So many choices - help! 3rd grade

[Bay Lake Mom]

I have looked into almost every curriculum possible for 3rd grade. My dd will be 8 in September, and I will also have a 6 yo. They don't need to be combined. My 6 yo has developmental delays so I've found it best to work with her alone. So...

 

HOD - I am considering Bigger. I am not "sure" about the LA recommendations. I know I can swap out for my own choices. We will probably be doing Singapore math. (If we go with HOD, I'll probably use LHFHG for my 6 yo.) - My dilemma - I've heard the history reading is difficult because of the old language. I also have heard that the science is lacking. I'd love opinions on this program.

 

Sonlight - I have tried the younger cores of SL, but I just can't do the Usborne books. I felt like Core B was so weak in History. Maybe if I liked the Usborne books more I could have stuck with it. So... I'm considering SL Core D. All of the books look interesting. We love to read, so hours on the couch is not a bad thing for us. Opinions on this core compared to Cores A and B?

 

MFW - I just don't like the book choices for ECC or the history cycle. So, this isn't on my top list.

 

Winter Promise - I've already made that VERY expensive mistake. Their guides are just so disjointed IMO, so this is a definite NO.

 

I have also looked into Wayfarers, Biblioplan, Tapestry of Grace, and several others. I don't like SOTW because it has too many inaccuracies. Mystery of History would be great if my girls were older and I wanted to combine, but that's not where we are now. I'm not concerned with what history we're teaching. We've done a little of American history and a little of World History. I also don't think the "order of learning" is quite so important in the early years.

 

I know there are a lot of experienced Mommas here with great knowledge and opinions. I'm hoping to hear some of your wisdom. Thanks!

[HomeAgain]

That's a long list of don't wants.  What would your ideal curriculum look like?

[Bay Lake Mom]

I love the idea of reading great books (Sonlight, WP). I like the concept of HOD - skills build upon each other each year. My kids both love listening to stories and doing crafts, but workbooks are not a big hit. I definitely want something planned out for me.

[Guest]

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Edited June 22, 2016 by Guest

[Bay Lake Mom]

Again, I would take a closer look at HOD. I have always liked their book choices and look to their book lists from time to time for extra reading for my kids. :)

Does HOD still include "extra" book lists in Bigger?

[Monica_in_Switzerland]

Why not build your own thing?  

 

Also, all histories are inaccurate.  But very few are child-appropriate.  So, pickings are a bit slim.  I like A Little History of the World, but it's not nearly as detailed as the SOTW volumes.  

 

 

[Tortfeasee]

For history you might like the selections from Homeschool in the Woods.  They are heavy on crafts and activities.  There are short written lessons and long lists of additional resources.  We are using them and love them.  The only downside is that HITW makes such gorgeous lap books that it will spoil you for any others. :laugh: