Term 3 So Far

I'm not sure where the last few weeks have gone. It has been a bit of a blur. We have definitely moved from a relaxed home-schooling approach to unschooling/natural learning approach. Anything formal results in strong PDA and set backs. This has been a complete leap of faith for me, but I can see the results and Bee's confidence grow.

I had started the term with some prepared materials, having purchased a molecules model set. It was met with mild interest. Later that same week we were in the kitchen preparing breakfast, and in the process of making an iced chocolate drink the glass exploded. This totally captured Bee's interest and we discussed how the hot air and water trapped by the ice-cream caused pressure on the glass due to the uneven temperature distribution. Bee posited some theories about which forces were at play and we debated as to whether it was an implosion or explosion. After some research we found that it was an explosion rather than an implosion. These moments are far more invigorating for Bee than anything I can plan.

There have been some breaks recently in the dreary winter weather, allowing us to get out in nature more. We have enjoyed some family walks in the forest and visited the waterfalls to see the effects of all the rain we have had. 

The most recent podcast we have listened to was about bonobos with anthropologist Natalia Reagan. Natalia mentioned that bonobos, chimpanzees and humans have a common ancestor which lead to some robust discussion about evolution and DNA.

Bee has been assisting me with shopping and experiencing first hand that maths is indeed a part of everyday life. Working out prices based on cost per kilo, percentages and fractions have been highlighted through his experiences. Bee has been playing Geometry Dash again, building his own levels. He relishes making impossible levels.

Week 10

 

We have continued on with our discussions in hygiene and self care. Bee's father spent time helping Bee deep clean his bedroom (in an attempt to get on top of Bee's ongoing allergy issues). Bee's dad had a thorough discussion about the how's and why's of self care and health hygiene. 

Bee has started reading 1984 (George Orwell). 

Week Nine

 

Monday we listened to a Podcast on Anatomy with Professor Alice Roberts. This led to a variety of discussions during the week on health and the human body.

I dug up our anatomy chart and we took a look at the skeletal system. We found a book in our library about the human body. 

We also had some discussion about hygiene, particularly around self care and acne. There was also some discussion about hormones.  

We were also on the hunt for some good apps for world maps and the solar system. We settled on these: World Map 2024 and Solar Walk Planetarium.

Glimmer

 

A better start to the week. Bee has taken an interest in creating some videos and graphics. So we started the week with an introduction to Shotcut and Canva. He was pretty overwhelmed by some of the technical aspects of using these applications, so small steps. Bee has a tendency of becoming impatient and frustrated when he doesn't pick up new skills straight away. He wants to be an instant expert in any new interest, which can be tricky. 

Bee chose 1984 by George Orwell at the book shop the other day. So far he has only flicked through it, but it is the first time in years he has chosen a book for himself. 

Bee also enjoyed some games of pool with us this week, first time in a while he has wanted to. We also went to the library to find out what resources are available for us. We have been looking through the audiobooks available on some of the apps.

Week Seven

 

Another hard PDA week. Bee has really regressed with his social anxiety and is not even wanting to do things he would usually want to do (going for a drive, walk, etc) - not even tempted by fast food or treats. 

In the meantime I have loaded up some new podcasts and made a list of documentaries he may be willing to watch with me. I have rearranged our shelves to see if something interests Bee. I have some geometric nets printed out to be constructed along with some geometry illustrative books. I have also put some geography charts on display (rock cycle, seasons/solstices, land formations). I'm hoping a revamp might trigger some interest and engagement. 

Maybe

 

Another strong PDA week. As Bee and I are both recovering from COVID energy levels were low. Bee's anxiety about being in public and getting sick has flared up since our trip to Perth. He is reluctant to do anything outside of his bedroom.