rod and staff english question

[klg]

I've been debating between first language lessons 3 and rod and staff english. I think I've decided on rod and staff solely because of cost--I'm hoping to pick up an affordable used copy. This is my question: Do I need the teacher's book or will I be fine with just the student book(s)? My question applies to grade 3-6. Thanks, this is my first post!

[Little Debbie]

We're using R&S 3 right now. The teacher's manual has all the answers as well as teaching notes for each lesson. I'd say it's a must have! Just my opinion, other may have other ideas...Good luck! I got my copy used for a good price.
Deb

[Sue G in PA]

I never used the teacher book for gr. 3 or 4 but sometimes looked at it for the higher levels, esp for the diagramming as I never had it in school. As to FLL3 or R&S...just wanted to point out that you can get the TM and Student book for FLL3 at Amazon for like $32 w/ free shipping. So, the cost wouldn't be all that much different if you're buying the TM and Student book of R&S. Just thought I'd mention it just in case cost was your only issue! We're actually doing FLL 3 as soon as I can get the student workbook b/c of the gentler approach to grammar as my ds8 hasn't had very much formal grammar study. Good luck and welcome! Oh, R&S is a great program, too!

[TracyR]

The manual for 2 and 3 grade can be pretty optional . If your not good with grammar or just want the answers to score their work quickly then I say its a must have . If you are confident in your grammar abilities then I say its pretty optional for those two grades .
4th and up I say is a must have .

[AllSmiles]

I find the teacher’s manual very helpful. Not only does the teacher’s manual highlight the important teaching points, but it also offers daily oral reviews and occasional quizzes. It’s not one of those programs where you are missing half of the program if you don’t get the teacher’s guide; however, I still find it worth the extra money.

HTH!

[klg]

WOW. that's service. thanks for your replies. now it makes me want to ask one more thing. I chose Rod and Staff because S.W.B. said that if you do this curriculum you wouldn't need a supplemental writing program. Then she published FLL3. But I haven't been able to see a good description on this book. If I do FLL3 does that mean I don't need a supplemental writing program or not? The workbook for FLL3 is consumable right? thanks everyone

[Sue G in PA]

exercises. If your dc does those in addition to narrations for other subjects like History or science, writes letters to family/friends, etc. than IMHO you don't need a separate writing program. R&S 3 does NOT have a lot of writing in it. SWB also just wrote a writing curriculum that goes nicely w/ FLL called Writing With Ease. The workbook for gr. 3 is NOT available yet, but the text is. However, really, the writing exercises in FLL3 would be sufficient if you asked me.

You could also take a look at Writing Tales 1 for writing. It has your dc re-writing simple stories and fables in their own words as well as some grammar practice. My ds8 will be starting FLL3 and WT1 as soon as the books come in! Yes, it is more money to spend but I just wanted to throw the option out there in case you wanted more writing practice! But, to reiterate...FLL3's writing exercises would be totally sufficient!