GrapeVine Studies - Birth of Jesus: Multi-Level - {Review}

Over the last few years I have seen the name GrapeVine Studies on a few homeschool blogs and have really wanted to use their products with Nathaniel.  I was very excited to learn that they have a Birth of Jesus: Multi-Level and even more excited when they offered it to the crew to use.

One of the things that attracted me to the study is that your student does not need to be writing at any grade level in order to use it.  Not being able to write does not affect their ability to fully use the curriculum.

Currently they have an Old Testament and New Testament overview, Esther,  Biblical Feasts and Holidays, Old Testament Catechism, Birth of Jesus and The Resurrection studies available. You can download a sample of each study HERE.

What we received

• Birth of Jesus study Student eBook (1.1 MB) - 49 pages consisting of:
  
  • Birth of Jesus Timeline,
  • The Announcement,
  • Birth of Jesus,
  • The Proclamation,
  • The Wise Men and Herod,
  • Final Review,
  • Map
• Birth of Jesus Study Traceable eBook (4.9 MB) - 49 pages consisting of the same as the Student eBook.
• Birth of Jesus Study Teachers Manual (5.24 MB) - 65 pages. This book is divided into:
  
  • About GrapeVine
  • Teacher Goals
  • Student Goals
  • Supply List
  • Teaching mulit-levels
  • Timeline Narrative
  • Lesson Goals/Key Points
  • The Announcement
  • Birth of Jesus
  • Proclamation
  • Wise Men & Herod
  • Final Review
  • Map

How we used the Study

After downloading the three pdf documents I printed both the teachers and student manual for our use.  I only have a black ink printer so our cover is in grey-scale.  The actual product has a beautiful red and green cover. In the multi-level pack you have two options to use for your students.  The one is the basic student pages and the other is in traceable format which is suitable for younger students or students in need of support in their drawing. The only supplies needed for the student are: a bible, the student pages and coloured pencils.   The student needs the following eight colours to use: Purple, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red, Brown and Black.

There is not a lot of prep work involved in using the program. The Teachers Manual is well laid out and all the prep work and lessons are laid out in detail.  The basic frame work is laid out for you and it is up to you on how you present the lessons and to what depth you want to pursue each topic according to your own denominational doctrinal belief.

As a teacher you will need The Teachers manual, 8 coloured markers and a bible dictionary.   Since it's only Nathaniel and I, I chose to use sharpie pens and plain white paper as my delivery medium for the lessons. The manual has two different suggested schedules one is daily lessons and the other is weekly.  We did a weekly lesson.

 The program starts with a timeline of events to help the students understand the sequence of events. There is no guess work on how to draw the pictures or what to say to the students it's all laid out for you in the teachers manual. I appreciated having the stick figure guidelines.  This made for a much simplified lesson.  When I first told Nathaniel we would be drawing pictures he complained because he does not like to colour in.  When he saw that we were drawing stick figures he became very enthusiastic of the program.

Teachers Manual sample page.

Working on the stick-figure timeline.

The next stage consisted of looking up the bible verse and then drawing what we had read.  Nathaniel really enjoyed adding up the total number of generations between Adam and Jesus.

Drawing stick-figures for our lesson.

 After completing the last Student Page it was time to do a drawing review.  This consists of the student drawing their favourite part of the story and writing their memory verse.

This is followed with a final review of the study.  The final review consists of 28 questions covering the events from the announcing the generations between Adam and Jesus up to and including when Mary, Joseph and Jesus return and the Word says He grew.

Each sections we studied also had questions covering the lesson. Some lessons had a set of words to look up in a bible dictionary.  There is also a map to label at the end of the book.

*Cost of GrapeVine Birth of Jesus

• Student Book $8-00
• Teacher Book $12-50
• Traceable Book $8-00
• Student Family eBook $6-50
•  Teacher eBook $10-00
• Traceable Family eBook $8-00

*All prices are current at time of review.  Please check the website for up to date pricing before purchasing. All prices shown are in U.S. dollars.

Recommended Age Range

• Ages 7+

Connect with GrapeVine on Social Media




Over All I thought ...
Nathaniel and I both enjoyed this lesson and look forward to using other GrapeVine products in the future.  He loved the simplicity and that there were no complex drawings and I enjoyed using the Word and coaching him on note taking using stick figures.

The Schoolhouse Review Crew have also reviewed Creation to Jacob.

Blessings
Chareen

Eat Your Science Homework {Ann McCallum Books Review}

Something good to eat is always a good way to help children solidify their learning.

Recently the Schoolhouse Review Crew were introduced to Ann McCallum Books.  Ann is the author of a nifty set of books in the Eat your ... series and Nathaniel and I have been working our way through Eat Your Science Homework.

