Sorry to get back to you so belatedly…I seem to be having computer issues. Nah. I’ve read a number of gals who have used them all. That’s why I don’t usually feel the need to add my two cents. Are you asking this specifically in comparison with SL, or with others as well? I do think WP schedules more illustrated history spines than SL. Well, I should clarify that my comment regarding the need for organization pertained mostly to those who purchase only the TT cds. For those who purchase the printed text and student pages offered by WP, things are apparently greatly simplified. Otherwise, one must sift through the many craft/activity choices, locate the appropriate paper, make necessary copies, and determine how to store the results. You are correct. The only younger SL core I’ve used was Pre-K (which I forgot to include in my previous list). We didn’t have any difficulties with that core. Other than that, I would agree that SL schedules more emotionally engaging~~and occasionally gut-wrenchingly so~~books in the upper cores. As for WP, I have used AW, and recall being surprised by some of the material in it. One example of this is the very casual mention of a divorce in one of the Adventure Reads. Now, divorce is obviously very prevalent in our society and all. I was just not expecting to have to explain the concept to my littles in the middle of our Animal Worlds reading. We also had to stop watching a suggested video in AW that utilized clips from old horror movies. They were too scary for my little ones, and even my middlers didn’t particularly like them. Here are a few of the graphic and mature issues we encountered: In QAW, the Oxford Ancient History some women are depicted as scantily clad, with practically see through clothing. There are also some bloody battle scenes and the like. Also in QAW, a suggested video includes scary re-enactments of Ancient myths and sacrifices. QMA includes the Adventure Read Masada. We all know that historically, the siege of Masada ended incredibly tragically. I naively expected, however, that the book would somehow end prior to that point. That was probably the most difficult book I’ve ever read aloud to my dc, and my two oldest stated simultaneously at the end that it was the most awful book we’ve ever read. (BTW, one sub-plot of Masada centers around a romance which I felt was inappropriate for middlers.) QMA also schedules Catherine Called Birdy, The Second Mrs. Giaconda and Crispin as Adventure Reads, all of which contain some subject material (sexuality/ extra-marital relationships) questionable for middlers. I don’t think you can go wrong with either program!! I think highly of both, and will probably continue using both over the years. The only reason I shared some of the mature content of WP is that I wish I would have known about it beforehand. I would have been able to plan ahead, rather than editing on the fly, if you kwim.

Hi. We've not used HOD or VP (although I have utilized many of their book suggestions) so all I would have to offer would be opinions based on what I've seen...which wouldn't really do you much good, huh? I have, however, used two years of MFW, (Adventures and ECC) several years of SL (Cores 3, 4, 6, 7, 100 and 200) and 4 years of WP (Animal Worlds, QAW, QMA and now a combo of AA1 with SL 3). I think that all three are wonderful programs! And I honestly think that all three are very easily implemented. The differences I've discovered regarding ease of use are these: *MFW- does require the legwork of obtaining library books, as well as copying necessary student pages and gathering science/history craft supplies. *WP- requires one to choose from many craft and multi-media suggestions and gather any necessary supplies. Also, the Am. History levels that use TT require quite a bit of organization. *SL-I'm sure I'm probably overlooking something here, but unless one desires to add hands-on crafts, (which I actually do) there really are no supplies to gather. I think that in choosing between those three, it is important to determine your personal homeschooling goals. How in-depth would you like your Bible program to go, and how "scripted" would you like that to be? Do you want your science program integrated with History and Bible? How important is the hands-on aspect~~would your dc love crafts or videos daily, or are a few each month adequate? What types of crafts (if any) do you desire to create? As far as readers/read-alouds, is your dc a voracious reader? Answering those types of questions will hopefully help you determine a clear direction. BTW, I would like to gently disagree with those who state SLs book selections are less age appropriate than those of WP. Having used both programs, (and being a fan of both) I can confidently say that I have encountered "mature issues" which I preferred to avoid in not only some of the WP read-alouds, but also in the various history "spines"/texts~~in QAW, for example, some of the Oxford Encyclopedia illustrations are quite graphic~~as well as in the suggested videos. Just something to keep in mind. Blessings as you make this decision. Whatever you use, be sure to enjoy this time. It flies!

