Parents can maintain records of their students entire homeschool education with a homeschool portfolio. Colleges and universities have full autonomy when it comes to deciding which credits they will accept and which they will not. A homeschool portfolio that keeps accurate homeschool records will assist parents in providing evidential support that the classes taken and materials utilized where consistent with those provided in a traditional education setting. In addition, it is a good way to showcase your students work, even if it is not needed for the assessment.
A homeschool portfolio should consist of a variety of materials, representing the best examples of each subject. It may include a list of books your student read, field trips that provided educational experiences, outside classes they took, transcripts, extracurricular activities, and projects. If projects or other activities are too large to compile in the portfolio, include a picture instead. This might mean holding onto a large amount of work. However, it is a good idea to keep everything your homeschool student does, in case you need to verify completion later. In addition, you may want to photo copy the covers of text and workbooks that your student uses throughout their education.
On an annual basis, portfolios can be kept in a binder with dividers that are labeled for each subject of study. Page protectors can be used to preserve the work in good condition, so it can be used later. During your students senior year, you should work with them to create a senior portfolio that will go to the admissions board with their college or university application. Senior portfolios should be an eclectic collection of the materials from previous portfolios. Plus, they need to include a formal transcript, resume, testing scores, and any other information deemed pertinent to an admission board. Senior portfolios are best presented in a more formal format than a binder. Plus, you will want to retain several copies for future endeavors.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
Homeschool Transcripts
A high school diploma and transcript is the lifeline to gaining acceptance for a post secondary education. Whether it is trade school or a university that your student wishes to attend, it is important that accurate records are kept of their education and progress. Many homeschooling parents are unsure about how to produce a creditable and professional grade transcript. Some even spend hundreds or thousands of dollars to have outside sources create transcripts for them. However, the truth is, you don't have to spend a fortune to create a winning transcript.
The key to a great transcript is great organization skills. Records must be tracked and recorded as they occur. If you keep your homeschooled student's grades on the computer, be sure to make an up to date back up, as lost data can be difficult to restore. Course descriptions and related grades should be kept for permanent record as early as the 7th grade. If your child completed 9th grade English requirements in the 8th grade, be sure that information will be clear to the people on the admissions board. For help with a professional look, there are many templates available online, some of which are free.
Homeschool differs from a traditional education in the way that it is individualized and custom. Colleges and universities aim to give homeschooled children an equal opportunity when it comes to application requirements. However, often they are left with curriculum questions when assessing a homeschool transcript. For this reason, it is important to keep accurate records of the text books and work books that where used to teach required subjects. It is a good idea to photocopy the cover of the curriculum materials, so you can verify validity to the reviewing board if necessary.
In addition, be sure to include extracurricular activities in your homeschool transcript. Colleges and universities like to see that students are well rounded. They are often impressed by projects that show leadership skills, service to the community, or dedication to a passion or talent. Do not forget to incorporate extracurricular activities as part of your homeschooling plan or your student's transcript.
The key to a great transcript is great organization skills. Records must be tracked and recorded as they occur. If you keep your homeschooled student's grades on the computer, be sure to make an up to date back up, as lost data can be difficult to restore. Course descriptions and related grades should be kept for permanent record as early as the 7th grade. If your child completed 9th grade English requirements in the 8th grade, be sure that information will be clear to the people on the admissions board. For help with a professional look, there are many templates available online, some of which are free.
Homeschool differs from a traditional education in the way that it is individualized and custom. Colleges and universities aim to give homeschooled children an equal opportunity when it comes to application requirements. However, often they are left with curriculum questions when assessing a homeschool transcript. For this reason, it is important to keep accurate records of the text books and work books that where used to teach required subjects. It is a good idea to photocopy the cover of the curriculum materials, so you can verify validity to the reviewing board if necessary.
In addition, be sure to include extracurricular activities in your homeschool transcript. Colleges and universities like to see that students are well rounded. They are often impressed by projects that show leadership skills, service to the community, or dedication to a passion or talent. Do not forget to incorporate extracurricular activities as part of your homeschooling plan or your student's transcript.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Homeschool Teaching Skills
In order to run a successful homeschool program, there are necessary skills that a parent must either have or develop. Teaching skills in homeschool involve more than just following a text book or curriculum manual. It is the job of the parent to maintain their child's enthusiasm, encourage new interests, produce a positive environment, and to keep all aspects of each lesson organized. In addition, they must promote good behavior and gain their child's cooperation.
