homeschool

I've always said that homeschooling is never really NOT an option, meaning that it is, that I will always entertain the idea of giving up a little daytime freedom for my children, if I felt it was a better alternative than the traditional route.  Well that time has come.  I figure she's had almost 5 years of stellar education, and even I can't mess it up in one year, although I have much higher hopes than that.  In addition to one less lunch I have to pack each morning, I'm looking forward to hanging out with my first born and learning together through books, activities, field trips, and whatever else we can get out grubby little hands on.

So far, I have the commitment of one child and a husband.  I've told a few close friends and have even met with CHEP, the county's Dept. of Ed's accredited home independent studies program.  I even let it slip to her current teacher, who not only supports my decision but also offered help if I ever need it.

So now comes the hard part:  coming up with a plan.  I made a somewhat ambitious list, but I need input, suggestions, criticism, what have you.  The help, support, and input of my friends is crucial.

HOMESCHOOL

General

literature - how many books in one month? what types of activities?  read & discuss themes, characters, plot, setting, tone?

writing - journaling, expository writing w/ other disciplines (history, social studies, literature)

math - I hope 5th grade is ALGEBRA and not geometry!

science - Parallel book topics - gardening

history - US history.  Visit Washington DC!

geography - Study, visit, write about...

social studies - Parallel the topics in books.  Do community service activities.  Volunteer.

computer - typing, photoshop, powerpoint

Fine Arts

sewing - machine, hand stitch

art - painting, drawing, ceramics (throwing and hand building)

piano 

guitar 

cooking

photography - taking, photoshop

singing (?)

Sports

cycling

running 

soccer

Did I forget something?  What else should I include?