May 24 WHHE Tea Invitation

In just 2 weeks...
Tuesday, May 24!!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS-THIS IS YOUR INVITATION....

Join us for scones, jam, teas and wonderful discussion at our last meeting of the season. If you feel inspired to contribute to the 'tasties', please be encouraged to do so, even though you may not have signed up.

Our philosophical study will be Chapter 6: 'The Way of the Will, Reason, and the Unity of the Whole' of "For the Children's Sake" and our practical on Knowledge of the Universe (Mathematics, Physical Development, Handicrafts) – p.141-147.

Also, please be reminded to return your library items between 7 and 7:25 pm. As the library prepares for next season, no items will be checked out at this meeting.

Thank you all for your participation!

On a personal note, I want to thank all of you for your encouragement, prayers and friendships! As our family is moving to Charlotte NC on May 30th, I must say 'TTFN'! Please be aware that the WHHE-Library@cogeco.ca email address will no longer be serviced. Feel free to contact one of the leadership team: (these are 4 out of 11)

Karen: rkpowell@295.ca

Leslee: lkganton@sympatico.ca

Hilda: balamut@cogeco.ca

Malita: msv78@live.com

On behalf of the Whole Hearted Home Educator's Leadership and Library,

Helen

PS: I'd love to stay in touch-my new email address is helenjimmie@gmail.com. I miss you already!

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!!

Magnanimity and the Day of Small Things

Magnanimity. Have you ever heard a more powerful word or contemplated a more all-encompassing vision of character? CM herself often held this ideal up as the goal of our efforts "- that stability of mind and magnanimity of character which are the proper outcome and the unfailing test of a liberal education" (A Philosophy of Education Vol 6. p248.) Karen Andreola defines magnanimity as "generosity or nobility of mind or greatness of spirit that comes about through a combination of high thinking and lowly living. A magnanimous person thinks great thoughts but is also generous in overlooking insult or injury" (A Charlotte Mason Companion p277) And the great Noah Webster in his classic 1828 dictionary muses that magnanimity is "greatness of mind; that elevation or dignity of soul, which encounters danger and trouble with tranquility and firmness, which raises the possessor above revenge, and makes him delight in acts of benevolence, which makes him disdain injustice and meanness, and prompts him to sacrifice personal ease, interest and safety for the accomplishment of useful and noble objects." (see http://1828.mshaffer.com/)

At our last WHHE meeting (high school portion) we explored this concept and I must admit sitting together around a warm fire, sharing thoughts about such weighty concepts was inspiring, and gave me the sense that perhaps this was something attainable, certainly a quality worth contemplating and pursuing.

This morning however, as the cold grey light of dawn came seeping into my room, I could feel the protest rising up inside my heart. I live in a real life home, one filled with dirty dishes, unwashed socks and rampant hormones. My children are often irritable, grumpy and resistant to their music practice and math homework. The dog needs walking regularly and my beautiful hardwood floors are getting scratched by her claws. "Magnanimous" is not really an adjective I would apply to the month of January, nor to the wrinkles and gray hairs I continually discover in that smudged looking glass that greets me each morning in the bathroom. It seems the word "magnanimity" is about to fly off the page and lodge somewhere high up out of reach behind the cobweb dangling from the corner of my living room. A deep sigh escapes as I realize the lofty vision of Charlotte Mason is perhaps not something that really matches my day to day reality.

As our family settles down this morning to read together from the books of Ezra and Zechariah a little verse grabs my attention "Who despises the day of small things? Zechariah 4:10 (NIV) Some versions translate it "do not despise the day of small beginnings." But wait? This story is about the building of the second temple in Jerusalem, surely a great, magnanimous project if there ever was one! The mention of small things seems out of place here. Throughout the day this verse keeps whispering to my soul and I must sit down and pay attention. I look again, I strive to hear, I read the words, they are like water pouring on dry ground.

" Who despises the day of small things? Men will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel..."

I contemplate the story... The exiles are returning from Babylon back to Jerusalem. Zerubbabel and company have an incredible task ahead of them, the temple is in ruins, the people scattered, difficult and opposing voices surround them on every side. I imagine the incredible amount of organization and communication that must take place for this task to be accomplished. Hundreds of people, countless hours, painstaking detailed work. Talk about an overwhelming task, a never ending to-do list! I look again. The house of the Lord was being built... the Temple, a place where God dwells on earth, the place where God had chosen to meet with His children, to provide for them, the great foreshadowing of what was to come...The story is ripe with symbolism and the presence of Christ is tangible. Christ the foundation, the cornerstone.... I listen...