We actually loved Core 3+4, though I had a younger son reading some Historical I-Can-Read-It books for the first half of the year (until his reading skills matured enough to jump into the SL readers.) Core 100 was also especially enjoyable....

Another SL fan here! I didn't discover SL until after having already used FIAR for the early grades, but if I were just starting out, I think it would be a great choice....

Hope you don't mind if I throw the idea of Alphabet Island into the mix, as well.:001_smile: It is a little pricey to start, but the TM (which is the bulk of the cost) is reusable and one would only need to purchase an inexpensive workbook for additional children. The initial lessons introduce the "characters" of Alphabet Island, so you could probably move very quickly through those. I've used A.I. with all six of my dc, and all said they loved it. It utilizes songs, poems and games, so many children really enjoy the lessons. Plus, it includes activities for varied types of learners, (kinetic/audio/visual) so one can easily eliminate anything that doesn't particularly meet your needs. Just thought maybe another option might be nice.

Hi! I think the answer to whether FIAR is "enough" for history depends on one's educational philosophy and goals. For those following TWTM approach from the start, FIAR is probably not a good fit, as the history is not chronological, does not include memorization, etc. For families not intent on classical in the early years, FIAR can be quite wonderful. This is my third time to "Row", (I used FIAR with my oldest two, then my middle two, and am now using it again with my youngest two) and I find it to be plenty for history. It provides a gentle, yet engaging, introduction to history, cultures, and geography, which we just love. My dc have retained their learning from FIAR, IMO largely due to how it captivates their imagination. As for Beyond FIAR, I've not used it and can't really speak well to the thoroughness of the history. Here's a bit from the website: You might also want to check out the FIAR Board. Many lovely ladies there have used both and will be able to answer your questions.

Well, there are lots of options out there. We have used Noeo for a couple of years and are very pleased. It is not overtly Christian, although it is certainly not anti-Christian, either. I find it extremely easy to implement, and my dc are loving it!

Sure thing! Notgrass can be found here. HTH!

Well, I put together a "homegrown" course, using LLATL American Lit. as our spine. In addition to that work, my dc are reading: Selections from Washington Irving Scarlet Letter Portable Poe The Adventures of Huck Finn Billy Budd My Antonia Our Town The Crucible To Kill a Mockingbird The Chosen We are using some of the free Glencoe Study Guides for a few of these, and SparkNotes for others.

I agree with the other respondents~~ you know your child best. Having said that, I personally think your plan looks like a great 9th grade year.:) My only concern would be dd's emotional maturity level (as opposed to academic ability level)~is she ready for the issues presented in some of the LL materials? I would also encourage you to map out your basic plan for high school before making any firm decisions. For example, how many years of history, math, and science will dd need in her career path? What other subjects necessary for college admittance will she need? Will she attend cc for certain subjects? Obviously one must be flexible, but I have found that having answered those questions has really helped me to sort through the many options available.

Well, I had originally planned on using BJU, but after looking it over very carefully, ended up using Notgrass (American History). Some of the things I liked about BJU included a more engaging text, colorful illustrations/photos, interesting "perspectives" sections which provide a more in-depth look at a historical person or event, and tests with a variety of questions. Also, BJU does include prepared "critical thinking" questions after each section that I liked. In spite of those strengths, however, I decided to utilize Notgrass for the following reasons. I really wanted to include primary source readings, of which Notgrass provides an ample amount, already scheduled for me. I also wanted to have some historical fiction and autobiographies to flesh out our program, so we use the literature already scheduled in the text. (We do not use those readings for our literature studies, though.) Another plus for us is that, while Notgrass is definitely written from a Christian worldview, it is not written from the providential approach (as opposed to BJU, which is.) I have been very pleased by our success with this program. After having used SL for a number of years, the text seemed a little "dry" to me, but my two dc using it both surprised me by their positive response to it. They both say it is their favorite course this year. HTH a little.:)

We have six, all still at home/homeschooled. (Though that will be changing all too soon!) No more in the works, unless God allows us to adopt.

