Writing Strands

[ABQmom]

I know many on these boards despise this program. However, what I've researched about it makes me think that I will like it. Does anyone LIKE this program? What do you like about it?

 

If you don't like it, what is the thing that really turns you off specifically?

[Beth in Central TX]

Here's a review I posted earlier about WS and CW:

 

I used Writing Strands for a very short period of time with my boys before I switched to Imitations in Writing. Once the workbook and IG came out for CW, I moved to that program, and I plan to stay there until we finish the series.

 

I was not impressed with Writing Strands. The assignments were arbitrary; the one I distinctly remember and despise was the assignment instructing the child to describe a pencil. It taught a little arrangement and style, but no process was given for invention. It definitely uses the modern writing approach.

 

What I really like about CW is that their approach uses the classical Greek progymnasmata (preliminary rhetorical exercises). Classical rhetoric is divided into 5 parts: invention, arrangement, style, memory, and delivery. The progynmasmata exercises familiarize the students with these elements of rhetoric. CW teaches these exercises through theory, analysis & imitation, and practice. There is just so much more depth in the writing instruction through CW in my opinion.

[Carol in Cal.]

It teaches writing and not spelling, grammar, etc. So my DD, who until this year could neither spell nor learn to spell, could still develop her composition skills independent of the need to spell correctly.

 

It gives clear guidelines. It covers both fiction and non-fiction writing.

 

It guides students through incremental steps that teach specific skills that I can remind DD of, but in a general enough way so that it is easy to apply to other writing.

 

It allows DD to retain her own writing voice...this was crucial for me. The encouragement and maintenance of writing voice is one of my key reasons for homeschooling.

[mcconnellboys]

Yes, I have a grudging, love/hate relationship with it. While I'm not that thrilled with the author's tone, my older son was always fine with it and went through the entire series. I do plan on using it with my younger son, as well. It is a sound, practical program that you can start them on and leave them to. It's not labor intensive on the part of the teacher.

 

Regena

[ABQmom]

It is a sound, practical program that you can start them on and leave them to. It's not labor intensive on the part of the teacher.

 

 

 

This is what I'm looking for in a program, so maybe that's why I'm attracted to it. Thanks.

[ArwenA]

DD9 has been thrilled with WS and I like it too. She is a very eager writer and finds the assignments enjoyable. My older two us CW and I am becoming more attracted to it. DD is too she was eagerly working through Homer A today saying "Mom this is so much fun. There is so much to do. Can I do it with David? The book is so big, I love big writing books." So WS has been set aside and I'm looking at CW being our one and only writing program

[ncmomo3]

I do like-really like- the program, although I can understand the POV of those who do not. The first book we started with (#3) I just couldn't see where it was going, but stayed with it. Now, half-way through book 4 and having looked through book 5, I can see the progression and am pleased with where it is going. The kiddos are into the rhythm of it also. It works wonderfully for us.

[Pretty in Pink]

we tried it at the beginning of this school year and quit three or four lessons into it. i didn't mind the author's tone, my ds thought it hilarious at times! but am i the only one who found the lessons somewhat confusing? my son would get stuck and i'd have to read the directions several times to figure out what he was supposed to be doing.

 

we went back to BJU english and are not incorporating writing aids as well. i much prefer either of these programs to writing strands. just my two cents:)

[ABQmom]

Thanks everyone. Any more opinions?