Comments: This is the sample program we send out with HEU Program documentation. It is actually a complete program sent to us by a mother who put a lot of effort into it. We were afraid that its high quality might discourage parents who felt unable to write so much, but we stress that this simply shows how writing conversationally and enthusiastically can produce excellent programs.

Note that the scopes and sequences are given in full (without PACE numbers). We have now provided summaries for each level in each subject.

Comments: Maths PACE work can be effectively used for samples if they show process and working out. In these examples, the first page is from PACE 1017. Here, simple subtractions and word problems are given. Notice the annotations and encouragement. In PACE 1021, subtractions and word problems are also given, but this time involving "borrowing" (regrouping). There is a clear sign of progress in the complexity.

Comments: The first sample is unstructured, possibly inspired by playing or looking at pictures. There are many positive comments, but lots of feedback to help Izzy improve. The parent comments are no doubt a record of what the parent would have verbally given and subsequently focused on in future work.

The second sample shows progress in writing techniques by having Izzy plan ahead, identifying the characters, location, and plot. The story follows the "outline" and also shows improved writing. The parent has helped by supplying paragraph headings. The comments are positive and relate to the structure. Extra feedback is given, including pointing out errors in capitalization and spelling.

Science project

Based on PACE Science 1018

Topic: Kookaburras

Comments: This project springboards off PACE 1018, which is about birds. The PACE work presents only single-word answers, which may be a problem with HEU, but (a) the child is only 7, and (b) the second sample is therefore a strong contrast in quality. The parent has not simply tolerated writing issues, but made comments while still accepting answers.

Note in the second sample, the parent drew attention to the student's lack of complete sentences. The parent guided the work by asking questions, then the student presented a final draft.

Junior Secondary Science project

Based on PACE Science 1087

Title: Hydrologic Cycle Experiments

Comments: This project was an extension of the PACE work, based on the student's interest in the subject. Jordan (the student) designed and performed the experiments after presenting his own hypotheses. The project included a word-processed document, and several photographs.

The project was proposed as a suitable work sample for Queensland's Home Education Unit (HEU) as a first sample. A second sample would demonstrate progress through addressing some minor issues and more scientifically phrased wording.

Comments from Accelerate are included on the last page of the document. This is a good example and will hopefully inspire students to perform similar experiments. The importance of the parent's own comments and annotations is included in our comments at the end.