There's a quote I've seen on Facebook a few times. It's credited to Einstein, but as with all things on the internet, who knows if he really said it. At any rate, here it is:
Having 11.5 years of homeschooling under my belt, this quote has struck a cord with me. Especially since I have two sons taking high school classes as we speak. There are requirements, even imposed on those who choose to educate at home, to which every high school student must adhere. Depending on the state that you call home, your student will be required to take algebra I and II, geometry, biology, and chemistry. If they're on the 'college track' they may be required to take math and science that go above and beyond these even if they know that they will not major in these areas. Now, I have nothing wrong with these subjects, but to demand that they are required of every student to graduate is ridiculous.
I think it's safe to say that by the time a student is 13/14 years old, they are going to know if the LOVE science and math or if they HATE it. Up to this point they've learned basic math and science in elementary and middle school. Perhaps they know what photosynthesis is and how to add fractions. There should probably be a fundamental understanding of nature and math. How much? I'm not sure. But do they need to know how to write a formula for sulfuric acid? Or how many degrees a supplementary angle has? I've never needed this info, have you?
If they are not math and science minded kids are we imposing on them the need to memorize, stress over and endure a subject that is going to have no affect on them in their future? Are we forcing the fish to try to climb a tree?
How about basic car maintenance and repair? I think being able to change a tire would be useful. How to cook chicken so you don't get yourself and your friends sick? This sounds pretty important to me. Balancing a checkbook, keeping a budget and understanding exactly what you're getting into when you finance a car or home? I'm pretty sure if these were required to graduate, many people would be better off for it.
Karen, I agree. I wrote a lot more, then delated it. FB is not long enough for the subject, but from a fellow h.s. mom I am totally on board with your way of thinking. :)
ReplyDeleteHave you ever eaten something that you normally wouldn't like, but a friend made it with their own special recipe so you felt obligated to try? Low and behold you liked it. Maybe in one form it is distasteful , but in another it is wonderful......same goes for learning. I believe in raising renaissance men and women.
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