Sunday, November 25, 2007

How many homeschoolers does it take to change a lightbulb?

First mom checks three books on electricity out of the library. Then the kids make models of light bulbs, read a biography of Thomas Edison, and do a skit based on his life. Edison held over 1,000 patents, not all obtained fairly. He was a greedy man and not every idea he patented was his own. Goodhome schooling teaches (with specific examples!) that even brilliant men have human foibles.

Next everyone studies the history of lighting methods including dipping their own candles.

Then everyone takes a trip to the store where they compare types of light bulbs as well as prices, and figure out how much change they'll get if they buy two bulbs for $1.99 and pay with a five dollar bill. On the way home, a discussion develops over the history of money and also Abraham Lincoln, as his picture is on the five dollar bill.

Finally, after building a home-made ladder out of branches dragged from the woods, the light bulb is installed.

And there is light.

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