One of the best aspects of homeschooling is that it does not place limitations on the amount of knowledge or the extent to which certain subjects can be studied. In order to take full advantage of this privilege, the homeschooling parent must be organized and think outside of the box. Organization skills allow for a homeschooling parent to prearrange the class room lessons and have time to elaborate on them, by adding activities, field trips, and related material that will assist in teaching.
In addition, a homeschooling parent must be positive and encouraging. If the teacher is enthusiastic about learning, it will become contagious. All criticism should be constructive and the teacher should allow for the expression of talents regularly. Getting involved in the lessons and showing an active interest is much more effective than a reading assignment with an independent homeschool worksheet. Coming to the class room with energy and excitement each day will assist in innovating the minds of students.
Good parenting is another important skill for teaching homeschool. One of the most important aspects of good parenting is providing a nurturing and structured environment. Homeschooling parents must set the standards high as both the parent and the authority of their child's education. Positive parenting is effective in motivating children and gaining their cooperation. Students need to understand that when they step into the class room, that the parent becomes the teacher and there are responsibilities and a level of professionalism that are expected of them.
Homeschooling can provide an effective alternative to traditional education. However, one needs the right teaching skills to make it work. With organization, positivity, and good parenting, a home education can maximize a child's learning experience.
One of the best aspects of homeschooling is that it does not place limitations on the amount of knowledge or the extent to which certain subjects can be studied. In order to take full advantage of this privilege, the homeschooling parent must be organized and think outside of the box. Organization skills allow for a homeschooling parent to prearrange the class room lessons and have time to elaborate on them, by adding activities, field trips, and related material that will assist in teaching.
In addition, a homeschooling parent must be positive and encouraging. If the teacher is enthusiastic about learning, it will become contagious. All criticism should be constructive and the teacher should allow for the expression of talents regularly. Getting involved in the lessons and showing an active interest is much more effective than a reading assignment with an independent homeschool worksheet. Coming to the class room with energy and excitement each day will assist in innovating the minds of students.
Good parenting is another important skill for teaching homeschool. One of the most important aspects of good parenting is providing a nurturing and structured environment. Homeschooling parents must set the standards high as both the parent and the authority of their child's education. Positive parenting is effective in motivating children and gaining their cooperation. Students need to understand that when they step into the class room, that the parent becomes the teacher and there are responsibilities and a level of professionalism that are expected of them.
Homeschooling can provide an effective alternative to traditional education. However, one needs the right teaching skills to make it work. With organization, positivity, and good parenting, a home education can maximize a child's learning experience.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Getting a Rounded Education at Home
It is estimated that more than 1 million students participate in a home based educational program. Parents choose to homeschool their kids for any number of reasons. Many of them feel they can provide a better education in the home, with fewer distractions than those that exist in traditional school. Others may choose to homeschool for religious reasons. However, homeschool does not provide some of the resources that are found in a traditional school setting. Therefore, parents may have to work harder to provide a well rounded education to their homeschooled children.
In order for an education to be considered well rounded, it must include a comprehensive study of a wide variety of subjects. In addition to the academic basics, a well rounded education exposes a child to the arts, music, culture, and foreign language. A variety of activities along with advanced materials and additional subjects will ultimately infuse a child with a great perspective that can be used while making life decisions. Not only will their intellectual growth occur, their minds will develop professionally, socially, and personally, giving them the tools they need to mature into adulthood. Well rounded homeschooled students will learn their likes and dislikes, while being able to explore many possible endeavors and careers.
When attempting to expand your child's home school curriculum to include additional studies and activities, there are a few key factors to remember. It is important to be organized in your homeschooling efforts. Gather supplies and plan the day before it begins. This gives you ample opportunity to structure a lesson that includes an elective topic of study and related projects.
