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Monday, September 16, 2013

Learning Language Arts Through Literature Curriculum Review...

ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone


"Learning Language Arts Through Literature is a fully integrated language arts program that teaches grammar, reading, spelling, vocabulary, writing mechanics, creative writing, thinking skills and more.

For example, a basal program may teach adjectives separately from other skills. The student may be asked to fill in blanks with adjectives and circle them in a paragraph. This may give your student a clue about adjectives, but does not translate into his practical use of adjectives in his writing.

In LLATL, your student may read literature passages that use adjectives. He may be asked to read the passage without the adjectives and decide how important they are to the understanding of a story. Another activity may include writing a descriptive sentence/paragraph about a picture using adjectives or rewriting the passage using different adjectives. These activities not only teach language arts skills in addition to adjectives, but your student will incorporate the skills into his everyday writing.

The goal of any language arts program should be to equip the student for a lifetime of communication through the written and spoken word. With LLATL, your student will acquire a deeper understanding and a greater interest in the language arts subjects.

Real books are used in the reading lessons, complete with vocabulary words, discussion questions and a variety of activities. Reading real books instead of basal stories makes reading a joy and the beginning of a lifelong adventure for your student.

All levels are written for a 36 week school year. Grades 1- 9 include a Teacher’s Book written in a conversational format making it easy to use with little or no preparation time for the teacher. Student Activity Books are available for the 1st - 8th grade. All levels include review activities and assessments."

What we thought:  We have had a little trouble finding a Language Arts program for seven year old A that is comprehensive AND gets her excited about learning.  Learning Language Arts Through Literature has been the closest thing to a perfect fit that we have found.  Since starting the curriculum 6 weeks ago, she has really enjoyed her LA lessons and actually looks forward to that part of each day.  Her spelling skills have improved greatly and she doesn't seem to be as intimidated by the writing portion as she has been with other programs.  We do supplement the writing with a daily journal just for extra practice.  We also add in extra reading time because both kiddos LOVE to read:).

I love that this program is all-inclusive.  It covers grammar, spelling, writing and reading with a gentle approach.  It breaks up the lessons in a logical way and moves really smoothly.  One of the coolest things about this program is that Common Sense Press offers sample lessons online so you can see if this would be a good fit for your learner before committing to purchasing the full year. You can find these lessons here:  http://commonsensepress.com/slessons/slesson.htm

We are really enjoying this curriculum and I'm excited to see where it takes us!
ABCD Diaries gives Learning Language Arts Through Literature an A+!

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