way2homeschool
- Reviewed on Sunday, August 22, 2010
- Grades Used: 1st, 4th
- Dates used: 2006, 2010
I tried using A Beka for my daughter when she started 1st grade, but was turned off by the "classroom" setting. The children seemd so rehearsed from Day 1 in answering the teacher's questions; my daughter felt behind and "left-out" from even though she was already reading at a 2nd grade level. We opted for a different appraoch to homeschooling.
However, due to a change in circumstance (just lack of time at this point and probably for the next year), we decided we would need a video program to help us continue homeschooling. I had to give A Beka another chance. This time they have a Live Streaming program - same as the DVDs, but without the actual DVD. The videos are accessed online. I've really enjoyed this aspect of the program because I don't have to worry about damaging discs or losing them. It's much easier for the student to manage which lessons need to be watched as there are check marks by the videos they have already seen. I think it's very well organized. As long as you have a connection to the internet, videos can be accessed. Another bonus is that it's cheaper by $100, and yet you still get all the same materials as those who order the DVD program.
As far as the videos itself, I have come to live with the classroom setting. I wish I could make school a little more exciting for my daughter right now, but I can't put in the extra time to make it work this year. I think it's important to realize that the program IS for a whole class - extra seat work, a lot of tests and quizzes, and homework assignments. If a student struggles to keep up with the work load and yet seems to know the information being taught, don't require all the extras that the video teachers assign.
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Cindy Shonk
- Reviewed on Saturday, August 21, 2010
- Grades Used: 5th
- Dates used: Aug. 2010
We've just started with Abeka video. After our first week, our daughter asked if we could move to FL., as she loves her video classes so much, she said the only way it could be more fun, is if she were there.
I researched extensively, and talked to many home schoolers. This is made to order for us. Our 9 year old loves direction, challenge, and the feeling of being connected to the class. I feel that Abeka must have hand picked 3 of the most professionl teachers ever for this new 5th grade class video. What a great way to start the school year and home school.
Although this is a complete curriculum ,we are going to supplement with Latin Latina Christiana and Excellence in Writing.
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alice burbage
- Reviewed on Friday, June 11, 2010
- Grades Used: 5th
- Dates used: 2009-2010
I have been using the Abeka curriculum for the past 5 years with my son. This past year was the first time we had used the DVD's. I absolutely loved it. My son did also. The teachers are up beat and cheerful. (They don't have bad days or mood swings. Much more fun for my son) They get the children involved in the subjects. I must say that my son's standardized test scores were much higher this year after using the Abeka DVD's. He scored on average on a 9-10 grade level and even scored post high school on a few subjects. This was the proof I needed that the DVD's were the way to go. Yes, it is expensive. (Around $900 per year) But it is so worth it. You get everything you need. All your text books, teachers books, tests, test keys, and some wonderful teachers on DVD. It is a time consuming curriculum, but you will see results. I will tell you it is a fast-paced, tough curriculum. If you just jump right into it, you will be challenged. There is alot of structrure. (Which we need at our home). I think this is why some chose not to use it. It has been easier for us because we have been using it since 1st grade. I really appreciate how they incorporate God into all of their subjects. I will definitely be ordering 6th grade DVD's for us. In the past I have looked at many other homeschool curriculums, but they were just not challenging enough for my son. He is an ABeka kid!!!!
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c21cg
- Reviewed on Wednesday, March 31, 2010
- Grades Used: none
- Dates used: none
I had spoken to some moms in our church about Abeka before we decided on SOS- the dvd's with the teacher at the board was not going to work for my Aspergers grandson,,,, too boring and too slow.
I suggest all new homeschoolers take a close look at SOS.
It can be rearranged however you want it .... daily, vacations, grouping classes, etc.
good luck !
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