Inauguration Day Learning Fun

In “Inauguration Day Learning Fun,” episode #223, Meredith Curtis invites you to learn about Presidential Inaugurations the fun way! No matter who you voted for, Inauguration Day is a great time to learn about our political system and the tradition of taking an oath in a time-honored ceremony, a festive parade, and a fancy ball. Meredith provides a bit of history, where to watch it live, and fun learning ideas like scavenger hunts, choosing your own cabinet, a virtual tour of the white house, and throwing an inauguration ball.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

No matter who you voted for, Inauguration Day is a great time to learn about our political system and the tradition of taking an oath in a time-honored ceremony, a festive parade, and a fancy ball.

What is a Presidential Inauguration?

On Monday January 20, 2025, at noon, President Biden’s term of office ends, and President Trump’s begins. This day is called Inauguration Day.

At noon, on the steps of the US Capitol, President Trump and Vice President Vance will take their Oaths of Office.

What Other Events Take Place on Inauguration Day?

Inauguration Day is full of traditions. The first one is the Procession to the Capitol. The outgoing President escorts the new President to the Capitol for the Swearing In Ceremony.

After the Swearing In Ceremony, the new President gives his Inaugural Address. Every President from George Washington to Joe Biden has delivered a speech. Some are long and some are short!

At this point, the outgoing President and his wife leave by helicopter escorted by the new President and First Lady. After the President and Dr. Biden’s exit, President Trump and Vice-President Vance, along with their wives, will attend an Inaugural Luncheon. This traditional meal is hosted by the Joint Congression Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.

Another tradition is for the President and Vice-President attend a Signing Ceremony in the President’s Room in the US Capitol. The new President gathers with his aides, US Representatives, and US Senators to sign nominations, memorandums, or executive orders.

Next comes the Inaugural Parade! President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will walk down Pennsylvania Ave from the US Capitol to the White House.

I Can’t Get to Washington DC – Can I Still Watch the Ceremony?

Yes!

FOX, ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, & C-Span will air the ceremony live at noon on 1/20/25 Eastern Time.

There will also be streaming on YouTube, White House website, and & social media.

Internationally, it will be live on BBC, Sky News (UK), Al Jazeera, CBC (Canada), ABC Australia, France 24.

What Are Some Unusual Inauguration Days?

• James Madison’s Inaugural Ball
• President Ulysses Grant’s canaries
• President Cal Coolidge quiet inauguration
• President Eisenhower’s cowboy
• President Nixon’s dead pigeons

Chief Justice John Roberts

Chief Justice John Roberts administers the Oath of Office.

“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

George Washington added, “So help me, God” and all Presidents have added “so help me God” to their oath.

President Trump’s Cabinet & Your Cabinet

A Presidential Cabinet is a group of men and women that oversee different areas of government.

If you were the President of the United States, who would you choose for your cabinet?

Inauguration Day scavenger Hunt

Watch the televised events on Inauguration Day. Make a list of things you might see at Inauguration Day events. Or create a scavenger hunt for the kids with items to check off as they watch the events unfold.

Tour The White House!

Visit this link to tour the White House Virtually!

https://www.whitehousehistory.org/tour-the-white-house-in-360-degrees

Host Your Own Inauguration Ball

There are several official and non-official balls on Inauguration Day. The President and First Lady usually attend at least two or three. This is a website I found for one of the inaugural balls. https://allamericanball.com/food-bev/menu-2-2/

Host your own ball with a yummy menu, fun entertainment, and dancing!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Inauguration Day Learning Fun appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

Top Ten Christmas Stress Busters

In “Top Ten Christmas Stress Busters,” episode #222, Meredith Curtis shares the top ten Christmas stress busters for homeschool Moms over the holidays. From personal experience, Meredith understands how the hustle and bustle of Christmas can be overwhelming at times for a homeschool mom. Join her as she shares ten ways to reduce stress and enjoy Christmas this year.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

I understand how the hustle and bustle of Christmas can be overwhelming at times for a homeschool mom.

