Monthly newsletter packed with info on free and paid resources for homeschool parents wanting to prepare their children well for college and careers.
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Grammar/Poetry Resources, Scratch Offer, New AI Class, and More in April's Newsletter!
Published 20 days ago • 5 min read
This month we're taking a look at computer courses and online grammar/poetry resources. We also have a special offer for you on a Scratch coding class and a poll about a new AI class. To round things out, we have new content in our regularly featured areas. Enjoy!
Teacher Spotlight
One of Kristin's all-time favorite things to do is snorkel.
Kristin Moon
Kristin earned her PhD in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology from the University of Florida; she intended to pursue a career in scientific research, but upon the birth of her first son, she quickly realized that her heart’s true desire was to leave the lab behind to be a stay-at-home mom. Soon, a second son joined their family, and she and her husband discovered homeschooling.
Kristin homeschooled her children through high school graduation. Both of her sons went on to pursue college degrees in the sciences. (Her older son earned his degree in Electrical Engineering, and her younger son earned his degree in Biology.)
Now Kristin spends her time helping other homeschool families provide a quality science education to their children by creating engaging online science classes. She currently offers full and half-year high school science classes through True North and FundaFunda academies as well as self-paced courses through her website KristinMoonScience.
When not teaching, Kristin loves to spend her time in nature. She enjoys hiking and all things water-related. Other delights include thrifting, reading, and spending as much time as possible with her grown children, their spouses, and her grandson Oaklen.
"This was an amazing course. I began the year not particularly interested in chemistry and ended it starstruck. There's so much more to this subject than I ever expected and I'm so glad I got to explore it in this class. Dr. Moon teaches understanding and excitement for chemistry. She encourages creativity and happily answers every question you may have. Finally, her passion for science bleeds through to her students - it's hard not to be invested in this course if you decide to take it. Would absolutely recommend!!!"
This shorter class is for students to give Scratch a try before committing to a full semester class, or for students who want to break the lessons up over a period of time. These sessions are self-paced so students don't need to worry about deadlines, but students will still receive a grade, feedback, and help during the class.
Not sure what you can do with Scratch? Try Etch a Sketch, a game a student created in this class.
Students learn how to use digital tools effectively. This is a great class for students who want to improve productivity or prepare for school/college or the workforce.
Students learn how to create browser-based software applications. The course is structured around projects where students build apps like those found on a smartphone or tablet. Middle and high school students interested in computers will enjoy this class.
Scratch is a drag-and-drop language that allows students to easily create games. It is a good way to start learning about programming concepts before progressing to other languages that require users to learn the syntax. Students in grades 5-12 will find this programming course engaging.
Students learn how to program using Python. Python is one of the easiest programming languages for beginners to learn; however, it is recommended that students complete our Scratch Programming course prior to starting this course, if they do not have programming experience. The class is suitable for middle and high school students.
April Poll: What type of AI class would you like us to create?
Graduating high school seniors and current college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors with a 3.0 or higher GPA may apply for this scholarship.
In 400-500 words, answer the following question: "How did growing up with a pet in your life (could be a friend's or family member's) impact the person you are today?" Fill out the entry form, and submit your entry by May 1, 2025.
One winner will be notified by May 31, 2025, and receive a check for $2,500.
AI Tip / Resource of the Month
Suno allows you to create songs on any topic. The free version gives you 50 credits per day -- enough to create about 10 songs.
Explore these cool links to find fun and educational grammar resources!
Why not make learning grammar more like a fun game than a tedious chore?! Grammar Monster has lessons, test, games, and word lists for all age groups!
English Grammar offers exercises, rule reminders, tests, and more. You can do the exercises online or download them as a PDF.
Interactive grammar lessons, presentations you can use, videos to reference, and more can be found on Grammar Bytes! The interactive lessons include sound effects, so turn up the volume!
Older students can visit Grammar Book to take quizzes and learn where they have gaps in their grammar understanding. Then they can visit the sites above to improve.
Homeschooling with Technology has a podcast episode on Online Poetry Resources where you can learn about resources for poetry appreciation and discover resources that teach students how to write poetry.
Image by Freepik
ACT CORNER
Test Info and Updates Fast Facts
Next test date is June 14, 2025. The deadline to register without a late fee is May 9, 2025.
The last ACT test date for this school year is July 12, 2025.
The ACT test dates for the 2025-2026 school year follow below: September 6, 2025 October 18, 2025* December 13, 2025 February 14, 2026 April 11, 2026* June 13, 2026* July 11, 2026 *The ACT My Answer Key will be available to purchase for an additional fee.
Image by Dmitriy from Pixabay
Not ready to register yet?
No problem!
Sign up to receive a registration reminder via email or text and avoid late fees!
You can set a reminder for any test date from June 14, 2025 through July 11, 2026.
In our Homeschooling with Technology podcast, we explore new and different ways of using technology in homeschooling. There is an episode released every week!
You can start listening at any time. Just click on a link to listen in a browser, or find the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Email me if you need help! We have a tab on our website to browse through all our past podcast episodes easily. Check it out!
In this episode, discover Virtual Vacation, a free and engaging website that lets you experience cities around the globe through walking, driving, and flying tours.
We’ve all faced tech frustrations and needed to troubleshoot tech —whether it’s a stubborn printer, glitchy software, or a bug on your website. As homeschoolers, we have the unique advantage of turning these moments into powerful, real-life learning experiences.
In this episode, Meryl welcomes back veteran homeschooler Vicki Tillman to share free and engaging online tools to study the constitution to help homeschoolers (and parents) better understand this foundational document.
In this episode, we explore the many ways homeschoolers can use Khan Academy. There are many subjects and various tools available that can supplement and enrich a homeschool curriculum.
Free Resource Library for Subscribers
Access the Free Resources Library HERE. Password: edufun
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