preparing middle school student for high school

Following, but what you are doing is similar to my plan 🙂

My oldest is starting 7th grade, she is doing Apologia General Science and so far so good. We are taking it slow and steady and I am making sure I am available to help her when she has questions. We have always done Apologia science, the elementary series, but it is different going alone, but 2 weeks in and she is doing well with the change.

I am also reminding her of increased expectations, making sure she is answering in full complete sentences and things like that when it comes to science. Reading through her writing work to make sure it makes sense and is well thought out. Letting her know that I am not “picking on her” that with each year comes more responsibility which is a good thing and a great opportunity to share her knowledge in writing.

I was going to do Jump In, but decided to do writing a bit different this year. I am going to use some of the topics and basic instructions from Jump In, but the kids are doing a monthly family newsletter to mail to family (we are all spread out across the country). I use some of the Jump In instructions and suggestions to help encourage writing for all the kids. My 7th grader likes to write, but does need help expanding her writing skills and editing, some hand holding by me, but thought we would try something a bit more “fun” before a full writing program since she is not reluctant just needs a bit of guidance and encouragement. It might be used next year though depending on how this year goes. The younger two kids also contribute to the newsletter, but at their ability levels.

We are continuing with oral narrations and written narrations, and working on grammar and spelling through her writing. Both have come a long way, but learning to slow down and edit own work is always a work in progress.

She is continuing to work through her math, we use MUS. I feel Math is the easiest to progress through, just keep doing the next level I don’t have to think to hard about that one, haha.

For me it is about building independence and being a bit of a cheerleader for her. Helping when needed but encouraging her to figure things out on her own, or try to figure out on own, before immediately asking for help. Also about me being present and available so that I don’t “drop the ball” and let things slide too often because I am having a tough day.