Dec 03 2024 22 mins
This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Social Language Arts with Dachelle McVey.
Social Language Arts with Dachelle McVey
In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of homeschooling, finding fresh ways to engage high schoolers in language arts can feel like searching for the Holy Grail. Teens often face a range of challenges when it comes to literature: finding the material relevant, staying engaged, and, let’s be real, battling the lure of screen time.
This week Vicki chats with our friend Dachelle McVey, the visionary behind Literary Adventures for Kids. Her approach has not only redefined how we think about language arts but has also transformed it from a solitary, often isolating subject into an exciting, social experience. Listen to Dachelle’s story about social language arts. It’s a game-changer for homeschool families everywhere!
About Dachelle McVey
Dachelle McVey’s journey into the world of innovative homeschooling started in the most relatable way possible: necessity.
As a homeschooling mom herself, she noticed something troubling—her teens, who once devoured books, were beginning to see literature as a chore. The spark that once lit up their eyes when cracking open a new story was dimming, and she was not about to let it fizzle out.
Traditional language arts curricula were missing the mark for her family. The rigid structure, uninspired materials, and lack of connection were not meeting her teens’ needs. So, like many determined homeschooling parents, she took matters into her own hands.
She began crafting her own curriculum—one that blended creativity, community, and literature. This passion project grew into Literary Adventures for Kids, a comprehensive interactive language arts curriculum that does not just teach, it invites learners to explore, connect, and rediscover the joy of stories.
One of the cornerstones of Dachelle’s philosophy is flexibility
As we 7Sisters always say: There’s not ONE right way to homeschool, and Dachelle exemplifies that in her own family.
Each year, when planning their homeschool year her family reassesses their educational goals, deciding what is best for each child. Sometimes that means continuing to homeschool; other times, it means incorporating traditional schooling.
This willingness to adapt ensures that her children’s education is always tailored to their unique needs—a vital takeaway for parents navigating their own homeschooling journey.
What is Social Language Arts?
At the heart of Dachelle’s program is the concept of socializing language arts, and honestly, this idea is brilliant.
It all started when her daughter expressed the need for more social interaction while homeschooling. That simple request sparked a movement—one that would eventually redefine how her family, and countless others, approached language arts.
Dachelle began creating book clubs for her daughter and her friends
At the book clubs the kids could come together, dive into stories, and discuss them in a relaxed, engaging way.
It was not long before she realized that this model could work for other homeschool families as well. Thus, the idea of incorporating book clubs and interactive activities into her curriculum was born.
Book clubs became the centerpiece of Literary Adventures for Kids. These are not your typical, stuffy book discussions either. Dachelle’s book clubs bring stories to life through activities, projects, and discussions that connect learners with the material on a deeper level.
It’s not just about reading; it’s about experiencing literature. Students might compare themes from a classic novel to modern movies or explore poetry through creative projects. The result? Kids who might otherwise groan at the thought of analyzing Shakespeare are suddenly debating Hamlet’s decisions with genuine enthusiasm!
Reimagining High School Literature
Dachelle did not stop at making an interactive language arts curriculum fun for younger students—she also tackled the often-daunting world of high school literature. For teens, classic works can sometimes feel irrelevant or out of touch with their world.
Recognizing this, Dachelle developed high school book clubs and courses that bridge the gap between traditional literature and modern media, making the book clubs the social aspect in her social language arts curriculum.
Imagine pairing Pride and Prejudice with a contemporary romantic comedy or using popular movies to unpack the themes of a classic play. By weaving in elements of pop culture, Dachelle makes classic literature feel fresh and relatable.
Her interactive courses challenge students to think critically about the stories they read while keeping the process engaging and enjoyable. The goal isn’t just to teach; it’s to spark curiosity and help students see literature as something alive and dynamic, not just words on a page.
Why an Interactive Language Arts Curriculum Works
What makes Dachelle’s approach so impactful is the communal element she has introduced into a traditionally solo activity.
Reading is often a personal experience, but by adding a social component, she has created a space where students can share ideas, challenge each other, and build a sense of camaraderie.
It’s no longer just about finishing the book, it’s about engaging with the story and the people discussing it.
Dachelle’s approach creates opportunities for meaningful interaction and shared experiences, making learning more holistic and fulfilling.
Social Language Arts with Dachelle McVey
Dachelle McVey’s thoughtful approach to homeschooling demonstrates that language arts can be both educational and enjoyable. Through her thoughtful integration of social interaction, creativity, and flexibility, she has made reading exciting again for countless families. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity and flexibility in homeschooling, offering valuable insights for parents seeking to inspire a love for learning in their children.
Join Vicki and Dachelle and be inspire with social language arts ideas!
Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!
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