tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85195213247368739312024-03-13T19:53:39.079-07:00Ask RebeccaAsk Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-59302792047246330892014-05-01T14:54:00.000-07:002016-04-23T15:59:52.235-07:00Beowulf - An Ancient Epic<h4>
<i> Never heard of Beowulf? Who is he and what is this all about? Check it out for an epic dose of adventure and courage!</i></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k6BKKDgpbgg/VxvyUM2hlrI/AAAAAAAAAFw/1832BE-cOmApKfm3zTMwn2myBdyW8vMwgCLcB/s1600/BeowulfImage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k6BKKDgpbgg/VxvyUM2hlrI/AAAAAAAAAFw/1832BE-cOmApKfm3zTMwn2myBdyW8vMwgCLcB/s200/BeowulfImage.jpg" width="145" /></a></div>
<h3>
<i> </i></h3>
<h3>
<i>Beowulf - An Ancient Epic </i>translated by Seamus Heaney</h3>
<h4>
Grade level & category: </h4>
Grades 10-adult; A good AP choice; British Literature;
Setting: 6th Century Scandanavia; This translation is a New York Times Bestseller. Winner of the Whitbread Book of the Year Award.<br />
<h4>
Themes: </h4>
<a name='more'></a>Defeating evil, death, courage, warriors, heroism, Christianity, fate, humanity, leadership, wealth & materialism.<br />
<h4>
Author biography: </h4>
Seamus Heaney (April 13, 1939 – August 30, 2013) was an Irish poet, playwright, translator, lecturer, and teacher. He grew up and lived in Dublin, Ireland. In the early 1960s, he became a lecturer in Belfast after attending university there and began to publish poetry. <sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-4"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seamus_Heaney#cite_note-4"></a></sup>
<br />
Heaney was a professor at Harvard University from 1981 to 1997 and its Poet in Residence from 1988 to 2006. From 1989 to 1994 he was also the Professor of Poetry at Oxford and in 1996 was made a Commandeur de l'Ordre des Arts et Lettres. His awards include:<br />
<ul>
<li>1966 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Eric Gregory Award">Eric Gregory Award</a></li>
<li>1967 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Cholmondeley Award">Cholmondeley Award</a></li>
<li>1968 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Geoffrey Faber Memorial Prize">Geoffrey Faber Memorial Prize</a></li>
<li>1975 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="E. M. Forster Award">E. M. Forster Award</a></li>
<li>1975 <a class="mw-redirect" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Duff Cooper Memorial Prize">Duff Cooper Memorial Prize</a></li>
<li>1995 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Nobel Prize in Literature">Nobel Prize in Literature</a></li>
<li>1996 Commandeur de l'<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Ordre des Arts et des Lettres">Ordre des Arts et des Lettres</a></li>
<li>1997 Elected <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Saoi">Saoi</a> of <a class="mw-redirect" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Aosdana">Aosdana</a></li>
<li>2001 <a class="mw-redirect" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Golden Wreath of Struga Poetry Evenings">Golden Wreath of Poetry</a>, the main international award given by <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Struga Poetry Evenings">Struga Poetry Evenings</a> to a world renowned living poet for life achievement in the field of poetry</li>
<li>2005 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Irish PEN Award">Irish PEN Award</a></li>
<li>2006 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="T. S. Eliot Prize">T. S. Eliot Prize</a> for <i><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="District and Circle">District and Circle</a></i></li>
<li>2007 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Poetry Now Award">Poetry Now Award</a> for <i>District and Circle</i></li>
<li>2009 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="David Cohen Prize">David Cohen Prize</a></li>
<li>2011 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Poetry Now Award">Poetry Now Award</a> for <i><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Human Chain (poetry)">Human Chain</a></i></li>
<li>2011 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Griffin Poetry Prize">Griffin Poetry Prize</a> finalist for <i>Human Chain</i></li>
<li>2011 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Irish Book Awards">Bob Hughes Lifetime Achievement Award</a></li>
<li>2012 <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" title="Griffin Poetry Prize">Griffin Poetry Prize</a> Lifetime Recognition Award<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-84"></sup></li>
</ul>
<h4>
Book summary: </h4>
<i>Beowulf</i> is the first great English, Anglo-Saxon, literary epic, chronicling a hero's exploits as Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian clans teeter between Christianity and the old religions. A monster, Grendel, has descended on Heorot, mead hall of King Hrothgar, Bringing death and chaos for 12 years. Beowulf, hero of the Geats, travels to the land of the Danes to free them from Grendel's grasp. With boldness and God's help, Beowulf defeats Grendel and Grendel's mother when she comes seeking vengeance. Finally, at the end of a long reign as king of the Geats, Beowulf faces a dragon to save his people once again and burn his name into the pages of history.<br />
This New York Times Bestseller was seen as ground-breaking in its use of modern language melded with the original Anglo-Saxon 'music'. "Accomplish[es] what before now had seemed impossible: a faithful rendering that is simultaneously an original and gripping poem in its own right." –<i>New York Times Book Review </i><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-poetry_foundation_73-5"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seamus_Heaney#cite_note-poetry_foundation-73"></a></sup><br />
<br />
<b>Other books you might love if you love this one</b>: <i>The Hobbit</i> by J.R.R. Tolkien, <i>Fellowship of the Ring </i>by J.R.R. Tolkien,<i> The Two Tower </i>by J.R.R. Tolkien,<i> The Return of the King </i>by J.R.R. Tolkien,<i> King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table </i>by Roger Lancelyn Green, <i>Grendel</i> by John Gardner, <i>The History of the Kings of Britain</i> by Geoffrey of Monmouth & Lewis Thorpe (translator), <i>Le Morte d'Arthur: King Arthur and the Legends of the Round Table</i> by Thomas Malory, <i>Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Pearl, and Sir Orfeo</i> by J.R.R. Tolkien, <i>The Song of Roland</i> -anonymous, <i>Gilgamesh: A New English Version </i>by Stephen Mitchell<i>, The Iliad</i> by Homer, <i>The Odyssey</i> by Homer<i>.</i><br />
<span itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"></span><span itemprop="author" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span class="authorName greyText smallText role"></span></span>About 90 years ago, J.R.R. Tolkien translated the 11th-century Old English epic poem "Beowulf" and then put it on the shelf. It remained there unpublished -- until now. For
the first time ever, Christopher Tolkien will release his father’s
translation of the tale. It will be published as a book titled <i>Beowulf: A Translation And Commentary</i>
and will include lectures J.R.R. Tolkien gave on the poem. HarperCollins will
release the translation May 22, 2014. <br />
<h4>
To talk about: </h4>
The main plot of <i>Beowulf</i> can be told fairly simply and straightforwardly, but the poet chooses to tell his tale expansively and elaborately, incorporating a number of other stories or "digressions." Why, do you think, does the poet take this route? How do these digressions contribute to a greater understanding of Beowulf's own story? Is Beowulf a traditional hero with positive qualities that bring him through or is he a tragic hero who possesses a character flaw that ultimately brings him down at the end?<br />
<i>Idea</i>: Keep a journal as you read this epic, noting the poem's references to fate and to God. Then discuss whether the God Beowulf refers to is the same God of scripture. Most scholars believe that the author of <i>Beowulf</i> was Christian—but is it a "Christian poem"?<br />
How does how we deal with death as Christians compare with how those in the novel dealt with death?<br />
<h4>
My favorite quote from the Book:</h4>
(As Beowulf lies dying after defeating the dragon)<br />
"To the everlasting Lord of All, to the King of Glory, I give thanks that I beheld this treasure here in front of me, that I have been allowed to leave my people so well endowed on the day I die. Now that I have bartered my last breath to own this fortune, it is up to you to look after their needs."Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-80926021830886841972014-03-18T06:00:00.000-07:002014-04-25T10:33:07.256-07:001st Grade Reading<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I have a daughter who will be going into 1st grade next year and I am wondering how I would use your program to fulfill any of the language arts curriculum for her. Is this a complete reading program? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Thank you,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Bethann B.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
Dear Bethann,<br />
<br />
We do not provide actual phonics or spelling. As first and second graders begin to read, they may do the guides in written format, or out loud as discussion guides. You may have them read or you may do it together as a read-a-loud or book circle. Progeny Press study guides for the elementary grades are meant to enrich their beginning reading experience by helping them focus on comprehension and making connections. We also help them see basic biblical truths in what they read. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Our guides are meant to be used with real living picture books for 1st
graders that will help them fall in love with reading and stories. All
our titles are carefully chosen to encourage and inspire young children
to grow, be hard working, thoughtful, brave, and loving. The guides also include vocabulary, and many hands-on projects and tie-ins for enrichment.<br />
<br />
I would suggest that you have a basic spelling book/program, a fun phonics book/program to teach the mechanics of reading, and then the rest of the time, just read. Read aloud, go to the library, and only do <u>one-to-three study guides per year for a 1st grader.</u> I like to see them read lots of books and only study a few. Keep this wonderful and fun and let them learn to love what they read!!<br />
<br />
A nice pace in the study guides is to read the book together the first week, do a project, and then only work on one or two pages per week until the guide is done. This will require going back to the book and using it as a teaching text. It allows you, as the teacher, an opportunity to have them re-read something and understand it deeper, and to practice their early beginning writing skills. Meanwhile, you will be enjoying and just reading other stories to learn to love books. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-78515996831516902422014-03-17T11:33:00.000-07:002014-03-17T11:33:01.985-07:00Progeny Press Literature Genre List 2014<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">genre |ˈ zh änrə|<br />noun<br />A category of artistic composition, as in music or literature, characterized by similarities in form, style, or subject matter.</span></span><br />
<br />
What are literature genres? I discuss this often at homeschool and teacher conferences across the country. In literature, we tend to classify books by where the author is from and/or lived. <br />
Common genres include:<br />
<b>American Literature: </b><br />
All the authors are American. This is generally taught a full year in 9th or sometimes 10th grade.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>British Literature: </b><br />
All the authors are British or from somewhere in the United Kingdom. This is generally taught in 10th or sometimes 9th grade.<br />
<br />
<b>World Literature:</b><br />
All the authors are pretty much from anywhere else in the world. This is generally taught in 11th grade, usually for one semester.<br />
<br />
Even more fun, (once done with American, British, and World Lit) in high school is developing your own semester-long classes based on "African literature," "Christian authors," "Plays and Stage History," "Non-fiction," "Black authors," "Asian authors," "Female authors," "Early American authors," "Science Fiction," "Mystery and Murder in Literature," "Newbery Children's Classics in Literature," "Poetry," and so on...<br />
