Third and Fourth Six Weeks

Basically getting you up to today's date of 3/8/06

The girls are doing fine. We have gotten them new CDs from WalMart.com that covers all areas in most educational institutions for their respective grade levels. These new CDs are a bit more current, and interactive than the others. More fun for the girls overall.

I think they like the fact the CDs talk to them, sort of like a teacher; but the visual examples are the best part. They allow the girls to see what they need to do, then let them do the problems. Another great thing about the CDs is the way it congratulates them every time they get it right.

The CDs cover Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Geometry and so on... All the way up to Calculus. There is also a typing tutor that teaches them typing/keyboard skills. Of course they are still required to show some of their work, which they hate, since the CD allows them to be pen less, but I have them write some of it down. The writing it down part is mainly for the sake of having some paper proof they are being educated.

None the less, they are getting their education. They spend between 2 and 4 hours a day working with the CDs, since they go back over what they miss immediately. The CD makes them get the problem right, and they can go back to look at the problem again. This i like, since it reinforces going back over your problem to arrive at a conclusion.

As of 3/27/06

The girls have worked hard on the CD's since they have gotten them. My youngest, has been learning pre and basic algebra, she has even tried out the language CD. I told her to start with Spanish, then move onto other languages. Science was an interesting one, since I had to give up my PC for that one on several occasions. She was able to explore the body, and was interested in the gross part of the human anatomy. History, not too hard for her since I am into it a little bit. Thus I was able to assister her with many of the questions. 

All in all my youngest was scoring B+ in Math, B in Science, B+ in History, Her reading comprehension is better B+, but I was to see it go to an A to A+. All in all she has come a long way. She is able to do fractions better, as well as read and she seems to excel with the personal attention.

My Oldest has used her CD's a lot as well. She has gotten more functional with Algebra and Basic Trig. Plus her attention is more focused on the subjects at hand (Reading, Math, Spelling, etc.).

My oldest prefers the individual attention and quiet. it has helped her concentration and she is more focused. She does not become distracted by the whispers and taunting of other children. She has told me on several occasions, she does not see how kids learn anything in the public school system; with all the noise and people agitating one another all the time.

Her grades are A Math, B+ Science, Reading A and A History 

What I have done now is this. I want them to do a Civics Assignment of sorts. So, I have them working with me on a contract job. Now, take into account I am in the IT industry, so.... Reading, Math and Social Skills are definitely a part of this assignment. Basically they help take measurements, write down technical information, file, make copies and basically assist me in all the functions I would otherwise be doing alone. I have them write a short paper on what they have learned that week. Now we are only a week into this project of five to six weeks. They are doing very well. They interact in a professional manner, they call me (on the job sites) by my last name (not dad). They help immensely in ways you can't imagine. But the best part, when this assignment is over. I will give them a grade based on their successes and mistakes. But the mistakes are few and far between. So they are doing a very good job. We also had the opportunity to participate in a Tornado drill in a mall; on a volunteer basis. Both girls volunteered. I thought that showed very good citizenship.

4/2006

OK here we go with the CIVICS class. Full swing, and the girls are learning valuable job skills, the value of proper and adult communication, the way not to act on the job, the proper format in addressing their boss (ME) in a professional environment. Although they are getting grades, I am paying them a percentage, plus a bonus for work well done. Now, the fun part for me is watching them try to make their grades for this period, and working hard. I love it because now they can not claim they are too tired to work. They get in bed early, get up early, we discuss what they have learned, break down their attitude on the job site and finally, what I think they can improve on.

The jobs break down like this. The oldest handles the paperwork, making sure the 'T' and 'I's are crossed and dotted and collection of information. The youngest helps collect information, like measuring, serial numbers, model numbers and so on. Now they work together on this, as well as with me. I critique their work on site. I have gotten compliments on their work ethic and attitude from some of the Managers we have dealt with. They have especially liked the fact they address me by my Surname and not by 'Dad' or 'Daddy'.

I know this is a good educational experience for my oldest, since she is so ready to hit the job market NOW!!! (LOL)  As a matter of fact she has been begging for a chance to go to work for a local sandwich joint that will hire kids as young as 14. She is also getting ready to take her learners permit test. So we will see how that goes.

Both are generous, and has even offered to buy lunch, throw in on groceries or help with utilities. Although this is very good civic minded in a manner of speaking, we encourage them to hold onto their money.