Academic Success for all Learners

I See Sam books are a series of short readers designed to increase reading fluency, vocabulary skills, and comprehension for children whose reading levels fall between K and grade 3.6.  We have been reading the stories in sets 7 and 8 for the past several weeks.  While they are below the reading level at which my daughter tests, these books are great quick reads and have been wonderful for reinforcement and improving skills. She is really enjoying them!
      Each book includes vocabulary words and skills to be emphasized.  These little books are divided into short stories, similar to the readers I remember using when I was in elementary school.  They are the perfect length for a child to read aloud without becoming frustrated or tired of reading.  The stories are interesting and engaging.  Even though the books and illustrations are completely in black and white, they are very visually appealing. 
      There are multiple free and paid additional resources that can be used with the I See Sam books.  On the Academic Success for all Learners website you can even download a free book, a placement / assessment test, success tracking materials, and flashcards.  The website is simple to navigate.  I See Sam book sets are available for $30 / set.  Each set contains ten books, with each subsequent book more difficult than the previous.  They are available for purchase through the Academic Success for all Learners website. 
     These little books are fabulous for taking along in the car or to appointments because they are the size of a half sheet of paper and they are paperback.  They fit easily into a purse or backpack without adding tons of extra weight.  I recommend them for any family with early readers or any family with reading children who need to strengthen their reading skills.  Members of the crew were able to use and review all of the books in this series.  To read reviews of other levels, visit the main crew blog, here. 


**I have received no compensation from TOS or Academic Success for all Learners in exchange for this review.**

The Person I Marry, by Gary Bower

"Long before thinking of diamonds & glitter,
here are some things that I need to consider."

The Person I Marry  is a 32-page, beautifully illustrated book, written by Gary Bower.  This book is written in a poetic form in a style that is easy to understand by any age.  Bower addresses Godly character traits that young men and women need to focus on developing in themselves as well as looking for in a potential spouse.  He does a masterful job of demonstrating to readers the importance of inner beauty versus outer beauty.  Readers are also shown that choosing a lifelong mate is not something to be entered into haphazardly.  Bower masterfully exhibits the importance of deeper qualities, such as kindness, honesty, and faithfulness, that are crucial to strong relationships.  The illustrations are gorgeous original oil paintings done by Jan Bower.  This book is so beautiful!  It would be an amazing keepsake book.  We have enjoyed reading it so much.  I am thinking of buying several to give to new parents as gifts.  Children, single adults, teens, engaged adults, married adults of all ages will enjoy The Person I Marry. Bower's book retails for $11.99 and is available through the Bower Books website at http://www.bowerbooks.com/brightfuturebooks.html.  For further information about this book,  check out this video:

The Person I Marry from Bower Books on Vimeo.
To read other reviews, visit the TOS Homeschool Crew main blog page here.
**I have received no compensation from TOS or Bower Books in exchange for this review.  The opinions expressed are my own.**

Reading and Writing in High School

Excellence in Literature, by Janice Campbell, is a comprehensive reading and writing curriculum for high school students.  We have been utilizing the ninth grade (English 1) program and have been thoroughly impressed.  What makes Excellence in Literature  so special?  First of all, the overall objectives for the program are much more comprehensive than the overall objectives for most literature programs I have examined.  Take a look at this exerpt from the Introduction to Literature book itself:

Excellence in Literature (EIL) is a college-preparatory course of study. It is my goal to:

• Introduce students to great literature from the western literary tradition.

• Teach students to read with discernment.

• Train independent, self-motivated learners.

• Provide tools that students can use to strengthen their writing skills.

• Introduce students to sources for high-quality online and offline research.

• Prepare students for college classes by expecting carefully researched, well-thought-out material to be presented in standard format, with preliminary proofreading completed.

We haven't come anywhere near to completing the curriculum, yet, because this is a full year curriculum.  However, from what we have been able to do so far, this is definitely a winner.  Janice Campbell has done a great job of compiling an assortment of classic literature assignments and very thorough explanations about things as simple as "How to Read a Book."  There are examples and explanations for every type of writing assigned.  The first unit covers an assortment of short stories.  These short stories could be difficult to find in a library, so Campbell includes links to websites where the short stories can be either read online or printed out and read.  We like the ability to print out short stories so things can be highlighted and notes taken.  This is a great help when a student is working on an essay over a story.  Students are given at least one writing assignment over each story.  My son likes looking through the extra resources and internet links that are given with each unit.  These links are really helpful when the time comes to work on writing assignments.  He has also really appreciated the fact that the writing assignments are not 'over the top' in length.  Some literature programs are so deep in the first year program that students stay confused and discouraged.  This program eases students into literary analysis in a way that is challenging but not discouraging.  Nine units are included, each unit being four weeks long.  This allows for a full year curriculum.  Assignments are divided out by week and are easy for students to follow. 

