Monday, March 22, 2010

TOS Crew: Pandia Press


As a non-text book homeschooler, I love discovering a new Unit Study program, well at least new to me.

As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew, we were sent a free level from Pandia Press. Pandia Press publishes
nonsectarian science and history curricula in the style of a classical education.  I was sent History Odyssey Modern Times, Level 2 for free in exchange for my honest opinion. Level two is recommended for grade 7 and up, which include more difficult writing assignments and literary analysis.)  In level two guides students learn information organization, literary analysis, research skills, and writing skills through reading some of the greatest historical literature for each time period. Level two guides teach outlining, timeline analysis, geography, and critical thinking through daily lessons that are written for students to use independently.

I did not get nearly as far as I would like to have gotten prior to writing this review. However, I am familiar not only with this type of curriculum, but the concept of Unit Studies.

This unit study uses literature to teach History, Geography and Writing. We began using the program by reading Around the World in 80 Days. We actually have not read the book before, so we were looking forward to this study.

During this study, the kids had mapping assignments, writing assignments and research assignments. I really liked that there are tools to help the child learn how to write research papers. We did enjoy the time we have spent using this program.

I will tell you one thing that I appreciated. The fact that the 'required' book list is not two feet long. In fact it is very minimal. Several of them I have already have on my shelf, or will be able to acquire at the library or cheaply used.

While there are some wonderful activities that are included, thankfully, the projects are not so crazy that you feel like you will never be able to get them done.  Which is how I felt with other programs.  This program has a nice balance.

You can purchase the e-book version of this program directly from Pandia Press. You can purchase the printed version from their list of approved vendors. You can find that list here. And you can order the e-books here.  This level is available for $34.

As usual, please visit the crew blog to see what my crew mates have to say about Pandia Press.







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