Real books for school

[Luanne]

My daughter does not like textbooks, but she doesn't seem to take school seriously if I use real books. It is like she is programmed to think that real books are just for enjoyment and therefore are optional. I can't seem to get her to take school seriously (not that I think school shouldn't be at least somewhat enjoyable). She just does seem to think she actually has to do this ... am I making any sense? She is 12, by the way.

[JennW in SoCal]

I don't know many 12 year olds who do take school seriously, no matter what kinds of books they are given!

I read aloud quite a bit to my kids during middle school, or we listened together to audio books. It was school -- I'd pause and give some historical context or check to see if they knew a word. We'd look at maps to find where the story was taking place. We'd talk about the characters and what we liked or didn't like, and sometimes they'd have to write a narration about a chapter. They read on their own, too, but the books I cared about we did together.

[Cedarmom]

Perhaps a spine that uses real books, but gives specific assignments would help. This is one reason I chose Omnibus. We read books, but he knew the questions weren't ones I was making up, but had been in a text book. Besides Omnibus, you might look at Sonlight or Tapestry of Grace.

[Luanne]

I don't know many 12 year olds who do take school seriously, no matter what kinds of books they are given!

I read aloud quite a bit to my kids during middle school, or we listened together to audio books. It was school -- I'd pause and give some historical context or check to see if they knew a word. We'd look at maps to find where the story was taking place. We'd talk about the characters and what we liked or didn't like, and sometimes they'd have to write a narration about a chapter. They read on their own, too, but the books I cared about we did together.

I was thinking about continuing to read aloud to her quite a bit. She seems to stay focused better that way. I guess I just felt like she should be doing more reading on her own at this point, but I really do need to do what works for her.

Again ... thank you!

[Mandy in TN]

I don't know many 12 year olds who do take school seriously, no matter what kinds of books they are given!:lol:
:iagree:

Did you know that Ambleside has trimester exam questions? Knowing that a test is coming may (or may not ;)) prompt more attentiveness.

http://www.amblesideonline.org/ExamAOExams.shtml

HTH-
Mandy