heavenlyhoney
- Reviewed on Friday, April 09, 2010
- Grades Used: 1st-2nd
- Dates used: 2009-10
This review is for R&S's 7th grade text, Understanding the Old World.
I am using this text as a read-aloud for my 2nd and K sons as their first go-through ancient history. Obviously, that isn't what it was meant for, but this book is the *only* history book I could find that I really wanted to use. My criteria was that I wanted a book that included Biblical history and presented everything in the light of Scripture. I also wanted something not-too-dry, more narrative. This book fit the bill.
The text is engaging, simple, to-the-point and has many Biblical quotes scattered throughout. It is not exhaustive, covering every single historical event, but is a great overview for my kids. The authors compare everything to Scripture. They are fair in that they always highlight the good things about people or events, but are clear when said people or events contradict what the Bible teaches. The maps and pictures are clear and fascinating. I supplement with some picture books and The Story of the Ancient World by Guerber/Christine Miller.
Another plus is that a few of the chapters focus on the Waldenses, Anabaptists and Mennonites. Since our family has a Mennonite background, this was a nice addition for us and something that is not often included in other programs.
We are going to continue with this book next year as we study the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Reformation, adding in some biographies, picture books and historical fiction. I am also considering using this text again for our second go through history because the mapwork looks good and there are interesting thought questions at the end of each chapter that would be good for older students.
I am really happy with this text. I found it so interesting that I sat down one weekend and read the whole thing like a book. If you are looking for a solid Biblical view on history, this is it.
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BonnieBlue
- Reviewed on Monday, August 17, 2009
- Grades Used: 5th
- Dates used: 08-09
We enjoyed using this program. My child enjoyed doing the geography maps & seemed to learn well from this program. We are going to continue with their 6th grade level and add some "historic novels" to go along with it. I am pleased with all the R&S products I have used so far. They are very orderly and the teacher's manuals make if so easy to teach.
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snipet
- Reviewed on Friday, May 08, 2009
- Grades Used: 5th
- Dates used: 2008-2009
Good overall curriculum. My daughter wasn't the bigest fan because of lack of color pictures, however, she did enjoy reading about the indians and colonists once she got past the Geography. Chapters were broken down into shorter sections with q&a at the end of each section. End of chapter reviews covered all sections. Subjects ranged from Indians, settlers, gold rush, trade routes and on. Would give A+ if only they would add a few color pictures to keep the kids interest.
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Mom_Of_4
- Reviewed on Wednesday, September 03, 2008
- Grades Used: 4th
- Dates used: 2008
My son and I both like this Geography course. The book is very well put together and the lesson format is great! The teacher's manual is very helpful, but you must read the student material as the TM lacks notes. Doesn't matter though if you like Geography, because as an added bonus, you will learn too! The assignments are good, and not too overwhelming, nor too plentious. So, there's enough to do, but not a lot required. The only thing I don't like is that its not a current addition. The folks at R&S need to update the content. Other than that, its a great program at a great price!
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