There are currently three books in the Eat Your Homework series

1. Eat Your US History Homework  
2. Eat Your Science Homework
3. Eat Your Math Homework.

 Ann also has a blog where she shares recipes and encouragement on how to Eat your way through a variety of topics.

What we received

• ISBN: 978-1-57091-299-3
• Published by: Charlesbridge
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright Date: 2009, 2014
• Specifications: Teacher: 48 pages
• By: Ann McCallum
• Illustrated by: Leeza Hernandez
• Awarded: Junior Library Guild Selection 

The book is divided up into:

• Introduction - Here you will discover all about delicious chemistry in the kitchen.
• Safety instructions - We learned about safety in our lab. The tricks of the trade list was helpful for Nathaniel. It was good to read these.  I realized that some things I had not actively told him before and had assumed he knew.
• Six experiments - Each experiment covers a particular topic. We love the creative names for each one: Atomic Popcorn Balls,  Density Dressing and Veggie Sticks, Invisable Ink Snack Pockets, Loop, Whorl and Arch Cookies, Sedimentary Pizza Lasagna and Black Hole Swallow-Ups
  
  • The topic is introduced and explained carefully.  The jargon is introduced in context and fully explained.
  • Next the recipe is presented.  There is a before you begin section which covers time, oven temperature and difficulty. An ingredients list followed by the step by step method.  The author coaches the student carefully in what to do in each step. 
  • The next page is a conclusion to the topic page.  We enjoyed reading these as they give some relevant information, interesting historical note in relation to the topic and concluding words.
• Review - This is a summary of what you have learned as you've worked your way through the book.
• Glossary - A concise list of scientific terms used throughout the book with clear explanations of each word.
• Index -

How we used it

After reading the introduction page on Density, Dressing and Veggie Sticks chapter it was time to gather our supplies.

This lesson involved no heat so I left Nathaniel up to following the directions in the method.  He enjoyed watching what happened as he added each ingredient to the bottle and surmising what he thought might happen when he added the ingredients.

 We learned some new technical jargon: immiscible, miscible and density. We also did some follow up experiments to solidify the topic of density.  The results were edible and Daddy now has some new blue salad dressing to enjoy!

You can download a fabulous Teachers Guide for Eat Your Science HOMEWORK.


Recommended Age Range

• 7-10 years old

Over All I thought ...
We've enjoyed working our way through this beautiful book. Every single double page spread is beautifully illustrated and contains thoughtful information.  I appreciated how the author spoke directly to the child and did not assume that the student knew something.  Every concept was clearly explained and scientific terms were presented clearly and concisely.  Each experiment was followed up with a Science Sampler which ranged from finding elements present in our home to interesting information on famous scientists over the ages.

This is a fun book to add to your science routine at home and the best part is you can EAT your experiments!

Blessings
Chareen

The Brinkman Adventures: Season 3 {Review}

There's been much excitement around here lately.  Last year we were introduced to the Brinkman Adventures and after listening to season two we have been stalking their website and Facebook page in anticipation of Season 3

The Brinkman Adventures are the result of a vision and idea the Lord gave to Ian Bultman when he was away on a prayer retreat.

The vision was to create radio quality dramatizations retelling actual modern day missionary stories using the day to day lives of his own family (there are 10 children in his family).   Each of the children's names have been changed in the production but they all play themselves.

The aim of the series is one of changing lives and encouraging young people to become missionaries.

What we received

• Episodes 25 to 36
• MP3 Album
• 24 files in a 599 MB zipped folder

How we used it
After downloading our MP3 file I extracted it and imported it into iTunes. We loaded it onto our iPod and enjoyed listening to the episodes on our family room sound system.
As before we were hooked and could not stop listening to the episodes!

Each episode has a follow up link on the website with more background information on the missionary story featured along with links to organizations and pictures of the actual people and events represented in the episode.

There are 12 episodes** in Season 3 and you can read more about the back-stories in the links below: 

• Ep. 25 - God's Mule
• Ep. 26 - Mountain Mover
• Ep. 27 - Silent Ambassador
• Ep. 28 - Translating Trouble
• Ep. 29 - Man-Up
• Ep. 30 - Acorns & Oaks
• Ep. 31 - A Saint's Story Pt 1
• Ep. 32 - A Saint Story pt 2
• Ep. 33 - Untouched
• Ep. 34 - Busy Bees and a Bullhorn
• Ep. 35 - Missionary Tourist Pt 1
• Ep. 36 - Missionary Tourist Pt 2

**Episodes 1-12 are in Season 1 and episodes 13 - 24 are in Season 2.

We have enjoyed each and every episode in this season. One of the highlights for us happened in episode 31 and 32.  Earlier this year we read the biography of Nate Saint and in these two episodes we hear what happened to his son Steve Saint.  It was one of the most moving stories I have ever heard so much so that I cried...Steve Saint performed himself in each episode too.