     If you are looking for an honors literature program, Campbell provides optional assignments to use EIL as an honors class.  Additional reading assignments and papers are required for honors.  She provides directions for the parent on how to grade the writing assignments and on how to facilitate the course for students. 

     Overall, we are enjoying using Excellence in Literature.  I hope to continue using it with my children through their high school years. 

     Excellence in Literature Introduction to Literature is available at http://www.everyday-education.com/literature/eng1.shtml in print for $29 + $4.95 shipping and handling or as an e-book for $27.  We have used the e-book version and love the versatility -- especially when using one of the web links provided.  It is much easier to copy and paste a web address than to type it in correctly. 

    To read other reviews about EIL Introduction to Literature, check out the main crew blog page, here. 

**I was not compensated in any way in exchange for this honest review.  The opinions expressed are my own.**

Family Game Night Strikes Again!

We were thrilled to find out our family would once again be reviewing a game from Northstar Games. We enjoyed our experience with Wits & Wagers several months ago (and still enjoy playing it), so, we anxiously awaited the arrival of a new game from Northstar to add to our game arsenal. Say Anything did not disappoint us in the least.  We have had hilarious evenings playing Say Anything.  The makers of Say Anything say this:

Say Anything is a light-hearted game about what you and your friends think. It will get people talking, laughing and having fun in minutes. Enjoy it with three to eight family members or as an hilarious party game with adults. So dig deep into your heart or just come up with something witty - this is your chance to Say Anything!

We have played with as few as three and as many as six players.  It is really difficult to get our entire family at home at the same time these days!  I must admit, it is just as much fun to play with a few players as with many players.  The really fun part of this game is that players get to "lobby" for their answer to be chosen as the favorite.  Say Anything is easy to learn.  Basically, on a players turn, the player selects a card and reads aloud the question on the card. All of the other players write down their answers to the question on the provided dry erase cards.  Cards are placed face up in the center of the table and players lobby for their answers as the one in turn is secretly choosing his/her favorite answer.  He/she indicates the favorite answer on a color coded wheel (each color corresponds to a player) and places the wheel face down while players make their wagers.  Players wager on which answer they think was chosen.  The answer is revealed and players receive points based on whether or not they have wagered on the correct answer.  The player who wrote the correct answer also receives points.  After each round, points are recorded on the dry erase scoreboard, and the turn passes to the left.  The rules say to allow play to continue until everyone has had two turns, but, we usually erase the scoreboard and keep on playing.  Say Anything is geared toward ages 8+.  Adults as well as children enjoy playing.  This game would be a great ice breaker at a party because it really helps people relate and have fun at the same time.  I highly recommend it as an addition to any family game collection.  It is sure to be a classic!
Say Anything  comes with 60 question cards covering 360 different topic, 6 dry erase pens and 6 dry erase cards, 1 SELECT-O-MATIC-6000 (a wheel with a spinner which is used to indicate the "correct" answer for each round), 12 player tokens, 1 dry erase score board, and 1 rules booklet.
Say Anything is available for purchase for $19.99 at various retailers both online and in physical stores. To find a place near you to purchase Say Anything, visit the storefinder on Northstar Games website, here.  To read other reviews by TOS Homeschool Crew reviewers, visit the main crew blog page, here. Happy game playing!!!

I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for Always IceCream!

Woo hoo!!!! Can you hear us cheering for Always IceCream?  We have been privileged to access and use the Always IceCream educational website for the past several weeks and have enjoyed it thoroughly.  This is the first educational website that our daughter has begged to play.  She has had so much fun with it that it has been a majority of her curriculum.  Through the Always Ice Cream program, our daughter has been reviewing basic operations in math, grammar skills, vocabulary, science, Bible, history, geography, typing, and Spanish.  She absolutely loves the program.  Everyday, when she logs in, there is some type of fun activity to do to earn a few scoops of ice cream.  In this program, ice cream scoops are currency.  They are awarded for correct answers to questions and other activities.  Scoops can also be assigned and awarded by parents through a parent account linked to the child's account.  This is a great feature.  Parents choose tasks such as "cleaning my room" and select the number of scoops to award when this task is completed.  So, not only is Always IceCream an educational program, it also can be used as a chore assignment and reward program.  Scoops can be exchanged for access to other games or to purchase a virtual pet and accessories for the pet.
       The questions that are asked in the different subjects increase in difficulty as girls progress through the different levels.  Scoops are not lost for incorrect answers.  If a question is answered incorrectly, the correct answer is shown and that question will be rearranged and asked again later in the level.  Girls are able to move at their own pace through the levels. Our daughter was so excited to complete all of the levels in different math topics!  The great thing was, there was something else for her to progress to once she completed a topic. 
     Always IceCream can be used as reinforcement for an existing curriculum or, with a few supplements, could be used as a majority of your curriculum.  It is a very thorough program.  Always IceCream is very secure and is constantly monitored for safety. (Read the Always IceCream safety policy here.) Your child's personal information is never visible to anyone.  Girls are able, with parental permission, to become friends with other girls on Always IceCream for the purpose of chatting and messaging.  We have not used this feature yet, but I have not heard anything but good things from those who have.  I have felt completely comfortable leaving our daughter to work on the program with little to no supervision at times.  I have seen nothing but wholesome, fun content.  The website is colorful, easy to access, and actually really inexpensive.  Subscriptions range from $.99 for a monthly subscription (after an initial $4.99) to $99 for a lifetime subscription.  The program is geared towards girls ages 7-12.  Our daughter is 11 and has loved it.  I have really appreciated a program geared to young girls that isn't trying to "grow up" young girls.
Always IceCream is innocent, fun, and educational.  I give this site one of my highest recommendations.  To read other reviews about Always IceCream, visit the main crew blog page, here. To visit the Always IceCream website and investigate some of the features for free before you decide to purchase, go here.
**I was not compensated in any way by Always IceCream or TOS in exchange for this review.  The honest opinions expressed are my own.**

