KB Teachers - A Great New Site - TOS Review

KB Teachers (Knowledge Bear)
KBTeachers.com
Great for PK-12th age children, all ages
$29 per year, or $49 for two years

As a member of the The Old Schoolhouse product review crew I recently received a free premium membership to KBTeachers to use in exchange for an honest review of the product.  No further compensation was received.  (What a timesaver this one was!)

Wow, KBTeachers is awesome!  This site is great for teachers and parents looking for new teaching tools and materials.  They don't charge per download or per workbook.  For a low yearly or monthly fee, you get full access to all of their content and services--which would easily cost you much more elsewhere.

Even better, before you join, you can preview the entire library, and after you join, you have 30 days to cancel your membership and ask for a refund.  If you go here to visit the site you can set up your free no risk 10 day trial with PayPal or use your credit card with a 30 day money back guarantee.
 
For Parents, Teachers and Educators this invaluable site offers worksheet generators and alphabet factory,
unlimited numbers of printable activities for all ages and grade levels, unlimited access with no watermarks,
graphics and clipart for use on websites, blogs, activity sheets, etc...  The available choices are numerous, with answers keys available.  The site regularly updates and adds new features and member created content every week.  Another plus, nothing to download--instant access (great timesaver if you're on dial-up internet)!  Where else can you find handwriting practice, math worksheets, detailed information about food pyramids, grammar lessons, a dinosaur workbook,  and seasonal clipart in the same place?

Site content is based on standards set by * NCTE, * NCSS,  *NSTA, * NCTM and * ISTE, (whew, say that three times fast).

As a KBTeacher you get access to an online community and can diversify your educational materials.  There are sections covering English, Math, Science, Biology, Social Studies, Seasonal, Crafts, Clipart and more.  This site is colorful and engaging, just like the printables you'll find there.  There's an online newsletter, and you'll find KBTeachers on Facebook too.  If you can't find something there's a request option too.

Taking into account all that I've mentioned, this really is a great option.  I'm glad this product came my way at a time when I was looking for the "extras" for my children.  I really like the seasonal options and worksheet generators.  My kids are having fun and learning.  It's great for my 13 year old and my 5 year old, and of course this 29+ year old!  You really should check out this site when you have time.  The cost is pretty reasonable considering all the options available.  For other reviews of this product click here.

Collectorz - Book Collector - A TOS Review

Collectorz - Book Collector - TOS Product Review

Collectorz.com BV
W.G. Plein 384
1054 SG Amsterdam
The Netherlands om
Phone   +31-20 772 44 11  (during Dutch business hours, please note: Dutch time is GMT+1)
Fax   +31-20 772 69 08
Corporate website   Bitz & Pixelz

Organizing your home library just got so much simpler with this easy to use software!!

 
Collectorz software allows you to catalog your personal collection of  CDs, DVDs, books, comics and video games.  You can auto-download full data and cover images of your books by simply entering titles or scanning barcodes.

Some of the features include:   
 
Jumping directly to key features such as:

• Browsing your book collection
• Add data and covers automatically
• Available data fields
• Sort and Search your database
• View your data in various skins
• View statistics of your database
• Export to CLZ Books (iPad, iPhone, Android)
• Data export options e.g. to HTML
• Use the loan manager
• Print your book data
• Book Collector Network Support
• Browse your home library
• Browse your book inventory, by Title, Author, Publisher, etc...
• View your lists in a columnar List View or in the cool Images View.
• Group your books in folders, e.g. by Genre, Author or Publisher,
• or scroll through them as one big list.

How It Works:

You add your books in 3 easy steps to make a great database that will make you feel like you're at a real library.  Here's the process in a nutshell:

1. Type or scan the book's ISBN (Book Collector will use the ISBN to search the Collectorz.com book database.)

2. Select your book from the Search Results  (When searching by ISBN there often is only one result, so you just have to confirm it's the right one.)

3. Click Add to add the book to your database (Book Collector then downloads all book data, including Title, Author, Publisher, Publication Date, Number of Pages and, when available, the cover image.)

Basically you add books in a easy-to-use search mode, or add books with the search queue mode. Or you can scan the ISBN with a barcode scanner.  (This will prevent typos and is much faster too.) 

**If you can afford the accessories and want to save time you might want to try the Opticon laser scanner or the simple Cuecat scanner, also available through Collectorz.com.

Books can also be cataloged by entering Author and Title .  (Typing the Author and Title of a book should make adding multiple books from a favorite author quick and easy.) 