<br />
Choosing from among these ideas and any of your own, you can build a rich a rewarding literature program for high school.<br />
<br />
Here, for your perusal is our Progeny Press Title list sorted into high school genres for you. I hope you find this helpful planning for next fall!<br /><b><u>American Literature</u></b><br /><i>The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn</i>, by Mark Twain<br /><i>The Call of the Wild</i>, by Jack London<br /><i>A Day No Pigs Would Die</i>, by Robert Newton Peck<br /><i>Fahrenheit 451</i>, by Ray Bradbury<br />
<i>Great Expectations, </i>by Charles Dickens (targeted release date end of April 2014)<br /><i>The Great Gatsby</i>, by F. Scott Fitzgerald<br />
<i>The Hunger Games, </i>by Suzanne Collins<br /><i>The Last of the Mohicans</i>, by James Fennimore Cooper<br /><i>The Old Man and the Sea</i>, by Ernest Hemingway<br /><i>The Red Badge of Courage</i>, by Stephen Crane<br /><i>The Scarlet Letter,</i> by Nathaniel Hawthorne<br /><i>To Kill a Mockingbird</i>, by Harper Lee<br /><i>Uncle Tom’s Cabin</i>, by Harriet Beecher Stowe<br /><i>The Yearling</i>, by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings<br />
<br />
<u><b>British Literature</b></u><br /><i>A Christmas Carol,</i> by Charles Dickens<br /><i>Beowulf</i>, translated by Seamus Heaney<br />
<i>The Eagle of the Ninth</i>, by Rosemary Sutcliff<br /><i>Frankenstein</i>, by Mary Shelley<br /><i>Great Expectations</i>, by Charles Dickens<br /><i>Jane Eyre</i>, by Charlotte Brontë<br /><i>The Hobbit</i>, by J.R.R. Tolkien<br /><i>Lord of the Flies</i>, by William Golding<br /><i>The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring</i>, by J.R.R. Tolkien<br /><i>The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers</i>, by J.R.R. Tolkien<br />
<i>The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King</i>, by J.R.R. Tolkien<br /><i>Out of the Silent Planet</i>, by C.S. Lewis<br /><i>Perelandra</i>, by C.S. Lewis<br /><i>Pride and Prejudice</i>, by Jane Austen<br /><i>The Scarlet Pimpernel</i>, by Baroness Orczy<br /><i>The Screwtape Letters</i>, by C. S. Lewis<br /><i>The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde</i>, by Robert Louis Stevenson<br /><i>A Tale of Two Cities</i>, by Charles Dickens<br /><i>Treasure Island</i>, by Robert Louis Stevenson<br />
<br />
<u><b>Shakespeare’s Plays</b></u> (these also count as British Literature)<br /><i>Hamlet</i>, by William Shakespeare<br /><i>Julius Caesar</i>, by William Shakespeare<br /><i>Macbeth</i>, by William Shakespeare<br /><i>The Merchant of Venice</i>, by William Shakespeare<br /><i>Romeo and Juliet</i>, by William Shakespeare<br />
<br /><u><b>World Literature</b></u><br /><i>Heart of Darkness</i>, by Joseph Conrad<br /><i>The Hiding Place</i>, by Corrie ten Boom<br /><i>The Swiss Family Robinson</i>, by Johann David Wyss<br /><i>Things Fall Apart</i>, by Chinua Achebe<br />
<br /><u><b>Poetry</b></u><br /><i>Introduction to Poetry: Forms and Elements</i><br /><i>Out of the Dust</i>, by Karen Hesse <br />
<br />
<u><b>Literature by Christian Authors</b></u><br />
<i>The Hiding Place</i>, by Corrie ten Boom<br /><i>The Hobbit</i>, by J.R.R. Tolkien<br /><i>The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring</i>, by J.R.R. Tolkien<br /><i>The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers</i>, by J.R.R. Tolkien<i> </i><br />
<i>The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King</i>, by J.R.R. Tolkien<br /><i>Out of the Silent Planet</i>, by C.S. Lewis<br /><i>Perelandra</i>, by C.S. Lewis<br /><i>The Screwtape Letters</i>, by C. S. Lewis<br /><i>The Swiss Family Robinson</i>, by Johann David Wyss<br /><i>Uncle Tom’s Cabin</i>, by Harriet Beecher Stowe<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-36039809122125670632014-02-26T13:49:00.002-08:002014-02-26T13:49:57.323-08:00Encouraging Readers in Middle School<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Rebecca, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">We have a thirteen year old who is very behind in his reading
skills. Although he has greatly improved this year, he is still testing
about one grade below his current grade level. We are going to be
homeschooling him to catch him up in all areas of Language Arts. We
are excited about finding your products (from the <a href="http://cathyduffyreviews.com/phonics_reading/progeny-press.htm" target="_blank">Cathy Duffy Homeschool Reviews</a>). Our question is this: Is it beneficial to choose
books that he is already familiar with (ones that he has read before or
seen the movie?) or should we choose books that are new to him? What
is your opinion? We don't want to overwhelm him or make reading a chore,
but we also want to take this opportunity to challenge him enough;
improving his skills.<br /><br />Thank you for your kind attention,<br /><br />Andrew and Jennifer </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Dear Andrew and Jennifer,<br />Your son sounds perfectly normal for his age, where reading levels vary widely. Having talked with many parents over the years, I think that choosing only 3 or so guides to study for the year (instead of 4) and then reading many fun books beyond those analyzed will be the best encouragement for more enjoyable reading. If I were you, I would choose one of each, perhaps one title that he has read and really enjoyed, one title that he has only seen the movie for, and one title that is new and challenging him a bit. In this way, he feels invested in the guides chosen and will enjoy learning literary technique and critical thinking with stories he enjoys, yet he can stretch and challenge himself with one title that is new and perhaps harder than the other two.<br />
<br />Rebecca<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-81927396224402001852014-02-06T19:17:00.000-08:002016-04-23T15:59:29.840-07:00Medieval Books to Study - Huzzah!<b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Hi Rebecca,<br /><br />Our three children (ages 8-15) will be studying the middle ages next year. What are some of your favorite Progeny Press guides for that time period? <br />Your guidance would be most appreciated!<br />Thanks and blessings in Christ, Laura</span></b><br />
<br />
Dear Laura,<br />
We have a variety of titles available that will work quite well. Here is our current list of medieval titles and their descriptions: Huzzah!<br />
<a name='more'></a><i>The Minstrel in the Tower </i>(grades 2-4), <i>The Sword in the Tree</i> (grades 2-4), <i>The Whipping Boy</i> (grades 3-5), <i>The Door in the Wall</i> (grades 4-6), <i>The Bridge</i> (grades 4-6), <i>Crown and Jewel </i>(grades 4-6)<i>, The Two Collars</i> (grades 4-6), <i>Redwall</i> (grades 5-9), <i>The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe</i> (grades 4-7), <i>Prince Caspian</i> (grades 5-7), <i>Voyage of the Dawn Treader </i>(grades 5-7), <i>The Horse and His Boy </i>(grades 5-7), <i>Crispin: The Cross of Lead</i> (grades 6-8), and for high school, <i>Hamlet</i> (grades 9-12), <i>Macbeth</i> (grades 9-12), <i>Romeo and Juliet </i>(late medieval, early Renaissance, grades 9-12) <i>Beowulf </i>(very early medieval, grades 10-12), and all four of the <i>Lord of the Rings</i> titles (grades 9-12).<br />
Following are descriptions to help you choose.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ROnaYvx7YZY/Vxv-NQzWMDI/AAAAAAAAAG0/LSUTyu_ZwXYRqVx9eUsaC5p64BNsyxmtQCLcB/s1600/MinstrelImage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ROnaYvx7YZY/Vxv-NQzWMDI/AAAAAAAAAG0/LSUTyu_ZwXYRqVx9eUsaC5p64BNsyxmtQCLcB/s200/MinstrelImage.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><u><i>The Minstrel in the Tower</i> by Gloria Skurzynski:</u></b><br />
Roger and Alice live alone with their mother in a tiny cottage. Their father, a knight, left five years earlier to fight in the Crusades and never returned. When Roger's and Alice's mother falls dangerously ill, she sends them on a quest to find an uncle they never knew they had. They take with them their mother's lute. "Show him the eagle carved on the back," she tells them. "Ask him to come quickly. Quickly!" <br />
Things become complicated when they are captured by outlaws, and their lute--the only proof of their identity--is stolen. Knowing that at least one of them must escape for their mother's sake, they come up with a plan. Alice, the better climber of the two, climbs out of the tower from a high window. Now she must journey alone, find her uncle, and persuade him to help without the lute to prove her identity. With courage and cunning, she must convince her uncle, save her brother, and ultimately her mother.<br />
An excellent choice for good 2nd and 3rd grade readers, or for reluctant 4th graders or those just coming up to speed.<br />
Setting: France, 1195<br />
<b><u><i>The Sword in the Tree</i> by Clyde Robert Bulla</u></b><br />
Eleven-year-old Shan, son of Lord Weldon, is happily training to become a knight. But everything changes when his long-lost uncle arrives; and when Lord Weldon mysteriously disappears, Shan's uncle takes over the castle. After hiding his father's sword, Shan and his mother go into hiding; but Shan plans for the day when he will reclaim his birthright. Shan even dares to go before King Arthur in Camelot, seeking help. Will it come in time? <br />
An excellent choice for advanced 2nd and 3rd grade readers.<br />
Setting: Medieval England, in the time of King Arthur<br />
<b><u><i>The Whipping Boy</i> by Sid Fleischman</u></b><br />
When the prince is a brat and you aren't supposed to punish him because
he is 'royalty,' what is a king to do? Call the whipping boy; he takes
the whippings the prince's guardians aren't allowed to give to 'Prince
Brat.' This high-paced story begins with the prince making trouble -
again. Jemmy, the whipping boy, is called for and receives the prince's
punishment - again. This becomes the pattern for every day: the prince
refuses to learn his school lessons and Jemmy gets punished. The prince
pulls a prank, and Jemmy gets punished. Jemmy decides, however, that as
long as he is there he might as well learn proper manners and how to
read and write, even if the prince won't. Then, one fateful night, the
prince decides to run away and needs someone to carry his basket. Jemmy
is drafted, and their adventure begins.<br />
Setting: London or Paris, late medieval, early Renaissance <br />
<b><u><i>The Door in the Wall</i> by Marguerite de Angeli</u></b><br />
Robin, son
of Sir John de Bureford, has been told his whole life that one day he,
like his father, would learn the ways of knighthood. Yet one day, while
his parents are away, Robin is struck by an illness that leaves him
unable to use his legs. Left alone in plague-ridden London, Robin is
taken to the monastery of St. Mark's by a kind monk named Brother Luke. <br />
Robin
is saddened by the fact that, as a cripple, he cannot become a knight
like his father. "Thou has only to follow the wall far enough," Brother
Luke tells Robin, "and there will be a door in it." While recovering at
the monastery, Robin discovers that door. He becomes skilled at
woodcarving and swimming, and is taught to use his mind as well as his
hands. He is also taught a more valuable lesson in patience. <br />
When he
is well, Robin is sent to the castle of Sir Peter de Lindsay, where he
was to learn the ways of knighthood, but now he will simply serve as a
page. Robin wonders what sort of page he can be with crutches and,
consequently, without free hands for service, but when the castle falls
under attack, it is Robin who must save the lord and all his people.<br />
Setting: England 1300's<br />
<b><u><i>The Bridge </i>by Jerri Massi</u></b><br />
Princess Rosalynn of Bracken is left in the care of loyal Sir Reynald
while her father, the king, is off visiting a neighboring castle. Then
Reynald learns of an impending attack from Folger, a neighboring country
much larger than Bracken and connected to it only by a suspension
bridge. Acting quickly he devises a plan to save the princess and
hopefully save Bracken as well. The princess is carried away from the
castle by Herron the Rider. When enemy soldiers chase them and Herron is
wounded, he leaves Rosalynn in the middle of the forest and then leads
the soldiers away. So Rosalynn is left to begin her journey through
perilous, enemy-filled territory - her life in danger with every step.