Well, I agree that Apologia General Science requires very little math. You might want to map out your long-term plan first, though, to see if you want to begin the Apologia route just yet. Also, there wouldn't be any notebooking involved, if that's important to you. Although it's a little pricey, we have really enjoyed Noeo. I know lots of gals lessen the cost by obtaining the necessary books through the library--or buying the books used--so that might help. It does include experiments and notebooking, so I thought I'd mention it to you.

When my two oldest were in 8th grade, some of the things we used were: Sonlight 100 Sonlight 200/WP QAW combo Wordsmith Vocabulary From Classical Roots Analogies Applications of Grammar Apologia Physical Science Logic Guide to Geekdom computer workbooks Rosetta Stone Teaching Textbooks HTH!

I've used differing things for various dc, but some we've particularly enjoyed include: Sonlight Old Alt. 6 Mystery of History Sonlight 3/WP AA1 combo Sonlight Science 5 Noeo Chem II LLATL Tan Horizons 6 Composer Study-various Nature Study Artistic Pursuits As for activities and tools, I personally think this is a great age for crafts like those sold in the Hands and Hearts kits and Corps of Rediscovery. The dc are old enough to understand the historical significance of the items being made, as well as being capable of completing them with very little supervision. This is a great age. These dc are maturing rapidly, but (IMO) still need plenty of time outdoors to enjoy nature and just be active. And while they can work quite independently, time with mom is still very important to them. Have fun!

I'm sorry you're feeling discouraged. :grouphug: We've been through similar times, (not with SL) so I agree with the previous poster's suggestion to feel free to adapt as your family needs. As to SL 5, we've not yet used it, (my older two were, well, older when we began with SL, and my middlers haven't quite gotten there) but I have often read of families simply not using the EHE--apparently they were quite satisfied with the reading material alone. I've also heard many moms mention picking and choosing from the EHE. And maybe you could choose just one RA for each country, perhaps reading it at night after the younger dc have gone to bed? Whatever the case, don't hesitate to make the Core your own. Now, regarding dd's interest in American History, you could always find an interesting "spine" type book, and allow her to read through that independently, fleshing it out with a few library books, alongside her Core 5 studies. IMO, that is one of the beauties of homeschooling: one can explore areas of interest without going through a formal curriculum. Alternatively, if you'd rather, (and it seems feasible to you) shelve Core 5 until a later date. I know many families use it in High School. DD could then move on to Core 100 (my older two dc completed it--minus a couple of books-- in middle school) or some other Am. History program. Our Los Banos provides a free SL/WP-type study, as does AO, if finances are a concern. (They would be here.) Praying you find a wonderful solution, and that the remainder of your schoolyear improves greatly!

The Adventures program by MFW is a nice study as well. We used it a couple of years ago combined with many of the books from Beautiful Feet, and had a great year.

We have used the Middle Ages kit and are working our way this year through the Early American and Westward Expansion kits. What I most appreciate is how historically relevant the projects are. I also love that the clear instructions, (which are written to the student and even include reminders about thoroughly preparing one's work surface, as well as cleaning up the mess) explain the historical significance of each activity. Another nice aspect of Hearts and Hands is that notebooking pages are also included, along with copywork and memory verses (if that's something that would interest you). I was a slightly less impressed with the Middle Ages kit than I am with those for American History, but overall we have enjoyed both. I personally felt it was worth the money to have everything included. YMMV.:)

My middle two are currently completing Noeo Chem. 2 independently. The guide usually schedules either a written summary, sketch or definitions over the daily readings, but I've modified this somewhat. (Since the readings/experiments are scheduled for only 4 days a week, my kids wait and complete a weeks' worth of definitions on Friday. They may choose between written/oral narrations, or sketching each day.) Anyway, that has been our experience. Hope you find something that works in your house!