Available Fields include:  Main book information, Author, Title, Publisher, Publication Date, ISBN, Format, Genre, Subject, LoC Classification (Library of Congress), and Dewey

More book details include:  Series, Volume,  Edition, Printer, Paper Type, Dimensions, Original Title, and Original Language

Collection Status  allows you to find out whether an item is actually in your possession, on your Wishlist,  Order, For Sale. 

I really like the ability to find information about authors, illustrators, and characters in your books.  You can also check out Chapter and Story lists for a list of the chapters or stories.  With this handy software you can also add links to websites, e-books, audio-books and extra images.

Another great Collectorz feature is the ability to catalog your collection on Windows, Mac OS X or online.
You can also check your list on any mobile device or share it with friends.

If organizing your materials is a priority for you this seems to be quite easy to use, includes most of the information you might want or need, and is reasonably priced.  In addition, the steps involved (especially if you use the scanner method) could be done by older children and less tech savvy computer users without much supervision or assistance.  All in all, a thumbs up for a really nice system.

The software pricing for Book Collector is as follows:

• Book Collector Standard  all you need to catalog your collection   $29.95 
• Book Collector Pro extra features for large collections   $49.95/Value Pack ($10 off)
• Book Collector Standard  + CueCat Scanner  + Priority Support (1yr)  + Delivery on CD    $64.80   Deluxe Pack ($15 off)
•  Book Collector Pro  + C37 Scanner  + Priority Support (1yr)   + Delivery on CD $139.80/$154.80   Power Pack ($20 off) 
•  Book Collector Pro  + OPN-2001 Scanner  + Priority Support (1yr)  + Delivery on CD      $194.80/$214.80

For more information about Collectorz.com products visit Collectorz.com .  While you're there make sure you check out the CD, DVD, comic and video cataloging options. 

To see what other reviewers had to say visit http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783319/

I was recently provided with a free copy of  Book Collector Pro software from the vendor for review purposes for the TOS Homeschool Crew.  No other compensation was received.  Observations and opinions are my own.

As I was preparing for this review my computer tower crashed and needed to be replaced.  To be timely with the due date of this review, I am writing an informational review based on researching the product.  I was unable to use the product again before the deadline.

Yuck - a fun TOS Product Review

Yuck - a fun TOS Product Review

Buckets-O-Fun

6436 SE 134th Ave.

Portland, OR 97236

800-223-6901

503-760-8880 (local)

503-761-2052 (Fax)

orders@buckets-o-fun.com

Can school be fun?  Definitely if you know about Buck-O-Fun products.

I recently received samples of different types of a great product called Yuck to use with my children.    Oh boy, this one is fun!  There are 4 different kinds of Yuck powders, snowy, saucy, sticky, and chunky.  To use each powder you just add water and mix.  Literally within seconds the water is absorbed and the powder takes on a new texture.  The snowy is very similar to snow.  The saucy is similar to applesauce.  The sticky is, well, sticky.  And finally, the chunky, given long enough, ends up like ice cube size chunks. 

So, how did we call this one school?  Well, what the kids got to do is learn about polymers "hands-on".  As my daughter plunged her hands into the different textures her grin got bigger and the playing began.  She really did  not want to take her hands out to move on to the next texture.  After trying the the snowy powder she asked if we could buy this Yuck by the pound for summertime play outside.  We did the science experiments that were suggested with the product.  We're also looking forward to trying some of the games suggested with the different powders, in particular slip and slide or pool fun.  We did save the Yuck for further play, and the company does say that it could be dried out and used again.  Although we did not try them, the company also carries accessories such as YuckZookas and tints to add to the powder. 

According to the Buckets-O-Fun site, the products are nontoxic and biodegradable.  They do warn users not to rinse any of the powders down the drain, for obvious reasons, since it absorbs water and gets thicker.  Also, there is a clear warning not to swallow any of the product.  The clean-up really was not that difficult, and the company gives clean-up suggestions on their site.  The company also suggests the product for ages 5 to 95, to avoid anyone swallowing any I suppose.  For those adults that are not squeamish about textures this really is fun.

I  have to admit, the absorption capabilities of the powders reminds me of the filling in disposable diapers or pull-ups, but obviously the results are so much more fun.  More than once my daughter commented that a texture felt "yucky" - imagine that! 

If you're interested in trying the product before purchasing, the company does send out samples if you request them.  Just 2 teaspoons of any of the powders made at least 2 cups of the product.  Hmm, I wonder how much a pound makes?  We'll definitely be purchasing more from this company!