In the process, a wise woman will help her and guide her to greater
understanding of herself and others. <br />
Book 1 in the Bracken trilogy. This title is out of print and the novel is difficult to find. We have just a few copies of the novel left.<br />
Setting: imaginative medieval<br />
<b><u><i>Crown and Jewel</i> by Jerri Massi</u></b><br />
Princess Rosewyn, the daughter of Queen Rosalynn and King Herron, spends
her time climbing trees, riding pigs, and taking dares. She despises
royal manners and is always looking for a bit of adventure. In this
pursuit she inadvertently stumbles upon the secret plot of Sir Blackroot
to overthrow her royal family. She then meets her wise and wonderful
grandmother, the Wise Woman. Together they escape the palace to find a
way to save her family and the tiny kingdom of Bracken. When her
grandmother is captured, Rosewyn spends time in hiding with humble
miners. Soon, however, her whereabouts are discovered and the Princess
must flee yet again across the wintry countryside. Eventually rejoining
her grandmother, Rosewyn must regain her strength in order to find her
parents, the King and Queen, and expose Sir Blackroot's plot for power.<br />
Book 2 in the Bracken trilogy. This title is out of print with the publisher and is difficult to find.<br />
Setting: imaginative medieval<br />
<b><u><i>The Two Collars</i> by Jerri Massi </u></b><br />
Krea, a humble slave girl, is a juggler in a traveling troupe led by a
wicked master. When she falls ill one day and it appears she will die
she is rescued by the Wise Woman, who buys her from her terrible master.
The Wise Woman nurses Krea back to health with comfort, love, and
acceptance. She teaches the girl not only a physician's trade but also
honor, loyalty, and the value of compassion. The kingdom of Bracken is
in danger and Krea becomes a courier in the service of King Reynald.
Reynald's cousin, Frederick, has plans to overthrow Reynald and take the
throne. In the midst of her runs as a messenger, Krea finds herself
captured by her former master. Once again the Wise Woman comes to her
rescue, and together they seek a way to save King Reynald and Bracken.
Amidst brewing war, she will help Krea understand true freedom.<br />
Book 3 in the Bracken trilogy. This title is out of print with the publisher but we still have a limited supply!<br />
Setting: imaginative medieval<br />
<b><u><i>Redwall</i> by Brian Jacques</u></b><br />
Peaceful Redwall Abbey is suddenly threatened by Cluny the Scourge, a terrible one-eyed rat and his horde of minions. Matthias, a quiet and unsure young mouse novice monk rises to the challenge; but he needs the sword of Martin the Warrior! What clues lie in the old sayings and tapestries? Will he find the sword and shield in time? A marvelously epic tale filled with rich characters, true good, and frightening evil.<br />
Setting: imaginative, medieval<br />
<b><u><i>The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe</i> by C.S. Lewis </u></b><br />
In this tale symbolic of the gospel, during World War II, four children,
Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy, are sent to stay at the country home of
an old professor. During a game of hide-and-seek, Lucy steps into a
wardrobe, only there seems to be no end to it. Just when she thinks
she's found the back she steps out into a wintry forest - and the land
of Narnia! There she meets a Faun named Tumnus who tells her how the
White Witch has used her magic to make it always winter in Narnia, but
never Christmas. Later, they all discover the land of Narnia and meet
Aslan, the Great Lion and true ruler of Narnia. Though Aslan's return
brings hope to the Narnians, that hope is crushed when Aslan gives
himself in sacrifice to save Edmund from the Witch. Who will save Narnia
now?<br />
Setting: imaginative, Britain, and medieval Narnia <br />
<b><u><i>Prince Caspian</i> by C.S. Lewis</u></b><br />
When Caspian's parents die, Miraz, Caspian's uncle, assumes the throne,
to rule until Caspian grows old enough. But when Miraz has a son and
heir of his own, he seeks Caspian's death. Caspian flees into the
wilderness where he encounters a pair of Dwarfs and a talking Badger -
creatures who inhabited Narnia before Narnia was conquered by the
Telmarines, Caspian's people, and driven out by Miraz. There are many of
the Old Narnians living in hiding, but with Caspian on their side, they
seek to overthrow Miraz and drive the Telmarines from Narnia. Caspian
gathers an army of Old Narnians, but Miraz learns of their plans and
sends his own armies to search for them. When Caspian's army suffers a
series of setbacks, Caspian decides to blow the Horn of Queen Susan
which he believes will bring help - possibly in the form of Aslan, the
Great Lion, himself. When and how will help appear?<br />
Setting: imaginative, medieval Narnia <br />
<b><u><i>The Voyage of the Dawn Treader</i> by C.S. Lewis</u> </b><br />
While visiting their nasty cousin Eustace, Lucy and Edward are
transported back to Narnia, to the ship of Caspian, now king of Narnia.
To their dismay, Eustace gets dragged along with them! Caspian has set
sail for the Eastern Islands to find seven lords who were banished there
by his evil uncle. But the Eastern Islands are full of strange places
and people, and Eustace learns some particularly difficult lessons.
Dragons, treasure, and a quest will bring them to Aslan himself!<br />
Setting: imaginative, Britain, and medieval Narnia <br />
<b><u><i>The Horse and His Boy</i> by C.S. Lewis</u></b><br />
The horse, Bree, and his boy, Shasta are fleeing their slavery, heading
north to Narnia and freedom. Along the way, they join the horse, Hwin,
and her rider, Aravis, fleeing an arranged marriage. Together they ride
north across the desert. Meanwhile, the vengeful Calormen prince
Rabadash determines to destroy Archenland and invade Narnia to capture
Queen Susan and make her his bride. Shasta and Aravis discover his plan
and must warn Archenland in time, or all is lost. Their journey to
"Narnia and the North" will involve difficult and dangerous situations,
through which they come to realize that they are being guided by none
other than Aslan himself! The surprise that awaits Shasta at the end of
his journey is more than he ever dreamed of.<br />
Setting: imaginative, medieval Narnia<br />
<b><u><i>Crispin: The Cross of Lead</i> by Avi</u></b><br />
2003 Newbery Medal winner.<br />
The boy had always been called "Asta's
son," but when Asta, his mother, dies, the village priest reveals that
his Christian name is Crispin. He also gives Crispin his mother's lead
cross and promises to reveal what the words etched on its surface mean.
But before he can tell Crispin, the priest is murdered and Crispin
accused of the crime. Believing the cross holds clues to his father's
identity, Crispin flees, eventually joining up with a traveling juggler
named Bear. Full of surprises, thrills, twists, treachery, contentment,
and a hearty dose of what life was actually like in the 14th century,
Crispin is also a story of faith, developing maturity, and learning what
freedom and manhood really mean.<br />
Setting: 1300s medieval England<br />
<b><u><i>Hamlet</i> by William Shakespeare</u></b><br />
Something is rotten in the state of Denmark. Two night watchmen at the
castle at Elsinore have seen a ghost they believe to be the former king
of Denmark, the father of Prince Hamlet. The soldiers entreat Horatio,
Hamlet's confidant, to wait with them for the ghost's appearance during
the night watch. Horatio is horrified by its resemblance to the dead
king. The men ask Hamlet to join the watch, and when the ghost appears,
it reveals to Hamlet that it is, indeed, the spirit of his father. The
ghost informs Hamlet that his father was murdered by Claudius, the
current king of Denmark. Claudius, Hamlet's uncle and brother of the
former king, has not only usurped the throne of Denmark, but has also
taken Gertrude, Hamlet's mother, as his wife. Hamlet vows to avenge the
death of his father and says he will put on an "antic disposition" to
distract others from his genuine purpose. His indecision and his madness
- feigned or real - result in tragedy for himself and all those around
him.<br />
Setting: medieval Denmark<br />
<b><u><i>Macbeth</i> by William Shakespeare</u></b><br />
A classic tragedy full of ambition and betrayal, superstition and
murder. After meeting three witches who prophesy that he will one day
become king, Macbeth sets off a chain of chaos throughout Scotland when
impatience drives him to kill his friend, kinsman, and king. Now king
himself, Macbeth struggles to prevent the rest of the witches'
predictions from coming to pass as his authority begins to crumble, his
wife slowly descends into madness, the fires of rebellion ignite
throughout Scotland, and even the seemingly favorable predictions the
witches gave him come to have a double edge.<br />
Setting: 1000AD Scotland<br />
<b><u><i>Romeo and Juliet</i> by William Shakespeare</u></b><br />
One of the most well-known love stories of all time; a love "too rash,
too unadvised, too sudden." Romeo and Juliet engage in a controversial
affair against the wills of their feuding families, utilizing the help
of a priest to sanction their marriage. Through circumstance, blood,
deception, and tragedy, the story unfolds. Will the young lovers
overcome generations of pain and hate? Or will the feud between their
families overcome them?<br />
Setting: late medieval, early Renaissance Verona, Italy<br />
<b><u><i>Beowulf</i> translated by Seamus Heaney</u></b><br />
Beowulf is the first great English, Anglo-Saxon, literary epic,
chronicling a hero's exploits as northern European clans teeter between
Christianity and the old religions. A monster, Grendel, has descended on
Heorot, mead hall of King Hrothgar, bringing death and chaos for 12
years. Beowulf, hero of the Geats, travels to the land of the Danes to
free them from Grendel's grasp. With boldness and God's help, Beowulf
defeats Grendel and Grendel's mother when she comes seeking vengeance.
