Summer Hang outs!

Pictures are worth a 1,000 words!  What's the best way to enjoy summer?  Hanging out, of course!

My delightful daughter gathered all her friend's Eno hammocks and brought them with for a visit to San Antonio. These simple, parachute, double hammocks were the biggest hit of our summer.  THIS IS NOT A REVIEW or a sponsored post (for those of you who know me)  I just couldn't resist sharing them with you...

 If you've been dreaming of that getaway, it could be a close as your suburbia back yard!

So easy, she had them set up and swinging in no time!

Guess what is at the TOP of everyone's birthday list this year?

Fun for friends too!

No spare bedroom, no problem!

My favorite sleepyheads,  Lydia is inches off the ground, but making sure she's protected, just in case she "wanted to sleepwalk".  No need, they slept safe and sound!

Hanging out was filled with  fun and family memories.  Best of all, we didn't need to pack up, rough it, or even leave the porch.

 This is a family staycation you can do!

Self-Paced History by Veritas Press: A TOS Crew Review

Veritas Press Self-Paced History: 1815 to Present from Veritas Press
Ideal for Grades 2nd-6th 
Cost: $199 per course ($100 discount for siblings).  Course is available for 12 months.
1815 to Present Flashcards - $19.95

The Bentz Test Laboratory loves history.  We love reading it, we love watching it, and we love playing it. Veritas Press Self-Paced History: 1815 to Present from Veritas Press let us do all those things!
The Veritas Press Self-Paced History features five separate courses, each containing 160 class periods and cover 32 important historical events each. Each course contains engaging, on-line, video lessons.  The interactive teaching includes games, video footage and even talking characters from history.

The five courses available are:

Veritas Press Self-Paced History: Old Testament and Ancient Egypt

Veritas Press Self-Paced History: New Testament, Greece and Rome

Veritas Press Self-Paced History: Middle Ages, Renaissance and Reformation

Veritas Press Self-Paced History: Explorers to 1815

Veritas Press Self-Paced History: 1815 to Present

 This chronological approach to studying history provides a variety of ways to memorize important dates, events and characters. They use maps, puzzles, historical paintings and even a memory song, along with the  physical 1815 to Present Flashcards - 32 major events in chronological order,  to really cement this history in your child's memory.  You can check out a sample lesson HERE.

The Bentz Testers were able to easily log into the system and get learning. Our only hangup was that we couldn't get the lessons to properly launch and advance with Internet Explorer.  Simply switching browsers immediately corrected the issue.  (you can check out the system requirements on  the FAQ page)  Their 

customer service response was quick and friendly too!

It's simple to get started, and since we were just beginning this time period in our history studies we jumped right into the Monroe Doctrine. This course features Eva and Marcus as their "teachers" and covers 32 major events from the Monroe Doctrine to modern times,  primarily American History.  The lessons varied in time, but took about 20-40 minutes to complete, each of the 32 major events are covered over 5 lessons.   

My testers loved the teachers, they were funny and engaging as they discuss the lesson, even joking together.  They make the lessons feel very real, not just a canned presentation.  The videos are very professionally done,  my testers thoroughly enjoyed them! Just watching the backdrops of their history presentation was entertaining.

The program monitors your child's progress, and automatically begins where they left off, even in the middle of a lesson.  This is truly a self-paced program, you determine the number of lessons, and where you would like to start.  My testers were all grades 2-6 and could easily manage this on their own.  However, I didn't want to miss out - they really are very engaging lessons.

One of the aspects we truly admired was the variety of activities included.  Not only the video history lesson, but mapping, reviews, art study, timeline work and plenty of additional interesting information to go along with the topic are included in each lesson.  

My testers especially enjoyed the different ways of reviewing the lesson.  For example, when answering review questions - they used mini globes to smash the wrong answers.  Spelling challenges were another hit (can't believe I actually can say that...spelling is not usually a favorite activity around here...)  The challenge to spell the word in a time limit was very motivating to my testers.  The variety keeps the lessons interesting, never boring! 

The flashcards are a welcome, and necessary component to the online program.  We didn't have them at first, and my testers found it difficult to remember all the facts for the quiz.  Once the cards arrived,  my testers did much better with the flashcard to reference.  Not to mention, the flashcards are beautifully done as well.  

 Every 5th lesson features a quiz.  My testers were able to score well on the quizzes due to the frequent review and repetition throughout the lessons.  

 

Once logged in, parents can easily see the progress, look ahead and monitor scores.  In addition, PDF files are included that outline the hands-on projects and supplies needed as well as outside recommended reading. 

Don't be put off by the price tag, this is a very complete, very comprehensive history program. It's well worth the investment to get your students engaged in learning history.  My testers are loving it, and I'm sure yours will too!