You can order these products by the pound fairly reasonably since it takes so little to make so much.  Chunky runs $16 per pound, Saucy is $18 per pound and Snowy or Sticky both cost $20 per pound.When is the last time school got

If you're 800Chunky

-223-69



Chunky





Saucy



Snowy

Sticky

For more reviews of this product click here

800-223-

Making a Plan for School and Home - TOS Student Planner Review - Middle School - Grades 7&8

The 2010-11 The Old Schoolhouse Student Planner - Middle School - Grades 7&8
2010 The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, LLC
P.O. Box 8426, Gray, TN 37615
http://www.theoldschoolhouse.com/

http://www.theoldschoolhousestore .com
$24 on CD - check the store for planner deals

Do you struggle to keep your tweens/teens on track with homeschool lessons and all those little tasks at home? 

Don't feel like a date book or calendar covers your needs? 

Wish the kids had a few resources they could just take with

them for easy access? 

  Why not give the Schoolhouse Planner a try?

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine has 4 new

age-appropriate homeschool planners 

for all your homeschool student 

planning needs.

.

Some of the forms in the Middle School Student Planner include: 

• Year-at-a-Glance
• 2-page Calendar Spread
• Goals Forms
• Course of Study
• Educational Objectives
• 12 Year Planning,
•  Daily, Weekly & Monthly Planning
• Quarterly Plans
• Marking Period Plans
• Test Score Recording Sheet
• Extracurricular Activities
• Discipleship
• Assignment & Due Dates
• General Book Report
• Bible Memory
• Prayer Journal
• Bible Notes
• Loaned & Borrowed
• Books Read This Year
• A Record of My Day
• Community Service Record
• Science Lab Sheet
• Musical Instrument Practice Sheet
• My Daily Chores
• Chronological Bible Reading Schedule
• Reading Log
• Family Rules
• Dates to Remember
• My Address Book
• a number of other handy forms 

In addition to these forms you'll find Information Must Know Lists including:

• The Miracles of Jesus
• The Parables of Jesus
• Common Latin Roots
• Common Greek Roots
• Famous Authors and their Works
• The Newbery Medal
• The Caldecott Medal
• Letter Writing Tips and Samples
• Measurement Conversions
• U.S. Presidents
• History Timeline
• The ABCs of Landforms
• Countries and Capitals
• many more useful lists
• There are 278 pages in all to the student planner.

I recently received a free copy of the 2010-11 Schoolhouse Middle School Planner to examine, use and review.  This is the best planner I've seen yet, and I have compared quite a few.  We'll be incorporating the calendars, goals, assignment and due date, Bible memory and reading log forms to get on track this year.  I really like that I can print these as they are or type in the information I want on the forms (e.g. items coming up right into the calendar form) before printing.  This is going to be a great help planning and documenting our year.  With a number of outside activities for 4-H and church we'll now know what's happening from day-to-day and month-to-month.   My daughter thought the various informational lists would be handy while working on her own doing school, home and extracurricular activities.  There is also a 7 page Parent Pack included with the Planner which contains helpful introductory material.  This product is a real treasure that will get a lot of use this year in our home and school.  

I received this product free from TOS to use and provide an honest review.  No further payment was received.  The opinions provided are my own after examining the product.

The "Key" to Internet Safety

TOS Product Review - PG Key
PG Key, LLC
Keyware, Inc., 2585 N. 1st Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719
info@pgkey.com
sales@pgkey.com
1-800-301-8698 (office hours are M-F
8 to 5pm MST)



Have you given any thought to the safety of your children using the internet?  Are you willing to try a product that might make you a bit more comfortable when the kids say, "Can I get on the computer?"  How about PG Key? 

I recently received this product to use for a TOS product review.  Here's what I found out about this nifty little "key".

That red thing over there on the right goes into the USB spot on your computer.  It's about the size of a memory stick you might use to store documents.  Once you plug it in, it stays there.

Basically, you set up what you want to allow/control for each user of the computer, and the "key" does the monitoring for you.  While it monitors, it filters and denies items you don't want users to access.  You can use website blocking, filtering, access and time control features.  When you activate your account online there is a place to set up your controls under your own password.  In addition, you can set up e-mail or mobile notifications to alert you about attempted misuse.  The key records the most recent 60 hours of computer use.  Yes, you get your own mini video of where the user went and what they saw. 

There is a one time cost of $49.99 plus shipping, and no annual fees are required.  The product works with Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7.  You will need 1 key per computer in your house that needs to be protected.  You may request a free trial before purchasing the "key".  Online support, a toll free phone number and e-mail support are available. 

The PG Key site states:

    "Strong and effective parenting is the most critical part of any strategy to deal with these challenges."

    "Simply plugging PG Key into a child’s or teen’s computer allows parents to follow the advice so often given by law enforcement and parenting experts: 1) Control when and how long the computer is used, 2) Properly setup your system with filters and web site blocking, 3) Create the “over their shoulder” environment that encourages kids to act the same way “on line” as they do in every other part of their life."

