LAMP stands for Language Arts Mentor Program, an exciting new option for parents using BookShark who may feel intimidated about instructing their children in writing. Through the online support of writing coach Dave Myers, students get the feedback they need on their compositions so they can grow as proficient writers. Hear Dave's story from public school English teacher to homeschool dad and his thoughts on the superiority of homeschooling.

Dave: "...the best students are inquisitive. Right? They just ask question after question, after question. And as a parent or a teacher, that might drive you a little bit crazy. But really that's awesome because that kid's engaged and that's the key to being successful."

Dave: "And what happens with language arts is you're dealing with communication and words. And so there's all sorts of different ways that you can communicate the same idea, whether that's spoken or whether that's in writing. And so there's a lot of parents that feel like they want assistance with somebody who's more trained in manipulating language and working with language. And so that's where I came in."

TIMESTAMPS

03:05 A main contrast between homeschool and public school: freedom vs. regimentation.

05:22 Sunday night planning for the homeschool week.

06:58 The joy of deviating from the lesson plans!

10:51 An overview of the Language Arts Mentor Program and how Dave is involved in it.

14:39 Dave's introduction to BookShark curriculum and his amazement at all the books kids read in a school year compared to what is covered in public school.

18:17 BookShark's 4-day schedule and the flexibility it provides.

22:44 The ways that LAMP helps students grow as writers: sentence structure, different genres, and organization.

27:44 The key to good writing = It's easy for the reader.

30:53 How reading is the foundation of a proficient writer.

33:55 Slowing the pace and giving kids options/autonomy. This strategy helps young writers develop their voice.

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