I also encourage you to listen to Simple Shortcuts to a Stress-Free Christmas Finish Well Podcast episode #200 to reduce stress all around. https://ultimateradioshow.com/simple-shortcuts-to-a-stress-free-christmas/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Focus on Jesus

Start each day with prayer and one or two Christmas carols. Read a Scripture passage.

Fresh Air

Get fresh air each day with a brisk walk around the block or a leisurely jog. If the weather is nice, play outside. If it’s snowing, build a snowman.

Smells

Sniff a lemon, boil cinnamon sticks in water on the stove, or burn your favorite scented candle (vanilla, citrus, peppermint, lavender, jasmine).

Exercise

Get some exercise! Ride a bike, go sledding, hike, play touch football, or work out at the gym.

Quiet & Dark

After the kids go to bed, sit with your husband, or your parents, or your kids, or alone, with all the lights off in the house except for the Christmas lights. Enjoy the quiet.

Relaxing our Bodies. Relaxing Our Minds

Spontaneous Fun

Cancel school and have a Christmas movie day. Drive around and look at lights. Get out some board games and have fun!

Listen

Play Christmas carols in the house and in the car when you drive. Play classical music, especially Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker or Handel’s Messiah. Listen to water flowing in a stream or waterfall.

Relax & Read

Drink coffee, hot tea, or hot chocolate and read a cozy mystery while the kids watch a Christmas movie. I have two suggestions for you.

Massage for Mom

Get a babysitter and go get a massage.

Refresh Your Soul

Spend some time each day reading the entire Christmas story from Zechariah & Elizabeth to the Flight into Egypt. This will refresh your soul!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Top Ten Christmas Stress Busters appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

Celebrate Christmas in Central Florida

In “Celebrate Christmas in Central Florida,” episode #221, Meredith Curtis takes your homeschool family to sunny Central Florida for the holidays in 2024. She shares famous and not-so-famous festive adventures for those who are visiting for the holidays as well as those who call Central Florida home. Inspirational, educational, and just plain fun Christmas experiences await!

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

So many people visit Central Florida at Christmastime to enjoy the theme parks. For those who want something different and those who live in Central Florida, here are some fun ways to celebrate Christmas. I live in Central Florida so I am sharing some of my favorite places to go and things to do.

Saint Augustine

Historic St. Augustine, the continuously inhabited city in the USA, offer her beautiful annual Nights of Lights from Saturday, November 23, 2024, to January 26, 2025. Three million lights await you for a spectacular end to a family field trip. The trains and trolleys offer special seasonal tours, too.

https://www.visitstaugustine.com/event/nights-lights

Christmas in the Country

This is an annual Christmas event for our family and friends. Put on every year by River of Life Church, this event takes place at 130 Garfield Rd, Enterprise, FL, United States, Florida 32725.

Enjoy a FREE, family-friendly, one of a kind, holiday event!

Check out our 4-H display. Navigate a merry melt-proof maze. Create your very own ornament,
enjoy free cocoa, and roast marshmallows over a bonfire on the lakefront. Hot dogs or bottled water are available for a $1 Donation. Don’t miss our Hayride through a Christmas Wonderland!

Starts the day after Thanksgiving and open the following days: 11/29, 11/30, 12/2, 12/6, 12/7, 12/13, 12/14, 12/20.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1236932000687164/?active_tab=discussion

Fort Christmas Historical Park’s Cracker Christmas

Mark your calendar for December 7-8, 2024. From 10 am to 4 pm, step back in time with a Florida Cracker Christmas celebration. Enjoy pioneer demonstrations and sample some gator meat.

The park includes a replica of a fort built in 1837 during the Second Seminole Indian War; a traditional Florida “Cracker” house and eight pioneer homes; a schoolhouse and lunchroom; a sugar cane mill and other historical farming equipment.

https://www.facebook.com/events/466759382773764

Parades

Yes, there are parades at all the theme parks, but Central Florida cities have their own parades, too.