In addition, plan activities that encourage independent thinking and exposure to various cultures. Learning should not be limited to the walls of the class room. Field trips can be a powerful teaching tool for the arts, history, science, and humanity. Plus, while visiting a museum or attending a ballet, students are able to practice appropriate behavior and social skills for formal environments.
Overall, stay persistent in your efforts. Providing a rounded education for you child requires dedication and hard work. However, it helps them in becoming a well adjusted, highly educated adult.
In order for an education to be considered well rounded, it must include a comprehensive study of a wide variety of subjects. In addition to the academic basics, a well rounded education exposes a child to the arts, music, culture, and foreign language. A variety of activities along with advanced materials and additional subjects will ultimately infuse a child with a great perspective that can be used while making life decisions. Not only will their intellectual growth occur, their minds will develop professionally, socially, and personally, giving them the tools they need to mature into adulthood. Well rounded homeschooled students will learn their likes and dislikes, while being able to explore many possible endeavors and careers.
When attempting to expand your child's home school curriculum to include additional studies and activities, there are a few key factors to remember. It is important to be organized in your homeschooling efforts. Gather supplies and plan the day before it begins. This gives you ample opportunity to structure a lesson that includes an elective topic of study and related projects.
In addition, plan activities that encourage independent thinking and exposure to various cultures. Learning should not be limited to the walls of the class room. Field trips can be a powerful teaching tool for the arts, history, science, and humanity. Plus, while visiting a museum or attending a ballet, students are able to practice appropriate behavior and social skills for formal environments.
Overall, stay persistent in your efforts. Providing a rounded education for you child requires dedication and hard work. However, it helps them in becoming a well adjusted, highly educated adult.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Homeschooling a Gifted Student
Many parents of gifted students choose to homeschool. Homeschooling gifted children has a number of advantages, but perhaps the main one is that ability to accelerate the child at their rate of learning. The rate of learning in a traditional classroom may bore a gifted student and fail to challenge them appropriately. However, in homeschool, once the student understands a concept, they can be moved on to new material and maximize their potential for learning.
Homeschooling in general allows for a more customized educational experience. Children usually favor one way of learning over another. With homeschooling, you are able to choose your child's homeschool curriculum in a way that caters to their best way of learning. There are hands on projects for kinetic learners, musically inclined reading programs for spatial learners, and much more. Often, gifted kids will strongly favor one way of learning over others.
There is no cookie cutter approach that works with all gifted homeschool students. However, there are multiple homeschooling curriculum programs that cater to gifted or accelerated children. It is recommended to take advantage of all available resources when shopping for teaching materials that meet your child's needs. Maximize the benefit of your library, search online, read reviews, and look for recommendations from teachers and other parents. The internet has numerous support groups for those who homeschool gifted students, where information is shared about the available tools for teaching various subjects.
In addition, when homeschooling a gifted student, it is important to remember that they do not need to be held to any certain grade level. They should be allowed to skip grades or perform the various subjects at different grade levels according to their skills.
Most importantly, be proactive about homeschooling. The more effort you put into teaching a gifted student, the more they will learn. While homeschooling is still a somewhat controversial topic, it provides an alternative that allows gifted students to excel beyond the limits of a traditional educational setting.
Homeschooling in general allows for a more customized educational experience. Children usually favor one way of learning over another. With homeschooling, you are able to choose your child's homeschool curriculum in a way that caters to their best way of learning. There are hands on projects for kinetic learners, musically inclined reading programs for spatial learners, and much more. Often, gifted kids will strongly favor one way of learning over others.
There is no cookie cutter approach that works with all gifted homeschool students. However, there are multiple homeschooling curriculum programs that cater to gifted or accelerated children. It is recommended to take advantage of all available resources when shopping for teaching materials that meet your child's needs. Maximize the benefit of your library, search online, read reviews, and look for recommendations from teachers and other parents. The internet has numerous support groups for those who homeschool gifted students, where information is shared about the available tools for teaching various subjects.
In addition, when homeschooling a gifted student, it is important to remember that they do not need to be held to any certain grade level. They should be allowed to skip grades or perform the various subjects at different grade levels according to their skills.