For older students be sure to check out the Veritas Press Self-Paced Omnibus I!
  Find Veritas Press Self-Paced History on Facebook, Twitter , Pinterest  and  Google+ 

See what other members of the Crew thought here

Go Science DVDs from Library and Educational Services : A TOS Crew Review

Science DVDs (All NEW - Series 2) from Library and Educational Services
Volume 1: Sound, Gravity, Space
Volume 2: Life Science, Weather
Volume 3: Air
Volume 4: Motion, Friction, Electricity, Light
Volume 5: States of Matter, Water
Volume 6: Chemistry
Volume 7: Engineering, Design, Flight
Cost:  $8.87 each.   Great for ages 4-12.

The Bentz Test Laboratory was delighted to get a chance to preview the Go Science DVDs from Library and Educational Services.  
We are always on the hunt for new ways to add some science fun to our days.  We were given our choice of 2 titles,  we picked Volume 2: Life Science, Weather and Volume 7: Engineering, Design, Flight  Here's a short video sample to check out:



These DVD's are around an hour long and feature Ben Roy, a science teacher at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.   He covers a variety of science topics in the seven volumes, with 80 short demonstrations, around 5- 12 minutes each. The DVD's are live taped with an audience filled with children, and your children will feel like part of the group. 

Mr. Roy begins each segment with a science explanation and uses children as his "helpers".  I noticed my children were so engaged that they actually raised their hands to volunteer as the helper!  Good sign that they are enjoying this.  

His explanations were directed to this age group.  He has a gentle tone and is very engaging.  Older children may find it a bit corny (or so they tell me...) But, they are NOT the intended audience!  This is geared toward your younger scientists.
My testers liked to watch segment after segment.  The length of each segment was perfect for their attention spans.  As I watched along, I was amazed by how much I was learning.  (and I used to teach elementary science at our co-op!)   
Volume 2: Life Science, Weather - our thoughts:
I especially liked how Mr. Roy didn't lecture.  He showed cool objects like skulls, asked questions, made noises & explosions, involved his audience, and ultimately - let them draw the conclusions.   This is how science should be taught!  Your young child's curiosity will be awakened, and many of these demonstrations are things they can try at home without complex supplies.  My kiddos vow to go on a spider hunt together (as soon as they find their courage...) and all they need is a flashlight.  
Volume 7: Engineering/Design, Flight - our thoughts
This volume has some fun experiments you can try at home with just a few supplies.  For instance - flinging rocks with a trebuchet (aka - pumpkin' chuckin' anyone!), walking on eggs, vinegar rockets.  It's a boy's science dream - explosions, getting wet, and things flying - what's not to love?

Once again, I appreciate that these experiements are something that my children can get up and go do on their own.  Most of all, I love how Mr. Roy introduces them to how science relates to the Bible and ignites a spark to know more.

Each segment could be used as a stand alone introduction to the topic.  I kept thinking how great these DVDs would be for Sunday School or VBS classes.  Co-ops could use them as well.  With summer break in full swing, you can use these for some rainy day fun too!

The best part of each segment, in my opinion is that  Mr. Roy ends each episode with , “When we learn more about science, we learn more about our Creator, God.”   A message worth listening to, over and over again.


Find Library and Educational Services on Facebook 

Read what other members of the Crew thought here

Standing on the WORD

We decided the carpet had to go!  After all, who puts carpet in a dining room?  Certainly not a family with eight children :-)

This gave me the perfect opportunity to cover our floor with Scripture.  We did this in our first home.  Actually,it was in our schoolroom.  I know that this room had a different feel, and I believe it was the power of God's Word that we were standing on.

So,  I gave everyone a sharpie, and turned them loose...

Essie chose to draw some pictures.  I'm not sure exactly why she picked Samson and Deliah (our new neighbor's dog is named Deliah...)  But, she was in on the action.

Luke, my lover of words, inscribed long passages.  (sorry about my toes...)

More Chloe and Essie illustrations

 

This one gets me - everytime.  Guess who wrote it...  Kris.

Spelling isn't one of Lydia's strongest subjects, but I do love her heart.  

Not surprisingly, Sam's verses reflected the Great Commission.  Can't wait to see where God takes him.

 

Selah's were, of course, in pink.  Plus, she added the Bible Bee Focus verse for 2014, very fitting!

Wisdom words.  Truth.  Foundations.

 

 Noah goes straight for our mission - "As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord!"

My homeschooling verse!

A new (Old) favorite!  

The part that most surprised me - not one child hesitated - even a moment.  They all had favorite Scripture they wanted to make sure to embed into the very center of our home.  What a treasure we have hidden in our hearts.

Doesn't the finished product look beautiful too...

Diana and Friends Experience History Through Music Giveaway -- $700+ Value!

 I am so excited to share this with you.  I am delighted to be taking part in the launch of a the upcoming release of Experience History Though Music by Diana Waring.

 I have been a long time fan of Diana's other history programs, and this one may be an all time favorite.  I don't want to give too much away, my review will be coming soon.  I can tell you, you will not want to miss out on this great new way to experience history - or this amazing givewaway!