Finally, at the end of a long reign as king of the Geats, Beowulf faces a
dragon to save his people and burn his name into the pages of history.<br />
Setting: very early medieval/ancient, Northern Europe<br />
<b><u><i>The Hobbit</i> by J.R.R. Tolkien</u></b><br />
The prequel to <i>The Lord of the Rings</i> trilogy.<br />
Bilbo Baggins is a respectable hobbit - one of a race of small, quiet,
country folk who inhabit The Shire, their pastoral corner of
Middle-earth. One day he receives an unexpected visit from the great
wizard Gandalf and thirteen dwarves. The dwarves, led by Thorin
Oakenshield, have decided to return to the land of their ancestors and
reclaim the treasure taken from them years before by Smaug, a terrible
dragon. On Gandalf's recommendation, Thorin and his company wish to
enlist Bilbo as their burglar. Although the idea of adventure appeals to
something deep within him, Bilbo would much rather stay at home where
he is comfortable and safe. Nevertheless, Bilbo is drawn into the quest
and soon faces trolls, goblins, and worse as he travels the great
distance to the Lonely Mountain, where the dwarves' treasure awaits - as
does the dragon.<br />
Setting: imaginative fantasy medieval<br />
<b><u><i>The Fellowship of the Ring</i> by J.R.R. Tolkien</u></b><br />
The first volume of <span style="font-style: italic;">The Lord of the Rings</span>. <br />
Frodo
Baggins inherits a ring from his uncle, Bilbo, who then disappears—thus
begins Frodo's epic quest through Middle-earth. From his humble and
comfortable life, Frodo is thrust into a world so much bigger than he
imagined. How can one small hobbit make a difference against
overwhelming odds and evil, and why continue when failure appears
certain? The Fellowship, a group of nine, is commissioned to carry the
One Ring to Mordor and destroy it. Facing Nazgul, meeting elves, the
loss of a dear friend, and chased by orcs, the adventure begins.<br />
Setting: imaginative fantasy medieval<br />
<b><u><i>The Two Towers</i> by J.R.R. Tolkien</u></b><br />
The second volume of <span style="font-style: italic;">The Lord of the Rings</span>.<br />
The epic myth begun in <i>The Fellowship of the Ring</i> continues. Frodo and Sam have left their friends to take the One Ring into the heart of Mordor and destroy it. While searching for Frodo, enemies attack and carry off the hobbits, Merry and Pippin, and the remainder of the Company races against all odds to their rescue, finding war, treachery, unexpected allies, and the joyous return of an old friend.<u> </u><br />
Setting: imaginative fantasy medieval<br />
<b><u><i>The Return of the King</i> by J.R.R. Tolkien</u></b><br />
The second volume of <span style="font-style: italic;">The Lord of the Rings</span>.<br />
The conclusion of Tolkien’s epic myth, <i>The Lord of the Rings</i>. Frodo and Sam continue their hopeless trek across the devastated and evil land of Mordor, intent on destroying the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. As they struggle to reach their goal, Sauron throws his numberless horde against the woefully out-matched men at Minas Tirith. But out of apparent doom rises a new king and new hope. Aragorn and Gandalf risk all, leading an assault on the Dark Lord himself in an attempt to distract him from the Ringbearer and perhaps give Frodo time to destroy the Ring. But can Frodo resist the temptation of the Ring?<br />
Setting: imaginative fantasy medievalAsk Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-46252999407545320822014-01-21T13:52:00.000-08:002014-01-21T13:52:37.687-08:00Being Salt in a World Full of GritI see that you have <i>Fahrenheit 451</i> by Ray Bradbury - it is full of swearing .....I was appalled when my 13 year old <u>had</u> to read it last year.<br />
-SW<br />
<br />
<br />
Dear SW,<br />
<br />
Since we, as Christians are to be light in the world, and salt to a lost world; not hidden under baskets and therefore unsalty, we realize we've been directed by God that we should not pull away and separate ourselves, else how shall we love our neighbor and be salt and light to them?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>We also realize that even when we are in public, for example, shopping at the mall or grocery store, we are going to hear the world speaking as they speak, and this may include inappropriate language. If we, as parents, bring undue attention to it each time we hear it by pointing it out to our children, we give it too much power and attention in our children's minds. A better course is to walk on by and not pay attention to it, as our children certainly have been taught and know it is inappropriate.<br />
<br />
You are correct that there is more swearing in <i>Fahrenheit 451</i> than in any other book for which we carry a study guide, and that caused us some concern in preparing a guide for the book. However, we decided that it carried an important message, was a culturally important novel, and had many elements that would lead to thoughtful, biblical discussion, so we proceeded with the study guide. Because of the swearing, the "Note to Instructor" for the study guide contains this statement:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Note on Swearing: <i>Fahrenheit 451</i> contains a number of times when characters misuse the name of God and swear. Progeny Press in no way endorses or tolerates the use of such language by children or Christian believers. However, we recognize the unpleasant fact that nonbelievers and those without such qualms do, and will continue to, use such language, and so some novels representing the world as it is will reproduce such language. We believe that mature students of this grade level should be able to recognize swearing as something practiced in the world, but not to be copied or practiced in their own lives. Also, the subject of <i>Fahrenheit 451</i> is the censorship of all ideas that are unpleasant or offensive to any person, which eliminates the free exchange of any ideas. With that in mind, and faith in the sustaining and redeeming power of God, we have produced this study guide for Fahrenheit 451.</li>
</ul>
<br />
You mentioned that your 13-year-old had to read this novel a year ago, but I am unclear why a child of this age would "have" to read it. We would <u><b>never</b></u> recommend this book to someone of that age because of the swearing and other elements of the novel. For this reason we have placed Fahrenheit 451 in the 10-12 grade level, and we often recommend waiting until grade 11 or 12. We certainly would not have recommended your child read the novel at age 13.<br />
<br />
We have noticed a trend in some private schools and among some homeschoolers to push children who are mature and read well into reading books of more mature nature, such as 5th graders reading <i>Macbeth</i>. We disagree with this approach. There are some books that contain material that is applicable to and understandable by older children, but that younger children simply do not have the spiritual, emotional, and life experience to deal with. Younger children may have the ability to read the story and understand the story but do not have the ability to understand the issues in the story. We would place <i>Macbeth</i>, <i>The Great Gatsby</i>, and <i>Fahrenheit 451</i> squarely within this category. <i>Lord of the Flies</i> is another example: it contains violence and images that I would not want my young children, including my young teenage children, to read and to have in their heads. But most older teenagers have the mental, emotional, and spiritual maturity to read the book and discuss the ideas behind the imagery--they can see past them and discuss what is in the hearts of people that leads to greed and violence, what happens to people when social and societal restraints are removed, why we see violence in society around us. By using books such as this in conjunction with the Bible, we can help our older children understand and deal with our society and human nature. <br />
<br />
We are sorry that your experience with <i>Fahrenheit 451</i> occurred as it did, and we hope you understand that this is not how we would have recommended the book be used. We agree with you that there are many more appropriate books for a 13-year-old to read and discuss, books that can help a child to prepare for the weightier things of life, not drop him or her into the middle of them.<br />
<br />
May God grant us wisdom and grace in raising and training our children!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-10785080925714597332014-01-14T20:14:00.000-08:002014-01-14T20:59:34.578-08:00How Long Does a High School Study Guide Take?<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Hello!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am planning for next year and wondered how much time it generally takes to complete <i>The Heart of Darkness</i>.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Thank you,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Dianna </span></b><br />
\o/<br />
/ \<br />
<br />
Dear Dianna,<br />
<br />
All high school guides will take about the same amount of time, unless they are a large guide for a long book (such as <i>Lord of the Rings</i>, <i>Uncle Tom's Cabin</i>, and a few more). <br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<ul>
<li>As a general rule of thumb, most middle grades and high school study guides take from eight to ten weeks to complete, generally working on one section per week. Over the years, we have found that it works best if the students completely read the novel the first week, while also working on a prereading activity chosen by the parent or teacher. </li>
<li>Starting the second week, most parents and teachers have found it works best to work on one study guide page per day until the chapter sections are completed. Students should be allowed to complete questions by referring to the book; many questions require some cross-reference between elements of the stories. </li>
<li>Most study guides contain an Overview section that can be used as a final test, or it can be completed in the same way the chapter sections were completed. If you wish to perform a final test but your particular study guide does not have an Overview section, we suggest picking a couple of questions from each section of the study guide and using them as your final test. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Most study guides also have a final section of essays and post-reading activities. These may be assigned at the parents’ or teachers’ discretion, but we suggest that students engage in several writing or other extra activities during the study of the novel to complement their reading and strengthen their writing skills. </li>
</ul>
The final answer to your question is that it should take from 6 1/2 to 8 weeks for this particular guide since it is a shorter book and slightly smaller guide. (You can check the actual page count on our website <a href="http://stores.progenypress.com/heart-of-darkness-study-guide/" target="_blank">here</a>. Just click on other details. ) My formula for length is: Study Guide page count - 10 pages for front and back content, then figure roughly one page per day. For example, <i>Heart of Darkness</i> is 47 pages - 10 = 37 pages or days. At five days per school week, this comes to 7 weeks and two days approximately. But remember that students may go faster, doing a few pages of a vocab section in one day, and may take longer on a Dig Deeper page, so it will vary from student to student a bit.Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-55313228558353282002014-01-08T19:50:00.001-08:002014-01-08T19:52:18.660-08:00Assigning High School Credits for Progeny Press Study Guides<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Hello,<br />I would like to know how to assign high school credits to each Progeny Press Study Guide for Literature. <br /><br />Thank you,<br />Christine</span></b><br />
<br />
Dear Christine,<br />
<br />
Assigning and transcripting high school literature credits is a simple process. (Really!)<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>The simple answer is that for high school credits, most Christian high schools to whom we have spoken have assigned a value of one-fourth year credit to each study guide, and this also seems to be acceptable to colleges assessing homeschool transcripts. <br />
<br />
In high school, most students do 4 years of high school level literature/writing. Usually, one year of American Literature, one year of British Literature, and then two years of electives, such as Shakespeare, poetry, World Literature, Christian authors, etc...<br />
I recommend going online and looking over some of the application requirements from some of the colleges <u>you and your student</u> may consider for in the future. The different colleges may have specific requirements, depending upon what degree your student decides to pursue. Here is a link to one of these pages for a large high level state university as an example:<br />
<a href="http://www.uwec.edu/Admissions/applying.htm">http://www.uwec.edu/Admissions/applying.htm</a><br />
<br />
As stated earlier, each of our high school guides is considered 1/4 of a year of high school literature. If you also do one of the assigned essays each quarter, this also includes your writing/exposition requirements. Most people do British and American Literature the first two years, and World Literature and Shakespeare and poetry the third year.<br />
<br />
You can choose to simply transcript your Literature as Freshman English, Sophomore English, Junior English, and Senior English, <u><b>but</b></u> how much better it looks on the transcript when it says:<br />
American Literature 1 credit; British Literature 1 credit; World Literature 1/2 credit; Shakespeare 1/2 credit; Poetry: Forms and Elements 1/4 credit; African American authors 1/4 credit; Women authors 1/4 credit; Minority Literature 1/4 credit.<br />
Right?<br />
<br />
Remember, if you use some of the upcoming Flash Guides, which are smaller and meant to only take one-to-two weeks, they are a supplement to your overall literature program, and should not be used to completely substitute for the in-depth study of the full guides or other full literature program. I would recommend using them to study the extra books your student reads throughout the year, to round out your literature program. <br />
<br />
If you ever have difficulty deciding what Literature fits in which category, please don't hesitate to ask.<br />
<br />
Have a blessed second semester!<br />
RebeccaAsk Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-44538845388051217772014-01-04T18:31:00.000-08:002016-04-23T16:01:13.174-07:00A Tale of True Friendship<h3>
<i>The Cay</i> by Theodore Taylor</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yLIEG9opyRI/VxvzyxEu-dI/AAAAAAAAAF8/ZnCRWBBNrA8dZpqD37Qhn-K6iCohHJpjwCLcB/s1600/CayImage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yLIEG9opyRI/VxvzyxEu-dI/AAAAAAAAAF8/ZnCRWBBNrA8dZpqD37Qhn-K6iCohHJpjwCLcB/s200/CayImage.jpg" width="120" /></a></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h4>
Grade level & category: </h4>
Grades 6-8; American Literature; Setting: Caribbean, 1942, WWII; <br />
•1969 Award of the South California Council on Literature for Children and Young People, <br />
•1970 Jane Addams Book Award —rescinded - Taylor spoke at the 1996 ALAN (The Assembly on Literature for Adolescents) Workshop in Chicago regarding one of his awards: "In 1970, long before political correctness found itself to the American scene, I received the Jane Addams Peace and Freedom Foundation award for The Cay. Soon after, it was accused of being a racist book. In 1975, finally submitting to great pressure from the Inter-Racial Council on Children's Books and forcing The Cay's removal from many bookshelves for four years, the Jane Addams chair lady requested that I return the award after it had hung on my office wall for five years. I did so within the hour, not dusting it off. I sent it collect."<br />