    "Simply put - PG Key does NOT replace parenting with technology - It ENABLES parenting with technology."

Likes:  **Filtering, blocking and alert system help keep out unwanted material

**No annual fees

**Easy installation and setup

**Guarantee and warranty/repair and replacement

**Effective blocking and filtering for younger children

Things to Consider:  **Installation can require support help depending on your browser and other filtering software you may already be using, does not seem very compatible

**If inappropriate sites, etc. are reached, (i.e., a search with alternate terms bringing up something you tried to block) the user may still get to the information, but you will get an e-mail letting you know they saw it and a recording of what they saw (which means you both get to see what you tried to block)

**may not be as effective for older children/teens - parental involvement/monitoring need to be established 

This product is certainly a good attempt to help parents monitor and filter internet usage.  Personally, it was not a great realization that material (such as pornographic pictures, etc.) could still be accessed, followed by an alert allowing me to discuss it with my teen.  I'm glad the company points out that it enables parenting with technology rather than replacing parenting with technology.  It would be great to have this a bit more compatible with the browsers we use, but otherwise the setup was easy to follow.  We did find that it slowed down our computer a bit, but perhaps it was just our computer.  Every little bit helps when trying to keep our kids safe.  I think I'll still be watching and checking over the shoulder randomly, but that's just the mom in me I guess. Although I would really love to say everyone needs one of these, I am hesitant to do so due to the material that was still accessible for anyone creative enough to use different search terms.

This product was sent to me free of cost by the vendor to use in return for providing an honest review.  No further compensation was received.  For other TOS reviews on this product, click here.

Not Now, I'm off to the Bog . . .

Digital Frog Virtual Field Trips
digitalfrog.com
Digital Frog International
RR#2, 7377 Calfass Rd., Puslinch, Ontario, NOB 2JO, Canada
Tel: 519-766-1097, 1-800-621-3764 (FROG)  Fax: 519-767-9994

When is the last time you went to the Rain Forest?  Explored the Wetlands?  Spent time in the Desert?
Let me invite you to take a trip with me.  I recently had the opportunity to visit all of these places to explore and learn in depth about their unique features.

Yes, it's TOS Product Review time.  The products reviewed are Digital Frog Virtual Field Trips.  No, this is not a field trip around the frog body.  The company does offer a Virtual Frog Dissection DVD, which looks interesting, but that's another review.  They also have a Science Matrix: Cell Structure and Function DVD.

The Virtual Field Trip DVDs contain beautiful color pictures, maps, flora, fauna (that's plants and animals), web games, a gazillion (that really big number we always hear about) links, and video clips. 

The Rain Forest:  In this DVD you can explore Blue Creek Rainforest Reserve in Belize, Central America.  The animals, plants, seasons, habitats, and food are covered.  Think high trees, tropical breezes and colorful birds.  There is also an interactive Build a Tree web game.

The Wetlands:  In this DVD you can explore Cloud Lake in Algonquin Park, Ontario, Canada.  Bog formation, food webs, photosynthesis marshes, swamps, peatland are covered.  Think soggy bog, water animals and an abundance of trees.  There is also an interactive Bog Food web game.

The Desert:  In this DVD you can explore the world's deserts.  Climate, geology, homeostasis and adaptations are covered.  Think dry, sandy, lizards and cacti.  There is also an interactive Build a Desert web game.

In addition to the information mentioned, there are teacher and student resources available as well as a Frogger Club with even more resources.  There are state standard coverage summaries, related links, and free image galleries and student worksheets. 

The DVDs may be purchased online at the company website, digitalfrog.com , as a download or on CD/DVD.  The price per DVD, $60, did seem a bit much, that is, until I got into the DVDs and found out how much valuable information is included.  A better plan would be to get all 3 which is only $125.  Their other products are Digital Frog 2.5 at $85, and Science Matrix: Cell Structure and Function at $40.  The DVDs are available for home, classroom or co-op use.  Before purchasing, you may download a limited demo version.

Our whole family enjoyed our virtual trips around the various parts of the world.  We found out about many different animals, ecology, our impact upon the land and it's inhabitants, photosynthesis, climates, geography and geology.  We looked at maps, viewed video clips on a variety of topics and played games along the way.  We also saw beautiful scenery and experienced the feeling of "being there".  If you really want to experience any of these places but could never afford to make the trip, these DVDs are a steal, and you can go back anytime!

These products were provided to me free of charge to use and review.  No other compensation was received.  The observations and opinions expressed are my own, based on using the products with my family.

