Jensen Format Writing vs IEW

[Blessed]

Can anyone compare the two? I hear rave reviews about IEW but the price is more than I'd like to pay. How do those who have completed Jensen compare to IEW users? I would be looking at IEW C with no prior levels or any other programs for that matter.

[Susan C.]

I haven't used IEW, but really liked Format Writing. I used it for prep for writing papers.

[Blessed]

Thanks Susan. Anyone else?

[jibaker103]

IEW can be really cheap if you use the Theme Based Writing Lessons. Both my son and I are loving them. We could not stand the TWSS/SWI/SICC having to look at all those DVDs!!! :tongue_smilie:

[Chris in VA]

For me, there just wasn't enough of the extremely specific writing instruction in Jensen's that there was in IEW. Had I been fully informed, I would have gone with IEW for ds from the moment we started hs in 9th grade.

[Blessed]

Oh Jennifer I thought one had to buy the whole kit and kaboodle...Chris do you think that we'd miss too much if we just went with the Theme Based instruction?

[jibaker103]

Oh Jennifer I thought one had to buy the whole kit and kaboodle...Chris do you think that we'd miss too much if we just went with the Theme Based instruction?
I'm not Chris but I couldn't resist answering. :) The themed based lessons are just like the SWI/SICC only you introduce each lesson instead of watching a DVD where Andrew Pudewa teaches.

The reason why I went with themed base is because I fell asleep everytime I tried to view the TWSS and Noah would laugh is head off. Neither was very productive and we were not getting anywhere. The themed based lessons are open and go. I can give instruction as needed and Noah can be as independent as he wants.

A huge benefit is you only pay $29-$49 for themed based vs. $99+ for SWI or SICC when you purchase new. You can definitely fine used versions of everything IEW and get lots of help on this board or joining Yahoo IEWFamilies.

[4wildberrys]

For me, there just wasn't enough of the extremely specific writing instruction in Jensen's that there was in IEW. Had I been fully informed, I would have gone with IEW for ds from the moment we started hs in 9th grade.

:iagree: We need step by step directions and I just couldn't seem to figure out Jensen's, and most especially how to schedule it!

[Orthodox6]

I can't evaluate IEW, sorry. (I evaluated IEW and discovered that it is impossible for me, as teacher, to use. So it never will be in the running over here, even though I understand it is a good-quality program.) Jensen's Format Writing, however, I like very much. Two sons wrote very well after using the program. Easy to understand, easy to use.

[Blessed]

for your insights, ladies. Jen, I'll see if I can find a used theme based resource on these boards or elsewhere. I'll still use my Jensen's but it might be nice to see it fleshed out a little more with IEW.

[Brindee]

At what age did you use the Jensen's Format Writing?

[afruitfulbranch]

Donna Young has a schedule for Jensens at her site: donnayoung.org.

[afruitfulbranch]

I've used IEW and will be using it this year with 2 or 3 of my children. I can't decide if I will use it or Jensens with my 11th grader. I think I'll do a little of both with her. I don't see how you can easily use IEW if you've never seen it or used it without at least getting the TWSS teacher book that explains how it works. I do agree that the theme books are great.

I think the way to decide between the two is to think about how much money you want to spend and how much time you will have to plan, prepare, and grade. Also, if your child is in 9th or 10th, you do IEW and then Jensen the following year(s).

Have you gone to the IEW homepage? There are many samples there. Also you can call them and they can answer your questions. They also have a helpful yahoo group.

Mr. Jensen is also very helpful. When I was trying to decide whether or not to use it this year, I emailed him and he very courteously answered my questions. Just go to their website.

Hope this makes sense.