Sanford’s annual Christmas parade is on December 14, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1231111001281827/

Mount Dora’s annual Christmas parade is early in the morning on December 7, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/881104570200250

Minneola’s Moonlight Christmas parade is on December 14, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/387873457731304/

The City of Oviedo’s Holiday Parade is in the evening on December 7, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/881104570200250/

Boat Parades

Mount Dora has a boat parade on Lake Beauclair on December 7, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/3825059924415876/

Daytona Christmas Boat Parade is held in Daytona Beach, featuring decorated boats and a festive atmosphere.

https://www.facebook.com/events/2217032025364914/

There is also a boat parade in Cocoa Beach on December 14, 2024.

Home Tour

Stetson Mansion Tour takes you inside Florida’s Most Historic Home, c1886, of iconic hat maker JB Stetson, Florida’s First Snowbird. This home is beautifully decorated for Christmas.

https://www.facebook.com/stetsonmansiontours

The Holiday Candlelight Tour lets visitors explore DeBary Hall during holiday evenings when candlelight will fill the 19th century mansion with a warm glow, accentuating its historic treasures and Christmas decorations. Guests will be escorted to the mansion for an open style tour. The mansion, once owned by the prominent DeBary family, will be decorated with many Christmas trees, wreaths, and other festive adornments.

https://www.facebook.com/events/2692456947592494/

Lake Helen Christmas Home & Garden Tour visits beautifully decorated Historic Homes, Churches, Buildings and Local Gardens. Enjoy the Christmas Marketplace for all of your gift giving needs and delicious refreshments, as well as live entertainment!

December 7th & 8th, 12:30 PM-5:30 PM. Tour Begins at Hopkins Hall: 150 Connecticut Ave, Lake Helen, FL 32744.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1357305044410133/1357305051076799/

Living Nativity/Walk Thru Bethlehem

During this immersive experience, you will take a stroll through Bethlehem. You will see the guards at the front gate, talk to the people going about their daily lives, and hear the gossip about a strange couple who are staying in a stable.

 This year, we have a brand-new layout for the city of Bethlehem that will bring you up close and personal with the characters and story of Christmas. Even if you have been before, this will be a new experience!

 Whether it is your first Walk Through Bethlehem, or it is part of your Christmas tradition, we can’t wait to see you in Bethlehem!

Visit our family’s favorite Walk thru Bethlehem on December 7-8 or 13-15, 2024 at Crossroads Church, Daytona Beach.

https://crbible.com/events/

Experience the story of the birth of our savior Jesus Christ at the Living Nativity! The Biblical story will be narrated and portrayed by church members on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Children will have an opportunity to pet live animals. Cookies, hot cocoa and coffee will be served outside of the Fellowship Hall throughout the evening. We will also have coloring/craft tables set up for the little ones. Everyone is welcome!

Visit Beachside Baptist Church on December 18, 2024, in New Smyrna Beach.

https://www.beachsidebaptist.com/living-nativity/

Bring your family and friends to see Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth in this unique living nativity experience on Friday, December 13, 2024.

Begin your guided tour in the sanctuary. Follow the star to the manger, rejoice with the angels, hear the music, see the animals, pay your taxes to the Roman soldiers, and enjoy the festive marketplace. Your journey concludes with the joy of the nativity.

https://www.facebook.com/events/831861212189288

Concerts, Outdoor Movies, & More

St. Luke’s AMC Annual Christmas Concerts are “Sounds of the Seasons” from Thursday 12/12 24 to 12/15/24.

https://www.facebook.com/events/458290197338715/458290214005380/

Christmas movies at parks, churches, and downtowns.

Lights everywhere! Two favorites near me – 3 homes / owners of nursery and Lake Mary City Hall.

Ballets, concerts, Handel’s Messiah singalong, Christian concerts.

High Tea Aboard the Barbara Lee

Enjoy the beautiful decorations of the season while enjoying a wide array of endless tea along with savory finger sandwiches, scones with jelly and bite size sweets.

This 3-hour cruise on the St Johns River will take you back to a time when things were peaceful and pretty. Celebrate your sister or the women in your life.

You can dress casually or wear your favorite dress and hat. Gentlemen can break out their favorite top hat and long coat.