It's Autumn

So, it's officially Autumn . . .  Here's my little guy's take on that, "Autumn, bottom, bottom, Autumn, A is for Autumn."  Gotta love Winnie the Pooh ABCs.  Oh, and "R is for Roo, and Rabbit too!"

What wisdom for only 5 years old!  What happened to that simple enthusiasm for everything?  I'm constantly reminded by my son and darling daughter that simple things make a day.  Her take on Autumn, get in the tree and pose . . .

Hot chocolate, fall clothes, cozy blankets, snuggling, cups of tea or cappucino, a good book, a family movie, a campfire - now that's what I call Autumn!  How about you?

TOS Product Reviews - The Pre-Algebra Tutor: Volume 1 & The TI-83/TI-84 Calulator Tutor

www.MathTutorDVD.com
PO Box 1165
Seabrook, TX 77586
1-877-MATH-DVD
          (6284-383)
jason.gibson@MathTutorDVD.com

I was recently provided with The Pre-Algebra Tutor: Volume 1 and The TI-83/TI-84 Calculator Tutor DVDs to review as a part of the The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Product Review Crew.  Upon viewing the DVDs I can honestly say the information provided is comprehensive and very understandable. 

Both sets of DVDs introduce basic information with many visual examples to build student/user confidence and understanding.  Information is provided in relatively short sections split by topics.  The tutor has a pleasant voice and is very easy to listen to for extended periods of time.  The explanations are provided at an easy pace, in layman's terms, with whiteboard examples in Pre-Algebra Tutor.  In the TI 83/TI-84  DVDs there is a screenshot of the calculator as information is entered as well as a screenshot of what appears on the calculator screen.  Both visual and auditory learners should benefit from these products.

Another plus, every DVD on MathTutorDVD.com comes with a Money Back Guarantee!

Here is what is included in each:

The Pre-Algebra Tutor: Volume 1
5 Hour - 2 DVD set - 9 sections
Available on DVD or online subscription model at $19.95/month on web browser
List Price $34.99
DVD Tutor Price $26.99

You Save $8.00 23%



Topics Covered:
 Real Numbers, The Number Line, Greater Than, Less Than, Equal To, Absolute Value and Adding Integers, Subtracting Integers, Multiplying Integers, Dividing Integers, Powers and Exponents and Order of Operations







TI-83/TI84 Calculator Tutor
8 Hour - 3 DVD set - 37 sections
Available on DVD or online subscription model at $19.95/month on web browser
List Price $31.99
DVD Tutor Price $26.99
You Save $5.00 16%

Topics Covered:
Overview of the Calculator, The Mode Menu, Basic Arithmetic and Exponents, Logarithms and Square Roots, Sin, Cos, Tan, Scientific Notation and Storing Variables, The Math Menu and Catalog Menu, Convert between Fractions and Decimals, Finding the Min and Max of a Function, Calculating Derivatives and Integrals, Absolute Value, Rounding, and Integers, Converting between Degrees and Radians, Working with Complex Numbers, Using the Equation Solver, Graphing and Tracing Functions, Using Tables and Split Screen Modes, Find the Exact Value of a Function Using Graphing, Finding the Zeros of a Function using Graphing, Finding the Max and Min of a Function using Graphing, Finding Intersections of Function using Graphing, Finding the Derivative of a Function by Graphing, Calculating the Definite Integral by Graphing, Drawing on a Graph, Graphing and Tracing Sequences, Graphing and Tracing Parametric Equations, Converting between Rectangular and Polar Coordinates, Graphing and Tracing Polar Equations, Permutations, Combinations, and Factorial, Working with Histograms and Box Plots, Graphing Statistical Scatter Plots, Calculating Mean, Median, Standard Deviation, and more, Performing Statistical Regression, Calculating with Matrices, Solving Systems of Equations with Matrices, Calculating Interest Rates, Calculating Mortgages and Loans, Calculating Savings and Investments

This set walks through all the functions needed to accomplish learning Trigonometry, Calculus, Physics and Probabilities.

In addition to these separate products there are a number of DVD bundles that can be purchased at relatively reasonable prices.  You can also customize your own bundle if you prefer. 

