It's a Matter of Mass...or is it a Mass of Matter?

Many people question homeschoolers, "Are you a certified teacher?", "How can you teach your child everything?". Well, the truth of the matter is; I can't teach my children everything. However, I am able to guide their studies, encourage them, and offer customized learning to their needs.

I admire the pioneer homeschoolers (10+ years ago) who had very few choices. Today we have such a selection of curriculum choices available that the problem we now face is how to choose. There are complete textbooks, online classes, co-op classes, tutors, and more.

I have found that a variety of the above works for us. This year I had planned a mini-coop with another family that would cover Art, Geography, History, and Science. Then my friend had to go and move to the Arctic so we made some changes. That is okay, we forgive them. :-)

For the most part, I have been very happy with our progress this year. We have been using a computerized Math program (Teaching Textbooks), and both boys seem to really enjoy it. Austin especially has really improved. For English we are using traditional textbooks (BJU). Spelling, Vocabulary, and Geography we are using online programs. History has been a combination of textbooks, videos and field trips.

The only area that I have really been lagging in is Science. I have never cared for Science, never really understood it. I have looked at curriculum after curriculum and it just doesn't seem to fit with me us. That is until this month, when I discovered a live video teacher for Science. (I told you, the choices are wonderful).

We had our first lesson this week about Matter and Mass. She was very good with the kids, there was about 15 children in the class - they were able to interact with the teacher and each other. We learned about the 3 main properties of matter; Solids, Liquids, and Gas. We learned the difference between them and then made a lava lamp to demonstrate. The boys really enjoyed that, and it really worked.

We are actually looking forward to the next session, who knows; I might have found the answer for Science. :-)

At night, they put a flashlight under the bottle and it looks just like a lava lamp. Matthew posted directions on how to make it over here.