•1970 Lewis Carroll Shelf Award<br />
•1970 Commonwealth Club (of California) Award<br />
•1972 Kansas William White Award<br />
•New York Times Best Book of the Year<br />
•School Library Journal Best Book of the Year<br />
•Boston Globe—Horn Book Honor Book<br />
•ALA Notable Book<br />
•Publishers Weekly Children’s Book to Remember<br />
<h4>
Themes: </h4>
<h4>
<a name='more'></a></h4>
Trust, Caribbean, WWII, nature, racism, survival, courage, inner strength, African-American experience, prejudice, equality, friendship, coming of age.<br />
<h4>
Author biography: </h4>
Theodore Taylor was born in 1921, in Statesville, North Carolina and always thought of himself as strongly rooted there. He began writing at the age of thirteen, covering high school sports events for the Portsmouth, Virginia, Evening Star. Leaving home at seventeen to join the Washington, D.C. Daily News as a copyboy. Two years later he was writing radio network sports for NBC, in New York.<br />
During World War II, he served on six different ships throughout the Caribbean, protecting the islands and gaining the experience that would later become part of his novels. In 1946, Taylor participated in Operations Crossroads, the testing of two atomic bombs at Bikini Atoll, in the Western Pacific. Out of that experience came <i>The Bomb</i>, story of the world’s first nuclear nomads, published autumn, 1995. <i>The Bomb</i> won the 1996 Scott O’Dell Award for historical fiction.<br />
In 1955, Taylor joined Paramount Pictures as a press agent; then became a story editor, finally, associate producer. "Often exciting, often insane, film work provided opportunity to work with some interesting and unique people — Clark Gable, Henry Fonda, Frank Sinatra, Shirley MacLaine, William Holden, Steve McQueen, Charlton Heston, Raquel Welch, and others, on seventeen major pictures." Following the filming of <i>TORA! TORA! TORA!</i>, he turned full-time to novels, non-fiction books and screen plays.<br />
Taylor eventually published more than 50 books. Theodore Taylor passed away on October 26, 2006, leaving behind his wife Flora, three children, several grandchildren and plenty of admiring fans.<br />
<h4>
Book summary: </h4>
<i>The Cay</i>, winner of 11 literary awards, including the Lewis Carroll Shelf Award, "...of which I’m the proudest, since the book was deemed worthy of being on a shelf with <i>Alice In Wonderland.</i>..", was a Universal film presentation starring James Earl Jones. Now in print in 14 foreign countries, the story of young "Phe-leep" and old "Timothy" has passed 4,000,000 copies in publication, worldwide.<br />
In this book, we follow the story of Phillip Enright, an 11-year-old American boy living in Curaçao with his parents during the start of WWII. When German submarines begin torpedoing oil transport ships near the island, Phillip's mother decides she and Phillip will sail back to America to remain safe. <br />
Unfortunately, their boat is torpedoed before it leaves the Caribbean, and Phillip is stranded on a raft with a black deckhand named Timothy. Before long, Phillip goes blind from an injury suffered during the shipwreck and he must learn to rely on Timothy, a man Phillip had originally been taught to distrust because he is black. <br />
When the two of them find a small island to wait out their rescue, Phillip learns that what is on a man's inside is much more important than the color of his skin. A striking story of prejudice overcome, friendship, sacrifice, death, grief, and coming-of-age.<br />
<br />
In autumn, 1993, <i>Timothy Of The Cay</i>, prequel-sequel to the original tale of survival and prejudice was published by Harcourt Brace. The 24-year gap between the novels was caused by Taylor’s reluctance to attempt "topping himself."<br />
Other books you might love if you love this one: <i>Stone Fox</i> by John Reynolds Gardiner, <i>Sign of the Beaver</i> by Elizabeth George Speare, <i>Robinson Crusoe</i> by Daniel Defoe, <i>Swiss Family Robinson</i> by Johann David Wyss, <i>Maniac Magee</i> by Jerry Spinelli, <i>The Witch of Blackbird Pond</i> by Elizabeth George Speare, <i>Indian in the Cupboard</i> by Lynne Reid Banks, <i>Number the Stars</i> by Lois Lowry, <i>Bud, Not Buddy</i> by Christopher Paul Curtis, and for high school, <i>To Kill a Mockingbird</i> by Harper Lee and <i>Uncle Tom's Cabin</i> by Harriet Beecher Stowe.<br />
<h4>
To talk about: </h4>
What is on a man's inside is much more important than what is on the outside. Talk about all the different situations to which this could apply and how we can avoid judging others. Also, consider where people may live, how they dress, their financial situation, what they look like, and what they themselves truly love and believe in. <br />
Read 1 Samuel 16:7. But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, . . The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” <br />
Discuss how this can apply in your every day life at school, work, and home.<br />
<h4>
My favorite quote from the Book:</h4>
Something happened to me that day on the cay. I'm not sure what it was even now, but I had begun to change.<br />
I said to Timothy, "I want to be your friend."<br />
He said softly, "Young bahss, you 'ave always been my friend."Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-8861378341730559422013-12-31T17:43:00.002-08:002013-12-31T17:45:31.117-08:00Reluctant Readers<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">On May 5, XXXX, at 2:30 PM, Andrew wrote:<br /><br />Rebecca - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">We
have a thirteen year old who is very behind in his reading skills.
Although he has greatly improved this year, he is still testing about
one grade below his current grade level. We are going to be
homeschooling him to catch him up in all areas of the Language Arts. We
are excited about finding your products (from the <i>Cathy Duffy
Homeschool Reviews</i>). Our question is this: Is it beneficial to choose
books that he is already familiar with (ones that he has read before or
seen the movie?) or should we choose books that are new to him? What
is your opinion? We don't want to overwhelm him or make reading a chore,
but we also want to take this opportunity to challenge him enough;
improving his skills.<br /><br />Thank you for your kind attention,<br /><br />Andrew and Jennifer </span><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Dear Andrew and Jennifer,<br />
Your son sounds perfectly normal for his age, where reading levels vary widely. Having talked with many parents over the years, I think that choosing only 3 or so guides to study for the year and then reading many fun books beyond those analyzed will be the best encouragement for more enjoyable reading. If I were you, I would choose one of each, perhaps one title that he has read and really enjoyed, one title that he has only seen the movie for, and one title that is new and challenging him a bit. In this way, he feels invested in the guides chosen and will enjoy learning literary technique and critical thinking with stories he enjoys, yet he can stretch and challenge himself with one title that is new and perhaps harder than the other two.<br />
<br />
Rebecca<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-5353490147025493142013-12-30T09:00:00.000-08:002014-01-04T17:46:42.339-08:00Grading a Progeny Guide - Basic Grading with a Rubric<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>On Sep 15, XXXX, Peggy Rose wrote:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>Hi Rebecca,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>I'm a bit confused on how to use the Progeny Press Rubric. Do I use this to grade the whole study guide or for each question?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>Because....Not every question has a "writing skill/essay assignment" or Literary techniques, forms, terms & usage.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>Do I give a score for each question as well as use this for the whole guide?</b></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
For literary techniques....you are referring to techniques being introduce/taught in the study guide?<br />
I've never used a Rubric before so I'm clarifying here.<br />
Thanks,<br />
Peggy<br />
<br />
Dear Peggy,<br />
<br />
I prefer to grade sections. So first I grade the subsections of a section. I will grade the vocab questions of section ch. 1-3, then the questions, then the "think" questions with its literary study, then the dig deeper. I also will grade any extra writing they did. Then the complete ch 1-3 section is given an overall grade based on how well I felt each type of question was answered. For literary techniques, we are usually referring to those taught in the guide, but if they use or point out others, that's great and should be acknowledged! Remember, in the end, much of grading is a bit subjective. Try to be objective and fair and then just be confident in your opinion of their work. It's never an exact science, and we all do our best. <br />
<br />
If there are no essay or creative writing assignments in that part of the guide, you can modify the grading by using four of the five scoring sections.<br />
<br />
Here is the regular grading rubric scoring and the modified rubric scoring;<br />
SCORING TABLE for 5 skills scored 35-40 A/A+; 25-34 B/B+; 15-24 C/C+; 10-14 D; UNDER 10 D-/F<br />
(Or, If you leave out Writing skill - Essay Assignments or Creative Writing).<br />
SCORING TABLE for 4 skills scored 27-32 A/A+; 20-26 B/B+; 12-19 C/C+; 8-11 D; UNDER 8 D-/F<br />
Hope this helps, and have a truly great school year!<br />
God Bless!<br />
Rebecca<br />
<br />
Here is the Progeny Press Rubric!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LLDJ4JcgccA/UsDYzHSKDtI/AAAAAAAAADg/fAmxKNslEys/s1600/Rubricpg1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LLDJ4JcgccA/UsDYzHSKDtI/AAAAAAAAADg/fAmxKNslEys/s400/Rubricpg1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Z0VKFh-oAg/UsDYyjuDFfI/AAAAAAAAADk/f3yAn01mGEM/s1600/Rubricpg2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Z0VKFh-oAg/UsDYyjuDFfI/AAAAAAAAADk/f3yAn01mGEM/s400/Rubricpg2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GMqXMwf-dvE/UsDYvw9GEPI/AAAAAAAAADU/gg1qo2cHi7U/s1600/rubricpg3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GMqXMwf-dvE/UsDYvw9GEPI/AAAAAAAAADU/gg1qo2cHi7U/s400/rubricpg3.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-79590741330459258182013-12-29T17:26:00.000-08:002013-12-30T17:27:30.339-08:00Grading a Progeny Guide - Basic Grading<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Hi Rebecca,</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I’m using Progeny Press for the first time with my 8th grader. I’m wondering how do you assign a grade/evaluation to these guides. I know each guide is given ¼ credit, but I’m referring to an actual percentage score. Do you give each chapter section a grade or each subsection within the chapter sections? How do you assign points for a partial answer?</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">ALSO, should I require his answers to be in complete sentences?</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">AND, it was suggested that my child read the book first, then complete the guide. He said he felt it would have been better for him to read it as he went because he feels he has to reread it to answer the questions. What are your thoughts on this?</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I think some examples would help me know how to grade…</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Pg. 15 in <i>The Giver</i> Question 1 says…</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">1. Why is Jonas apprehensive about the approach of December? </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The answer he gave was….”because he’s becoming a twelve”</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I felt this was only a partial answer because he did not say why becoming a twelve was fearful. (because he will receive his assignment) The answer key give quite lengthy answers and explanations so I don’t believe I should expect my child’s answers should be that elaborate.</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">One more example</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Pg. 23 #8</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">8. At the House of the Old, Larissa tells Jonas about the release of a man named Roberto. What happens during the celebration of release for the Old? Was this a happy or sad occasion.</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The answer my son gave is “they walk through a door and never come back. It was a very happy occasion. I felt he did not say really what happened DURING the celebration which was a telling of his life, a toast, and an anthem chanted. speech by the elder and another speech wishing him well.</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So how would you score this answer?</span></b><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Dear Peggy,<br />
When I grade my own student''s answers, they often answer briefly. I usually ask them to explain a little more verbally and take that into account, or I may ask them to write their explanation depending on the question. Then, you can raise their grade accordingly because they've shown they understand it at a deeper level.<br />
<br />
As for pre-reading the book. I still strongly feel it's good to have read the book for the story so that as they work in the guide, they can see the writing techniques the author has employed, and they start to understand some of the issues discussed in the dig deeper at a more in-depth level. Whether he reads the book ahead of time, or the 4-5 chapters at a time as he goes, he still will constantly have to refer to the book. The guides were written in this way for depth, and to make the student think and analyze at a deeper level. If they were able to answer the questions without referring back to the text, then it would simply be too easy to be called critical thinking. I do understand that it takes time and work. Perhaps slowing down a little would be good, or simply encouraging him that he is doing it right and well?<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I cannot emphasize enough that a small amount of work done
excellently will teach him far more than many guides done in a more
partial manner. </b><br />
<br />
Teaching Middle and High school literature using Progeny guides is fairly uncomplicated and easy for the student to manage and the teacher to teach, yet they are considered by many to be the most in-depth and challenging guides available. The guides are designed to be used independently by the student on a daily basis ( or 3x weekly). Most teachers then sit down with each student once per week, where you take time together to discuss the Biblical comprehension, the literary techniques learned, and their answers. This is when I may ask a student to clarify further, or to compliment them on a question well-answered, or an answer exceptionally well written. Each Progeny guide includes a full answer key, so you don't have to guess.<br />
<br />
Since our guides are completely answered in essay format, we don't include tests. If they can explain themselves well, answer completely, and begin to build their persuasive writing abilities, then we feel they know the material. They can't answer without knowing! We grade based on the guide work only.<br />