The prices for these DVDs are fairly reasonable if you consider that more than one child can view these, at varying levels and topics.  After pricing several mathematics textbooks and manipulatives, I think these products are a pretty good deal.  As an example, one basic bundle that will carry you from addition through algebra is the following:

Math DVD Bundle #1 -- Save 10% -- Basic Math Through Matrix Algebra

List Price $502.45
Our Price $343.00
You Save $159.45 32%

This bundle saves you 10% and you receive the first 14 Products in the sequence:


1) The 1st - 7th Grade Math Tutor - 2 DVD Set - 7 Hour Course
2) 1st - 7th Grade Math Tutor Companion Worksheet CD
3) The Basic Math Word Problem Tutor - 2 DVD Set - 8 Hour Course
4) The Pre-Algebra Tutor: Volume 1 (2 DVDs)
5) The Pre-Algebra Tutor: Volume 2 (3 DVDs)
6) The Math Video Tutor - Fractions Thru Algebra - 2 DVD Set - 10 Hour Course
7) Fractions Thru Algebra Companion Worksheet CD - 600 Pages
8) The Algebra 2 Tutor - 2 DVD Set - 6 Hour Course
9) Algebra 2 Tutor Companion Worksheet CD - 320 pages
10) The Algebra Word Problem Tutor - 2 DVD Set - 6 Hour Course
11) The Advanced Algebra Tutor - 2 DVD set - 7 Hour Course
12) The Matrix Algebra Tutor - 2 DVD Set - 7 Hour Course
13) The Geometry Tutor - 2 DVD Set - 9 Hour Course
14) The Texas Instruments TI-83/TI-83 Calculator Tutor (3 DVDs)

You receive a total 24 DVD disks with this bundle!

Another great thing about ordering through Math Tutor is that you only pay Shipping & Handling on the 1st DVD.  All additional DVDs in the same order ship for free, whether you purchase 1 DVD or 10 DVDs!
We are planning to use the Pre-Algebra Tutor as we start our school year. I am really looking forward to seeing how much my daughter's understanding improves this year.  I wish I'd found these products while we were working on the basics!  I'm seriously considering investing in the 24 DVD bundle to carry my daughter through Algebra and get my son firmly rooted from the beginning.


By the way, speaking of basics, for those of you with younger children there are DVDs to start ahead of the game.  Math Tutor also has Young Minds DVDs for young children to interest them in Math at an early age.  These DVDs include photography, video, and animation, and are set to classical music selections from the great composers such as J.S. Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, Vivaldi. These DVDs teach number recognition from 1-10 and teach names and sounds of everyday animals.  The content includes the following:
Learning to recognize the numbers 1-10, associating the number with physical objects, counting from 1-10, animal names and sounds, fruits and vegetables, names of colors and names of machines such as cars, airplanes, etc.  In addition, the following features are available: Repeat play, picture puzzles, connect the dots and name the animal.  List Price $21.99  Math Tutor Price $12.99  You Save $9.00 41%

This product was provided free of cost to me for use to provide a product review.  No other compensation was received.  The opinions stated are my own. 

To see more reviews of this product go to http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/782960/

Doesn't Get Any Better Than This - TOS Planner 2010 - Overview

Ever wish you had one of these? Admit it, you know you've always wanted one of the big red "Easy" buttons.

Well, I don't anymore because I just loaded the TOS 2010 Planner.

This Planner contains 600+ pages of information, calendars, forms, resources, recipes and links for just about everything you can think of for home, school, and everyday living.

Within the pages of this gem you'll find

**12 monthly informational sections which include an article, information to know lists, a resource list of items sold in the Schoolhouse Store, and recipes. (Some are even Gluten Free recipes!)

**Calendars and planner pages for 2010-2013.

**Information for the following topics: Bible, Art, Co-op, Classics Reading Lists, Student Motivation, Manners, Basic Math, Science, Geography, American Sign Language, Computer Literacy, Food and Nutrition, Writing, Notebooking and Nature, Logic and Cleaning the Natural Way.

**Forms and Instructions including: Curriculum forms, Goals/Objective Forms, Planning Sheets (annual, yearly, quarterly, weekly, daily and field trip), Report Cards/Evaluation/Progress Reports, Schedule Forms for various family sizes (daily, weekly, monthly), Scores/Grade Recording Sheets, Log Sheets, Journal Pages, Unit Study Forms, Co-op Sheets, Convention Planning Forms, Preschool Forms, Alphabet/Writing Forms and miscellaneous other forms.

**Household Forms and Instructions including: Important Information to Remember, Homekeeping Pages, Schedule Forms, Grocery/Menu Planning Pages, Chore Charts and Forms, Budget Record Sheets, Gift-Giving and Party Planning Pages, Bible Reading/Study/Highlights/Prayer and Memorization, Garden Forms and other Miscellaneous Forms.

What is really great is that the forms are blank, reproducible, and interactive. They can be filled in before printing or after.

