Another IEW question: What if *I* don't know how to write?

[mo2]

I am embarrassed to admit that I don't really know how to write using proper techniques. Will I be able to teach IEW, or is there another program that would be better suited for me? (i.e., more explicit instructions)

[angela in ohio]

It's exactly what you need then. Get the TWSS and work through it. Don't just watch and nod; stop the tape and do the exercises. Do every one of them, then buy The Lively Art of Writing and Elements of Style - both inexpensive and indispensible - and read those, too. After that, you will know how to write. That's the first step.

 

If you can't translate that to instruction, then get the SWIs for that.

 

No matter what you use, imho you need to learn how to write adequately in order to correct writing (which is at least 75% of writing instruction.)

[Aspasia]

.No matter what you use, imho you need to learn how to write adequately in order to correct writing (which is at least 75% of writing instruction.)

 

I'm a writing tutor and general writing nazi and I could not agree with this more. Honestly, if you're not confident in your ability to write well, I would even suggest finding a friend, family member, or tutor who can read over your child's writing assignments and give feedback. That really is the key. There are affordable online tutoring services that can help, too (like tutor.com).

[mo2]

It's exactly what you need then. Get the TWSS and work through it. Don't just watch and nod; stop the tape and do the exercises. Do every one of them, then buy The Lively Art of Writing and Elements of Style - both inexpensive and indispensible - and read those, too. After that, you will know how to write. That's the first step.

 

If you can't translate that to instruction, then get the SWIs for that.

 

No matter what you use, imho you need to learn how to write adequately in order to correct writing (which is at least 75% of writing instruction.)

 

Thank you! I will follow your suggestions.

[mo2]

I'm a writing tutor and general writing nazi and I could not agree with this more. Honestly, if you're not confident in your ability to write well, I would even suggest finding a friend, family member, or tutor who can read over your child's writing assignments and give feedback. That really is the key. There are affordable online tutoring services that can help, too (like tutor.com).

 

Well, I actually edit for a living. I myself can turn out a decent paper, but I don't use any outlines or anything to get there. My notes are haphazard and disorganized. I haven't had to write in a *long* time. Maybe I should have said I needed a brush-up, not that I absolutely could NOT write.

 

I am known around here as the grammar nazi, so I've got that part covered. ;)

[scrapbabe]

Well, I actually edit for a living. I myself can turn out a decent paper, but I don't use any outlines or anything to get there. My notes are haphazard and disorganized. I haven't had to write in a *long* time. Maybe I should have said I needed a brush-up, not that I absolutely could NOT write.

 

I am known around here as the grammar nazi, so I've got that part covered. ;)

 

I agree with what has been said. The TWSS is designed to teach you how to teach. I do some editing and am a natural writer, but I could not translate that into teaching writing. TWSS has helped me a ton. At first it didn't feel natural and I struggled with it, but we just kept moving forward, one lesson at a time, and now I can see the beauty and brilliance of IEW. They do offer online classes if you are interested in handing the job over to someone else entirely. But they are full until fall.