Most importantly, be proactive about homeschooling. The more effort you put into teaching a gifted student, the more they will learn. While homeschooling is still a somewhat controversial topic, it provides an alternative that allows gifted students to excel beyond the limits of a traditional educational setting.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Higher Education for Home Schooled Students
No one seems to know exactly how many students are homeschooled in the United States, but the number are showing a sharp increase. Estimates ten years ago were assumed to be around 850,000, while today homeschool statistics indicate there may be between 1 million to 2 million homeschooled students. A recent study estimates that the number of homeschooled students who go on to pursue a higher education is the same as that of non-homeschooled students, approximately 50%. However, because homeschooled students now make up a considerable potions of college applicants, they are considered the first generation of home based learners who will enter higher education programs.
Colleges and universities now receive an increased number of homeschooled applications, and may need to modify admission requirements as a result. Many have created new protocols for the fair review of homeschooled student's credentials. However, some believe that homeschooled students are more likely to be accepted than public school children. Traditionally, they tend to have higher test scores and more extra-curricular activities.
Also, with the growing number of homeschoolers who are in pursuit of a post secondary education, many school authorities are concerning themselves with questions about whether or not these kids will be prepared for college and how they will fare. While homeschooled students score higher than the national average on ACT and SAT academic assessment tests, a 1995 study by Galloway concludes that homeschooled students and traditionally educated students demonstrate similar academic preparedness for college. In addition, current evidence indicates that there is also no significant difference between the two groups in terms of academic performance during college. Overall, students from both settings receive equivalent preparation for higher education.
Colleges and universities now receive an increased number of homeschooled applications, and may need to modify admission requirements as a result. Many have created new protocols for the fair review of homeschooled student's credentials. However, some believe that homeschooled students are more likely to be accepted than public school children. Traditionally, they tend to have higher test scores and more extra-curricular activities.
Also, with the growing number of homeschoolers who are in pursuit of a post secondary education, many school authorities are concerning themselves with questions about whether or not these kids will be prepared for college and how they will fare. While homeschooled students score higher than the national average on ACT and SAT academic assessment tests, a 1995 study by Galloway concludes that homeschooled students and traditionally educated students demonstrate similar academic preparedness for college. In addition, current evidence indicates that there is also no significant difference between the two groups in terms of academic performance during college. Overall, students from both settings receive equivalent preparation for higher education.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Mary Pride and Homeschooling
As a pioneer for a homeschooling movement, Mary Pride is best known for her written works that encourage home education, offers instruction on starting home based programs, and sets standards for teaching. Pride began writing on the subject of homeschooling in the 1980's, when she realized that few guides were available. She emphasizes a strong need for providing children with an education at home, as opposed to using a traditional educational environment and encourages programs that are fun, comprehensive, simple, and cheap. Her standard of homeschooling is still widely accepted today.
A three volume book titled Mary Pride's Big Book of Home Learning is a best seller and appreciated by numerous homeschooling families. As a homeschooling mother of 9, Pride expresses her opinions on everything from why people should homeschool to curriculum. One of her core beliefs is that public school can actually be harmful to children, contributing to early sexual activity and exposing kids to gang violence and drugs. Overall, Pride, a strong Christian woman, thinks that the school systems tip toes around major issues to protect self esteem, resulting in a confused group of youth who do not fully understand right from wrong.
Although Mary Pride has been described as being very opinionated on homeschooling issues, she always gives reasons that support her beliefs. Also, she provides scope and sequence for each subject, simplifying the learning process, with helpful and down to earth suggestions. Overall, Pride's advise covers almost everything pertaining to homeschool and can be used as a valuable reference in a home education environment.
A three volume book titled Mary Pride's Big Book of Home Learning is a best seller and appreciated by numerous homeschooling families. As a homeschooling mother of 9, Pride expresses her opinions on everything from why people should homeschool to curriculum. One of her core beliefs is that public school can actually be harmful to children, contributing to early sexual activity and exposing kids to gang violence and drugs. Overall, Pride, a strong Christian woman, thinks that the school systems tip toes around major issues to protect self esteem, resulting in a confused group of youth who do not fully understand right from wrong.