Principles of Marketing

Professor in a Box has released another great computer-based course for high school students and older.  Principles of Marketing is a dvd course suitable for older high school students wanting to learn about marketing, students desiring to prepare for the CLEP test in marketing, or adult learners wanting to learn about marketing without the exorbitant expense and time of a college classroom.  I wish that we had this course a year ago!  One of our children enrolled in a college marketing class, and the pace was so furious she dropped the class.  If she had been able to go through this dvd course first, I really think she either could have CLEPPed out of the course, or if she wanted to take the course she would have passed it with flying colors!
Using the Principles of Marketing course is simple.  Students watch a lesson on the cd.  To view a sample lesson, you can go here. The sample lesson looks exactly like the lessons student's view on the dvd.  After students watch the video / powerpoint type lesson on the dvd, they are able to complete the homework assignment (also on the cd). Once all of the assignments are completed, students take a test over the lesson.  Everything students need to succeed in the course is provied on the cd. Retailing for $199.99, with free shipping, this course really is a cost effective solution to traditional classroom based marketing courses.  Any student who has an interest in business studies will benefit from Principles in Marketing. 
Here is a brief description from Professor in a Box:
Principles of Marketing, by Julie Pirsch, Ph.D. is a challenging college level introductory Marketing course similar in content to the first marketing course taken by all students in university and college schools of business across the country. Principles of Marketing is also known as Basic Marketing, Introduction to Marketing, Fundamentals of Marketing, Marketing, or Marketing Principles. Any high school level student with basic reading and math skills can handle this course.
This course was created as an elective for high school students interested in pursuing a career in business and for students interested in taking the CLEP Principles of Marketing Exam. On a more formal level, this course provides students with a description and evaluation of the ways in which goods and services are developed to meet customer and consumer needs, and how they are distributed for domestic and international consumption. It examines the economic, government, social, and other environmental forces in relation to the marketing function, placing emphasis on relevant social problems and responsibilities.
For more information about Principles of Marketing, visit the Professor in a Box website at http://professorinabox.com/?page_id=765 .  To read other reviews of this product, written by other TOS review crewmembers, go here.
**I was not compensated in any way by TOS or Professor in a Box in exchange for this review. The honest opinions expressed are my own.**

What do you get when. . .

you cross Scrabble with a Rubik's Cube?  You get Scruble Cube! What, exactly, is Scruble Cube?
This is directly from the Scruble Cube website:
What if you took some of the known playing patterns of some of the most popular word games and puzzles in history and combined them in a brand new, unique format to create the World’s Greatest 3-D Word Game?Well, you’d have the “SCRUBLE Cube™ a patent pending game with over 7.4 x 10⁴⁵(that’s 7,401 septillion)possible configurations that anyone who can spell can play. And all in a portable format that can be played anywhere- anytimeThe SCRUBLE Cube™ is a word game and a puzzle- on steroids!
Wow! Over 7.4 septillion possible configurations!!! We haven't come anywhere near finding that many, yet, but we have been having a lot of fun with our Scruble Cube.  We have been able to play with our Scruble Cube for almost two months now.  I love the portability of this game.  It can go anywhere.  It has been a lot of fun playing in the car.  You can come up with all sorts of variations on the rules (for instance, play a round where all words have to start with a certain letter). As all of my readers know, we are a game-loving family.  Word games are our current favorite type of game.  Scruble Cube is in this category.  I can't say that we always followed the exact rules, or used the timer, but we have had fun and quite a challenge from Scruble Cube.  I have even "caught" our kids playing with the cube and trying to find words without anyone else playing (kind of like Scruble solitaire).  Any game that helps encourage spelling practice and discovery of new words is a great game in my book. Scruble Cube looks like a Rubik's Cube gone wild.  There are 16 squares on each side, each square containing a letter and a point value.   Players rotate the cube and try to find the highest point total word possible within the time limit (an egg timer is included with the game).  When each turn is over, the player tallies his/her score and records it on the score sheet (included).  Directions and suggestions for play are included.  There is a video about the game on the Scruble Cube website.  Both educational and fun, Scruble Cube gets a five-star plus rating from us! Scruble Cube is available for purchase for $24.95 through the website as well as at retail stores.  A listing of stores is available on the website.  For other reviews on Scruble Cube, visit the main Crew Blog page, here.
**I have received no compensation from TOS or Scruble Cube in exchange for this review.  The honest opinions expressed are my own.**