One of the most encouraging aspects of listening to The Brinkman Adventures is hearing a family work through real every day life with the Lord. The way they pray together about everyday issues, read the Word of the Lord together, learn grow and play together have greatly encouraged and impacted our families way of living and walking with Jesus.  

 Cost of the Brinkman Adventures
Suggested donation purchase price

• Set of 4 CD's $27.99
• MP3 Album $17.99

The Brinkman Adventures operates on a donation basis. You have the option of choosing your donation value.  ALL proceeds raised go towards funding new episodes and supporting missionaries around the world.

There are two sample episodes available for you to listen to online. Episode #1 is available to listen to at the bottom of the Fun Stuff page and episode #9  The Provider has it's own dedicated page.

You can watch behind the scenes recordings of the family recording the episodes on YouTube.

*All prices are quoted in US $ and are current at time of review. Please consult the Brinkman Adventures website for current prices

 Recommended Age Range
The stories are intended for family listening.

Over All I thought ...

If you are looking for the ultimate family Christmas gift look no further! The Brinkman Adventures is full of true to life drama, encouragement and inspiration for you and your family. Each episode has inspired us to find out more about the missions that are happening around the globe today.

Blessings
Chareen

The Nutcracker {Maestro Classics}

One of our review highlights in 2014 was the one we did for Maestro Classics. We are endeavoring to follow a more delight directed approach along a Charlotte Mason philosophy.  Charlotte Mason encouraged classical composer studies and the listening of great compositions. Personally I have a very limited understanding of classical music and would love to introduce more of this genre of music into our home school.

We enjoyed our first introduction to Maestro Classics so much I was thrilled when they offered us their latest addition to their product line: The Nutcracker featuring Jim Weiss

I am so pleased to have discovered  Maestro Classics. Their aim is to introduce children to classical music through stories. The music on each CD is played by the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

What we received

• Digital Download of The Nutcracker 
• Produced by: Maestro Classics
• Narrated by: Jim Weiss
• Music by: Tchaikovsky
• Adapted by: Stephen Simon
• Conducted by: Stephen Simon
• Music played by: London Philharmonic Orchestra
• Nutcracker Activity Book (PDF format)
• Total download size: 95.2 MB zipped file
• Total Duration 58 min 01 seconds

How we used it

After downloading the zipped file to my pc I extracted it's contents and imported the music into my iTunes library.  I then burned them to disc.  Nathaniel and I snuggled on the couch to listen to the CD. We were so inspired by the story we found a video on Netflix to watch The Nutcracker Ballet!

CD insert sample

The Activity booklet which comes with the CD is a beautifully illustrated full colour 13 page CD insert containing:

• A Summary of Act 1 and 2
• Short History of Ballet
• A simple sample of the Overture to The Nutcracker
• An introduction to the Harp
• Short biography of Mr Tchaikovsky
• Word Scramble
•  Nutcracker Crossword Puzzle
• Biography of Stephen Simon and Jim Weiss
• A reference to Maestro Classics
• A contents page referencing each track

The curriculum guide is worth it's weight in gold. It's available as a FREE download from Maestro Classics. This ten page guide is fully interactive with links on every page to interesting information.

The Nutcracker curriculum guide covers:

• Ballet -  the history, YouTube clips, colouring pages, Nutrition,  Games
• History - Christmas around the world, mini unit study
• Geography - history of nutcrackers and a mini virtual field trip
• Science - simple machines, levers, physics
• Language Arts - Fairy Tales, 
• Art - Let's make nutcrackers
• Books - recommended books
• Music - mini unit studies on Tchaikovsky, rhythm,  activities
• Math - Nutcrackers by number, themed Montessori activities

For the Parent
Don't miss out on the amazing extra's that are available on the website

• Curriculum Guides  Each guide is choc full of links and helpful information.  They are full of amazing resources to use alongside the CD's.  You can click on a single subject OR download all the subjects in one handy pdf guide.
• Puzzles and Games -Contains the program answer guides as well as word search, crossword and coloring pages.
• Articles on Music Education by Bonnie Ward Simon (BA, MA, M.Ed, MPhil)
• Free Sheet Music
• Homemade Musical Instruments
• Montessori-inspired Music Appreciation Lessons based on Maestro Classics

Cost of The Nutcracker*

• CD version $16.98
• MP 3 version $9.98 

*All prices are quoted in US $ and are current at time of review. Please consult the Maestro Classics website for current prices

Other CD's available 

• The 12 CD Collection
• Complete Maestro Classics Library - MP3 Collection (13 titles) 
• Peter and the Wolf - music by Prokofiev
  
• Carnival of the Animals - music by Saint Saens
• The Soldier's Tale - music by Igor Stravinsky
• The Tortoise and the Hare - music by Stephen Simon
• Casey at the Bat - music by Stephen Simon
• The Sorcerer's Apprentice - music by Dukas
• Classic Pack
• Story Pack
• Swan Lake Orchestra
• The Story of Swan Lake - Music by Tchaikovsky
• Juanita the Spanish Lobster - Music by David Haslam

Connect with Maestro Classics

• Pinterest
  
• Facebook
• Twitter
• YouTube
• Blog

What we thought
We love all things Maestro Classic.  The Nutcracker is perfect for ballet students learning to dance The Nutcracker, introducing children to Tchaikovsky's music, anyone going to see The Nutcracker ballet for the first time and fans of the popular story teller Jim Weiss.