I am home-maker, a mother, a daughter of the living God.. The daily tasks I am called to complete often seem small, insignificant, ordinary and at times overwhelming...cleaning, baking, organizing, intervening, communicating.....each day requiring so much energy, patience, willingness.... what am I really doing?....Slowly as I let the word of God seep into my soul a familiar story emerges...a light flickers.. I Cor 3:16..."Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and God's spirit lives in you?" I too, like Zerubbabel am called to build, to nurture into life places where God can dwell. Christ the cornerstone, the only foundation... My own heart submitted to Christ and that of each of my children are dwelling places for the Holy Spirit of God, we are little "Temples".... Indeed.

I wonder... perhaps this ancient story is not so ancient, perhaps Zerubbabel might even feel at home with a group of homeschooling moms... could it be so? Do not despise the day of small things..... for they lead to great endings... do not despise the day of small things.... because in God's great story we are all destined for unimaginable glory... though the stones must be first hewn, shaped, and positioned with care. Though the foundation must be true.... The daily small things..... the daily ordinary tasks are leading somewhere. Every cup of water, every bowl of hot oatmeal, each harsh word restrained, each day choosing to persevere in spite of opposition, each day like a stone in the wall... do not despise them... embrace the small things...for in God's Kingdom it is the small things that lead to greatness... it is the humble that will be exalted, and whoever desires to be great among you must become as a little child. Jesus reminds us " He who is least among you all - he is the greatest" Luke 4:46-48

This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit," says the Lord Almighty." Zechariah 4:6. It is also the word of the Lord to me. Magnanimity and small things. They go hand in hand. I reach for my daughters hand and give her a hug. She looks at me curiously... "Just a small thing" I say and together we smile.

Written by Sandy Moore

Mason Method at OCHEC Convention!

I thought I'd just give some news on the upcoming OCHEC Convention (May 6 & 7) that you may be interested in!

Keynote speaker is Andrew Pudewa from the Institute of Excellence in Writing. Malita excitedly shared his work at a resent WHHE meeting. Much of his philosophy is CM friendly! http://www.excellenceinwriting.com/

Also Cori Dean's talk on Charlotte Mason 101 on Saturday.

More info will becoming available shortly on the web:
http://www.ochec.org/Conv2011.php

Jan. 18 Meeting

Greetings All!

Next Tuesday, January 18th is our next Whole Hearted Home Educators discussion group meeting!

Philosophical: Ch.3: Authority and Freedom (Michelle B.)
Practical: Knowledge of Man (Composition, Languages) – p.120-126 (Rachel M.)

High School Portion (Sandy M.)
Knowledge of Man (Morals and Citizenship; Composition and Foreign Languages)

Morals and Citizenship (As we did not have time to address this at our last meeting, I am including it here)
Charlotte Mason used Plutarch to draw the child into the life of those working and living in the ancient world. As in any such history of human endeavour, there were failures, sins and weaknesses displayed as well as responsible, good and heroic action. But the text made no comment about which was right or wrong.... She found the children began to show a sympathetic understanding of the problems of statesmanship....later on he will then see the need of organized government and will be ready to be taught about the administrative structure of his own country and international relationships..... Intertwined with citizenship is morals. After all that is why a state must have laws. The Supreme Court is important, but in a sense the individual's ideas about law are a more powerful influence in society. p116 - 117 For the Children's Sake


Have you addressed this subject in your lessons?
How have you "taught" or approached citizenship? Government? Civics?
What do you think the relationship between morals and citizenship is?
Do your teens feel a sense of helplessness or empowerment with respect to government and citizenship?
What about your family? Any success stories? Opportunities? Resources to share?
How powerful is the media on your children in influencing their view of morals and citizenship? (p 119)

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?

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?


Thank you to each one of you for your commitments, participation and convictions!

A Literary Education: Reflections on the Socratic Method by Sandy Moore

Firstly I want to thank all you lovely women for your willingness to come together every six weeks and participate in the Whole Hearted Home Educators CM study group. In so many ways this group has blessed my homeschooling journey, and enriched my life with new ideas, friendship and fellowship. In light of our most recent meeting focusing on Knowledge of Man: Literature, I wanted to share a few reflections and recommendations as a follow up to our discussion.