Although Mary Pride has been described as being very opinionated on homeschooling issues, she always gives reasons that support her beliefs. Also, she provides scope and sequence for each subject, simplifying the learning process, with helpful and down to earth suggestions. Overall, Pride's advise covers almost everything pertaining to homeschool and can be used as a valuable reference in a home education environment.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Tips for Keeping Homeschool Fun
Incorporating new activities into your homeschool routine can break up the monotony of book learning. Using the motto “a little fun in every day” is a great way to model your lesson plans. Kids who enjoy some of their homeschooling experiences stay enthusiastic about learning. There are numerous ways to emphasize educational experiences, while incorporating fun into your class time.
Kids often get restless sitting at the same desk day after day. Activities that permit leaving the classroom are highly favorable to all students. Take your homeschool kid on a field trip. This can consist of anything from an extravagant trip across the world to local visits to community educational resources. However, field trips are most beneficial when they are planned thoroughly and relevant to the present lesson. Museums, nursing homes, science fairs, historical land marks, and zoos can all provide adequate learning opportunities outside of the traditional classroom setting.
In addition, projects and activities should be used to break up the monotony of lectures and book work. Teaching with games, crossword puzzles, and other interactive activities help prevent homeschool kids from getting bored during the day. Also, celebrating the holidays by decorating and participating in related projects provides relief from the constant flow of book work, and help kids develop an appreciation for their culture and traditions. In fact, decorations in the homeschool environment can set the tone for learning. Changing decorations and displaying projects can create a positive learning atmosphere, stimulate your student’s learning, and remind them that homeschool can be fun.
Another way to keep your child’s homeschool experience enjoyable is by allowing them to participate in planning the homeschool lessons. Every once in a while, it is a good idea to ask your child what they want to learn about for the day. Let them choose a lesson plan from several options or pick a subject that they really enjoy. For older children, it can be beneficial and fun to allow them to teach you the lesson for a change.
Above all else, homeschool is made fun by keeping a positive outlook. If you teach with enthusiasm, your student will respond accordingly. Having a good attitude about the lessons and your child’s ability to learn will make homeschooling more fun for both you and your student.
Kids often get restless sitting at the same desk day after day. Activities that permit leaving the classroom are highly favorable to all students. Take your homeschool kid on a field trip. This can consist of anything from an extravagant trip across the world to local visits to community educational resources. However, field trips are most beneficial when they are planned thoroughly and relevant to the present lesson. Museums, nursing homes, science fairs, historical land marks, and zoos can all provide adequate learning opportunities outside of the traditional classroom setting.
In addition, projects and activities should be used to break up the monotony of lectures and book work. Teaching with games, crossword puzzles, and other interactive activities help prevent homeschool kids from getting bored during the day. Also, celebrating the holidays by decorating and participating in related projects provides relief from the constant flow of book work, and help kids develop an appreciation for their culture and traditions. In fact, decorations in the homeschool environment can set the tone for learning. Changing decorations and displaying projects can create a positive learning atmosphere, stimulate your student’s learning, and remind them that homeschool can be fun.
Another way to keep your child’s homeschool experience enjoyable is by allowing them to participate in planning the homeschool lessons. Every once in a while, it is a good idea to ask your child what they want to learn about for the day. Let them choose a lesson plan from several options or pick a subject that they really enjoy. For older children, it can be beneficial and fun to allow them to teach you the lesson for a change.
Above all else, homeschool is made fun by keeping a positive outlook. If you teach with enthusiasm, your student will respond accordingly. Having a good attitude about the lessons and your child’s ability to learn will make homeschooling more fun for both you and your student.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Be an EducationBug Facebook Fan ~ Follow Us on Twitter
Most of us have a Facebook account, Twitter account or both. These are great sites for keeping up with family and friends, but they are also a great way to get other useful information and updates. EducationBug.org recently joined both sites and would like to invite you to become a fan or follower and join in the discussions about everything education related. We will be doing daily updates on what is new at EducationBug, as well as discussing other education topics in the news or whatever our fans and followers want to talk about.