Blessings
Chareen

Phonetic Zool Level A {IEW Review}

Earlier this year Nathaniel and I had the privilege of beginning our writing journey with The Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW). I have been a huge fan of theirs for over a decade and was very encouraged to see Nathaniel's progress in the area of composition using their Student Writing Package.

Due to Asperger's Syndrome Nathaniel has been struggling in the area of language arts and spelling is an area we have been working on. I recently discovered that Nathaniel learns best with short lessons, copy work and with clear instructions. I heard about Phonetic Zoo Spelling Level A [Starter Set] and I was very keen to try it.

You can watch Andrew Pudewa's introduction to Spelling Zoo on YouTube.

What we received

• Spelling and the Brain video Seminar
• 5 audio CD's containing 47 lessons, answer keys and 6 final exams
• Lesson Cards 
• Personal Spelling Cards
• Zoo Cards
• Phonetic Zoo Teacher Notes (PDF file) 3.93 MB. This manual is 76 pages long and contains: How to notes, an introduction to Phonetic Zoo, short lesson notes for each lesson and Appendices.

How we used it

After downloading the Teachers Manual I printed it off and followed took some time to read through the notes in the beginning. I found these notes particularly helpful as they explain the reasons behind the method.

Spelling Zoo uses a multi-sensory approach to teach spelling and has it's foundations in Mrs. Anna Inghams Blended Sound-Sight Program of Learning. The explanations of basic neurophysiology deepened my understanding of the processes involved in learning to spell and helped reinforce the method.

 I downloaded the audio program into iTunes and gave Nathaniel the first spelling card. 

Nathaniel looked over the spelling rule and column A of the spelling words. I had him read the rule to me and explained what it meant in relation to the words he was learning.  We put aside the card and took out a book with plain lined paper.

The next step was for him to do on his own.  He started listening to the audio. Track one explains to the student how the program works.  Track two was the first lesson.  The spelling rule is recited followed by a spelling practice run.

This involves:

• Hearing the word to be learned in context of a sentence 
• Writing the word.  
• Once all the words are written the student is required to mark their own work. The process involves: hearing the word, hearing the spelling of the word, crossing out the incorrectly spelled word and writing it the correct way.  

This process is repeated until the student obtains 100 % accuracy for the list they are working on for two days in a row.

Front of Personal Spelling Reward Cards

Back of Personal Reward Spelling Cards

 Once they have obtained mastery they earn a zoo card for that level.  Each card contains:

• On the front:A picture of an animal whose name follows the spelling rule and the title of the spelling rule
• On the back: The lesson number, rule title and hint poem to help the student remember the rule.

Front: Lesson Card One

 The lesson cards are printed on card stock. Each card has three levels of spelling on them.  Level A, B and C. The front of the card has a drawing of an animal along with their name which conforms to the spelling rule being learned. On the right is a sample of the words being learned that lesson.

Back Lesson Card One

The back of each card contains the lesson summary and rule hint. On the right is three columns.  One for each spelling level. This means that you only need one set of cards to complete all three levels. Once you have worked through level A go back to the beginning and work your way through each successful level. This means I only have to purchase the audio's in order to complete the next two levels.

Cost of Phonetic Zoo Level A*

• CD with Printed Materials $99.00
• Download, $79.00

*All prices are quoted in US $ and are current at time of review. Please consult the I.E.W. website for current prices
** I.E.W. is available for purchase internationally.  Find your nearest distributor here.

Recommended Age Range

• Grades 3 - 5
• Special Education
• English Learners
• Level A (primary)
• Level B (intermediate)
• Level C (highest)

Find out more

•  Getting started with The Phonetic Zoo
• How to use Spelling Zoo
• About the 100 % refund Guarantee 
• Spelling Zoo Placement Test 

Connect with IEW



I am very impressed with Spelling Zoo.  It has removed the stress of me having to daily repeat the spelling I am teaching to Nathaniel.  Spelling Zoo has been a good fit for Aspergers because each and every day is identical.  The results are measurable each day and he has immediate feedback on his personal progress.  There is no pressure because he is working against himself and his own ability.

Blessings
Chareen