Education

Language Mechanics Printables

My mom and grandmother administered the girls’ standardized tests while we were in Florida (in West Virginia, a parent can’t administer the official tests that we submit to the school board), and one thing I realized when I was flipping through the test booklets was that we haven’t really spent enough time focusing on language mechanics — specifically capitalization and punctuation.

We use First Language Lessons from Peace Hill Press, but we haven’t been as consistent with it as we should have been, and I thought they had a better understanding of both topics than they did. (More on our 2013-2014 curriculum plans coming soon!)

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The following post is from Jennifer, a lifelong educator:

pen

source: John-Morgan

Most students are in countdown mode:  they know exactly how many days are left until summer.  Children and teens everywhere envision sleeping in, lazing by the pool, and playing with friends. All of those things are appropriate – when balanced with the realities of responsibility.

What is this teacher’s plea? Please don’t coddle your children this summer! Too many children are not required to exert themselves, either physically or mentally, for weeks or months. They return to school in the fall with a bad attitude. They resent the demands that a rigid schedule and tough curriculum require. Days of precious instructional time are wasted as teachers try – sometimes unsuccessfully – to get students back up to speed and into the mode of learning.

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Bookmaking for Kids: Accordion Envelope Books

May 22, 2013
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The following post is from Kristina of Toddler Approved: Bookmaking is a simple and fun way to get kids excited about reading and writing. When I was an elementary school teacher, bookmaking was always a favorite activity. I’ve recently started making books with my five year old, and he is now obsessed! Simple accordion envelope [...]

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Five Ways to Get Ready for Next School Year

May 17, 2013
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The following post is from Angie of Many Little Blessings: Although some homeschoolers do year round school, most homeschoolers are gearing up for a full or partial summer vacation in the next month. This offers homeschool parents a great opportunity to regroup and get ready for next school year. With just a few steps, you [...]

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6 Ways to Arrive Home More Relaxed

May 7, 2013
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The following post is from Jennifer, a lifelong educator: When you haven’t seen your kids all day, it’s important to arrive home in a good mood so you can more easily reconnect with your family. The way you feel when you walk in the door can help you set a positive tone that carries into the evening, thus [...]

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Five Authentic Writing Activities for Children

May 1, 2013
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The following post is from Angie of Many Little Blessings: Writing seems to be one of those subjects with which many homeschooling families struggle. Without knowing a homeschooling family very well, you can often guess that if you ask, “What writing curriculum have you used,” you’ll get a myriad of answers all from the same [...]

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Help for Your Child’s Handwriting

April 25, 2013
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The following post is from Jennifer, a lifelong educator: See all of the Homework Helps posts here. Some people say that handwriting isn’t important because so much of today’s communication is digital. I believe it’s important for children to be proficient at both. A computer is not always an option and whether you’re an adult [...]

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Poetry Activities with Children

April 18, 2013
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The following post is from Angie of Many Little Blessings: While poetry can be a wonderful addition to your language arts and reading studies all year long, April is especially perfect since it is National Poetry Month.

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