Today we had a geography lesson (deserts and the Southwest U.S.) and a social studies lesson about good leaders/followers (using Moses and the Israelites as examples). We also talked about our Roxaboxen town from Monday and laws (including God’s Law). I purchased the FIAR Roxaboxen Fold N Learn, and we used various pieces from that today.
Here are some FAQ I get (behind the scenes):
1. How long do you spend each day on your unit study?
As we’ve gone along our first grade journey, I’ve noticed that Elijah wants to go a bit deeper, and we are spending more time than we did at the beginning of the year. We can do spelling, handwriting (usually part of the unit study), and our unit study in 1 1/2- 2 hours. This is how we spend our morning time (usually 9:30-11:30).
2. How many mini-books do you do each day?
This is different every single day. Today we worked on six. Sometimes we only do one or two. Sometimes we go wild and do as many as eight. I would say an average, normal day is about four or five mini-books.
3. How do you manage your 2 year old during school?
I have a box of school stuff just for Simon that is used ONLY during school time. I also have a bin of fun things that are only for school time. I save scrap paper for him…we have LOTS of scraps. Today while Elijah was cutting, Simon was cutting. When Elijah was gluing, Simon was gluing (glue stick) small scraps to large scraps. Simon also played with shape puzzles, and colored a desert cactus picture. If he feels included, he is easy to handle. All I have to do is give him something.
Here are Elijah’s mini books from today:
1. What Will I Find in the Desert? Tri-fold
designed by Elijah
Inside pictures from FIAR Fold N Learn
There was also a picture of an Ocelot, but Elijah just had a fit about this. He was insistent that they are much more common in the rain forest than in the desert and would not paste the picture in his book. He even grabbed two or three encylopedias and started researching! I didn’t argue. I’ve learned that he’s usually right — especially when it comes to animals!
2. Where are the Southwestern States Simple Fold
(from Homeschool Share)
Inside the Southwestern States book
3. Places in Arizona Mini-book
pictures are from the FIAR Fold N Learn
4. Deserts of the World Simple Fold
outer clipart and definition from FIAR Fold N Learn
Inside from Evan Moor Giant Science Resource Book
5. God’s Law Envelope Book (designed by Elijah)
The Ten Commandments piece is from the FIAR Fold N Learn
6. Good Leader/Follower Book
I designed this one today
Inside I recorded Elijah’s answer
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