To Experience literature is to see the world through new eyes. As C.S. Lewis stated in his Experiment in Criticism, "Those of us who have been true readers all our life seldom fully realize the enormous extension of our being which we owe to the authors... My own eyes are not enough for me, I will see through the eyes of others." When we read, we broaden our perspective, so that we are no longer trapped within the limits of our own experience. "In reading great literature, " Lewis says, "I become a thousand men and yet remain myself... I see with a myriad eyes, but it is still I who see.... I transcend myself; and am never more myself than when I do."

This broadening of perspective is a necessary and crucial part of a strong education. The ability to interact gracefully with important ideas is one mark of a truly educated person and exposure to great ideas is the only way to become conversant with them! Great literature, because it presents ideas with eloquence, provides models and examples by which students can hone their skills of expression and debate.

However this is only half the reason.

The other half is that great literature, because it bountifully portrays the tragedy, pathos and wonder of the human condition, is an end in itself. It's not just a tool for teaching the skill of debate, or a training manual on how to discuss ideas; it is art that richly rewards the educated contemplation. It represents the contributions of its authors to what Mortimer Adler called the Great Conversation about the good life, the relationship between the human and the divine. The pleasure and fulfillment that come from reading literature are a part of what it is to be human, in the fullest sense.

This is the opening paragraph in the Book "Teaching the Classics: A Socratic Method for Literary Education" by Adam and Missy Andrews @2004, The Center for Literary Education.

This thin but meaty resource is a perfect guidebook for helping us practically implement that much sought after prize we often refer to as: "A Literary Education". I think intuitively we all know that great books are the backbone of a CM education and have taken pains to line our shelves with those classic titles by Kipling, Stevenson, Dickens, Twain, Shakespeare and Lewis, to name only a few. As our kids grow we are constantly on the lookout for quality reading material to funnel their way, in order that that dreaded harmful "twaddle" may not even cross the threshold of our domain let alone gain a foothold in our children's minds and appetites.

But the question we discussed last evening at our WHHE meeting (high school portion) seemed to be one that was on many minds. How do we interact with these great books? Do we just read them and run?... hope for the best? Allow all those good nutritious book-meals to do their nourishing work while we passively serve them up, one after the other? Or is there more we can do?

One resource I have found particularly helpful as I strive to help my kids grow in their ability to interact with those capital ideas found in the Great Books is Teaching the Classics. Not only does this resource present the 5 elements of literary analysis (Characters, Setting, Plot, Conflict and Theme) but it does so in context of easily accessible and familiar stories that entertain as well as enlighten. In addition to the literary elements this resource elucidates the tried and true" Socratic Method" of discussion. I think for many of us this style of discussion focusing on open ended questions in order to draw out the reader's own ideas and impressions of the material is intuitive but who can resist a comprehensive list of suggestions to help make the going a little easier! Using these questions as possible essay or written narration assignments helps makes this resource even more practical and allows our older students to develop those elusive written skills in manageable chunks.

Of course not every book should be "analyzed" or dissected in such a way or we will succeed only in creating readers who run the other direction when the word " literature" is mentioned. Nor should we discount that reading is a richly rewarding end in itself, and should be enjoyed as such. At the same time though, we need to be intentional about nurturing active minds in our children and ourselves, minds that are trained to discern good from evil, valid argument from opinion, truth from falsehood. By taking some time to enter into discussions about the books we are reading and the ideas contained therein we can naturally deepen our understanding of complex ideas and at the same time grow in our relationships with God, each other and the Universe. What could be time better spent than that?

Teaching the Classics: A Socratic Method for Literary Education by Adam and Missy Andrews @2004 Center for Literary Education is found in our WHHE library or can be purchased from
www.excellenceinwriting.com (click on the Literature and Poetry section)

December 7 Meeting Reminder

Greetings All,

We look forward to meeting again next Tuesday, December 7! Our philosophical component will be on chapter 2 of For The Children's Sake which is “Children are Born Persons” on pages 26-41. For the practical, we will delve into "Knowledge of Man" (Literature, Morals & Citizenship) from pages 111-120. Also, thank you to Sandy for crafting and preparing the high school section. See below.

Thank you to all of who are bringing tastes! A real blessing!

