English / Writing BJU vs EIW

[Blossom'sGirl]

My 4th ds is approaching 6th grade.  I own Rod and Staff, which he has been doing since 1st grade, but neither one of us wants to use it next year.  I would like something that combines English and writing.   I need interesting assignments and detailed instruction for a capable but writing phobic boy.  This ds has done some IEW and WWE in the past and will be doing the third year of Fix-It next year.  We will be doing Fix-It as a group with my  8th and 11th graders.  I have also tried WWS with one of my other boys and found it hard to use for me.

 

So BJU 6 and EIW 6 are on my short list.  Both cost about the same, although I could probably find most of BJU used.  I showed ds both samples and he picked BJU.  I think he likes how writing and grammar alternate.  I think EIW would be easier on me as BJU materials tend to be heavy on the teacher.   This ds is definitely using BJU Science 6 this next year, and possibly BJU reading.  I don't normally do a reading program so I may drop that idea.   I don't want to overload him on BJU material as I know it can be very "full".

 

I would love some direction.  You would think that by the 4th kid I would have this all figured out.

Michelle

[Janeway]

I loved BJU English through 6th grade. I could not stand it at 7th. My plan in the future is to do BJU English through 6th and then switch. EIW is on my list. I just do not like video courses and you have to use the video with EIW.

[Janeway]

I do not use the TM with BJU English. I did not feel it brought anything to the program. I do the front page with him, and then he does the backside by himself. I go over the writing lessons with him. 

[HSmomof2]

We've used both and greatly prefer BJU to EIW. Even my dysgraphic ds who hates writing preferred BJU.

[Blossom'sGirl]

Thanks all.  I am starting to lean towards using R & S one more year.  I am not sure if we will use the writing portion or find something else.

[HollyDay]

We have used both programs and both have good points.  BJU does alternate writing and grammar.  I have to agree with Janeway though.  We did switch to GWG at 6th.  It was a good experience for dd. 

[Guest]

BJU is more balenced whereas EIW is more writing centric. It depends if you want more writing time or a more balanced approach.