Aletheia Writing Magazine

"Aletheia Writing Magazine is a quarterly publication focusing on the literary and artistic works of Christian teens, ages 13 to 19*." Our oldest daughter was intrigued with Aletheia Writing Magazine when we received it.  She is a writer and is always looking for outlets for her writing.  We were able to examine two issues of this lovely magazine.  After reading Aletheia, our daughter was inspired to create more of her songs, poems, and stories.  She loved seeing the artwork that had been created, too.  Full of stories, essays, poems, artwork, and book reviews all written by teens, this magazine provides an opportunity for teen writers to submit their original works for publication and for teen readers to enjoy submissions of their peers.  The magazine is published quarterly, consists of forty pages, and is available for subscription through the Aletheia website for $26 (including shipping and handling).  Aletheia is perfect for any budding teen writer.  It is a great way to encourage teens to both read and write.  My teen boys were not quite as enthralled by the magazine as my daughter was; but, they would rather read about football than anything, so that wasn't surprising to me.  As with any magazine, the reader may not agree with the content of all of the articles; however, this is a magazine for Christian teens, so the content is geared toward Christians and is clean and wholesome.  It is quite refreshing to allow your child to be able to read a magazine without fear of the content they may be exposed to.  All in all, we enjoyed Aletheia Writing Magazine.  To read other reviews from TOS Homeschool Crew members, visit the main blog post here.  If you would like to "try before you subscribe," you can view the Spring 2011 issue here. 


**I was not compensated in any way by TOS or Aletheia Writing Magazine in exchange for this review.  The honest opinions expressed are my own.**

Tri-Cross from Games for Competitors

We are a game-playing family.  We love to play games!  We were chomping at the bit when I found out we would get a chance to try and review Tri-Cross, by Games for Competitors. 

This vendor was extremely generous and gave reviewers the standard board game as well as the eco-friendly travel version.  Both games are constructed of high quality parts.  Trading in the large cardboard box for a resource reducing, organic cotton drawstring bag, the organic cotton cloth board, printed with non-toxic soy-based inks, is easily folded to fit inside with the game pieces. Perfectly compact to fit on the shelf or to throw in your bag for on-the-go game play, Tri-Crosss’ eco-friendly board game sets the environmental benchmark for future game manufacturing.
Tri-Cross is a
strategy game designed for ages 10-adult. It is sort of a cross between Chinese checkers and chess.  The beauty of Tri-Cross is that it can be as simple or complex as the players want it to be.  There are many versions of the rules to choose from, each of which change the strategy and complexity of the game just a bit. Sound complicated? No problem! The Tri-Cross website is totally user friendly.  If you go to this page of the Tri-Cross site, you will find links to all of the rules as well as links to videos which show how to play Tri-Cross.  The rules seem a little complicated at first, if you just read them.  But, if you watch the videos and just dig in and play, everything makes sense and the game becomes really competitive.    

Games for Competitors is even having a giveaway for the Eco-Friendly Travel Game on their website. You must be part of the Tri-Cross Facebook group to enter, but it is worth it because they are giving away 10 games!  I'm thinking Christmas present?!!  
Overall, we have enjoyed playing Tri-Cross.  It has been a great addition to our game collection and we will continue to play it for years to come.  The only drawback for us is that only four people can play the game at a time, and we have eight people in our family.  Not a problem, really, because we can have both of our games going at once or we can play tournaments.  Either way works for us.  Prices for Tri-Cross range from $19.95 for the Eco-Friendly travel game, to $24.95 for the standard version game, to $35.95 for a deluxe wooden version of the game (which is beautiful!).  I think any game loving family would enjoy taking a crack at Tri-Cross.  You can purchase through the Games for Competitors website, here, or find a retail store through this link.  Our family gives Tri-Cross a 5+ star rating.  Great family fun!!!  To read other reviews about Tri-Cross, visit the TOS Homeschool Review Crew Blog. Let me know what you think about Tri-Cross after you play it!
**I was not compensated in any way by Games for Competitors or TOS Magazine in exchange for this review.  The opinions expressed are my own.**

