Need grammar and writing suggestions

[islandmama]

for a 10th grader. Ds just came out of PS last year, failing English. Last year we did a lot of catching up, and he knows more than he did before. I'd like to find something that he could do for 11th grade, an overview of some sort, but not so difficult he'll be overwhelmed. Right now he is finishing up Easy Grammar Plus, and Writing Strands 5. He is doing well with grammar, but I don't know yet if he's retained much. He definitely needs more practice with writing essays. His goals for college include going to a community college first. With that in mind, what do you recommend? I just want him to be proficient and confident when he goes to CC. Some suggestions I've been given include R&S 7, Jensen's Grammar and Format Writing, Analytical Grammar... What do you think??? :confused: Thanks!

Oh, and I'm thinking of LLATL Gold, Am Lit too... He's not used to reading classics and goes through them very slowly (and reluctantly!)

[Valerie(TX)]

nt

[Jean in Wisc]

I'd recommend Warriner's English Composition and Grammar (http://www.setonbooks.com/viewone.php?ToView=P-EN09-11&PHPSESSID=f8ea237ab25056c9fb6cab3abcfe0454). You can get the answer key (http://www.setonbooks.com/viewone.php?ToView=S-EN09-04")for it, too.

The grammar sections in this book cover a lot, but it is not as overwhelming as something like Rod & Staff's upper levels would be.

The writing portions are good, but I did not find they "fit" all of my children equally well. My 2nd child is doing well with it; my 1st, struggled with its presentation.

[islandmama]

It looks like a book I may have used in high school. LOL... I definitely will consider it.

I was hoping to get more suggestions. ;)

[carol]

Analytical Grammar book itself would definately be
challenging for one who struggles in the subject.
I haven't used it yet, but I have the 5 paragraph essay
by Analytical Grammar. I know they now have to
do the 5 paragraph essay on the SAT. I'm not sure
what you should use but I'd have writing the 5 paragraph essay a focal point and have him do several.
If time permits, do a formal research paper. Research
is a definate needed skill in college.

Carol

[islandmama]

I'd recommend Warriner's English Composition and Grammar (http://www.setonbooks.com/viewone.php?ToView=P-EN09-11&PHPSESSID=f8ea237ab25056c9fb6cab3abcfe0454). You can get the answer key (http://www.setonbooks.com/viewone.php?ToView=S-EN09-04%22)for it, too.


What do you think? Or should I go with his current grade level?

[Jean in Wisc]

What do you think? Or should I go with his current grade level?

The problem with Warriners is that they are out of print and the teachers editions are nearly impossible to find. The reason I linked to this site is that Seton still has teacher keys for this level and edition. The progression in these books is gentle. You might be able to do just fine with the current grade level--I can say for sure.

The publishing company has put out a new edition based on Warriner's text (Warrinerr died a while ago). It is called Elements of Language (http://www.hrw.com/c/dlist.web?nocache@2+s@_KIbOEAIngsDg+curList@0+from page@tocre). I've never used or seen the new book, but I'm told it is based on the older ones. The new ones are a lot more expensive, but they can be purchased used (Amazon). You'd have to first locate a teacher's edition and then buy the matching student book.

HTH.

[Katia]

Since you are considering using LLATL Gold, if you read their web-site you will see that they recommend Wordsmith Craftsman to go along with it.

I used LLATL Gold American Lit and also Wordsmith Craftsman. My dd did very well with both of them and I am still using Wordsmith Craftsman with my younger dd.

Having used LLATL from the Blue level on up, I know that LLATL is a big proponent of correcting the student's grammar in the context of their writing. When you correct the grammar/punctuation in your student's writing, reference it to a grammar handbook (we like Rod & Staff's but any good grammar handbook will do). Have your child read the rule that was broken so he can see what it is supposed to be and why, and have him copy the rule in a 'grammar notebook'. Have him review the grammar notebook on a weekly basis, since these are the areas he is weak in. It will help to solidify the rules painlessly and within the context of his own writing.

Also, a good writing handbook is good to have on hand for reference to answer any questions on any type of writing. We like Writer's, Inc.

[Kathy in MD]

If not, I'd add Sentence Composing to his writing curriculum. It deals only with sentences (and a *little* bit of grammar), but it does have an impact on writing quality. The author recommends that you intersperce it with a regular writing rogram.

For grammar, I like AG. Fast, and to the point.

[StaceyinLA]

although we haven't started the IEW yet. I am really pleased with the AG though. I highly recommend it!

[islandmama]

although we haven't started the IEW yet. I am really pleased with the AG though. I highly recommend it!

I'd like to try to get through whatever I start within a year or so... We could just start now I suppose.

[islandmama]

Thanks ladies. Any one else have a suggestion? (bump!)

[Staci in CT]

R&S does a wonderful job teaching grammar. It is very easy to follow and has taught my whole family a heck of a lot.

For essay specific instruction through, I'd recommend The Lively Art of Writing by Payne. It is a paperback written directly to the student. Although somewhat dated in examples, the essay instructions are clear and easy to understand.

Actually R&S also puts out a pamphlet on essay writing. It is short and to the point, and costs about $1.50. Call them for details.

Staci

[Chris in VA]

I have a hard time grading and editing my son's compositions, so we are going to use Write at Home online classes.
Tomorrow (3-6-08) they have a new one in Essay 1. It's a nine week workshop. It's $139, but they grade everything for you. They work on several papers, particularly essay-type persuasive arguments for the SAT test.
We will have time for one workshop now, and will probably take a full year course and Essay 2 next year, to prepare for college writing.
Just a thought.