Writing: Is anyone sticking it out with Write Source and TOG Classic?

[Shari]

I am trying to start my 2nd and 4th graders in a formal writing curriculum. Older ds 10yo has horrible handwriting and seems to have no clue that all those capitalization and punctuation worksheets we've done in his grammar book actually have an application!!!! Very frustrating ...

That being said, we are beginning our second go-round with Tapestry of Grace Yr 1 Classic this summer. It is impossible to hang around these boards and not know about Redesign, but I am not interested in the upgrade for various reasons. That being said, is anyone continuing to use the Write Source guides along with the TOG writing assignments as their primary teaching material for Writing? Do you feel that the progression year-over-year provides a thorough writing instruction?

I have seriously considered switching to IEW based on their history centered writing assignments which would correlate to what we are already doing, and their excellent reputation. However, I am a reformed curriculum junkie, and must resist any superfluous purchases! LOL

I guess what I'm asking is, is anyone out there sticking it out with Write Souce + TOG? If you've thrown in the towel (not including upgrading to TOG Writing Aids), what are you using instead?

TIA

[April in WA]

Shari,

I have used TOG classic for 4 1/2 years now (LOVE it) and have never used the TOG writing program. I was insecure in my ability to teach and evaluate my children's writing and the TOG program just doesn't give me enough guidance as a teacher. Midway through my oldest's 4th grade year I started him on the IEW SWI A and I knew we had found a great fit for me. My son is not completely in love with it but I don't think he would LOVE any program. Last year we used the Ancient themed lessons and I was thoroughly impressed with the instruction for me and my son. This year we are working through the Medieval lessons and plan to move on to the US lessons next year. They merge with TOG well on a general topic level although they do not correlate week to week. I understand your reluctance to buy more curriculum. I was able to borrow the TWSS dvd's from a friend to watch. With the help of those, the SWI A and the Ancient lessons I have not had trouble teaching this subject.

HTH,
April in WA