As part of our Van Gogh study, we watched this fun video this afternoon.
It is not the dry, biography that I was expecting. It was very good and really held the kids' attention. I always know that a video is a hit if they ask to watch it again with their daddy, and they did that with this one.
I'm not sure what it is about Van Gogh, but my children have been more interested in this study of him than in almost anything else we've done this year. It ranks right up there with our ongoing study of Greek Mythology. Van Gogh's life was short and tragic, and the kids are fascinated by stories of him. I think it comes down to the fact that all kids love a great story, and Van Gogh's life, tragic as it was, is a really great story. After watching the movie today, they both asked if we could go back to the Philbrook and see the Van Gogh painting again. That is success in my book.
I'm not sure what the practical application is for all of their newly acquired knowledge of Van Gogh, as I'm certain the ACT and SAT do not have any questions about why he lost part of his ear or why he began using bright colors later in his career. That's ok, though. I'm hoping things like this will make them more well-rounded people.
Check out the Getting To Know website for more great educational materials on artists, composers and presidents.
I've been meaning to post lately, but I've been lurking. Kuddos to all you've been doing. I've been having the attack of the "doubts" lately of starting homeschooling in the fall, but I see your blog and get reinspired that I can try this, I could do this!
ReplyDeleteThanks..this is awesome!! Keep sharing!
ViolinMama...you can definitely do this! I'm certainly no expert, but you are welcome to email me any time with any questions you have. I'd be happy to share my mistakes with you, LOL! Seriously, for so many reasons, this is the one of the best things I have ever done.
ReplyDeleteJust remember that you can take it one semester (or month, week, or day) at a time. Schools will always be there if you try it and decide homeschooling is not right for your family.