Download ‘N Go is a series of unit studies and lapbooking materials from Amanda Bennett and The Old Schoolhouse for K through 4th grade students. The units have 5 daily lessons that are complete and require no preparation. A wide variety of units are available for instant access.
Website: Download ‘N Go units
(7 Reviews)
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Contributor Reviews
Reviews are solely the opinions of the contributor.
Cons: printer ink can add up
Grades Used: 2,3,4,5
I personally would not use lapbooks and DNG until your children can write on their own, otherwise mom is making the lapbook, not them. I already precut ALOT for my kids just to simply the experience. We have used a variety of the units. My children like that it is something different and the links are always SO interesting. We have not done one yet that we have not liked. I usually buy them during her 12 days of Christmas sales and will buy folders, ink and colored paper whenever I can catch them on sales. I do not print out all the pages but select parts for each day.
I highly recommend DNG for an on topic break from your curriculum, fun projects for a break, 4H project, or to encourage your children to pursue an individual interest.
Cons: Pricing especially with the cost of printing in color
Grades Used: 1-2
My DS and I like DnG, we have completed a few now. We like the embedded videos and most of the worksheets and labbook pages. One problem I have with DnG is that while I am clicking the links, then scaning to locate the needed information to help him fill in the worksheets, there is nothing for him to do and he gets a bit bored and restless by it all. I usually supplement with crafts, games, coloring pages etc.
Overall, the DnG concept is great, but with the cost of printing (even though we loved the color pages and quote page between days), I haven't been as happy with it as I'd hoped for.
PS - My DS has learning difficulties so is unable to compete DnG on his own - but, hey, I like learning with him anyway, so that isn't a problem 🙂
Cons: Price when you include paper & ink or toner
Grades Used: 1st & 2nd
We have completed Roller Coasters, Pizza Party and currently we are working on Expedition Australia.
We tried to complete everything during our first unit and quickly figured out that was impossible for our family's schedule. With Download N Go, you can pick and choose what is best for your student sot complete and still get the great benefits of the lessons.
I like that the author includes the suggested book lists and embedded videos so I don't have to waste precious time searching for these ahead of time.
Each unit is done differently so we didn't do the same activities in each unit. One unit may have an artist of the day while another has more about science.
Cons: must have computer,ink cartridges are expensive with pricey units
Grades Used: 3rd
I did not buy the unit I used,it was a free offer.I loved the ease and the extended options offered.However,it's pricey when you take in unit price,paper and ink and there is always a chance of problems in the downloading.If I could afford it-I would buy some of her units.
Cons: Price
Grades Used: K-1st
These are great all-inclusive unit studies. One thing to be aware of, they have recommended book lists, so if you want to use them, you can't really "download and go" you need to get those books (I've had about 50/50 luck with finding them in my county library system). So plan to leave time to get the books. Also be aware that the recommended books vary from toddler books (count the animals and such) to informational books, so consider that in relation to your child(ren)'s age(s).
Cons: Must have a computer
Grades Used: kindergarten
I've used Terrific Tigers and Expedition Australia. I have a few of their other studies stored, but haven't had a chance to get to them yet.
Both are quite easy to use and fun. They employ a variety of mediums (video, reading, sound) and activities (drawing, crafts, lapbooking) to help children with different learning styles. ALL the work is done for you, and parents often learn new things as well. (at least this parent did).
You do need to have a computer with the ability to use Adobe Acrobat. If you don't have that, no need to get these studies.
Cons: Price; must be able to print
Grades Used: K - 4
Having a greater knowledge of everyday objects or subjects gives more spice to life. This is what Download 'n Go units do. The colorful photos are vivid. The week's lessons are planned out for you. Links are given for further studies. Many activities for the children to learn and do themselves. Room for expansion. Can be printed off for each child. Immediate access with no shipping costs. These are fun!