Some of the pages I'm planning on adding to our home and school this year include all the recipes, the Bible Must-Know List, The Value of Reading the Classics, The Newbery Medal, The Caldecott Medal, Teaching Your Children Good Manners: It Starts With RESPECT, American Sign Language for Foreign Language Credit, Online Education Sites That Can Add to Your Homeschool, Computers for Beginners, 36 General Writing Prompts, Basic, Natural, (Easy!), Clean!, The Miracles of Jesus, The Parables of Jesus, Common Latin Roots, Common Greek Roots, Important U.S. Documents and Famous Artists.

I'll be doing my planning for the year on the Monthly Calendars With Interactive Fields. I'm hoping to record resources and multimedia used with the Audio/Video Log and the Log Sheet. We'll also be keeping track of Books Read This Year.

As I plan for the homeschool conventions in the Spring I'll be using all of the Convention Planning Forms.

The Library Books/Movies Due List will hopefully keep down fines this year. $$$$$

We'll be putting together a folder of Important Info to Remember for our babysitting daughter.

I'm also hoping to use the Monthly Menu Planner to have meals a bit more organized for those busy days.

Lastly, I'm hoping to keep track of items better by using the Loaned and Borrowed List.

Lofty goals? Perhaps, but with my new 2010 TOS Planner it's looking like a more organized and productive year. Hopefully I will find the time to post updates on how using the Planner is working out over the year.

What more can I say to convince you to check it out? How about we start using the following button on a regular basis this year?

The 2010 Schoolhouse Planner
The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, LLC
P.O. Box 8426, Grav. TN 37615
www.TheHomeschoolMagazine.com
$39 instant downloadable e-book or $44 cd can be purchased at TheHomeschoolStore.com


This product was provided to me free as an independent contractor belonging to the TOS Homeschool Crew to use and review for advertisement purposes and for participation in a contest where I might receive a prize. I have provided honest information and my own opinions.

What's Up Pussycat?

Here, we go again. Our cat had kittens again sometime yesterday. Of course the suspense is killing my daughter. Our cats generally always hide the kitties, right where we can hear but not see them.


Since I can't get to them for a picture yet, I thought I'd share a few fun books and links about kittens:

www.hubpages.com/hub/Free_Coloring_Pages_Kitten_Coloring_Pages - cute kitties to color

www.homeschoolshare.com/three_little_kittens.php - Three Little Kittens Little Lapbook - to use with the book by Paul Galdone

http://www.daniellesplace.com/ - cat and kitten crafts for kids

http://www.artistshelpingchildren.org/ - how to draw a cartoon kittenwww.discover-how-to-draw.com/how-to-draw-kittens

Kitten books:

Kittens! Kittens! Kittens!
Three Little Kittens
The Shy Little Kitten
Koko's Kitten
Katie Loves the Kittens
The Color Kittens
Mama Has Three Kittens
Kittens for Dummies

Don't forget Cat Fancy Magazine and the http://www.catchannel.com/

Blessings!

Traveling & Learning Along the Way

TOS Product Review

The 2009 Schoolhouse Planner - June 2010 Module - Travel the World

2010 The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, LLC

P.O. Box 8426, Gray, TN 37615

www.TheHomeschoolMagazine.com

$7.95 when ordered through http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/

This is a stand-alone E-book, but it can be used with the Schoolhouse Planner, also from the Schoolhouse Store. Other monthly modules are also available. This is a reusable resource provided the user copies the activities before use.

In this book is basic geography information about the Earth, maps, waters and continents. The information presented in the 52 pages of colorful of this module appears to be geared to students between 7 and 18 years of age. With the variety of discussions, website links, and activities not a lot of teacher preparation is required beyond checking the links and making copies of activities. Older children who are able to read and have access to computers could learn the material fairly independently.

There are 3 major sections, each of which includes at least one relevant Bible verse, a brief explanation of vocabulary words, and a corresponding color picture. For example, the first section describes "What's an Accurate Model of the Earth?". It begins with a Bible verse referring to the "circle of the earth" and then shows and describes a globe. Vocabulary terms presented in this section include axis, equator, latitude and longitude. Students are introduced to North and South Poles, Earth rotation, seasons, hemispheres, coordinates, the tropics, the torrid zone, the frigid zone and the temperate zone. In addition, there is a website link to practice using latitudes and longitudes. The "What About Maps?" section shows a map and describes a compass rose.

"The Land and Waters" section begins with a verse from Genesis about the "dry land" and "the seas". A picture showing and labeling the continents and oceans is followed by a song to help remember the names. The 5 interconnected oceans are named, described and listed in order by size.

The third section, "Continents", is separated into individual continent discussions. Each continent is named, located by hemispheres, and described in terms of size and climate zones. Landforms and bodies of water are described. Map links and learning game websites are also included.