Live entertainment by Harpist and Composer Rene Devia. Friday December 20, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/3805730683041097/

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Celebrate Christmas in Central Florida appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

Keep Faith & Family First During the Holidays

In “Keep Faith & Family First During the Holidays,” episode #220, Meredith Curtis shares easy tips and simple hacks to enjoy meaningful time with family growing in your faith. Meredith shares ideas for Thanksgiving, Advent, Christmas, New Years, and Three Kings Day. Try out two or three and have the best holiday season ever!

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

God is good. Holidays are a great time to celebrate God’s goodness! Family traditions can teach children more about Jesus and how to grow in Him if we are proactive in choosing quality over busyness!

Thanksgiving

Put the “thanks” in Thanksgiving!

• Pass the Corn Kernels
• Thankful Tree
• Secret Notes
• Special Thanksgiving Placecards
• Praise Breakfast

Advent

Preparing hearts for Christmas.

• Advent Devotions
• Advent Calendar
• Felt Tree & Ornaments
• The ENTIRE Christmas Story
• Make Gifts & Cards
• Christmas Unit Study

Christmas Festivities that Build Faith

Choose wisely.

• Handel’s Messiah Singalong
• Christmas Pageant
• Birthday Party for Jesus
• Walk Thru Bethlehem
• Christmas Read Alouds (The Tale of the Three Trees, Humphrey’s First Christmas, Mortimer’s Christmas Manger, The Legend of the Candy Cane, The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomy)
• Christmas Movies (The Nativity Story, A Christmas Carol, Charlie Brown Christmas, It’s a Wonderful LifeI)
• Traveling Dinner

Christmas Morning

Jesus before presents.

• Christmas Devotions – Luke 2
• Sing Happy Birthday to Jesus
• Sing Christmas Carols

New Years

Review and plan ahead.

• Review the Year (biggest praises & biggest challenges – how they built character)
• Make Goals for next year (goals, habits, pattern of living)
• Game Night
• Yummy Food
• Read Scripture & Pray

Three Kings Day

When the wise men came.

• Gifts for Jesus (donate to Crisis Pregnancy Center)
• Traditions from Other Countries
• Read the Story of the Wise Men
• Special Meal

Plan Free Time to be Spontaneous!

It sounds crazy I know but sometimes we need to plan free time into our schedule because the holidays get so busy.

Things You Can Do Ahead!

There are many things you can do in November to beat the Christmas stress.

• Take family photo on Thanksgiving weekend (or earlier)
• Shop early and wrap as soon as you purchase (I keep a list on my computer)
• Address Christmas cards while you watch a Christmas movie (men can’t do this but we can!)
• Bake and freeze
• Shop and freeze
• Plan Menu
• Make a family calendar and place in prominent location

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

 

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Keep Faith & Family First During the Holidays appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

4 Ways to Teach Life Skills

In “4 Ways to Teach Life Skills,” Episode, #219, Meredith Curtis invites parents & teens to explore the exciting world of adulting. Life Skills help us live useful and productive lives. Some folks call it adulting. In the business world, life skills such as problem solving, conflict resolution, and manners are called soft skills. Teach and learn life skills 4 different ways. Some life skills are “caught” and others are learned intentially. Discover what works best for you!

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

Life Skills help us live useful and productive lives. Some folks call it adulting. In the business world, life skills such as problem solving, conflict resolution, and manners are called soft skills. These soft skills help people advance in their profession. From brushing teeth to mowing the lawn to balancing a checkbook, life skills are needed by the entire human race.

Caught Not Taught

Many of the life skills we pass on to our children will enter their lives effortlessly on our part. We won’t even realize that we are teaching them to brush their teeth or weed the garden.

Hurricane prep, tipping generously, voting, unplugging pipes, changing locks, washing dishes, laundry, setting the table, communication.

Proactive Natural Living

Sometimes we need to be proactive with children who don’t want to brush their teeth or little boys who hate baths.

Removing hats to pray, standing when older folks enter the room, tithing, serving, hospitality, conflict resolution, manners. Our Kate was shy.