 Better enter now, and tell your friends!



To celebrate the release of Experience History Through Music, I am joining members of the Diana Waring Launch Team for an amazing giveaway. Friends of Diana have joined in and as you can see, someone's homeschool is going to be greatly blessed!  Here's what you could win! 

From Diana Waring Presents

Experience History Through Music - set of 3 books with CDs ($50/set) Diana Waring Presents is about to bring back into print the BEST folk music you have ever heard, combined with the fascinating stories they represent in American history!   The Experience Music Through Historyseries includes: America - Heart of a New Nation, Westward Ho! - Heart of the Old West  and Musical Memories of Laura Ingalls Wilder. The musicians are amazing, every instrument is real, lots of great vocalists, and more toe-tapping music than you can imagine! The books tell the stories behind the songs.  Together, they bring American history to life through it's music!!With fascinating history books and toe-tapping folk music CDs, American history has NEVER been this fun!


Encouragement for Homeschool Moms Collection ($25) Every mom needs that word of encouragement from someone who has been there, who has grownup children and can speak with assurance about the journey. Homeschool moms have an extra portion of the journey to navigate, and often wish for an extra voice that will offer direction but without nagging or prodding. Diana Waring has that voice.  

From A Journey Through Learning

$50 Gift Certificate $50 to spend in the A Journey Through Learning store, applicable toward any digital download purchase.  

 

From Homeschool Legacy

Westward Ho! Part I ($19.95) Load up your wagon! Discover the extraordinary times of adventurous frontiersmen and brave pioneers as you travel cross-country along the Erie Canal,  Oregon Trail, and even “remember the Alamo” in Westward Ho Part I. Westward Ho! Part II ($19.95) Continue the exciting saga begun in Westward Ho! Part I as you journey with the forty-niners, ride the rails of the Transcontinental Railroad, experience life on the prairie, and discover the exciting era of cowboys and cattle drives in Westward Ho! Part II.  

From Knowledge Quest Maps

Map Trek: Atlas and Outline Maps of World History ($55) Map Trek is a historical atlas plus outline maps that allow you to teach geography alongside history. This is a resource that any homeschool parent can use with brilliant success, even if you don't remember a thing from your history or geography classes in public school.  

 

From Home School Adventure Co. 

Philosophy Adventure™ Digital Download ($39.95) Philosophy Adventure™ is designed to help students 6th-12th grade cultivate and defend a biblical worldview by teaching them how to write skillfully, think critically, and speak articulately as they explore the history of ideas.  

 

From Heidi St. John (The Busy Mom and Real Life Press)

Firmly Planted Family Devotional Digital Volume 3 ($39) The Firmly Planted Family Series is divided into ten-week studies and is your key to making sense of the Bible—even if you’re learning right along with your children. Each lesson provides a core idea, a simple narrative, memory verses and discussion questions for children of all ages. And the companion student workbook is filled with age-appropriate, full-color, reproducible activities for children of any age!  

From Raising Real Men

Free Registration to Boyhood Boot Camp or Boot Camp 9-12 LIVE webinar series (winner's choice) plus Mom & Dad Special Raising Real Men (Book for Mom to read in the bathroom + AudioBook for Dad to listen to on the commute) ($62-69) Free Registration for Marriage Retreat Online plus His & Hers Special of My Beloved and My Friend: How To Be Married To Your Best Friend Without Changing Spouses (book + audiobook), ($65)  

 

From Institute for Excellence in Writing

$50 Gift Certificate $50 to spend in the IEW store, applicable toward any purchase.  

From The Old Schoolhouse Magazine

SchoolhouseTeachers.com ($139) A one year membership to the curriculum arm of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. Nearly 100 classes for Pre-K to High School, taught by expert teachers, and lots of extras including the Schoolhouse Planners, Schoolhouse Expos, monthly free ebook downloads and more.  The Old Schoolhouse Magazine 2014 Print Book ($15) Be encouraged, enlightened, and educated with the all new 2014 Annual Print Book published by The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine.You’ll get a year’s worth of homeschool support in almost 300 pages in this full color one-of-a-kind print magazine for homeschoolers, by homeschoolers. This is a magazine you’ll refer to again and again.  

From Writing with Sharon Watson

The Power in Your Hands ($53.96) With The Power in Your Hands: Writing Nonfiction in High School, they’ll learn what they need to know for high school and will be prepared for college writing. Writing Fiction [in High School] ($35) Are you raising the next C. S. Lewis or Jane Austen? Help your students develop their fiction-writing talents with Writing Fiction [In High School]: Bringing Your Stories to Life .

 To enter the giveaway, use the Rafflecopter below. Residents of the U.S., age 18 and older only. Other Terms and Conditions can be found in the Rafflecopter.

  a Rafflecopter giveaway