Freebie: Our Current Events Curriculum

I remember so clearly my mom making me choose an article from the paper and write a blurb about it. In addition to my school work, this was her weekly assignment I had to do. Now like most middle school students the idea of more work was not my idea of fun—at all. However, I must admit that once I started reading the paper, my curiosity sparked and I found myself very interested about people and places far beyond my neighborhood, peers, and school.

Year after year of this, I came to know tidbits of facts about countries and people groups from all over the world. I am sure that it helped my writing and critical thinking skills as well. Whenever we had dinner parties (which felt like every weekend) I also had something current and interesting to offer. I also believe it is the primary reason why I prefer to still get my news from the papers versus tv (even despite the fact that I use to work for a major new network). All in all, I am grateful my mom decided I should do this—and made me do it despite my sometimes grumpy disposition.

As I was planning Lela’s 4^th grade year, I remembered my mom’s instruction and was inspired to do for Lela what my mom did for me.

This year I will be adding a new course, Current Events. The purpose of this class is to teach Lela about the world around her, broadening her perspective and worldview. That is my main purpose. However, just like my own experience I know that many more skills and treasures will be added to her through this work.