After a 2 week break to learn about the Olympics, we’re back into ECC this week, learning about Mexico. We have already completed our additions to our Animal Notebook (desert animals and ants), so we’ll be concentrating more on the geography and culture of Mexico.
Unfortunately, the teacher isnt’ feeling well today. But there is always a back-up plan for that! We were able to cuddle up on the sofa today to watch 2 videos from the library (which we will undoubtedly watch many more times over the next 2 weeks–they were that good!). Both videos are from a series entitled Mexico for Children. Today we saw The Geography of Mexico andThe Culture of Mexico.
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From the website description: “Help! Laura needs assistance completing her “muy grande” school report about Mexico! With the help of her younger brother, Mike, she recounts her visit to Mexico where her aunt and uncle show Laura the strong heritage and pride of the Mexican people and her ancestry. Through her recollections, photographs, and memorabilia, we learn of Mexico’s history and its heroes – from the greatest ancient civilizations of the Aztec and Maya, through the Spanish conquest, and to Mexico’s fight for independence and freedom. We travel through the regions and states of Mexico and we see its unique landforms like the massive Barranca de Cobre, the fragile ecosystems of Baja California, and visit its capital, Mexico City. Laura shows us the proud culture and everyday life of the Mexican people through its folklore, fiestas, crafts, and arts.” Ben has now moved on to beginning his Top Secret Adventure in Mexico. If you are not familiar with Top Secret Adventures from Highlights, you’ll want to check them out. “In this book club, children are introduced to exciting countries, one at a time, through a mystery and adventure series. Starting with a jigsaw puzzle that reveals a mystery, kids become young puzzle detectives. They learn about the people, culture, terrain, history, and geography of the featured country while searching for clues to solve the who, what, and where of the mystery. Top Secret Adventures will help expand knowledge and stimulate curiosity in children as they gain understanding of other cultures.” He is having a blast figuring out the whodunnit mystery and learning so much about Mexico along the way! You can even try the subscription for free with an Adventure in Japan. After that it’s like a book club where you receive regular shipments. If you are lucky, you may also find folks selling unsued sets on ebay (like I did!). I wish I had a set for every country we’ll be studying this year! Ben really really enjoys them. Tomorrow, we’ll resume our ECC lessons and I’ll be posting more along the way. |