Aims Education Foundation Earth Book

As a TOS Homeschool Crew member, I was given the privilege to use and review the Aims Education Foundation Earth Book.  This is a giant activity book, geared toward grades 6-9, containing hundreds of hands on experiments and other educational opportunities dealing with understanding how planet Earth works.  Topics cover the geosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere.  I teach a General Science class at a local homeschool enrichment center, and the Earth Book has been and will continue to be an amazing supplement for this class.  I was impressed with both the thoroughness of each activity and the simple manner in which each topic is presented.  The lessons plans provided for parents/teachers are complete and very easy to follow.  Another plus to the Earth Book is that it is available both as a print workbook and a downloadable E-book.  The e-book is a great option for families with multiple children or a teacher in a classroom setting.  I also like to be able to make a new copy of a worksheet is a child "accidentally" destroys or messes up a worksheet.  All of the worksheets and activities are in black and white, but there is plenty of space to add coloring if desired.  At first glance, I thought that the Earth Book looked a little juvenile for eighth and ninth grade students.  After reading and using some of the activities, I have learned that the content is definitely appropriate and adaptable for 6th - 9th grade students.  Some of the activities are a little too simple for the older students, but, other activities are too difficult for the younger students, so there is a good mixture of projects and activities that can be chosen from by teachers to ensure age appropriateness.  The Earth book is a great supplement for any earth science class.  The Earth Book is available on the Aims website for $49.95.  Go here to purchase or investigate the product further.  A preview of the Earth Book is available for viewing here.  There is a c.d. containing printables included with the book. I highly recommend this book for any parent or teacher who is currently teaching earth science or contemplating teaching it in the future. With almost 500 pages of earth science resources at your fingertips, The Earth Book is a great item to have.
**I have received no compensation from TOS or Aims Educational Resources in exchange for this review.  The opinions expressed are my own.**

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine Special Offer

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine is offering their Summer 2011 Digital Edition completely free of charge to anyone who wants to take advantage of this amazing offer!  To grab your copy, simple go here.
Let me know what you think!  This magazine is an awesome tool for homeschooling families!

A New Approach to Art Instruction

I was privileged to be able to use the Artistic Pursuits:  Junior High Book One, The Elements of Art and Composition, curriculum for the past several weeks.  My children have taken "art lessons" of various types for years.  I have seen some progression during those years, but not as much as there could have been.  Artistic Pursuits is a different type of art curriculum.  The book we have used is:
--A text written in conversational manner so students can work independently;
--A full year course in one book, designed for students to complete two lessons per week
--Four unique projects in each unit including creative exercises, art history and appreciation, techniques, and exploration of various subject matter.
We enjoyed the easy-to-understand manner this book is written in. My eighth grader was able to read and understand the lessons and create projects with no assistance from me.  I also appreciated the complete supply list that is provided in the very beginning of the book.  The projects actually require very few supplies and are not "messy" type art projects.  This book focuses more on training the student's eye to hand skills.  Throughout the entire book there is a emphasis on the student learning to "focus on one element of art at a time, while drawing, and block out the others." This curriculum is such a bargain at $49.95!  I don't know of any art lessons my kids could take for that price for a month, much less for an entire year.
I can definitely see our family using this curriculum for years to come. For more information about this curriculum, or to purchase Artistic Pursuits, go take a look at their website at:  http://www.artisticpursuits.com/index.html
To read what other reviewers have to say about this Artistic Pursuits book, as well as the other Artistic Pursuits books, go to:  http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783838/

Finally back!

Well, it looks like we are finally over the month long flu siege in our house! Our final two victims are down to having a raw throat and cough, so mom can finally stop being a nurse for a while. I am working through some great home school products for my next reviews. I can't wait to share with everyone about them. Meanwhile, enjoy your journey and try to find something everyday to make learning fun.

Illuminations by Bright Ideas Press

Illuminations is the newest product product put out by Bright Ideas Press. Illuminations is a user-friendly downloadable product. It is designed as to be used with Mystery of History or All American History. The program is a type-in .pdf which allows for the user to adjust assignments as needed. There are two levels of Illuminations -- Grades 3-8 and High School. Within the levels there are three different years, each year corresponding to a different period of history. Currently, Year 1 (covering Ancient History), Year 2 (covering Early Church and the Middle Ages), and the first semester of Year 3 (covering the Renaissance, Reformation, and Growth of the Nations) are available for purchase. The second semester of Year 3 will be available soon. The books necessary for following each plan are available through many bookstores, libraries, and curriculum distributors. The prices vary, but most of the full year programs are in the $240 price range.

