From what I can tell, there are 4 major approaches to teaching spelling: phonics based, rule based, visual and morpheme based (or some combination of the 4.) Spelling Workout looks to be primarily phonics based. I think I would like a program that touches on all 4 methods maybe starting in phonics and working up from there for when words could have multiple spellings based on phonics alone. I'll keep researching but I think AAS might be a good fit. Of course, I'll never really know until we get the materials and give it a go! :tongue_smilie:

What are your favorite resources, besides WTM, for a new homeschool mom to learn about classical education? I'm particularly interested in the different approaches to writing, grammar and spelling that are popular in the classical education world. I'm not necessarily looking for curriculum options, although those are welcome, but I am more interested in specific philosophies on how to best teach writing, spelling, etc. For example, in math, I understand that you can take a mastery approach or a spiral approach. However, I don't know what my options are for the language arts areas. Maybe I'm making this too difficult but I feel so uncertain about picking a random curriculum and going with it without a solid understanding of why the curriculum works a certain way. I'm beginning my planning for next year when I will most likely begin first grade level work in most areas. I do not have a teaching background and feel like I'm lacking the vocabulary to know where to begin research. BTW, I am currently schooling a kindergartner and have a 2 year old as well. Thanks in advance for any help!

What about OG? I've seen it a few times and can't decipher it from context. Thanks!

Could I perhaps have some help in the general area of spelling as far as the major methods I might need to research? It might help narrow down curriculum options. Spalding is one method that I've heard referenced often and then there are phonics based programs and list based programs. Are there others that I'm missing? I like to research philosophies behind the programs so I can make a more informed decision but I feel totally lost on what the options are for spelling.

Hello! This is my first post here and I'm not sure if I am missing the posts that might discuss this or not. The WTM recommends Spelling Workout or Spelling Power for the elementary years. I've noticed that quite of few of you use other spelling programs. AAS seems to be very popular as well as a few others. If you chose something other than what is recommended in WTM, can you explain how you decided on your program? Also, if you are using Spelling Workout or Spelling Power, how do you like it? I understand that every family has their own needs but I would really like to find one spelling program to stick with throughout the elementary stage so I am trying to gather as much information as I can before purchasing. Next year will be our first year with a formal spelling program. I have read several reviews on homeschoolreviews.com but I would appreciate a classical education viewpoint. Thanks in advance for your help!