After the major sections are a number of learning activities including Fill in the Blanks, a Word Scramble, a Word Search, a Crossword Puzzle, Rebus Puzzles, a Geography Acrostic Poem, Lapbook Beginnings, coloring pages and Manuscript and Cursive Copywork of related Bible verses.

For older students there is a "High School Expansion" section which contains a link to the National Geographic geography challenge, information about Matthew Fontaine Maury, and descriptions of Mathematical, Physical, and Political geography. Related activities in this section include article/report writing, a link to "Matthew Fontaine Maury: The Pathfind of the Seas", literature suggestions, a Word Search and recipes to try.

The book ends with an extensive list of links to Travel the World Resources, related TOS Resources links, and Answer Keys.

I really liked this E-book. It contains a lot of useful links and vocabulary for younger students and great review information for older students. The puzzles and activities were a great way to review the information as we discussed it. My daughter really enjoyed the computer links and games. We will be adding to the lapbook beginnings as we complete geography lessons this year. I would definitely recommend this module to anyone starting on geography with their child. It gives a good basic discussion of a lot of material while making learning fun. My daughter now has a good understanding of maps, continents and bodies of water. She also had fun along the way and has great resources for further reference.

This product was provided to me free by The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, LLC in exchange for an honest review. No further compensation was received.

To see more reviews check out the TOS Review Crew Blog at http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/782810/

Learning Along Our Travels

Traveling is always an adventure for our family. Unfortunately we haven't been able to do a lot of it yet this summer, but we are hoping to fit in camping a couple of times before fall. One of the things we like to do while traveling is look for those "learning moments" that make real life a field trip. Last week that meant learning about worms and fishing for our little guy. Fishing with daddy while visiting Grandma and Grandpa was a wonderful new experience. Didn't get any pictures, but try to picture this one in your mind - "A fish, a fish, I got it, I win!" - with a big grin, of course. Now keep in mind that fish was about 3 inches long, but it was a "winner".



Next week, Monday, I will get back to "traveling" with a TOS Product Review I think you'll find helpful. In the meantime here are some places to look for information about fish and fishing.

www.lessonsense.com/fish/ - K through elementary lessons, downloads, crafts
www.kidsfront.com/how_to_draw/fish_ - self explanatory
www.activityvillage.co.uk/fish_coloring_pages - coloring pages
http://www.coloringcastle.com/ - coloring pages
www.lake-link.com/anglers/fish - fish identification of North American fish with pictures

Blessings!

Speaking of Blowing Away . . . or Perhaps Flying

Not intentionally a common theme here, just finally had time to sit down for a few to share. Last night we had a rather large tree split in half and come down toward the house, out to survey the surroundings this morning. Last night we had at least three inches come down with some hail, in about 15 minutes! I think that's the most rain I've seen come down that fast. A little awe inspiring. Yes, we visited the basement, again, for a few minutes. Someone shared with me recently that April shows bring May flowers, and June showers bring mosquitos - soooo true.

The birds are singing, everything is green, and we're enjoying the beauty of God's creation today.

Speaking of those birds, I thought perhaps someone might want some links to bird information and activities at this point of the summer:

http://www.proteacher.com/ - this site has many sections including directions for making bird feeders, bird anatomy, habitats, coloring pages, a wordsearch, owl pellet dissection, a duck them unit, an endangered North American birds them unit, bird migration lessons, an owl theme unit, a penguin theme unit, informational coloring sheet printouts and more.

http://www.homeschoolshare.com/ - this site contains units/lapbooks about backyard birds, birds of prey, humming birds, chickens, ducks, ostriches, owl babies, eagles and storks, as well as numerous other topics.

http://www.coloring.ws/ - this site contains realistic bird themed coloring pages

http://www.birdwatchingbliss.com/ - another site with realistic bird themed coloring pages

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/ - this site contains interactive online coloring pages of birds

Have fun!

The Old Schoolhouse - Product Review Team

Found out some great news! I was recently picked to be one of the product review team for The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. I'll be reviewing products for older-aged/highschool products for the next year. Check back later to see what's new! Have a great day!

Well, blow me away! Thought that weather might be a good place to start for today. Perhaps the most challenging part of living on the prairie is the wonderful nonstop wind which lasts for days. Here are a few links for finding out more:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind
http://www.weatherquestions.com/What_causes_wind.htm
http://www.weatherwizkids.com/
http://www.enotes.com/science-experiments-projects/weather/what-causes-wind
http://library.thinkquest.org/C001472/en/development/types.content.html
http://answers.ask.com/Science/Nature/types_of_wind

Something New and Different

Today begins my new blog. Homeschooling tidbits, ideas, resources and product reviews. Come along for the ride.