The educational philosophy at Teachable Moments Academy is based on my 8 years experience homeschooling my own children, the years I have spent in my bookstore working with and studying a great variety of curriculum, educational philosophies and teaching methods, my 7 years experience as a public classroom teacher, and the work I have done with numerous families to answer their education questions. My educational philosophies are most inspired by Charlotte Mason, Waldorf Education, and John Holt.
I believe children learn best in an environment and with materials which nurture students' personal strengths, interests, and creativity. I also believe that education should include the three main learning styles so that children are able to learn in the style that best suites them, and are also provided the opportunity to develop their learning in the styles that might not be quite as natural or easy for them.
Curriculum
The learning experience at Teachable Moments Academy consists of interdisciplinary unit studies which consist of hands-on and project-based learning experiences, literature selections chosen from the time period we are studying or novels published during the time period, language arts skills practiced through activities based on the time period, and a study of historical figures and events from politics, science, art, and humanities. Math will be integrated where appropriate in our unit studies, but mathematics practice based on the individual student will be emphasized.
Listed below are the resources and curriculum I will be using in our studies (this is a preliminary list and is subject to change based on student needs and interests).
Reading - Novel based
Writing - Descriptive, expository, narrative and research writing styles will be covered through a variety of activities based on a method I have developed which breaks down the writing process into smaller easily manageable steps.
Grammar - Daily editing practice as well as grammar concepts presented through the the writing process.
Vocabulary - Study of Greek and Latin Word Roots, as well as vocabulary pulled from reading selections and topics being studied.
Spelling - Words pulled from reading selections and topics being studied. A variety of activities are implemented each week including spelling games.
Handwriting - Copywork and Handwriting Without Tears depending on child's skill level.
Science - Experiment based with an emphasis on learning the scientific method. We will also be "out in the field" studying nature. Additionally, we will be investigating the lives and work of great scientists.
History and Geography - In addition to the unit studies being history based, we will begin creating a Book of Decades based on an approach to learning history used by Charlotte Mason.
Art - Lessons will focus on art history, appreciation, methods and projects. Art lessons will be integrated into our unit studies as often as possible.
Math - Includes problem solving and real life math experiences and math will be integrated where appropriate in our unit studies, but mathematics practice based on the individual student will be emphasized.
Humanities - Where appropriate studies may include lessons in languages, cultural traditions and celebrations, music, philosophy, theater and dance.
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