I'll be prepared in the library to receive your returns at 7:00. The meeting starts at 7:30, so please be back upstairs for the start of our great discussions!

Sincerely,
Helen


Dec 7 WHHE Meeting: Highschool Portion
Knowledge of Man (Literature, Morals and Citizenship) p111-120

Literature
"Literature has a great natural power. Through it, we receive the gifted communication of other persons. In literature perhaps more than any other art form, we are able to get into the other man's shoes." p112 For the Children's Sake

Discussion Questions:

The list of Great Books seems endless yet there are only so many hours in a day. How do you choose which literary books your teens will read in a given year? How much input do your teens have in choosing their own books? Do you follow a curriculum, booklist or guide? (Please bring any recommendations to share)

Do you set guidelines for the content with respect to your older student's free reading?
What do we do about literature that is anything BUT "pure, lovely , of good report? (see page 114)

Do you still do read alouds as a family and/or with your teens? How does this work in your schedule?
What about literary analysis? Oral and Written Narrations? Socratic Discussions? Do you practice these skills and if so how do you structure this in a given week?
Do your teens like to read? Do they like to discuss and analyze the books they are reading?

Morals and Citizenship

Charlotte Mason used Plutarch to draw the child into the life of those working and living in the ancient world. As in any such history of human endeavour, there were failures, sins and weaknesses displayed as well as responsible, good and heroic action. But the text made no comment about which was right or wrong.... She found the children began to show a sympathetic understanding of the problems of statesmanship....later on he will then see the need of organized government and will be ready to be taught about the administrative structure of his own country and international relationships..... Intertwined with citizenship is morals. After all that is why a state must have laws. The Supreme Court is important, but in a sense the individual's ideas about law are a more powerful influence in society. p116 - 117 For the Children's Sake

Have you addressed this subject in your lessons? How have you "taught" or approached citizenship? Government? Civics?
What do you think the relationship between morals and citizenship is?
Do your teens feel a sense of helplessness or empowerment with respect to government and citizenship? What about your family? Any success stories? Opportunities? Resources to share?
How powerful is the media on your children in influencing their view of morals and citizenship? (p 119)

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Gearing up for the Season!

Here's the updated library list!

There are 2 pdfs.
One is an alphabetical listing.
The other is by category.

A posting of the schedule and starting date will be posted very soon!

The Dundas Valley High School Co-op

If you are interested in a co-op experience for your  high school student, the Dundas Valley High School Co-op runs two 12-week semesters each year, offering numerous core and elective courses, including the annual Canoe Trip and Drama Production. We meet on Thursdays at St. Paul's Church in Dundas.For more information please contact Robin Larin at:   DVHSCoop@gmail.com

The Charlotte Mason Series - The Digitization of the Charlotte Mason Col...

There has been extensive work done in recent years to digitize the collection of documents related to Charlotte Mason that are currently held at the Armitt in Cumbria, UK.  Dr. Deani Van Pelt and Redeemer University in Ontario have been part of that process, and here you will see a video produced by Deani which explains the significance of the collection and the importance of having a permanent digital record.

If you have read works about CM, some of names of CM scholars may be familiar to you, and in this video you will see some of the faces that belong to those names:

Dr. Jack Beckman

Dr. John Thorley

Dr. Carroll Smith

Dr. Deani Van Pelt

There are, of course, others in the video, and others who are instrumental in bringing Charlotte Mason's work to the forefront of modern education.  We are privileged to have people who are committed to the value of this work, who are making the original documents accessible to all of us, and who are giving so much of their time and energy with little or no compensation.  


Enjoy the video!

This post has been published concurrently on Peaceledge.

High School Math

A while back someone asked me a question about a follow up to JUMP Math for older grades. If you go back to the comments on that post you'll find my response there.

Scripture Memorization System

As you may well be aware of, Simply Charlotte Mason has a wonderful system for memorizing scripture. Scroll down on the link provided for a pdf of templates. These cards make the system very user friendly. I hope it is an encouragement to put the system to use!

Charlotte Mason Education Symposium

Wednesday, October 06, 2010 starting at 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

The Department of Education at Redeemer University College will be welcoming leading international Charlotte Mason scholars to a panel discussion. The focus of this discussion will be to introduce and explore the educational theories of this 19th century educator and consider how her ideas are influencing 21st century K-12 education.

