Have you tried Spectrum for early language arts?

I'm thinking about switching next year. I don't like Abeka, and he's blowing through all the ETC books this year. I went to Mardel's today to get a good hands-on look at the 2nd grade spelling, LA, vocab, and reading ... I liked them. Of course, the store and home are two different things. What do you think of them?

 

I like the Spectrum Reading Comprehension books. I've used several of those. But that's about all I've used. They have a one-page story and one page of various types of comprehension questions.

 

I've also used the Reading Comp books. After years of Deena preaching of Rod and Staff grammar, I used them last year, and REALLY like them. Very thorough and comprehensive, as far as grammar goes.

 

I've used thier Test Prep, Reading Comprehension, and Spelling books. I really liked them.

 

My kids can't stand the spectrum books, but that's just them. I think if you think your kids might like it go for it.

 

What do they not like about it? What "type" of learners are they? (meaning... more hands on, more rote, etc.)

 

I'm using a 4th Grade Spectrum Geography book with my kids this year (one's 3rd grade, ones' 5th grade....settled on the middle!!!). I really like how it's laid out, and it fits nicely with our history, actually. That surprised me since they're not related to each other at all (we're using Abeka for history).

ANYWAY....I've never seen their reading ones, but I'd give them a whirl.

You could also try www.edhelper.com ...they have reading comprehension stuff - grade appropriate there. It's $20/year, BUT it's well worth it.

Hope you find what works for you!

 

I've used a few of them, but never used a book all the way through because the kids got bored with them. They are pretty boring-looking books (though I think I've seen Spectrum books for younger kids that feature Mercer Meyer characters?).

I have a 6th grade reading one beside me at this moment, but I haven't asked DS1 to do any of the exercises yet because I know I'll get this: :roll: LOL

 

We used Spectrum for early Language Arts. But we used them to reinforce what was previously learned in A Beka Language which I personally enjoyed for the early years.