This is a great way for you to let us know what you like, don't like, how you feel about certain education topics or any great ideas or comments that you would like to discuss or share with others that are interested in quality education, learning disabilities, homeschooling, or any other relevant topic. On Facebook you can start a new discussion topic or just add your thoughts and comments to what other people are already discussing. The more parents, teachers, and administrators we can connect the more useful the information will be. So tell your friends and get them involved!
Twitter is a great way for us to get out quick updates about what is new on our site. We will also do occasional updates about discussions that are happening on Facebook or results of polls and surveys that you participate in at EducationBug.org. We all know that education isn't just about math and science. Education involves a whole world of teen issues, child behaviors, and other tips and tricks to help parents and adolescents achieve success. Join in today!
This is a great way for you to let us know what you like, don't like, how you feel about certain education topics or any great ideas or comments that you would like to discuss or share with others that are interested in quality education, learning disabilities, homeschooling, or any other relevant topic. On Facebook you can start a new discussion topic or just add your thoughts and comments to what other people are already discussing. The more parents, teachers, and administrators we can connect the more useful the information will be. So tell your friends and get them involved!
Twitter is a great way for us to get out quick updates about what is new on our site. We will also do occasional updates about discussions that are happening on Facebook or results of polls and surveys that you participate in at EducationBug.org. We all know that education isn't just about math and science. Education involves a whole world of teen issues, child behaviors, and other tips and tricks to help parents and adolescents achieve success. Join in today!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Homeschool Law
Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states in the U.S. The Supreme Court appears to favor educational choice, under the circumstance in which the individual states set standards and regulations for curriculum and educational accomplishments. Laws exist that dictate the procedures for starting a homeschool program. Plus, the amount of class time, subjects studies, educational resources, testing and assessment, and recognition of completion may all be governed by state laws that protect the rights of the children to gain a proper education. However, homeschooling laws vary greatly from state to state.
While some states take a relaxed approach to homeschooling, others require that parents educate their children as part of a public homeschooling system. In the state of Texas, there is little authority over homeschooling children. No requirements exist for a minimum number of days/hours of class time, achievement tests, or the teacher's credentials. For curriculum, the law simply states that reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and a study of good citizenship must be covered.
On the other hand, the state of California has very strict laws with regards to homeschooling. They require that all homeschooled students participate in a public homeschooling program through independent study or a charter school, enroll their children in a private school that dictates curriculum for independent study, or use an in-home tutor who has appropriate credentials.
Graduation requirements also vary from state to state. While some states have no requirements for graduation, others have many. However, regardless of which side your state leans towards, many of them do not provide official recognition that certifies that a formal graduation has taken place.
Additionally, some states fully intertwine their public education systems with homeschooling, requiring state schools to provide homeschooled students access to all of their resources. These may include libraries, computer labs, athletic organizations, and other extracurricular activities. On the other hand, other states have laws that restrict homeschooled students from these resources.
Overall, it is important to understand the specific laws of your individual state. Before beginning any homeschool program, check your state's requirements and make sure to follow all laws and regulations that have been established.
While some states take a relaxed approach to homeschooling, others require that parents educate their children as part of a public homeschooling system. In the state of Texas, there is little authority over homeschooling children. No requirements exist for a minimum number of days/hours of class time, achievement tests, or the teacher's credentials. For curriculum, the law simply states that reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and a study of good citizenship must be covered.
On the other hand, the state of California has very strict laws with regards to homeschooling. They require that all homeschooled students participate in a public homeschooling program through independent study or a charter school, enroll their children in a private school that dictates curriculum for independent study, or use an in-home tutor who has appropriate credentials.
Graduation requirements also vary from state to state. While some states have no requirements for graduation, others have many. However, regardless of which side your state leans towards, many of them do not provide official recognition that certifies that a formal graduation has taken place.
Additionally, some states fully intertwine their public education systems with homeschooling, requiring state schools to provide homeschooled students access to all of their resources. These may include libraries, computer labs, athletic organizations, and other extracurricular activities. On the other hand, other states have laws that restrict homeschooled students from these resources.
Overall, it is important to understand the specific laws of your individual state. Before beginning any homeschool program, check your state's requirements and make sure to follow all laws and regulations that have been established.
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