This year we will be following a Curriculum different to any we have done before. We will be doing what is commonly referred to as 'linked-in learning' which means that we will be doing a YEAR OF SCIENCE and basing 99% of work on this subject alone. We will focus on a Science topic for 2-4 weeks incorporating reading materials and certain mathematical applications into the learning process. Eg: Conducting of a science experiment will involve reading of the steps, measuring of the materials, data collection and use of a results table.
Bailey and Dane have already started keeping their Science journals which they will use throughout the year to make notes, draw diagrams and keep clippings in. All their work will be documented in their journal which will be a nice reminder of the things they've learnt when looking back at the end of the year. Already I can see keeping the journal is motivating Bailey to be more involved with his expressive writing and inspiring Dane to improve on his reading to keep up with his big brother.
The topics are are planning to cover this year are:
- Famous Inventors and Scientists
- Greatest Inventions of all time
§ Aeroplane
§ Automobile
§ Camera
§ Computer
§ Laser
§ Light Bulb
§ Printing Press
§ Radio
§ Rocket
§ Steam Engine
§ Telephone
- Medicine (Discoveries, Tools and Techniques)
- Science in the kitchen
- The Solar System
- Weather
We have kicked off the year learning about the Solar system. I took Bailey to an Astronomy night just a couple of weeks ago to our local Astronomy cafe, which happens to be a couple of streets away from home. We listened to a talk about Orion and Jupiter and then were so delighted to take a look through 2 of the telescopes there to see both the Moon (almost full and in all it's glory) and Jupiter (with 4 of it's moons in sight). We were amazed by the clarity, even being able to see the stripey patterns of dust and debris on Jupiter itself. This year we will be buying a Telescope which is going to be one of the most exciting purchases made yet on this homeschooling journey. I can't wait to come back and blog about all the exciting things we'll be able to see through it!
Anyway, I must sign off for now. Kids are running amok waiting for us to go visit a park somewhere for the afternoon. I hope you look forward to hearing more about our Year of Science in my future blogs.
Until next time
Take care
Farewell, Angie