Well, our ages span only from an almost-17-year-old, to a just-turned-5-year-old --so you've put in a lot more time than I. Kudos to you!! Anyway, even though my kids ages don't range quite as widely as yours, I felt the need to "find the fun" again this year, too. One of the things that has helped me has been just to make the most of even brief opportunities for play throughout the day. Rather than not coloring because I don't have much time, I try to make the most of those little 5-minute windows of opportunity to do so, kwim? Another addition this year was the purchase of a wee sing CD of childhood songs and games. We take a very brief break in the morning and play one of the games or sing along/act out the songs. Yes. I already knew most of the songs and games, but it has helped to just have a variety already laid out to use. My youngest two love are loving this, and even my two middlers sometimes join in! I also purchased a few childhood classic books (like Raggedy Ann and Millly-Molly-Mandy) that I had never read to my older kids. This way, although we had literally hundreds of wonderful books to choose from already, I have a few new "adventures" to enjoy with my last two kiddoes.

I'm with ya! We focus on reading/phonics, narration and copywork in K-2, and begin grammar in 3rd. FWIW, I followed this approach with my two oldest dc (now in High School) and they had absolutely no difficulty learning grammar "later".

Another inexpensive option ($2.50 for the download) is offered by Tanglewood: http://tanglewoodeducation.com/BOC.htm HTH!

Hi. Would you mind sharing a little more specifically how you schedule the two Algebra programs? Do you have your child working from both texts daily, or alternate, or...? Thanks in advance!

I always enjoy these types of threads. I'll leave off my high schoolers and just share about the curricula for my two middlers and two littles. DS 5th & DD 6th: Hits Noeo Chemistry II--This is a new field for them and they are lovin' the experiments! WP AA1/SL 3 American History--I've combined these and added additional materials, so this is more my concoction than anything. So far, they love all the readers (both fiction and non-fiction) and read-alouds. Unfortunately, our text is another story. They especially enjoy the Native American Prayer Guide. Hands and Hearts/Core of ReDiscovery Craft Kits--They are wild about making historically relevant crafts. Artistic Pursuits--Actually, this is a hit with my son, but not my artistically gifted daughter. Bummer. Hold That Thought United States Geography--They're finding out lots of interesting information. Rosetta Stone Spanish Like Just Fine *They've used these since they were young, so these programs are "old hat". Horizons Math Language Arts Through Literature A Reason for Handwriting Dislikes Story of The Thirteen Colonies by Guerber/Miller--I am substituting this for the Story of the US books scheduled early on in SL 3 (which I knew would be way below these dc reading/comprehension level). The readings are so short! Not a day has gone by without one of them asking some variation of "That's all?" DD 2nd & DS K: Hits Language Lessons by Queen--DD is loving this. She is falling in love with Language Arts, and since the daily lessons are so very short, we often complete several days at a time--at her request! Alphabet Island Phonics--Has been loved my all my kiddoes, and this DD and DS still love the songs and stories. Five In A Row--Another that has been loved by all my kiddoes. They practically dance when it is FIAR time. SL Readers Horizons Math A Reason for Handwriting Come Look With Me Art apppreciation American History--They are tagging along with their older sister and brother and enjoy coloring the Dover Historical coloring sheets, as well as listening to the D' Aulaire books I've added. *So far, they are really enjoying everything. Hooray!

I look every year at LBC, but like Nicole, am held back by how grade specific it is. If one has just one or two children, though, I think it would be a more viable option--unless, of course the child needed a different level in Language Arts.