My 7th grade dd is not a very strong reader and is struggling with the "Idiots Guide." She much prefers the "History of US", but she is capable of more work than the upper grammar level provides. Is it possible to do the UG readings and answer the D accountability and thinking questions? Should I read aloud the "Idiots" book to her? Anyone else have kids who were bright but struggled with reading?
This is our first year with TOG and I switched because we weren't getting enough in-depth analysis with our previous curriculum, but now I don't know how to make TOG work for us!
Thanks,
Leonette

Hi,
Yes, if you own something else, such as the History of the US series, I'd definitely start with that. (She might not be able to answer all questions, but you fill those in during discussion time.) After a unit or semester, you might consider easing her into more difficult reading.


Hope this helps,

Thanks, Dana, we'll try your advice for the first unit.

Leonette

I have a very good reader and at first he wasn't comfortable with Idiot's guide - we call it Smart guide around here.
Anyway, I had to read through the assignments with him and have the thinking questions right beside us for the first few weeks.
Give her as much help as she needs. The themes aren't easy - for example - ask any adult you know what started the Russian Revolution...they'll probably stare blankly back at you. Many themes in year 4 aren't easy to grasp at 11- 13 years old.
Be encouraged. Hold her hand for a bit, it won't take long and she'll be off and running.
Best wishes.