There are various illustrators.

The Grapes of Math
Math for all Seasons
The Best of Times
Mathterpieces
Math Tales
Math Appeal
Math Potatoes

You can buy them at www.gregtang.com

Friday, February 15, 2008

Classical Homeschooling: History

Lugalbanda: The Boy Who Got Caught Up In A War
Retold by Kathy Henderson
Illustrated by Jane Ray

With so few books out there to help me introduce my seven-year-old to ancient Mesopotamia, the appearance of this book on my public library shelf was a find!

Haven't read it yet, but the illustrations are very beautiful and will surely capture the attention of my son.

Thursday, November 22, 2007

Rumor Has It

There is going to be an iron pour at Red Top Mountain on December 8th. I'll look into it.

Review: Thanksgiving Lunch at Amicalola

This is the second year we've been at Amicalola for Thanksgiving. Last year we didn't have lunch there--our loss. Amicalola has a lot going for it at Thanksgiving. Tasty food--that you don't have to cook--and a nice atmosphere. (Caveat: If you're thinking of taking a bunch of small groups of people as one large group, don't do it. They'll do better if you go as your individual groups or as one large group on one tab.) They're serving three seatings today so it can back up. Dining times are as close to right as they can get them without throwing you out for the next family to eat on time so go with a patient and thankful attitude. It's such a nice dinner. We'll go again next year. No brainer.

This year Ranger Dave ran his forge and gave impromptu physics/history/chemistry/art lessons as he made all kinds of stuff. Miss Katie was carding and spinning wool with her spinning wheel(boys love the mechanics of a spinning wheel). There was butter churning, candle dipping, apple pressing, rug hooking (?), and all manner of old-fashioned children's toys. And the great birds of prey talks--lots of birds of prey. Excellent activities if you engaged the folks who were presenting. There's lots to learn if you go curious.

Make reservations in August.

Raptors. Last Call! Chattahoochee Nature Center

Homeschool Class -- Raptors
Wednesday, November 28, 1:30 - 3: PM, Ages 8 - 14, $8 Students/$5 Adults
Pre-Registration Required
Students will investigate the diversity of raptors present in Georgia. This program includes a guided tour through part of the aviaries, a short trail hike, owl pellet dissection, and an animal encounter. There is a minimum of 10 students, in order for this program to take place. The maximum class limit is 25; reservations will not be taken on the day of the program. Please call 24 hours in advance. Spread the word about the monthly programs offered at CNC!!! Register at scheduling@chattnaturecenter.com or 770-992-2055 ext. 237.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

What's Going on in December

Christmas at Tullie at the Atlanta History Center
Modern day Christmas mainstays such as Christmas trees, Santa Claus, and stockings hung by the fire only started to become popular in America during the mid-1800s. Christmas at Tullie offers an insight into the beginnings of early American Christmas traditions. Visit 19th century Tullie Smith yeoman farm, which will be decorated in the style of the period. Costumed guides will help you make a variety of crafts including candles, sachets, and ornaments! You’ll also be able to enjoy blacksmithing, cooking demonstrations, and traditional storytelling and music. Try out some 19th-century toys, and try on some 19th-century clothes!

Admission for Homeschool Days is free for adult members; $5 for children of members; and $7 per person for non-members. Discounted tickets are available for groups with ten or more children. For more information or to make group reservations, please call 404.814.4018 or email ARombauer@AtlantaHistoryCenter.com