one l michele
02-01-2008, 03:37 PM
I am actually excited about teaching writing now. I'm so glad I didn't wait until summer to make time to learn this method. I also recommend that others who are considering the program purchase the dvds and not just the syllabus. The syllabus alone has a ton of info, but would take awhile to sort through (although the learning curve here is nothing like I experienced with Spell to Write and Read). I have enjoyed the interaction with the dvd and the tips throughout them. I took Andrew's advice and "just started teaching". Day one I did an outline on the board with my oldest (2nd grade) and then had him use it as a guide to retell me the story. I typed it as he dictated, then printed it and showed him what he had just done. He lit up and said "Can I put this in my own handwriting?" First thing the next day, he asked if we could make another outline. My middle also has been asking how to do one, so I showed him this morning (using a shorter and simpler paragraph). He picked the topic, we found a paragraph, did the outline on the board together, he dictated to me as I typed, he then asked for paper that had lines and room at the top for a picture, he really took his time copying it and adding a picture. Both can't wait to show daddy tonight. This program is such a blessing. I have the structure I need, yet the flexibilty to pull topics from other subjects and that fit their individual interests. I am also seeing how each step will work together in the big picture. Writing isn't intimidating me now.