By definition…. Or rather history...
history of testing would indicate that
reason that we test was/is to determine
students level of understanding of
given material that has been presented over a specified period of time in
classroom. Homeschool testing is quite different though. Certainly, when one teacher is assigned to teach anywhere from 15 to 30 students, testing as it is now is probably
most efficient way to accomplish this goal. The homeschool class is different though. Very few parents stand before their kids and lecture with
expectation that
kids diligently take notes! At least I hope you’re not doing that!
With
one on one instruction that
homeschool class provides, teaching is much of
time more of an open discussion of
topic between
child and
parent. The child has all
time in
world to ask questions and seek answers and responses from
parent-teacher. In fact, as many questions they need in order to get
clarification
child needs to cement
learning.
Many times a field trip to a community business, library, historical site, or museum is a great way to not only answer
question but illustrate it as well with a fun and educational outing! Don’t forget children are learning all
time and
more enjoyable you can make it
better retention
child will have. This type of learning is especially effective when they can relate a field trip or an actual experience when discovering
answer.