Inserted into Classes

Other life skills I had to learn. My parents were great at managing money but they never talked much about money except to teach me to tithe. I never learned anything about money in public school. My husband came to our marriage tithing and with a commitment to live debt-free which I thought was strange. When the church offered a course on finances, we signed up. It changed our life. We made a budget and set financial goals. My children are much better at managing money than we are because we got such a late jump on it. I included financial management in their high school economics course.

Real Men 103: Leadership

God’s Girls 105: Homemaking

“Give Me a High Level Overview” – High School English

Small group assignments & group discussions in my online courses.

Economics Course – how to start and run your own business.

Serving at Church/ Internships & Apprenticeships

Sound team, worship team, greeting, children’s ministry, sharing testimony, leading Bible study

Internships & Apprenticeships can overlap. Possibilities: with a plumber, car mechanic, doctor’s office, roofer, lawn service, pastor, secretary, business owner.

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

 

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post 4 Ways to Teach Life Skills appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

Teens & Their Friends

In “Teens & Their Friends,” Episode, #218, Meredith Curtis invites parents & teens to talk about friendships during the teen years. Why do these relationships matter so much? How do friendships impact teens? How can teens makes choices in relationships that set them up for success?

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

A Walk to Remember.

The Search for Love & Intimacy

Boyfriends & Girlfriends

Best Friends

Healthy Relationships

Addiction to TV Shows, Movie Series, & Video Games

What a Good Friend Can Do

Build up, Increase confidence, Help teens grow in the Lord, Speak Truth

What a Bad Friend Can Do

Tear Down, Bully, Decrease confidence, Cause teens to backslide, Speak Lies

We Become Like Who We Spend Time With

He who Walks with the Wise Grows Wise

A Companion of Fools Suffers Harm

How to Be Wise & Walk with the Wise

Friends don’t need to be your age

Friends don’t need to be the same as you

Friends need to love Jesus, love their families, and love you.

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Teens & Their Friends appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

Projects Instead of Tests

In “Projects Instead of Tests,” Episode, #217, join Meredith Curtis to consider projects instead of tests for K-12 learning. Meredith shares the problems with test-taking and the benefits of hands-on projects. She gives practical examples of immersive learning that works from the beginning to high school graduation. Lots of practical ideas!

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

Chemistry background for Human Anatomy – the big surprise! A-plus Chemistry students remembered nothing the next year in Human Anatomy where I needed them to know it!

The Problem with Test Taking

Test takers – good and bad

Tests – short term memory

Purpose of learning

Should My Kids Never Take Tests?

I recommend a little bit of test taking until high school when you can add a little more.

Example: Spelling & Math

What is a Project?

Projects are hands-on learning experiences

• Display for a Geography, Science, or History Fair
• Cooking & Baking & Party Planning (Recipes from other countries, Recipes from other places, Luau, Medieval Banquet, Ancient Greek Olympics, Victorian Tea, Sock Hop, Archaeology Dig, Monestary Day, State Dinner, Vaudeville Show)
• Skits, Radio Shows, Commercials, Talk Show, Interviews, NEWS shows, Sitcom, Act Out Battles, Act Out Courtroom Trial
• Stories, Poems, Novels, Letters, Journal Entries
• Experiments, Models, Observation of Nature
• Crafts, Paintings, Building Projects, Cardmaking, Posters
• Design an Airport, Airplane Company, Amusement Park, Miniature Golf Course
• Diaromas, Charts, Timelines, Maps
• Garden, Landscape, Graft Vines & Plants, Seedlings
• Pet & Animal Care – Home, Vet, Zoo, Stable, Breeding

How Do Projects Help Children & Teens Learn?

Projects Immerse students in a topic of study.

Projects Require Research into the topic of study.

Projects are Fun!

How to Grade Projects

Grade projects based on Content, Accuracy, Creativity, and Legibility. Require excellence. I love using rubrics to grade.

