Posted on 01/28/2013 9:55:18 AM PST by chessplayer
Watching my own kids going through these phases... there is absolutely a physical development point that occurs around this age that allows kids to read, and more importantly, comprehend books. The mechanics of reading are fairly simple to master, but kids will "plateau" at a very specific reading level until their brains mature enough to make the next jump up. Since everyone matures at slightly different rates, some will "get it" earlier than others, everything else being equal.
Of course, kids who don't do the work (for whatever reason -- poor teaching, poor support at home, personality or learning disorder issues, etc.) won't progress because they don't have the underpinning mechanics.
No, why would any American parent want that type of pressure put on their child?
Good rant!!! I will add-—that the destruction of the minds of children and the toxic educational department was planned by the Fabian Socialists-—John Dewey being the major influence which put the first 10 nails in the coffin.
We need the government OUT of education. As JS MIll stated-—if the government controls education, it will make slaves for the state.
They are in the indoctrination and “group think” business only—and to destroy Virtue-—the only reason as stated by Socrates and the Founders for education.
(Virtue is excellence and includes Wisdom).
See Spot run. Oh for the good old days.
Our kids go to 'The KITCHEN TABLE School for Young FREEDOM LOVING CONSERVATIVES', meaning they are homeschooled at the kitchen table.
They spend about 5 hours doing schoolwork but they also go fishing, boating or whatever. Even when we are at the mall, we talk math to them.
Mrs WBill teaches part-time at a local college.
It never ceases to amaze me how many of her students are only moderately, or marginally, literate. Basic Math principles escape their grasp, as well.
I asked her once....How do you pass someone who is incapable of writing a complete sentence?
Her reply? (approximately) "It frustrates me too. But I'd wind up failing most of my classes if I did that. I teach 3rd and 4th year students and most need basic remedial education. Where do I start, when what they really need is another trip through High School?"
Where indeed.
The ones that throw me for a loop are those who can't tell time. They think that (for instance) an 8:00 to 12:00 shift is five hours. I know how they come to that conclusion (count on your fingers, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)....but it still makes me shake my head sadly. All of these deliberately clueless people vote. And, likely, could be driving the car that's next to me.
I agree...let the kids have some fun. Raymond Moore wrote a book called “Better Late than Early” He believed that early “close work” leads to eye problems, learning disabilities and lack of logical thinking. I was a “relaxed” homeschooling mom and in my experience kids have a thirst to learn and when they are not stressed out they are little knowledge sponges LOL!
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