<br />
Now to nuts and bolts. I like to grade each question, and then give a
full chapter's section-grade based upon that. I recommend encouraging
him to work toward writing his answers in complete sentences. <br />
<br />
Here is a simple grading system that I've found works well. I generally score my student's work on a regular A-B-C-D scale. If you want a specific formula, you assign 5 points per question. 3 points are for answering correctly and well-written, within acceptable wordings/variance. 1 point is for good grammar and spelling. 1 point if for neatness and handwriting. Divide total points earned by the total points possible to get a percentage score. (90% and up = A, etc.)<br />
<br />
If you wish to score more simply, assign each question or section a grade based on how well you feel they answered the question clearly and completely (Use the answer key as your guide), their spelling, grammar, clarity, and handwriting. I usually grade heavily on how well they've explained themselves and the skill of their writing ability. After a few times analyzing their work, you get a good feeling for "A" work, "B" work, etc. When work is below par, a low "C" or below, I usually require the student to redo the section to bring their grade up.<br />
<br />
The goal of teaching and homeschooling should be excellence and actually learning, not just giving our students poor grades and putting the work behind us. We are so blessed to be able to take the time to bring their work and understanding up to a good or excellent ability in each subject!<br />
<br />
Coming next — how to grade Progeny Press Study Guides using a rubric!<br />
<br />
<br />Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-72779785282282307162013-10-17T21:34:00.000-07:002016-04-23T16:01:32.502-07:00Fun Fall Stories!Fall is my absolute favorite time of year. Now, this may have something to do with the fact that my birthday is in October, or it may be that I've always adored the changing glorious orange and reds of fall leaves, crisp weather, and bright sunshine. More than likely, it's both!<br />
For all you moms of young children, ages 3 -5 (read aloud) and 6-9 (on their own), here is a fun little fall book I love. By the way, you should hear my 5 & 6 year old grandsons shriek with laughter when Mr. Putter begins <i>zinging </i>those apples over the house! I think boys intuitively love slingshots.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<i>Mr. Putter & Tabby Pick the Pears</i> by Cynthia Rylant</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3gb6Hvq-x9o/Vxv7dJVU8AI/AAAAAAAAAGU/jXKb1wxXP-MmqBAoxvOfsCGRKwd-8ZBLwCLcB/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2016-04-23%2Bat%2B5.46.12%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3gb6Hvq-x9o/Vxv7dJVU8AI/AAAAAAAAAGU/jXKb1wxXP-MmqBAoxvOfsCGRKwd-8ZBLwCLcB/s200/Screen%2Bshot%2B2016-04-23%2Bat%2B5.46.12%2BPM.png" width="145" /></a></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h4>
Grade level & category: </h4>
Grades: preschool-2nd;<br />
American Literature;<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Setting: Contemporary United States;<br />
Quotes from book cover:<br />
"If you have a young reader at your house who has yet to meet Mr. Putter and Tabby, you will not regret a visit to the nearest library or bookstore to check out this delightful series." —<i>Home Education Magazine</i><br />
"Winsome and warmhearted, these books could become instant favorites." —<i>Publishers Weekly</i><br />
<br />
<h4>
Themes: </h4>
Being innovative, hard work, being determined, pears, fall harvest, neighbors, friendship, cats, pets, and elderly people.<br />
<h4>
Author biography: </h4>
Cynthia Rylant was born in 1954 in Hopewell, Virginia. When she was four years old, her parents divorced, and her mother took her to live with her grandparents in Cool Ridge, West Virginia. Her grandparents' home had no electricity or running water, and because her family did not own a car, she never traveled far from home.<br />
Though she didn't have access to many books, she did develop a love of reading through the comic books she could get at the local drugstore.<br />
She attended college at the University of Charleston, and later completed her Master's degree in English at Marshall University. After college she worked in the children's section of the Akron Public Library where she developed a love for children's books. It was then that she knew she wanted to write children's books of her own.<br />
Her first book for children, <i>When I Was Young in the Mountains</i>, drew on her childhood at her grandparents' house in Cool Ridge. The book was published in 1982, and received a Caldecott Honor award for its illustrations. In 1988, she received a Newbery Honor award for <i>A Fine White Dust</i>, a book about a teenage boy who finds faith in Christ at a revival meeting, and then struggles with doubt after a personal betrayal. In 1993 she won the Newbery Medal for <i>Missing May</i>, a book depicting the struggles of a young girl dealing with the loss of a loved one. Among many other books and series, Cynthia Rylant has also written more than twenty-five books in the popular "Henry and Mudge" series and more than twenty in the "Mr. Putter and Tabby" series. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Book summary: </h4>
<div class="detaildesc" id="divDesc_1" style="display: inline-block; margin-top: -4px;">
Mr. Putter is a wonderful elderly man with an adorably elderly cat named Tabby. He lives in a large Victorian house with her and they enjoy day to day life and tea together. Mr. Putter loves pear jelly, and it is fall and time to pick the pears! But when he tries, his legs don't cooperate. They've become cranky. Way too cranky for a ladder!</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="detaildesc" id="divDesc_1" style="display: inline-block; margin-top: -4px;">
Now, cranky legs are no fun, especially when you want pear jelly. Mr. Putter ponders his situation and eventually begins noticing the apples on the ground, thinking of slingshots when he was a boy, and eying the pears as potential targets. What happens when he realizes he's shot every apple out of his yard? </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="detaildesc" id="divDesc_1" style="display: inline-block; margin-top: -4px;">
Read this delightful tale of good neighbors and delicious fall harvests and laugh along with your children!</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="detaildesc" id="divDesc_1" style="display: inline-block; margin-top: -4px;">
<br />
<span class="style345" lang="en"></span></div>
Other books you might love if you love this one: <br />
<ul>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Pour the Tea</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Walk the Dog</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Bake the Cake</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Pick the Pears</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Fly the Plane</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Row the Boat</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Take the Train</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Toot the Horn</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Paint the Porch</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Feed the Fish</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Catch the Cold</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Stir the Soup</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Write the Book</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Make a Wish</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Spin the Yarn</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby See the Stars</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Run the Race</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Spill the Beans</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Clear the Decks</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter and Tabby Ring the Bell</i></li>
<li> <i>Mr. Putter & Tabby Dance the Dance</i></li>
</ul>
<h4>
To talk about: </h4>
What problems does Mr. Putter experience when he wants to get his pears? How does he solve them? What are the results?<br />
What kind of neighbor is Mrs. Teaberry? What makes a good neighbor?<br />
Read Matthew 22:37-39. What do these verses teach us about how Jesus wants us to live? <br />
<br />
<h4>
My favorite quote from the Book:</h4>
"He stepped onto the ladder, and his legs were so cranky he had to get right off again. "One trouble with being old," said Mr. Putter, "is being cranky." Tabby knew what he meant. She had a cranky tail. Some days it was so cranky it wouldn't swish. It just stuck in the air like a stick."Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-75833233459987101922013-10-11T15:59:00.000-07:002016-04-23T16:01:47.120-07:00Ancient Storytelling with a twist?<span style="font-weight: normal;">Today I decided to share a wonderful girl's book with you. I hope you enjoy it!</span><br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<i>Shadow Spinner</i> by Susan Fletcher</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CjLLyZcGRQ4/Vxv8A-aoGqI/AAAAAAAAAGY/-CieK9Tb0Gs3oiPcz3dQsCGlnwFai3PawCLcB/s1600/ShadowSpinnerImage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CjLLyZcGRQ4/Vxv8A-aoGqI/AAAAAAAAAGY/-CieK9Tb0Gs3oiPcz3dQsCGlnwFai3PawCLcB/s200/ShadowSpinnerImage.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h4>
Grade level & category: </h4>
Grades 5-8+; American Literature; Setting: Ancient Persia; School Library Journal Best Books of the Year, 1998; The Bulletin Blue Ribbon Book, 1998; Children's Literature Choice List, 1999; Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice nomination and Dorothy Canfield Fisher Award nomination, both 1999-2000; ALA Notable Book for Older Readers; ALA Best Book for Young Adults, ALA Notable Children's Book, A Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies (CBC), National Council on Social Studies and Children's Book Council; and Junior Library Guild Selection.<br />
<h4>
Themes: </h4>
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Arabian Nights, bitterness, the power of forgiveness, understanding, disabilities, storytelling.<br />
<h4>
Author biography: </h4>
Susan Fletcher, born Susan Clemmons in 1951 in Pasadena, California, dreamed of becoming a writer since 3rd grade, after studying the life of the famous author Samuel Clemmons, whose pen name was Mark Twain. She learned that Mark Twain had a daughter named Susan Clemmons, and right then Susan Clemmons decided that she would someday become a famous author herself.<br />
Susan went on to write fiction for her high school's literary magazine. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of California and a Master's degree in English from the University of Michigan. She wrote advertising copy for advertising agencies in several jobs in Minnesota and Colorado before moving with her husband to Portland, Oregon. After the birth of her first child she stayed home, began to write for magazines, and then began to write children's books.<br />
Her first novel was published in 1988. In 1989 she was diagnosed with cancer and fought the disease for a year. As a cancer survivor, her feelings about struggle are mirrored in her writings, especially in <i>Shadow Spinner</i> as she describes Marjan's feelings as a crippled orphan in such a compelling way.<br />
<span class="style345" lang="en">Truly an American girl, Susan Fletcher, who was born in California, moved to Ohio; moved back to California; was educated in Michigan, and then lived in Minnesota, Colorado, and Oregon; has achieved her childhood dream of becoming an accomplished author. </span><br />
<h4>
Book summary: </h4>
<div class="detaildesc" id="divDesc_1" style="display: inline-block; margin-top: -4px;">
<i><span class="style367" lang="en">Shadow Spinner</span></i><span class="style345" lang="en">
is a fresh and unique version of the story of the <i>Arabian Nights</i> and
the <i>1001 Tales</i>, but it focuses on the story teller and the people around
her rather than simply retelling her stories, as most versions do.</span><br />
<span class="style345" lang="en">The Sultan's wife has betrayed him
with a lover, and so the Sultan has killed the two of them. Unwilling
to be alone, but believing that all women are betrayers, the Sultan
marries a new girl each day and kills her before morning. No young
woman in his kingdom is safe.</span><br />
<span class="style345" lang="en">Then Shahrazad, the daughter of the
Sultan's own vizier, volunteers to be his wife. In the morning, facing
death, she asks the Sultan if she can tell her younger sister one last
story before she dies. The Sultan agrees, and listens as Shahrazad
tells her story to Dunyazad. But as Shahrazad sees the sun rising, she
breaks off her story at a particularly exciting spot, promising to
finish it the next night if she still lives. The Sultan, entertained
and intrigued, grants Shahrazad her life for one more day. And so
begins a tense and uncertain pattern - each night Shahrazad tells a
story, but there is always the danger that if it does not please the
Sultan, death awaits.</span><br />
<span class="style345" lang="en">After two and a half years, Shahrazad is running out of stories.</span><br />
<span class="style345" lang="en">Susan Fletcher has written other award winning novels, among which are a trilogy of fantasy novels: <i>Dragon's Milk, Flight of the Dragon Kyn</i>, and <i>Sign of the Dove</i>. </span></div>
Other books you might love if you love this one: <i>Fa Mulan: The Story of a Woman Warrior,</i> by Robert San Souci, <i>The Black Stallion</i> by Walter Farley, <i>Daughter of the Mountains</i> by Louise Rankin, <i>Star of Light</i> by Patricia St. John, <i>King of the Wind: The Story of the Godolphin Arabian </i>by Marguerite Henry, <i>A Place in the Sun</i> by Jill Rubalcaba, <i>Homesick: My Own Story</i> by Jean Fritz, <i>Seven Daughters and Seven Sons</i> by Barbara Cohen and Babija Lovejoy, <i>The Golden Goblet</i> by Eloise McGraw, <i>Mara, Daughter of the Nile</i> by Eloise McGraw, <i>Julie of the Wolves</i> by Jean Craighead George, <i>Island of the Blue Dolphins</i> by Scott O'Dell, <i>The Dragon Prince: A Chinese Beauty and the Beast Tale</i> by Laurence Yep, <i>The Storyteller's Daughter</i> by Cameron Dokey, <i>Aladdin and Other Tales from the Arabian Nights</i> by N.J. Dawood, <i>Sinbad the Sailor and Other Tales from the Arabian Nights </i>by N.J. Dawood, <i>1001 Arabian Nights</i> by Geraldine McCaughrean.<br />
<h4>
To talk about: </h4>
A brilliant technique used by the author that drives this "storytelling" tale forward is her wonderful use of a tiny "Lessons for Life and Storytelling" at the beginning of every chapter. Look at each lesson and discuss if it is true, and why. In Chapter 20, Marjan states that you can be crippled in heart, not just in body. Do you agree? Why or why not? In the Bible, read Esther 4:7 – 5:2. Marjan admires Shahrazad as the bravest of women preparing herself to go to the Sultan each night not knowing if she was going to her death. Why did Esther choose to brave death? Why does Shahrazad brave death each night? What do these women, one real and one fictional, have in common?<br />
<h4>
My favorite quote from the Book:</h4>
“When you hear those words—those ending words—you know that's all there is. But real life isn't like that. Its endings are squirmier than the ones in stories. You try to tuck them in neatly and they kick the blankets off. The thing about life is, no matter what happens to you, it goes on. What seems like an ending is really a beginning in disguise.”
Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-43202262572644971182012-08-11T07:24:00.001-07:002016-04-23T16:01:57.550-07:00A Survival Book for BoysOne of the challenges of homeschooling or having kids for that matter is finding great books for them to read. So I thought I would start sharing some of my favorite books with you. Here is the first one. A book for boys (and girls who love the outdoors). <br />
<br />
<h3>
<i>Hatchet</i> by Gary Paulsen</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWillhhYW-A/Vxv8VT8wxvI/AAAAAAAAAGc/kL3pD1U-YPATGfKbrdkIWlHlKR0yEzYogCLcB/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2016-04-23%2Bat%2B5.50.21%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWillhhYW-A/Vxv8VT8wxvI/AAAAAAAAAGc/kL3pD1U-YPATGfKbrdkIWlHlKR0yEzYogCLcB/s200/Screen%2Bshot%2B2016-04-23%2Bat%2B5.50.21%2BPM.png" width="133" /></a></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h4>
Grade level & category: </h4>
Grades 5-8+; American Literature; Setting: Contemporary Canadian wilderness; Newbery Honor, ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults, ALA Notable Book, Booklist Editor’s Choice, Notable Children’s Trade Book In the Field of Social Studies, winner of 11 State Awards, 3 Apples Book Award Master List (NY), <br />
<h4>
Themes: <a name='more'></a></h4>
nature, science, survival, courage, inner strength<br />
<h4>
Author biography: </h4>
Gary Paulsen developed a love for reading at a young age when he was given his own library card. He traveled with a carnival, worked summer farm jobs, and also worked as an engineer, satellite technician, truck driver, sailor, construction worker, and ranch hand. This experience, along with running the 1,180 mile Iditarod Alaskan dog sled race twice, provides rich material for his stories. <br />
An admitted workaholic, he works 18-20 hours a day. Paulsen is a master storyteller who has written more than 175 books and some 200 articles and short stories for children and adults. Three of his novels — <i>Hatchet, Dogsong</i>, and <i>The Winter Room</i> — are Newbery Honor Books. His books frequently appear on the best books lists of the American Library Association. Paulsen and his wife, Ruth Wright Paulsen, an artist who has illustrated several of his books, divide their time between a home in New Mexico and a boat in the Pacific. <br />
<h4>
Book summary: </h4>
Over two million copies of this spine-tingling adventure have been sold. Thirteen-year-old Brian finds himself suddenly alone in the Canadian Wilderness after a plane crash. With nothing but the hatchet his mother gave him as a gift, he must survive with all his courage and ingenuity. He struggles and must find the strength to survive. An enthralling tale of survival and the human will to live. <br />
Gary Paulsen has written four sequels including, <i>Brian’s Winter, The River, Brian’s Return, and Brian’s Hunt. </i><br />
Other books you might love if you love this one: <i>Swiss Family Robinson</i> by Johann David Wyss, <i>Robinson Crusoe</i> by Daniel Defoe, <i>Lost in the Barrens</i> by Farley Mowat, <i>My Side of the Mountain</i> by Jean Craighead George, <i>The Boys' Book Of Survival (How To Survive Anything, Anywhere)</i> by Scholastic, <i>Essential Survival Skills</i> by DK, and <i>Two Little Savages</i> by Ernest Thompson Seton.<br />
<h4>
To talk about: </h4>
What is really important and what do you truly value? What is superficial and what is lasting? How would you attempt to survive in a wilderness situation? Read Psalms 23, 42, and 118. Where does our strength come from? <br />
<h4>
My favorite quote from the Book:</h4>
“He was not the same. The plane passing changed him, the disappointment cut him down and made him new. He was not the same and would never be again like he had been. That was one of the true things, the new things.”Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-41411314643417076582012-07-19T21:19:00.001-07:002016-04-23T16:02:15.038-07:00The Busy Pace of LifeSummer is upon us with a vengeance! Raspberries have been ripening at the rate of one-to-two ice cream pails per day for two weeks now and jam making is in high gear. The bounty from the garden, the weeding, and the putting up the produce, whether it be freezing vegetables, canning jam, or making pesto, becomes all consuming during the heat of the summer.<br />
<br />
It reminds me of homeschooling the rest of the year. Things remain undone (like the dusting and the laundry) so that the rest of that prioritized list can get done. Today, while I was out in the garden working, I began thinking of this fall and school beginning. What do I need that I don't have and when do I fit in getting their lists ready and all their school bins ready? How all consuming will school become that first week of September?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YYLyGjGVQ4M/Vxv8t0D20aI/AAAAAAAAAGk/Tmt3IQAYDWMk8b8JrMF5_LrqqaK3s7v8ACLcB/s1600/Screen%2Bshot%2B2016-04-23%2Bat%2B5.51.55%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YYLyGjGVQ4M/Vxv8t0D20aI/AAAAAAAAAGk/Tmt3IQAYDWMk8b8JrMF5_LrqqaK3s7v8ACLcB/s200/Screen%2Bshot%2B2016-04-23%2Bat%2B5.51.55%2BPM.png" width="135" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It is time to make school lists, project lists, finish summer projects, and get more organized. I love the book <a href="http://www5.mailordercentral.com/progenypress/prodinfo.asp?number=2017" target="_blank"><i>The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens</i></a> by Sean Covey. It is such an approachable way to learn to prioritize and work toward goals. A great first step to learning how to use my Franklin planner! I will now be living off those lists on my clipboard and in my planner for the rest of this summer so I can be ready to devote time and attention to my three highschoolers, and still find time to write new guides for Progeny Press.<br />
<br />
How do you organize for school and life?<br />
What are your favorite books about keeping organized and managing a home?<br />
<br />
Remember, rest in Him when life is too hard or too hectic.<br />
<i>Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you<br /> while you may be found;<br /> surely when the mighty waters rise,<br /> they will not reach him. <br /> You are my hiding place;<br /> you will protect me from trouble<br /> and surround me with songs of deliverance.</i><br />
<i> –Psalm 32:6-7</i><br />
<br />
Rebecca <i><br /></i>Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-62440490355292496932012-05-30T09:22:00.001-07:002013-10-18T12:19:37.484-07:00Protect and ServeMy husband, Michael and I had so much fun down in Florida this last week. We were at the FPEA conference which is always exciting and we loved meeting and talking to so many wonderful people. Maybe it is the holiday, but I could not help noticing all the military families that were attending the conference, and we really appreciated the opportunity to talk with them and help make learning as easy as possible, no matter where they are.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Sometimes we can get carried away and lose sight of what Memorial Day is all about. A friend of mine recently quipped that it has turned into "National Grill Day", and the truth behind that statement was convicting for me. We have a tendency to use the time to relax and have fun rather than reflect and appreciate how much we really have. I would like to make this post as a thank you to all those who serve and protect us.<br />
<br />
I am blown away by the helpful nature and the respect that those who serve show to those around them. They helped the vendors set up their booths, they asked if we would like help taking our booth down and carting everything back to our car. I can only imagine if our children could show the same respect to their peers.<br />
<br />
In honor of Memorial Day and as a thank you to those who serve, I would like to remind you that Progeny Press is hard at work to make it as easy as possible to get the literature study materials that you need, no matter where you are based. Progeny Press also offers a military discount for all those in active service.<br />
<br />
God Bless America.<br />
<br />
<i>Rebecca</i>Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-23220924961842209652012-05-23T09:00:00.000-07:002013-10-18T12:19:51.566-07:00Boy Scouts!I'm back!<br />
<br />
Recently, my two youngest sons (age 15), joined our church boy-scouts troop, led by our pastor. They have had so much fun these last few weeks!<br />
<br />
It's been busy, but it's very much worth it. They just came home from their first Camporee (a multi scout troop camp meet). When they got back I asked them what they had learned. Laughing, they pointed at me and said (and I quote) "When setting up your tent, remove the pine cones from the ground first!"<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Their troop did very well, winning 3 of the 5 trophies. Jon received best overall score and Ben scored highest in the archery contest. They have been out in the backyard setting up tents, tying knots in everything they can find, and shooting their compound bow whenever they get the chance.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3AM0Ceb_o0/T70H167GTFI/AAAAAAAAABk/5agGu5X6JTs/s1600/292189_294898683935194_100002451944446_656884_1187258371_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3AM0Ceb_o0/T70H167GTFI/AAAAAAAAABk/5agGu5X6JTs/s320/292189_294898683935194_100002451944446_656884_1187258371_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kkpz-7TqZg0/T70H2sdYQoI/AAAAAAAAABs/8XOb6uB0pQc/s1600/487281_294898737268522_100002451944446_656885_2108397410_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kkpz-7TqZg0/T70H2sdYQoI/AAAAAAAAABs/8XOb6uB0pQc/s320/487281_294898737268522_100002451944446_656885_2108397410_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At the camporee, they also learned how to shoot 12 gauge shotguns. My husband found some large holes in the yard and we think we might have skunks or groundhogs tearing up our yard. Maybe Jon and Ben can help with that now? They also learned how to correctly clean frying pans. Did you know that you are not supposed to use soap? Who knew! But for some reason they aren't excited about my offer to let them clean all the pots and pans from now on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Any other boy scout families out there? I would love to hear some of your boy scouts or family camping trip stories!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Rebecca</i></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-28120252426106732082012-03-05T11:20:00.001-08:002013-10-18T12:20:11.592-07:00Grades 1-4<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Dear Madam,<br />I am a home school mom of two kids 8 and 9 years.I have been homeschooling my kids since 5 years.<br />I want to get Language Arts grade 3 and onwards curriculum.how to select reading books for each grade? How I could test their understanding of stories/novels as I am a non native speaker? I need easy study guides to use for all Lang. Arts components. I want to see the sample pages of guide (grade 1-3). Does it have comprehension,vocabulary,spelling and writing exercises with answer keys for parents?<br />What is the price of study guides in book format and e-mail format?<br />How many novels study guide should be done from grade 2,3 and 4 in each academic year?<br /><br />Hope you will clear me<br />Waiting for your prompt reply.<br />Rose</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Dear Rose</span><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">,</span><br />
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">• How do you select reading books for each grade?</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: small;"> There are many ways to select books for each grade. You may choose titles that connect with your other curriculum if possible. For example, the middle ages or early American history. You may also allow your students to choose titles in their grade range that they are interested in studying. In the lower grades (1-5), choice is flexible and personal.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">• </span><span style="font-size: small;">Do Progeny guides have comprehension,vocabulary, spelling and writing exercises with answer keys for parents? </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">All our grades 1-3 guides include vocabulary work, basic content questions, critical thinking and deep comprehension, and literary elements all the way through each guide<u> as they are used in the books.</u> The guides also include pre-reading activities which are hands on for younger grades and become more research and project related as they get older. All guides include after-you-read activities and essay/writing assignments to assign at your discretion. All questions are essay style so the student must begin to write and explain themselves. Every guide comes with a complete answer key for the parent/teacher.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Progeny guides <b>do not</b> include spelling.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">• How I could test their understanding of stories/novels as I am a non-native speaker?</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I would begin by using the complete answer key included with each guide. If you still need further direction judging their understanding of the novel, perhaps you could discuss the questions out loud with both children and have them explain the question and their answer. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">• How many novels/study guides should be done in grades 2, 3 and 4 in each academic year?</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">For lower elementary (1st-3rd grade), we recommend only one guide per semester (a total of 2 per academic year), focusing on excellence of answers and writing technique, not speed. <br />For upper elementary (4th-6th grade), we recommend 3 guides per academic year.</span> </div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">• I want to see the sample pages of guides (grade 1-3).</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Here is the link to our sample pages:</span></div>
