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Homeschooling Methods - Part 2 of 4 by Natasha Campbell |
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Most people, when thinking of homeschooling, may not realize how many different styles are available. The previous article covered formal homeschooling, unschooling, and deschooling. In this second of four articles, eclectic homeschooling, unit studies, and the Charlotte Mason method with be explained, and their pros and cons outlined.
Eclectic Homeschooling AKA: Relaxed, Mixed, Home-Made, or Individualized Learning Eclectic homeschooling is the mid-stream approach to homeschooling. This is where the family takes a variety of resources and chooses the ones that will work best for their children. Homeschooling this way can be as scheduled or relaxed as the family desires, and can change from month to month. Siblings can be taught together, using the same books or lessons, with age-appropriate assignments being given. Because the curriculum and tasks can be created to match the family's needs, this method will work for just about everyone. Pros 1. The curriculum can be tailored to meet the strengths and weaknesses of each child. 2. It saves money. Children can use the same basic courses and materials. 3. If one part of the curriculum does not work, it's easy to try something new. 4. Resources can be used to bolster an area that the parent is not comfortable teaching or that they have not had experience with. Cons 1. Care must be taken to satisfy state or district requirements. 2. It is possible to come across poor curriculum. Unit Studies Unit studies are the in-depth study of one topic which tries to include many areas of learning within that subject. It is what some schools call whole language. The child sees what they're learning as connected, rather than separating everything into workbooks or classes. Reading is supported with the books suggested. Writing skills are developed through reports, notes, or journals. Math may be introduced through hands-on activities and analytical problems. Unit studies usually come in a small booklet or folder, with an overview of the subject and resource pages listing books, activities, assignments and further study possibilities. The family is responsible for finding these resources and directing the activities. Most unit studies are intended to be covered in a short amount of time, one to two months. Children who tend to focus strongly on many subjects but who need variety are perfect for unit studies. Children should have a good foundation in the basic skills of reading, math, and grammar before using only unit studies for their learning. Unit studies work well to fill in on a subject that is interesting to the child, but not covered in other curriculum. Pros 1. A unit study tends to be more interesting and imaginative than standard textbooks or workbooks. 2. Units can be worked on together by all the children, with varying assignments and books according to age. 3. Unit Studies are often less expensive than other types of purchased curriculum. 4. Because they tend to be short, but focused studies; children may retain facts and learn more quickly. 5. Families have many and varied options for studies throughout the year and can be flexible with their choices. Cons 1. Unit studies can be an effective way to learn, but may be lacking in "concrete" areas like math, phonics and grammar. 2. Parents are the ones responsible for tracking down suggested books and other resources, and for choosing/creating the assignments or activities that best fit their children, this can be time-consuming and occasionally frustrating. 3. The quality of unit studies varies greatly. Charlotte Mason Method The Charlotte Mason method uses a variety of books based on core subjects and include a focus on the fine arts. Through the use of narration, and copywork, the emphasis is placed on what the children do know rather than what they do not know. It advocates the avoidance of pre-packaged material, focusing on classic literature and poetry. This method includes a unique style of dictation and spelling. Lessons are kept very short; 10-15 minutes for young children and up to 30 minutes for older children; and promote concentration. With some families, there is a specified amount of work to be completed in a specified amount of time, while others they simply work until the time is up, then move on. Lessons are varied, going from an academic subject, into something physical, or something fun. Younger children enjoy the "let's cuddle up together and read a good book" method of learning, and parent's who were avid childhood readers will enjoy the chance to re-visit favorite books and poetry. The short lessons can be beneficial for high-strung children. Pros 1. It is easy to incorporate literature, fine art, nature study, and classical music into your curriculum. 2. Short lessons are reportedly an effective way to help children retain information. 3. Interesting book choices and short lessons can help avoid boredom & burnout. 4. Promotes a love of good literature. Cons 1. The short lessons can lead to friction when the child is having a stubborn day. 2. Parents are responsible for collection of books, materials, as well as schedules and curriculum decisions. 3. The teaching parent does most of the reading and listening, which can take a great deal of time. 4. Some children balk at the copywork, especially those who do not enjoy writing by hand. 5. The teaching parent may need to do extensive pre-reading in order to know what listen and look for in the child's narration and written work. 6. Math and science may need to be supplemented by additional materials and workbooks. Methods of homeschooling are as various as the people who homeschool themselves. What is most important in any style, however, is to make sure your child is getting the best education they can, while enjoying learning. These methods are only a few ways to accomplish this. Umbrella schools, cyber charters, and the classic method will be discussed in the next article. © 2002 Natasha Campbell. All rights reserved. Re-printed with permission. Originally published on Suite 101. |
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Natasha Campbell has spent nearly her whole life in California, mostly in the Los Angeles area. She is a published poet, freelance writer, avid reader, and an aspiring children's and young adult writer. She enjoys old movies, techno music, and horseback riding. She has homeschooled her youngest son since kindergarten and homeschooled her middle school son during the summer. | ||
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