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

20 Century History Project-Based Learning

Geography Project-Based Learning

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Projects Instead of Tests appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

Make America Literate Again

In “Make America Literate Again,” Episode, #216, Meredith Curtis will inspire and equip you to take part in a movement to get children and teens reading quality literature again so that as teens and adults they can read great works. I know there are some out there already on board (parents and teens) – please spread the news and get more folks reading! For those who aren’t on board yet – please listen to my compelling reasons for reading quality literature, timeless classics, and great works that have changed history.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

My favorite President Ronald Reagan coined the phrase “Make America Great Again.” We needed it. We were demoralized with Watergate, POWs still held by Vietnam, hostages held by Iran, and a failing economy. President Reagan injected hope and passed laws to improve the life of everyday Americas. It was morning in America again in the early 1980s.

President Trump loved the phrase “Make America Great Again” and uses it in his campaign. Robert F Kennedy, Jr. who just endorsed Trump and will work with him if elected, has adapted the slogan “Make America Healthy Again.”

Inspired by these three men, I want to make a slogan, too: Make America Literate Again.

Reasons to Make America Literate Again

Leaders are Readers. The quality of what they read

Founding Fathers – Cicero, Adam Smith, John Locke, Samuel Rutherford,

Freedom is maintained by Readers & Hedonism leads to Totalitarianism

We can read ABOUT great works or read those great works THEMSELVES.

Substitutes for Reading in Our Culture

• Scrolling on Phone
• Social Media
• Video Games
• Movies, Streaming, TV
• Pornography
• Gamification

Step-by-Step to Literacy America Once Enjoyed

The Process with Explanations on Podcast

1. Read Aloud & Read in Front of Children
2. Teach to Read
3. Beginning Readers
4. Introduce Age-Appropriate Classics
5. Read, Read, Read – Bible, Fables, Stories, Biographies, etc.
6. Read & Talk about Classic Literature (book clubs)
7. Middle School to Adult – Read & Talk about Literature & Classic Works (book clubs)
8. Bounce Back & Forth
9. Read Great Works – City of God, Wealth of the Nations, The Prince, Ecclesiastical History of the English People

What Happens to Literate People

Brainwashing doesn’t work.

They know who the “experts” really are

They Value FREEDOM.

They discuss ideas not just people and events

Resources for Literature Based Learning

At Powerline Productions, we love books! We included book lists everywhere – in cookbooks, timelines, history curriculum, geography curriculum, unit studies, and, of course, English courses.

Grab our FREE Reading Lists.

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources for Literature Based Learning + our whole store!

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Make America Literate Again appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

Reimagine High School Government

In “Reimagine High School Government,” Episode, #215, join Meredith Curtis for an inspiring look at ways to make government fascinating to learn (if you are a teen) and motivating for your teens (if you are a parent). Making government interesting and fun was the challenge before Meredith and this is what she did! From hosting a state dinner to campaigning for a candidate to discussing current events, she learned that a government course CAN be appealing and exciting!

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

Teens usually take a government class in high school that they universally call “boring”. Is it any wonder that so few Americans have read the Constitution much less remember what it says?

I have found some fun ways to engage teens to want to understand government over the years. Here are some ideas you can add to your government course to bring it alive.

Engage in a Political Campaign

Years ago, we joined John McCain’s campaign for President. We made phone calls at headquarters, passed out flyers, and held signs on election day. If that won’t work for your family or homeschool co-op, make political buttons & posters & commercials.

Host a State Dinner

We hosted a State Dinner in our homeschool co-op, inviting the Prime Minister of Israel, his wife, and some of his officials to join us. We all took roles, planned a menu with American & Israeli food, and planned welcoming events.

Put a Face to the Position

If you’re talking about what a mayor does, show them a picture of the mayor or better yet, take a field trip to meet the mayor. Learning about the judicial system? Sit in on a court case.

Watch Videos

We have really enjoyed videos from Prager U, Dave Barton, and Drive Thru History: America. Many of Prager U’s videos are free to watch on YouTube.

https://www.youtube.com/@PragerU

Read Living Books

There are some amazing books related to government that teens love!

