I am thinking of starting DD (age 8 1/2) on Writing Strands. Would I need something else for grammar, or is this all inclusive?
I'm contemplating this for next year too! I had a friend lend me the Book 3 (I think)....it has SOME grammar in it... I was thinking of either using online stuff to reinforce grammar OR getting something like Easy Grammar to go along with it. Like a page a day of grammar.
Writing Strands just covers writing. It gives them a writing assignment to do each day. It doesn't talk about parts of speech, parts of sentences, or mechanics. So, I would also get something for Grammar. Some people feel that they'd pick up the correct grammar usage from writing, but I think it's one of those things that needs to specifically taught. So, I guess it depends on the way you feel about it. If you feel that a child will pick up correct grammar from reading & writing, then don't worry about it. If you feel that grammar needs to be taught alongside reading & writing, then I would look into getting something for Grammar.
Hmmmm....now you're making me wonder what I looked at. I thought it DID have a tiny bit of grammar. I'll have to go pull it out now.
Thank you IN Mom....I don't have the copy to look at anymore! I must have given it back. I do recall my friend saying that there was a little grammar in it BUT you'd have to supplement. I bet she was just talking about the spots where it reminded you that you had to capitalize sentences, etc. What level Easy Grammar? Does that go pretty much by grade level? I was thinking of doing Easy Grammar 5 (which would be 5th grade)...that'd be okay even if she's never had Easy Grammar before, right? I mean, we've used Lifepacs, she's got a good solid foundation...but...looking for something that's a page or two a day, check off the box, did my grammar, type thing! LOL
I think starting with Easy Grammar 5 would be fine, especially if the student has some background in grammar already. From what I've seen, they review from the previous year and add a bit more difficulty/detail. Carol
We are useing Easy Grammer for the first time this year and honesty I was intimitated at first. Once I got past how thick the teachers book was and took it one step at a time I was OK. Where was I when this stuff was taught ?? Oh ya public school... Back to topic ! The kids (and I ) have learned alot useing it !
I've tried Writing Strands and there doesn't seem to be much grammar. I'm using and loving Writing Tales 2 right now with my ten year old and it does involves grammar as well as spelling and vocabulary. It's also, in our opinion, a lot more fun. The writing in it takes a more classical approach of imitation and outlining and this seems to work really well for us.