I tried both levels of Illuminations with my children. I have to admit, the ability to have my children studying the same topics did simplify my homeschooling. I did have to add in my own math curriculum. I do not own either MOH or All American History; and, because of the design of the program I was able to substitute the world history and geography curriculum that I do have with very little effort. All that was needed was for me to type in the assignments as I changed them. I have been so intrigued by this program that I am seriously considering changing over to it completely with my kids. It really simplifies my lesson planning to have the basic outline already done for me. I also love being able to print out the assignment grids for my high school age children. All in all I think this is a good product. To read more reviews about Illuminations, go to http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783393/http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783393/

**I have not been compensated by TOS or Bright Ideas Press in any way for this review. The opinions expressed are my own.**

The Write Foundation Writing Curriculum

As a mom with a very strong English grammar and writing background, I was excited to sample the writing curriculum by The Write Foundation. I have had the opportunity to use all three levels of their curriculum for the past month. My children are reluctant writers, as a general rule; however, they have been inspired to become more fluent writers through the use of this curriculum. My youngest daughter, especially, has discovered a love for writing and has begun writing her own book.
From a teaching standpoint, I wasn't completely sure about the best way to utilize this curriculum in a homeschool setting. The curriculum is designed more for a co-op setting. After some studying and a little tweaking, I adapted the lessons to suit the needs of my children. The lessons were not difficult nor were they time consuming. The lessons were easier to adapt and use as I adjusted to the curriculum. By the time I was working with the third level, the lessons were fairly effortless on my part yet challenging to my children.
The Write Foundation writing curriculum is a result of 8 years of successfully teaching homeschooled students in a one-day-per-week co-op setting. It has been adapted for a homeschool and used by numerous homeschooling parents to give their own children the tools of how to quickly organize and write an essay with excellence. (from http://www.thewritefoundation.org/10_About.html)
The pricing structure for the curriculum ranges from $65-$100, depending on what you order. Each level is a complete curriculum including teacher's materials with lesson plans, student worksheets, and additional c.d. resources. There are three levels to the program.
Suggested Age Levels
Level 1: Sentence to Paragraph Writing Ages 11 – 13
Level 2: Paragraph Writing Ages 12 – 15
Level 3: Essay Writing Ages 14 – 17

Information about pricing for each level can be found at http://www.thewritefoundation.org/24_OrderInfo.html.

I would recommend this program for homeschoolers who are struggling with writing at any level. The basic information is useful for initial writing instruction as well as reinforcement and review. To read other reviews about the products from The Write Foundation, go to http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783366/.
*Disclaimer: I received no compensation from TOS or The Write Foundation in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own.**

Keeping Our Family Safe

For the most part, the Internet can be a rewarding place for kids, teens, and adults, but the potential risks to privacy and personal safety are real. While surfing the Web, your children may stumble upon disturbing information or images, or they may innocently accept or share files that could expose your family to identity theft or computer viruses. They may encounter cyberbullies who try to embarrass or intimidate them. Even worse, your children may unknowingly communicate with child predators, who use the Internet to befriend vulnerable children by pretending to be another child or a trustworthy adult and then try to persuade them to meet in person.Being aware of the risks and engaging with your children about safety are the most important things you can do to keep your family safer online.

"PGKey (http://www.pgkey.com/) was created and endorsed by a team that includes Internet security specialists, law enforcement, educators, parenting experts and family psychologists to give you the first complete Internet safety solution. PG Key gives you everything you need to keep your children and teens safe online and be alerted and informed when dangers do come up – all with one simple, plug in device."

PGKey places the control of Internet security in the hands of parents in one easy step. Plug it in and go! Take a look at some of the reasoning behind the development of PGKey:
Strong and effective parenting is the most critical part of any strategy to deal with these challenges. They have designed PG Key to be the all in one technical product for this purpose.
Simply plugging PG Key into a child’s or teen’s computer allows parents to follow the advice so often given by law enforcement and parenting experts: 1) Control when and how long the computer is used, 2) Properly setup your system with filters and web site blocking, 3) Create the “over their shoulder” environment that encourages kids to act the same way “on line” as they do in every other part of their life.
Simply put - PG Key does NOT replace parenting with technology - It ENABLES parenting with technology.

Here are some of the features of PGKey, straight from their website:
Access Control
Control computer use by inserting or unplugging PG Key.
Time Allowance
Decide the amount of time the computer can be used daily.
Content Filtering
Eliminate unwanted results from innocent searches.
Site Blocking
Block sites you decide are inappropriate.
Activity Tracking
Review all activity on the PC with a DVD-like interface.
Activity Notifications
Be informed via text message or e-mail of any flagged activity.
Chat and E-mail Logging
See both sides of chat and e-mail conversations.
Computer Configuration
Properly configure all users of the protected PC.
User Name and Password Logging
Keep track of user names and passwords.
Inappropriate Activity Evidence
Use video recording to show obvious or suspected inappropriate activity.

From my own experience, PGKey is easy to install and use. It is so simple that even a "techno-challenged" person like can understand and use it. We have always followed the policy of keeping computers out in the open, and we have always locked our computers to prevent unauthorized usage, but PGKey adds many more layers to the security when my children are on the Internet. I would highly recommend PGKey for any family desiring the safest possible Internet experience for their children. Just like any computer "gadget," you do need to spend a little time becoming familiar with the features and setting up parameters. The minuscule amount of time spent in learning the system is inconsequential to the amount of peace of mind you have in knowing everything your child does on the protected computer. Our families are definitely worth it!