<div style="color: blue; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.progenypress.com/Catalog/index.html" target="_blank">Progeny catalog by grade level</a> </span></div>
<div style="color: blue; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Choose the grade level you'd like to look at, then the title. Then below the product picture, click on "Take a Look Inside". </span> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">• What is the price of study guides in book format and e-mail format? </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Check out our online store for the most current prices on all our guides and the different formats. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Here is the link to the store:</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www5.mailordercentral.com/progenypress/" target="_blank">Progeny Press online store home</a> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> On each individual product page, you will see a drop-down menu that will show the current formats and pricing.</span><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Thanks for writing!</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to write.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">God Bless,</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Rebecca</span></span>Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-52361817605869605192012-02-28T13:35:00.002-08:002013-10-18T12:21:03.328-07:00Combining Elementary Grades<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>Dear Rebecca,</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>I have an 8-year-old boy that will be going into 3rd grade, and a 6-year-old girl that will be going into 1st grade. This will be their first year of homeschool. The oldest is a very good reader, the younger just starting out. Would I be able to do the same study guide with them both, or do you recommend each their own. The oldest is reading at a 4-6 grade level.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>Thank you,</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>Erna</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><b>_______________________________________________</b> </span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Dear Erna,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Good question. You have a couple of options as you mentioned, and either would work. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">If you'd like to do the same guide with both of them, your eight-year-old would be able to write the answers down and do well with the study guide. Your six-year-old would enjoy the story, and be able to discuss the questions with you out loud. Since she is just starting to read, remember that her ability to write probably won't come easily for another year or so.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Another possibility for you is to do one of the 1st-3rd grade level guides with him, and do our Prereader guide with her. The <i>Prereader Study Guide </i>( for <i>Oscar Otter </i>and <i>Henry and Mudge in Puddle Trouble</i>) is actually two study guides for the price of one, including all the questions a regular 1-3 grade level guide would have (but no space for the student to write their answers; we assume you will discuss the questions out loud). The Prereader guide also includes science ideas, arts and craft ideas, coloring pages, and activity/maze pages. This can keep their little hands busy while they discuss the book with you.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Whichever way you decide to go, I would suggest doing only two guides in their first year, and simply reading lots of books for the rest of their literature for the year. That way they will learn critical reading and comprehension skills, but they won't feel they have to study everything. Choosing reading titles that coincide with your history studies is always fun. When you add some phonics, spelling and grammar, they will be well-covered in language arts.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">I hope this helps, have great fun next year!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Sincerely,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Rebecca</span>Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-74523285572967184852012-02-28T13:35:00.001-08:002012-03-05T11:48:54.490-08:00Do I Need Separate Spelling?<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">Dear Rebecca,</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">I noticed from your samples that some of your guides have vocabulary work in them. Will I need a separate spelling book for my boys?</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;">D.E.S.</span></b><br />
<b>____________________________________________________________</b><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Dear D.E.S.<br />
<br />
Great question!<br />
<br />
Absolutely. Although out guides will help students build their vocabulary, we do not follow any sequential phonics or spelling in the guides. The vocabulary words are chosen for their difficulty for the child's age.<br />
<br />
I suggest a good spelling/phonics book to build a good spelling foundation for the future. Also, a good language/grammar book is important, at least on a part-time basis. (I like the Abeka for both because they are sequential and build gradually on the students' knowledge.)<br />
<br />
I hope this helps. If you'd like me to expand on anything, please write again. I appreciate your questions and comments.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Rebecca</span>Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-91477666261034637832012-02-28T13:35:00.000-08:002016-04-23T16:10:23.039-07:00Book Clubs and Co-op classes<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Rebecca,</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Your guides look wonderful! I have a group of 5 homeschooling girls (grades 8 & 9) who are considering doing a "book club". I would like to see them use your guides at home and then come together to discuss the information with a parent facilitator. What do you think? Would that work? We were thinking of meeting once or twice a month. Is that enough? Do you have any suggestions or recommendations for starters? (We have never done any literature study guides before.)</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Thanks for your help.</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Susan</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>____________________________________________________</b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Dear Susan,</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What a great idea! I've had many moms and teachers do book clubs using our guides. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e3C_ADlMovc/VxwA0JuJtVI/AAAAAAAAAHE/wf3IFDqVtGs_t7OPXEZKAOAosQadFhOzACLcB/s1600/bookclub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e3C_ADlMovc/VxwA0JuJtVI/AAAAAAAAAHE/wf3IFDqVtGs_t7OPXEZKAOAosQadFhOzACLcB/s1600/bookclub.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Meeting weekly works the best if you want to finish a guide in 8 to 9 weeks. Discussing and going over one lesson section per week creates plenty of discussion. If you wish to meet bi-weekly, I recommend taking a little longer to go through the guide, so you can get the most out of it. Discussing two lesson sections per meeting is possible, but be sure to allow plenty of time that day!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">One option is to have the students read only the chapters they will be working on for the next meeting, and hand out study guide pages that will be discussed at that time. (Some students may read through the entire book quickly instead of waiting, and that's perfectly fine. Personally, my kids are unable to put any book down once they begin.) At the next meeting, everyone should have read that section of the book, and have the corresponding lesson completed and ready for discussion. Suggest to the parents that the students should do a little work on that week's study guide section each dar rather than attempting to complete an entire lesson in one sitting. You'll get much better responses from students if they work through the lessons in small chunks.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The choices for a fun discussion groups are many. <i>Anne of Green Gables</i> is a favorite with girls and has many good discussions. Another hot book right now is <i>Holes</i>. It is fabulously written, and a great mystery story. Many teachers and moms are doing it this summer so they can go see the new movie as an end of book party. The movie is reputed to be excellent. <i>The Hobbit</i> is a great book and Tolkien a marvelous writer. If your students like adventure and history, <i>The Bronze Bow </i>or <i>The Witch of Blackbird Pond </i>would both be good choices. And intense book with many deep issues to discuss is <i>The Giver.</i> Also consider <i>The Secret Garden, Out of the Dust, Redwall, The Swiss Family Robinson, Johnny Tremain</i> and any of C.S. Lewis' Narnia books.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Remember, a book club is the perfect environment for doing group projects or reports. The guides all have before-you-read and after-you-read essays and/or projects. Keep the group fun, be creative, and don't let them put it off because "it's not real school." Just a book club. This is definitely real school and in high school each guide may count as 1/4 literature credit.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">A final suggestion: Let the girls vote on what book they all want to study. Book clubs usually choose titles together, and this gets them all invested in the decision and they try harder to show they chose well.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Good luck and let me know in the future what book they chose and how the group went.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">God Bless!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Rebecca</span></div>
Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519521324736873931.post-86511578909376381262012-02-28T13:34:00.000-08:002013-10-18T12:22:27.766-07:00History and Literature Together<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>Dear Rebecca,</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>I'm a homeschooling mom of 2 and just found your guides. I like to do literature based unit studies and have used several different curriculums to do so. I prefer to study literature and history together, following a historical timeline. We are up to the American Revolution in American history. Would you guides help me to continue down this path or is it in your experience, impractical to do this? (The history part, I mean) My kids are boy, 6, reading at a 2nd grade level and girl, 9, reading at a 5th grade level. (Each always able to be found with book in hand!) <i>Sam the Minuteman</i> seems a good place to start if you think I can use it with both. I'd very much appreciate your advice as I am trying to plan our curriculum for the fall.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>Sincerely,</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>Chris</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b>_________________________________________</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Dear Chris,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">It is not impractical to study history and literature together. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">I did it all the way through with my daughter, now entering college, and I will do so with all the younger children all the way through also. It creates much richer layers of learning as their imagination catches fire for each period in history.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Since your children are 6 and 9, <i>Sam the Minuteman</i> would be a great place to start. Although the book will be easier for her to read, the guide will be a great first guide for her. <i>Ox-Cart Man</i> is also set in the late 1700's, although it does not mention the war. It might be a nice book to read or study next year.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Another book that would be a good companion to <i>Sam the Minuteman </i>is <i>George the Drummer Boy</i>, also by Nathaniel Benchley. This is the companion book for Sam, written from the British point of view. We do not have a study guide for it, but it would be a great read. There are many great books on George Washington and other historical figures from the Revolutionary War (try titles by Dave Adler, Jean Fritz, and Quackenbush), also <i>Paul Revere's Ride</i> by Ted Rand.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">As you move on through history, check our guides' descriptions. Each description will include the year/time period and location/setting of the book.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">If I can help at all, just write again. I can give you more titles if you'd like. Good luck on the coming year!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Sincerely,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">Rebecca</span>Ask Rebeccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09131793804421658884noreply@blogger.com2