• Magna Chart by James Daughterty
• The Light and the Glory by Peter Marshall and David Manuel
• The Battle for the Mind by Tim LaHaye
• From Sea to Shining Sea by Peter Marshall and David Manuel
• Ancient Rome: How It Affects You Today by Richard Maybury
• In His Majesty’s Service: Christians in Politics by Robert A. Peterson
• Whatever Happened to Justice? By Richard Maybury

And for serious advanced readers

• The Second Treatise of Government by John Locke
• On the Republic by Cicero
• Common Law by Sir William Blackstone
• Lex Rex by Rev. Samuel Rutherford
• The Federalists Papers by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and others
• The Anti-Federalists Papers by Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, & Others
• The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli (classic about how to be a bad leader!)

• Democracy in America by Alexis De Tocqueville

Talk about Current Events

Read articles, blog posts, or listen to News podcasts and bring one current event to talk about. Then pray for those things. Another great thing to do is to read about the same event in several different news sources and compare the information given and the information withheld.

20 Century World History

Understanding government helps students understand history! I learned this teaching 20 Century World History Online (High School Course at True North Homeschool Academy).

Craft a Bill

There is a process in Congress for a bill to become a law. Walk through that process by crafting your own bill.

Learn about Those Who Protect & Serve

Teens love to learn about the military, spy agencies, and law enforcement. Again, make it personal by introducing some individuals and their stories.

Finally, Learn about Where Authority Comes From

All Authority comes from God and He delegates authority to individuals (autonomy, personal responsibility) families (raising & educating children), church (making disciples, caring for the poor & needy), and government (sovereign nations, defense & protection).

Government: God’s Blueprint/Man’s Agenda

Explore American exceptionalism, forms of government, the roots of freedom, our Constitution, elections, politics, military, manners (self-government), citizenship, and personal freedom in Government: God’s Blueprint/Man’s Agenda. Discover what God values in leaders and how He works in us to grow as leaders, as well as different philosophies of government and what they look like. In this one-credit high school course, you will read living books, narrate conversational text, keep up with current events, watch videos, and discover that government class isn’t boring after all!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

20th Century History Resources

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Reimagine High School Government appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

Your Prayers Can Shape History

In “Your Prayers Can Shape History,” Episode, #214, join Meredith Curtis for an inspiring look at how God used intercessors during World War II to shape history and turn the tide. We face incredible challenges in our homes and nation today. Should we give up? No! Let the true stories of miraculous answers to prayer encourage you to always pray and never give up! God bless you and God bless America!

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

Show Notes

I talk to so many people who are facing challenges in their families and who are so sad to see the direction in which the USA is going. In Luke 18, Jesus tells His disciples a parable so that they would always pray and never give up! He goes on to tell the familiar story of the persistent widow and the judge.

I want to encourage you with some challenging times in history (World War II) where some people chose to pray with all their hearts – and God turned the tide!

Corrie Ten Boom & Family

Corrie’s grandfather starts a prayer meeting.

Dunkirk

Prayers behind the Miracles at Dunkirk

Battle of Britain

Prayer & Miraculous Answers during the Battle of Britain.

Battles at El Alamein

The Bible college & a soldier pray and God answer!

How Does This Relate to You

What challenges do you face? Do you need a miracle? That’s the best time to pray!

How Does This Relate to Our Nation

Right now, we face so many challenges. Many Americans are struggling to pay their bills due to inflation. There is corruption in our government. People are rejecting the Constitution and the Bible at the same time. Evil is called good and good is called evil. Our border is wide open with fentanyl, criminals, and sex traffickers crossing our borders. Is there any hope for America?

God is still a God who answers prayer! Our prayers can shape history!

20 Century World History

20 Century World History Online (High School Course at True North Homeschool Academy)

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

US Geography Resources

 

20 Century World History

20 Century World History Online (High School Course at True North Homeschool Academy)

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post Your Prayers Can Shape History appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.      

US Geography Virtual Field Trips

In “US Geography Virtual Field Trips,” Episode, #213, join Meredith Curtis for a hack that bring US geography to life: virtual field trips. Meredith shares the kinds of field trips she takes her students on during the online US geography course she teaches. With general field trip ideas and a link to a sample of each kind of video, US geography will never be the same in your homeschool adventure.