At the symposium, Redeemer University College Library will be launching the Charlotte Mason Digital Collection (CMDC) which has previously never been accessible without physically visiting the Armitt Museum in the north of England. The discussions will be led by leading Charlotte Mason experts: Dr. John Thorley, UK, Dr. Jack Beckman, USA, Ms. Lisa Cadora, USA, Dr. J Carroll Smith, USA and Ms. Marlene Power of Redeemer's Library with Dr. Deani Van Pelt moderating.

The following presentations will be made:

1. Who is Charlotte Mason and what did she offer 19th century British
education?
Presented by John Thorley, Retired Principal Dean, Charlotte Mason
College, Ambleside, England.

2. What did Charlotte Mason offer 20th century British education?
Presented by Dr Jack Beckman, Associate Professor, Faculty of Education, Covenant College, Georgia

3. What did Charlotte Mason offer 20th century education in North America?
Presented by Ms. Lisa Cadora, Instructor, Cincinnati College, Cincinnati, Ohio

4. What does Charlotte Mason offer 21st century education?
Presented by Dr. J. Carroll Smith, Director of Graduate School of
Education, Gardner-Webb University, North Carolina

5. What does Redeemer University College offer 21st century Charlotte
Mason education?
Presented by Ms. Marlene Power, Archivist Librarian, Redeemer University College

The CMDC has been made possible through several grants from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and through the support of Redeemer University College, Covenant College, GA, Gardner-Webb University, NC, University of Cumbria, UK, and The Armitt Library and Museum, UK.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON!

Have a look at the ChildLight USA blog today: http://childlightusa.wordpress.com/

Deani has written a lovely post about the process of digitizing Charlotte Mason's papers.

Hope to see many of you at the launch,
Sandy Rusby Bell


Visit the Ambleside Online Curriculum website at http://www.amblesideonline.org .
Check out our Canada page too: http://www.amblesideonline.org/Canada.shtml .

FREE Anna Comstock download

At our last meeting, we looked at nature study and science. The Handbook of Nature Study is a tremendous resource. This book is in our WHHE library and recommended in most CM books.

Here ia a free download of the Handbook of Nature Study by Anna Comstock.

http://www.archive.org/details/handbookofnature002506mbp

Thank you, Hilda!!

Take School Outside

Spring is a beautiful time: everything seems fresh and new, the greens appear more vibrant than at other times, and there is so much to observe.

At the same time, spring is a difficult time to concentrate on school: the outdoors are calling, the mind has already shifted to next year's books, and fatigue after a long year (and winter) of school has set in.

Why not take these two situations and combine them into one beautiful solution: 

Take school outside

Now, I'm not talking about bringing your books and doing Math at the picnic table, or Dictation under the budding maple tree. No. What I'm suggesting is to take advantage of this fabulous season and spend time on Nature Study.  

In my home, this is one area that gets sadly neglected during the winter months. But come spring, even my reclusive, hibernating self is antsy to get outdoors! So now is when I turn to the Handbook of Nature Study blog and get some fresh ideas for incorporating Nature Study and Anna Botsford Comstock's fantastic book Handbook of Nature Study(which is also available free online) into our days.

Barb has redesigned her blog to make it more user friendly, and has recently begun a series of spring Outdoor Hour Challenges. Why not take a look and see if there's something there that piques your interest?

WHHE Highschool CM Discussion

Hello friends:

This is just a warm invitation to join us this Tuesday April 13th for those of you interested in continuing to discuss CM Methods as pertaining to high school aged teens. This week our topic of discussion will centre around the application of CM's idea that Education is an atmosphere, a discipline and a life and how that might pertain to the influence of culture on our home schooled teens.

How do we nurture our teens to fulfill God's purpose for them in their own generation?
How do raise up Godly young people who are in the world, influencing and engaging their culture without becoming negatively influenced by the world?
Are there ways we can create an atmosphere, nurture the discipline and offer life-giving opportunities to facilitate the development of our teens into who God is calling them to be?

Some areas to think about include:
Influence of Media, Social Networking Sites, TV, Movies, etc...
Music, Peer-Influence, Free time choices, leadership opportunities etc..

We look forward to encouraging one another as we seek to raise Godly teens who can be salt and light!

Sandy M.

New Items available on Tuesday!!

