Words Words Words: Spelling Grammar, Reading, and Writing
Link to purchaseCornell Notes
Main Notes
- Focus on making proper use of language second nature in grades 1-4
- Language skills are cornerstone of classical education
- Four disciplines: spelling, grammar, reading, and writing
- Use three-ringed notebooks to organize and store child's work
- Spelling: Begin after halfway through reading primer, use Spelling Workout series
- Grammar: Start with oral lessons, progress to written exercises
- Reading: Follow history timeline, focus on classic literature
- Writing: Begin with copywork, progress to dictation and original composition
- Adjust time spent on each subject based on child's needs
- Aim to bring child up to fourth-grade level in each area by end of fourth grade
Cue Column
- How might focusing on language skills in early grades impact a student's ability to learn other subjects later on?
- In what ways does the integration of spelling, grammar, reading, and writing reflect the principles of classical education?
- How could the notebook organization method benefit both the student and the parent-teacher in tracking progress?
- What are the potential advantages and disadvantages of delaying formal writing instruction in favor of copywork and dictation?
- How does aligning reading with historical periods enhance a student's understanding of both literature and history?
- In what ways might the emphasis on memorization and recitation in this approach benefit a child's overall language development?
- How could a parent balance the structured approach outlined here with allowing for a child's natural curiosity and interests in language?
- What challenges might a parent face when implementing this language arts program, and how could they be addressed?
- How does this approach to language arts differ from more contemporary methods, and what are its potential long-term benefits?
Summary
This chapter outlines the approach to language arts in the first four years of classical education, emphasizing the interconnected nature of spelling, grammar, reading, and writing. The goal is to make proper language use second nature to the child, preparing them for more advanced learning in later years.
The method involves a structured approach to each discipline. Spelling instruction begins after basic reading skills are established, using the Spelling Workout series. Grammar starts with oral lessons and progresses to written exercises. Reading follows a historical timeline, focusing on classic literature. Writing instruction begins with copywork, moves to dictation, and eventually to original composition.
The authors stress the importance of organizing work in subject-specific notebooks and adjusting the time spent on each area based on the child's needs. They recommend specific curricula and provide detailed guidance on implementing each aspect of language instruction.
Throughout the chapter, there's an emphasis on building a strong foundation in language skills, with the aim of bringing the child up to a fourth-grade level in all areas by the end of the fourth year. This comprehensive approach to language arts is presented as crucial for success in later stages of classical education.
Action Items
- Allocate 60-110 minutes per day by fourth grade
- Focus on spelling, grammar, reading, and writing
- Create separate notebooks for reading, writing, history, and science
- Use three-ring binders with dividers
- Prepare art supplies for projects
- Practice phonics daily until curriculum is completed
- Implement regular reading periods (3 times per week)
- Include instructional, at-level, and below-level reading
- Read literature corresponding to historical periods
- Create notebook pages for books read
- Practice oral narration and summarizing
- Memorize and recite poetry regularly
- Begin spelling lessons after basic phonics are mastered
- Use a structured spelling program or method
- Practice 10-20 minutes daily
- Start with oral lessons in early grades
- Gradually introduce written exercises
- Teach parts of speech, sentence structure, and punctuation
- Begin with penmanship practice
- Progress to copywork exercises
- Introduce dictation in later grades
- Practice narration orally, then in writing
- Gradually introduce original composition
- Allow students to progress at different rates in each language arts area
- Seek professional evaluation if consistent struggles are observed
- Consider alternative methods or programs if needed
Resources
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Gobble Up Math: Fun Activities to Complete and Eat for Kids in Grades K-3
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Sir Cumference and the First Round Table: A Math Adventure
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How Much Is a Million?
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Math for All Seasons
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