Sadlier Grammar For Writing (Grades 6-12)

Description

Grammar for Writing starts with a thorough review of composition: the writing process, paragraphs/essays, sentences, and the forms of writing. Then, it settles into the main thrust of the course – detailed coverage of ways that grammar, usage, and mechanics provide the foundation for effective written communication. It is comprehensive; providing instruction coupled with examples and assignments. There is an emphasis on editing and proof-reading, which results in self-revision on composition assignments but also in peer input and learning to give effective and helpful writing feedback.

The course is divided into four Parts: composition, grammar, usage, and mechanics plus a final Part that gives strategic help for standardized tests – the SAT and ACT – even including practice test questions along with a timed essay prompt. Sixteen chapters, each with 4-8 lessons, include instruction plus exercises. Most chapters include a Revising and Editing Worksheet and end with a Chapter Review. Since tests are available only as part of classroom packs, and test answers are not available to us, the Chapter Reviews questions coupled with writing assignments can easily substitute.

The Student Book is consumable with accent color. Lessons feature solid instruction plus examples. Sidebars include hints and helps. Chapter exercises feature some underlining activities but tend toward writing and editing assignments.

The Teacher Edition provides some overview and philosophy statements, but primarily provides lesson by lesson differentiating instruction for English learners and striving learners. All student pages are also provided. These include answers when relevant, but since many exercises involve writing applications, these are limited.

Online Resources are easily accessibly at the publisher's website. Primarily for the student, these include portfolio projects, practice activities, and writing rubrics.

In addition to the built-in assessment found in the Student and Teacher's Edition, consumable Test Booklets provide additional ongoing assessment options including Diagnostic, Chapter, and Mastery Tests in standardized-test formats. The Answer Key is accessible on Sadlier Connect with the online code found in the Teacher's Edition.

Frankly, this course is a bit surprising in its comprehensive coverage. It's packed with content and illustrates well the relationship between grammar and composition. The course could be paired with Writing Workshop (from same publisher) for more writing instruction or coupled with literature studies. Student books – 333 pgs, pb. Teacher – 333 pgs, plus 40 teacher pgs, pb. ~ Janice

Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.