FIAR can totally be used for kiddos that age. There is a lot of meat in those manuals and taking rabbit trails is so much fun to do!!

I found it on the IEW site...you just have to log in first. Click on the highlighted level a reinforcement paragraphs. http://www.excellenceinwriting.com/swi-help

I can't seem to find it back again...if you email me I can send it to you.

If you join too the IEW families yahoo group there is a file with directions on how to use SWB B with an A tag along student.

bumping...also curious

Stephanie, I am not Julie but we did use Adventures a few years ago and are now using Sonlight 3&4. We did Adventures when the boys were 7 and 9 and it was perfect for those ages. A bried overview of US history, not too detailed, cute hands on projects etc... My boys are 10 and 12 now and doing Core 3&4 and some of the read alouds stretch my 10 year old, so 8 might be a little young for Core 3. It is a wonderful Core though and defenitely one to keep in mind later on! HTH!

I had an older 3rd grader when we did Adventures and I did add in extra reading for him. The state sheets do get a little tedious but the kids enjoyed watching their progress. If you are thinking you want to stay with Sonlight then just do as Merry suggested and take 2 years and keep the kiddos together. Add in some history pockets and have fun!! Both are great options!

We used MFW Adventures a few years ago and it was a fantastic year! I also love Sonlight but I think Adventures is a better fit considering your kids' ages. I did have trouble with the book basket idea so I would totally buy the Sonlight reader bundles. That would make it the best of both worlds!

We use this system and love it: http://simplycharlottemason.com/timesavers/memorysys/ And a lot of these verses: http://simplycharlottemason.com/planning/scmguide/scripture/

My 6th grade son loves Jump In! And we have used Igniting Your Writing and enjoyed that also. Christa

Sonlight! Sorry I reread your post and saw you already knew about that one!

Yes they list all the books included in the core on the website. Christa

My IG has the History/Read aloud/Reader schedule all in one. I chose to buy the IG this year and I am so glad I did! We don't follow the reader schedule as is but I love questions for the read alouds. We are using Core 3&4 and it is wonderful! Some weeks we are ahead and that is ok as you can still use the questions and the flow of history. My boys love the timeline and mapping. I am sure there are mamas out there who can do it on their own but I like a roadmap, even if we choose our own turn here and there... HTH! Christa

Another vote for Sonlight!

MUS...total bust here! Rod and Staff English... just too dry for us.