March 1 Meeting

Greetings All!

I hope you are looking forward to our next Whole Hearted Home Educators' discussion time and gathering treasures from our library, too!

Thank you EVERYONE for your dedicated and enthusiastic contributions!!

Michelle will be leading the philosophical portion: Chapter 4: A New Perspective - p.59-75
Here's something to think about before we meet: In "Home Education" Charlotte Mason Writes, "If education is to secure the step-by-step progress of the individual and the nation, it must mean something over and above the daily plodding at small tasks which goes by the name." later she writes, "It is the business of education to find some way of supplementing that weakness of will which is the bane of most of us as of the children."

First, can you rephrase these ideas in your own words?
Second, What is your reaction to this and how do/can these ideas affect your children's education?

Our practical portion: Knowledge of Man (Art, Music) – p.127-132

Sandy will be leading the high school portion (which we did not have a chance to explore!): Knowledge of Man (Composition, Languages) – p.120-126

As we did not have a chance to explore these very important topics of discussion at our last meeting (we were swept away by magnanimous thoughts! LOL) let's attempt to share a very practical session on composition and foreign language. Please also enjoy reading the first section of FCS: A New Perspective: p59-75 for the philosophical discussion portion of the meeting.

COMPOSITION
"Literary expression is a basic product of education as well as being the means provided by God for creative communication , appreciation and reaction and a mark of our individuality. It must be encouraged, allowed and practiced." (p122 For the Children's Sake)

How do you encourage, allow and practice literary expression in your teen's education and schedule?
How have you made the transition from oral narration to written narration?
Do you have any particular success stories you can share? Resources?
Have you experienced a child who is reluctant or weak in this area? How have you addressed or approached this challenge?
How have you made the transition from oral narration to written narration to formal essay writing?

FOREIGN LANGUAGE
"To be introduced to another language is to have an insular barrier removed. Different expression and ideas in words challenge the inward-looking tendency. It is part of a liberal education. But Charlotte Mason would have us really teach the language so that it can be spoken, enjoyed, be a part of life. This is a challenge indeed!" (p125 FCS)
"Knowing at least one second language is not as necessary as being liberally educated in one's own language. But it is a door that should be opened, if possible. It is not really a luxury; it is part of our human growth." (p 126 FCS)

What is your approach to foreign language study in your homeschooling journey?
How important do you think FL study is? How much of a priority do you think it should be made?
Do you have any creative resources, or approaches that have been particularly helpful in this area?


Look forward to seeing you all!!