 

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 

 

Show Notes

When I wrote my US geography textbook and workbook collection, I was determined to keep the theme of travel throughout. Then I taught US geography online at True North Homeschool Academy. How would I do that?

The answer: virtual field trips!

Jr High US Geography

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HD Drone Videos

Painted Desert

https://youtu.be/x_hJbNAf8s4?si=pL967IQba2glCJ3a

Texas 4K Video UHD

https://youtu.be/M-CxFhqbApk?si=4bM603aVLY5SIHEw

Sebastian Island Florida – Sebastian Inlet Aerial View

https://youtu.be/yAQUfKtpA3I?si=tRY24YFR-ZwLMDep

Alaska USA – by drone (4K)

https://youtu.be/PRSkjM_N3Fg?si=1BqAa15eX1nfTuGF

Charleston, South Carolina / 4K Drone Footage

https://youtu.be/E0fffg9_cXw?si=wtFDfX-ezLVGmcYk

Watering Holes

Trail Camera Setup and Pickup: Hidden Mountain Pool (Arizona Wildlife) – AZ

https://youtu.be/krdtwZbL-Os?si=3YDvZb-VV1rrvYfM

Wildlife at a Sonoran desert water hole – AZ

https://youtu.be/RtsSKMPzgIM?si=NU0PvMpKalN7gyFF

Bridges & Boat Trips

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel – US 13 Eastern Shore Virginia – Time Lapse

https://youtu.be/IF8pDwPafxo?si=itBJ3IInt3UJu-mE

GoPro: Kayaking the Tennessee Rapids with Nick Troutman

https://youtu.be/ghzDZfRnrp4?si=0VI2VFxt911e3qmd

Slow Ride : Life and Times Along the South Carolina Intracoastal Waterway

https://youtu.be/sVeYT3EbKjY?si=F94xInwYyuyXXTIg

America Works

Mike Rowe looks at different jobs across America!

• How it works: Steel production https://youtu.be/xJIlSJ-2qEM?si=M7DOGh-jJC51QFtg
• ‘How America Works’: The glass industry https://youtu.be/ivfyzDFf5z4?si=nKhUWeVC10cC1o3q

Travel Videos

The BEST Things to Do in CODY, Wyoming: A WILD WEST Adventure! – WY

https://youtu.be/T86VFuxW8mw?si=LaGEt0jHrYE49aGq

10 Best Places to See in Michigan

https://youtu.be/eoeVn3Ja4rg?si=TRPAdAVybxGLmvtq

Personal Travel Videos

Tide Pools Sebastian Inlet State Park & Vero Beach Ghost Crabs

https://youtu.be/Dv1OCfHD7_k?si=ROUA1_EFkgQsFeyZ

10 Things We WISH We Knew BEFORE Moving To AMERICAN SAMOA

https://youtu.be/MudQP_aW-2g?si=_OXY3PI0U3GHFcAf

Company & Club Videos

Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor (New York)

https://youtu.be/Ly4PxyeTs9o?si=_ZN1sl2Zh0i_co5j

Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore

(937) Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore – YouTube

Military Videos

Dover Air Force Base

https://youtu.be/6CbeDVtKYcg?si=mWtGAAeaDTrP17BX

Naval Base Kitsap Overview

https://youtu.be/h5PHiKWQAYM?si=oRKODNeNQiM-of6K

Funny Videos

Why It’s Hard Eating Healthy in the South

https://youtu.be/CHl9yXeJSBg?si=b_abVpRQnHrEPH26

Ma’am in Not an Insult

https://youtu.be/X4o1WuZjelg?si=T3wuyq7mvzvrf8oF

Signs You Were Born In The Midwest

https://youtu.be/VC_p1DzgN0U?si=a7hthUhM9co14orz

LA vs NY / Jimmy Kimmel Live

https://youtu.be/ekOPaKqPKsU?si=VcrYU92Bizmk-pwR

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

US Geography Resources

Jr High US Geography

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

The post US Geography Virtual Field Trips appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Click the icon below to listen.