World Book Course of Study
01 Aug 2011 Leave a Comment
in unit studies, What's New, World Book
The World Book Typical Course of Study has been around for a very long time. I’m not sure when it was first published, but the World Book encyclopedia publishers have shared the information for free for years.
Basically, it is a list of topics that are typically studied at each grade level – preschool through grade 12. The list is organized by subject area. My hope is to post the topics by grade level with links to projects and assignments my kids have done. I hope it will inspire you to try unit studies or projects with your students.
Also, please note that many of these posting are simply for my own reference.
Copywork 7/28/2011
28 Jul 2011 Leave a Comment
“Look at a man in the midst of doubt and danger and you will learn in his hour of adversity what he really is.” -Lucretius, Roman philosopher
Copywork 7/26/2011
26 Jul 2011 Leave a Comment
in copywork quotes, free resources
“Your life will go by someone’s agenda. If not yours, then someone else’s.” –Philosofacts, Farmer’s Almanac, 2011
Movie Monday: “Stranger Than Fiction”
25 Jul 2011 Leave a Comment
in What's New
If you’re expecting a witty, slap-stick comedy like The Truman Show, don’t start here. While each of the stars in this film are known for great comedic roles, all of them did well in this mostly-dramatic and imaginative movie. It was quite surprising in it’s very serious message.
The movie starts with Harold Crick going through his normal routine as a rather boring IRS auditor, while a woman narrates his life. He doesn’t seem to notice the narrator until she points out the differences on Wednesday. As Harold lives the differences in the narration, he gets concerned when the voice mentions his imminent death. Looking for help through a colleague at work, a shrink, and finally an English professor, Harold is guided through the process of identifying his author. Meanwhile, we meet an author, Kay Eiffel, who is suffering from writer’s block and is assigned, by her publisher, an assistant who’s mission is to help Kay finish her book. While Harold tries to find his author, he takes a vacation from work, finds love, and learns what his life is about.
While The Truman Show was about “big brother watching” and regaining control of our lives, “Stranger Than Fiction” explores the idea of predestination and living our lives. I fully expected a flat-out comedy considering Will Ferrell’s previous roles. I was honestly pleasantly surprised with his performance in this more serious role. While the premise of the movie is not realistic and generally speaking quite comical, Ferrell did an excellent job in portraying a level of seriousness with his character.
Overall, this movie was good. I don’t typically watch movies twice, but I would watch it again because I believe I can learn more Harold and Kay a second time through.
Copywork 7/21/2011
21 Jul 2011 Leave a Comment
in copywork quotes, free resources, What's New
“Every man is wise when attacked by a mad dog; fewer when pursued by a mad woman; only the wisest survive when attacked by a mad notion.” –Robertson Davies