For other reviews of PGKey see: http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783233/

**The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I received no compensation from TOS or PGKey in exchange for this review.**

Let's Take a Trip!

As a science "nut," I was thrilled to be able to examine Digital Frog International's field trip series DVD. **I have not been compensated in any way by Digital Frog International or TOS. The opinions expressed below are solely mine.**

When I received this DVD, I was unfamiliar with the company itself. From the name listed I assumed the DVD I would be viewing would be a virtual frog dissection. Digital Frog International does have a virtual frog dissection, but they are about much more than this.

What exactly is Digital Frog International?

(from the Digital Frog International website: http://www.digitalfrog.com/products/index.html
We are an innovative, enthusiastic, software company, dedicated to creating high-quality educational, multimedia CD-ROMs with an ecological focus. Our corporate headquarters is a converted barn surrounded by frogs, dogs and bogs in rural Ontario, Canada.

Our focus is on biology and ecology. Our goal is to make a difference to the way people view the natural world. Our computer-based learning tools encourage a lifelong interest in, and respect for, the world around us. We believe that people cannot care about a world they do not understand. To this end, our products present accurate, detailed information in an interesting and engaging way.

I received the Digital Field Trip Series. This DVD series is beautifully mastered and delightfully informative. The DVD contains three virtual field trips. Here is a screen shot of the field trip to "The Rainforest." Notice the vibrant colors. The DVD program is interactive and very user-friendly. How many children and parents can actually visit The Rainforest in person? Very few, I would venture to say. This DVD is as close to the actual visit as you could get. The material would be a fabulous add in to a study of geographic regions or a science study of different ecosystems.
"Experience the tropical rainforest of Belize with 28 virtual reality posts from deep in the forest and even up in the canopy. Other topics covered include rainforest types and mechanisms, an interactive dependency web game and a botany primer."

The Wetlands is another field trip on this DVD. Through this interactive DVD you feel like you are in the field observing an actual wetland. The video is fascinating and the graphics are clear and informative. Children of all ages will enjoy these videos.
"Explore wetland ecology with a virtual field trip to a wetland in southern Ontario. Includes wetland types, bog formation, plus detailed sections on photosynthesis, food chains and webs and nutrient cycles."
Our final destination was the Desert. Again, the video and graphics are absolutely stunning and a wealth of information is presented.
Five deserts of the southwestern U.S.—from the saguaro cacti of the Sonoran to the sand dunes of Death Valley—are brought to life in our biggest field trip ever. Try your hand at building your own desert, learn about landscape formation and in-depth sections on adaptations and homeostasis.

Pricing Information:

Save more than 20% off individual prices .
The Digital Field Trip Series costs only slightly more than two individual field trips. Lab packs and site licenses, as well as both single educational and home versions, are available from prices as low as $99. See our price list for details.

The Digital Field Trip Series, as well as many other products such as the virtual frog dissection, are available from the Digital Frog International website. http://www.digitalfrog.com/products/digital-field-trip-series-dvd.html

At first glance, the entire series does seem a little pricey; however, there would be no way the average family could actually take field trips to discover, explore, and study these three regions for anywhere near the individual license price.

I have enjoyed learning about Digital Frog's virtual field trips and will be incorporating these into our World Geography studies this year.

To read other reviews about Digital Frog go to: http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783186/

Enjoy your trip!

A Breath of Fresh Air

**Disclaimer: I was not compensated in any way by Salem Ridge Press or TOS in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own.**
For the past month I have had the privilege of reading three selections from Salem Ridge Press. Salem Ridge Press is an outstanding company which takes old books and republishes them. The books are scrutinized carefully to insure they adhere to the high values and standards of Salem Ridge Press. This is an excerpt directly from their website, by Daniel Mills, the founder and owner of Salem Ridge Press:

The underlying philosophy of Salem Ridge Press is found in the Bible: "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things (Philippians 4:8)." Daniel firmly believes that what we read matters and what we take into our minds is a major factor in forming our ideas and character. His goal is to be a blessing to others by providing reading material that fits the qualifications outlined in the Bible. While not every title that Salem Ridge Press publishes is explicitly Christian, all of our titles have strong moral values and encourage positive character.

My family read Dearer than Life, The Captives, and The Sign Above the Door. Not all of my children are avid readers, so at first it was a bit of a chore to have them reading the books. However, once they got "into" the stories they were completely engaged and unable to put the books down. Around our house the highest praise a book can receive is children begging to read for "just 5 more minutes," and that is what happened with these stories. The stories are all completely appropriate and able to be used in any style of curriculum. They are all living books which makes them very appropriate for a Charlotte Mason style curriculum. They can be used for read alouds or for independent reading. The books are very reasonably priced at $14.95 for soft cover and $24.95 for hard cover (although not all titles are available as hard cover). The books are available for purchase through the Salem Ridge Press website, http://www.salemridgepress.com/index.html. Here is a closer look at the three books we have read. The first two are part of the Emma Leslie Church History Series. The third is part of the world history group.