These three are from AO's lists (House of Education - high school):
-Georges Vanier: Soldier by Deborah Cowley
-The Awakening of Europe by M.B. Synge
-Finding God by Dr. Larry Crabb

This one was highly recommended at the last high school discussion.
-The Drama of Scripture by Craig Bartholomew and Michael Goheen

View Updated Library List

Hooray, all! Please find the 2010 library list under
"View Our Library Listings"in the upper right of this blog.
By clicking, it will/should send you to a Google site where you can save the pdf by clicking on "Feb 2010 library list.cwk (SS).pdf". There are 36 pages of 1175 items that can be 'searched'. Although we don't accept requests for holds, if you aren't seeing an item that is listed, please feel free to inquire.

Happy browsing!

New Library Items

Greetings All,

It's been my joy to serve, for a short time, as your librarian at the Whole Hearted Home Educators meetings.

I just wanted to give you a preview of the new items. A complete library list in a 36 page searchable pdf will be added when my steep learning curve peaks! Thank you, Jennifer for having confidence in my abilities!

These are the new items that will be available at the March 2nd meeting. They will be set apart so you can find them efficiently.

Be Blessed,
Helen

New WHHE Library books available at the March 2nd meeting.

-Desiring God by John Piper

-The Sea Around Us by Rachel Carlson

-Who in the World Was the Acrobatic Empress: The Story of Theodora by Robin Phillips

-Six Easy Pieces: Essentials of Physics explained by its most brilliant teacher by Richard P. Feynman

-Mathematicians are People, Too (Vol. 1) by Luetta Reimer

-The Once and Future King by T.H. White

-Albert Einstein and the Theory of Relativity by Robert Cwiklik

-Never Give In: The Extraordinary Character of Winston Churchill by Stephen Mansfield

-Microbe Hunters: The Classic Book on the Mafor Discoveries of the Microscopic World by Paul De Kruif

-3 DVDs of Eve Anderson (teaching at Perimeter School, which is a private school today using the CM methods, in the states)
There are 3 separate DVDs. One on Nature Study (found in the Nature Study bin); one on Narration (found in the CM Resources bin); and one on Picture Study (found in the Art bin).

-True Heroism recommended in the first chapter of “When Children Love to Learn”

-The Pilgrim’s at Plymouth by Landmark Books

-TruthQuest History: Age of Revolution III (1865-2000) by Michelle Miller

-How Should We Then Live?, DVD by Francis A. Schaeffer

-Shanghaied To China, Trailblazer Series #9 (Hudson Taylor) by Dave Jackson, Neta Jackson
I think this completes the series.

-Elementary Greek, Year One Kit by Christine Gatchell
Lots of talk about this one on the CM Canada group

-Already Gone: Why Your Kids Will Quit Church and What You Can Do To Stop It by Ken Ham & Britt Beemer with Todd Hillard

-Revolutionary Parenting by George Barna
This book was first introduced to me by our hostess Karen at a CM meeting. It encouraged many and even more so now in remembering David. A Spiritual Champion who has run the race and is now among the cloud of witnesses cheering us on.

-My Book House series (8 of the 12); Olive Beaupre Miller, editor
On 2 of Lori Lawings talks at the ChildLight USA Conferences, she mentions this series. Wonderful resource. The series is geared for elementary(ish) grades. Volume 5 is geared for early, progressing to upper elementary. Here’s a link to her very worthwhile talks.
http://www.childlightusa.org/conference_resources.php
* Volume 5, Over The Hills
* Volume 6, Though Fairy Halls
* Volume 7, The Magic Garden
* Volume 8, Flying Sails
* Volume 9, The Treasure Chest
* Volume 10, From the Tower Window
* Volume 11, In Shining Armor
* Volume 12, Halls of Fame

-A Child’s Day Through the Ages by Dorothy Margaret Stuart
Also recommended by Lori Lawing.

-Modern Rhymes About Ancient Times: Ancient Rome by Susan Altman
This one is just too much fun!

Advancing the Movement

Nicole Hutchinson, a Charlotte Mason educator in the United States, and connected closely with ChildLight USA directed our attention to this article in the February 1 New York Times.  


It is fascinating to see how Charlotte Mason's ideas of education are being spoken by people who, it is likely, have never read her material.  Current educational theory is moving in a very exciting direction!


To quote another CM advocate after reading this article, 

"We are on the cusp!  We can even add more to what the author is suggesting."

Please take a look at the article (it isn't long).