Story Synopsis
Arriving home from a meeting of Parliament in London, Sir Hugh Middleton is shocked to learn that a neighboring monastery has laid claim to one of his fields. Sir Hugh steadfastly refuses to yield his property, and further offends the monastery by sending his younger son, Stephen, to study under Dr. John Wycliffe. At the same time, Sir Hugh sends his elder son, Harry, to serve as an attendant to the powerful Duke of Lancaster. As Wycliffe seeks to share the Word of God with the common people, Stephen and Harry and their sisters help spread the truth, but what will it cost them in the dangerous day in which they live?

Story Setting: England in 1366 - 1384 A.D.
Notable People and Events: Wycliffe, Richard II, English Translation of the Bible ; Originally published in 1885; 255 pages; For Ages 12 – Adult

Story Synopsis
The Druid priests are as cold and cruel as the forest spirits they claim to represent, and Guntra, the chief of her tribe of Britons, must make a desperate deal with them to protect those she loves. Unaware of Guntra’s struggles, Jugurtha, her son, longs to drive the hated Roman conquerors from the land. When he encounters the Christian Centurion, Marcinius, Jugurtha mocks the idea of a God of love and kindness, but there comes a day when he is in need of love and kindness for himself and his beloved little sister. Will he allow Marcinius to help him? And will the gospel of Jesus Christ ever penetrate the brutal religion of the proud Britons?

Story Setting: Roman England in 66 - 67 A.D.
Notable People and Events: Druids, Roman Centurions
Originally published in 1873; 169 pages; For Ages 12 – Adult

Story Synopsis
Young Prince Martiesen is ruler of the land of Goshen in Egypt, where the Hebrews live. Eight plagues have already come upon Egypt and now Martiesen has been forced by Pharaoh to further increase the burden of the Hebrews. Martiesen, however, is in love with the beautiful Hebrew maiden, Elisheba, whom he is forbidden by Egyptian law to marry. As the nation despairs, the other nobles turn to Martiesen for leadership, but before he can decide what to do, Elisheba is kidnapped by the evil Peshala and terrifying darkness falls over the land. An exciting tale woven around the events of the Exodus from the Egyptian perspective!


Story Setting: Egypt/The First Passover ~ 1500 B.C.
Originally published in 1912; 307 pages; For Ages 12 – Adult
We have thoroughly enjoyed reading each of these selections and look forward to reading more. To read more reviews of Salem Ridge Press products you can go to: http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783028/
Happy reading!!!

We are loving vocabulary!!!

I was so excited when I found out I would get to try New Monic Book's SAT Word Power Vocabulary Cartoons! I have a strong background in English, and I love to study words, but my children have not inherited this trait. On the contrary, vocabulary study is actually akin to drudgery among my children (my boys especially). When I received the book I couldn't put it down. It is so much fun to read. The big test, however, came when I assigned it to my tenth grade son to use for his vocabulary studies this year. His reaction shocked me! He loves the book! And, most importantly, he is retaining what he is learning. I am seeing him use words from the cartoons in his writing and he is actually using them correctly. Let me explain a little about how this book works.
Each page reads like a cartoon. And each page describes a different word. The words are arranged alphabetically. The entries depict the word to be studied, the phonetic pronunciation of the word, the definition of the word, a mnemonic device to help remember the word (the association link word), a cartoon picture depicting the word with a mnemonic caption, and the word used correctly in sentences. After ten word cartoon pages there is a brief review. I use the review as a little quiz. So far my son has scored 100% on all of them.

There are two editions of the vocabulary cartoons so far. New Monic's website (http://www.vocabularycartoons.com/home/) even has other products available that I think would be really fun to use. Their books are available on c.d., there are teacher products available such as blackline masters, and there are elementary versions of the vocabulary cartoon books.
The vocabulary cartoon book makes learning vocabulary so much fun that kids don't realize they are learning. I highly recommend using this vocabulary program either as a stand alone curriculum for vocabulary or to supplement whatever curriculum you are currently using. For students who are going to be taking the SAT exam this book is a must have! It is tremendously easier to remember the multitude of vocabulary words a student needs to know by using mnemonic devices. I have really enjoyed using Vocabulary Cartoons and will continue to use it. I can't wait to get the second book! SAT Word Power retails for $12.95. It contains 294 pages of vocabulary cartoons and reviews. It is quite a bargain for all of the words you can learn! Get ready for some giggles as your kids read!
To read other reviews about SAT Word Power Vocabulary Cartoons, you can go to http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783022/.
Disclaimer: I have received no compensation by TOS or its affiliates in exchange for this review. The opinions stated are my own.